Michigan State Football: Top 5 X-factors vs. Utah State in Week 1

SAN DIEGO, CA - DECEMBER 28: Cody White #7 of the Michigan State Spartans looks on after scoring on a pass play against the Washington State Cougars during the second half of the SDCCU Holiday Bowl at SDCCU Stadium on December 28, 2017 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /

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Tyriq Thompson was a legacy recruit for Michigan yet he decided on the green and white instead. His father, Clarence Thompson, was an All-Big Ten safety for Michigan in 1995.

Tyriq has been embroiled in a tense battle for the Sam linebacker spot with redshirt sophomore Brandon Randle, which has spilled over into the season as they are both listed as co-starters.

As a redshirt junior at 6-foot-1 and 220 pounds, he has patiently waited his turn for playing time. I believe as the season progresses that his play will provide him more time on the field. Randle has mainly been a third-down package type of player last year. He gave the Spartans some much-needed speed off the edge.

It starts against Utah State and Thompson will certainly make his presence felt.

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