Michigan State Football: 10 storylines to follow ahead of 2018 season
9. Incoming freshmen who will break out
Who else is excited to see what the incoming freshman class can do? Michigan State recruited at a high level in 2018, no matter what he rankings or rival fans say, and the Spartans reeled in a number of kids who could play right away — especially with the new redshirt rule.
Which freshmen could break out in 2018 and grab hold of a starting role heading into 2019?
Let’s start with the offensive side of the ball. La’Darius Jefferson has been turning heads at running back and has even spent some time at corner. LJ Scott has done nothing but praise his backfield mate.
Listening back to MSU media day interviews, and LJ Scott said RB mate La'Darius Jefferson has an "urge to play" immediately. Added the true freshman is also getting some reps at QB.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) August 9, 2018
Eli Collins is another running back who could see some time early on depending on how he finishes fall camp.
Speedy wide out Jalen Nailor could also fill a void in the slot or, heck, even the return game. After Hunter Rison’s transfer, that’s an area that needs some added depth. He could be a viable option.
At tight end, Trenton Gillison has the tools to become an elite-level pass-catcher. He’s strong, has put on good weight and his athleticism is almost unmatched at the position. Look for him to break into the rotation.
Defensively, Kalon Gervin, Xavier Henderson, Chase Kline, Michael Dowell, Davion Williams, Christian Jackson, Parks Gissinger, Jeslord Boateng, Edward Warinner, Dashaun Mallory and Jacob and Zach Slade give the Spartans plenty of options. These guys could all see the field and each has breakout potential.
This could turn out to be Mark Dantonio’s most impressive recruiting class to date.