Michigan State Football: Report card for first month of 2018 season

This has been one of the most pleasantly surprising groups this season. The Spartans’ defensive line has been getting better each week and through four games, the Spartans are averaging about 3.0 sacks per game.

For reference, two years ago, Michigan State finished with just 11 total sacks and it’s surpassed that number in just four games in 2018. Last season, Michigan State had 25 sacks and this year’s squad is on pace to finish with about 35. The growth up front has been impressive, and it starts in the middle.

In fact, both Raequan Williams and Mike Panasiuk have been dominant in the middle of the line. Opposing guards and centers, even tackles, have been struggling to stop this duo of big interior linemen. Williams has 14 tackles, four for loss and 1.5 sacks while Panasiuk’s impact hasn’t quite reached the stat sheet with four tackles and two for loss — his numbers will come.

Naquan Jones has been a nice depth piece at tackle with six takedowns and 1.5 for loss and Gerald Owens has also been solid.

At end, Kenny Willekes is looking like a first-team All-Big Ten performer with 22 tackles, 6.5 for loss and four sacks. He’s on pace to surpass all of his pass-rushing stats from last season.

Jack Camper and Jacub Panasiuk have been pleasant surprises on the other end.

Keep an eye on this group as it continues to impress as the season progresses — especially against the run (best run defense in the nation).