Michigan State football: 5 reasons Spartans can win 2018 Big Ten title

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EAST LANSING, MI – NOVEMBER 04: David Dowell #6 of the Michigan State Spartans runs back a second half interception in front of DeAndre Thompkins #3 of the Penn State Nittany Lions at Spartan Stadium on November 4, 2017 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

3. Elite secondary

There’s no doubt about it, Michigan State has one of the best secondaries in the nation. David Dowell was an All-Big Ten first-team selection at safety last season, Khari Willis is one of the best leaders on the team and a hard hitter at the other safety spot, Justin Layne is a former wide out who is getting better each season at corner and Josiah Scott was a Freshman All-American in 2017.

This secondary has what it takes to shut down opposing offenses and shouldn’t have a major problem doing just that, especially with an improved front seven putting pressure on quarterbacks.

Dowell was one of the biggest surprises on the team last season, snagging five interceptions and he’s just scratching the surface. Willis could be an All-Big Ten selection in 2018 if he can improve his coverage skills. Layne is a heck of an athlete who is getting the hang of cornerback. And Scott just has that natural ability to lock down receivers.

Depth is there, too. Though Tyson Smith just retired due to health reasons, Shakur Brown, Josh Butler, Xavier Henderson, Kalon Gervin, Christian Jackson, Michael Dowell and Davion Williams will all provide depth — and that’s not even everyone.

This team is loaded in the defensive backfield, and that’s a huge key to success.

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