Michigan State Football: 5 takeaways from tough loss to Arizona State

Michigan State Football: 5 takeaways from last-second loss to Arizona State

TEMPE, AZ - SEPTEMBER 08: Quarterback Brian Lewerke #14 of the Michigan State Spartans throws a pass during the first half of the college football game against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Sun Devil Stadium on September 8, 2018 in Tempe, Arizona. The Sun Devils defeated the Spartans 16-13. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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TEMPE, AZ – SEPTEMBER 08: Quarterback Brian Lewerke #14 of the Michigan State Spartans drops back to pass under pressure from linebacker Darien Butler #37 of the Arizona State Sun Devils during the first half of the college football game against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Sun Devil Stadium on September 8, 2018 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

4. Offensive line is still a major concern

Concerning may be too kind a word. Atrocious actually may be more like it. The offensive line looked no better than it was against Utah State. It opened some holes in the run game for Connor Heyward and LJ Scott, but the coaching staff clearly didn’t show too much confidence in the unit as they abandoned the between-the-tackles runs late.

The Spartans finished with just 63 rushing yards on 27 carries, looking completely out-matched against an average Arizona State defensive line.

Brian Lewerke was sent scrambling for his life on multiple occasions and one nearly cost the team the game — it actually may have in the long run. Jordan Reid completely missed a block at right tackle and the defender forced a fumble on Lewerke that the lineman eventually pounced on for a 19-yard loss. Michigan State was driving at that point and it halted any momentum.

Cole Chewins was out again, so maybe his return after the bye week will change things, but this unit looked horrid all game long.

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