Michigan State Football: 5 X-factors vs. Arizona State in Week 2

SAN DIEGO, CA - DECEMBER 28: Nnamdi Oguayo #30 of the Washington State Cougars pressures Brian Lewerke #14 of the Michigan State Spartans from the pocket 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) /

2 of 6

EAST LANSING, MI – AUGUST 31: Connor Heyward #11 of the Michigan State Spartans scores a third quarter touchdown while playing the Utah State Aggies at Spartan Stadium on August 31, 2018 in East Lansing, Michigan. Michigan State won the game 38-31. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

5. Connor Heyward

It was interesting that Michigan State would turn to the second year player on their final drive against Utah State. The Spartans’ talented senior running back, LJ Scott, was watching from the sidelines. What did it mean? Probably not much. However, it did show head coach Mark Dantonio’s faith in the young man.

Heyward ran hard against the Aggies. Often, pushing guys away and kept his legs churning. He definitely resembled his late father, Craig “Ironhead” Heyward.

The Spartans will need his physical running style to help ignite their offense.

Scott is still the “guy” at tailback, however, Heyward is making his own name for himself. He is more finesse and Heyward is a punch you in the mouth type of back. They will be a great tandem and this could be the game that Heyward’s workload increases. The Spartans will need him.

Home/Spartans Football