Michigan State Football: 5 takeaways from rout of Maryland in Week 10

COLLEGE PARK, MD - NOVEMBER 03: Connor Heyward #11 of the Michigan State Spartans celebrates with Tyler Higby #70 and Brian Lewerke #14 of the Michigan State Spartans after scoring a touchdown against the Maryland Terrapins during the first half at Capital One Field on November 3, 2018 in College Park, Maryland. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /

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COLLEGE PARK, MD – NOVEMBER 03: Brian Lewerke #14 of the Michigan State Spartans runs past Byron Cowart #9 of the Maryland Terrapins during the first half at Capital One Field on November 3, 2018 in College Park, Maryland. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /

3. Brian Lewerke should have continued to rest

The coaching staff should have seen this from a mile away. Despite the fact that Brian Lewerke had a strong week at practice, it was clear he wasn’t at 100 percent against the Terrapins and until he is, he shouldn’t be playing meaningful games — and yes, that includes Ohio State next week.

Lewerke was off on many of his throws but gained some momentum in the second half before throwing a bad interception which was right after Michigan State got favorable field position following a Maryland fumble.

There’s no reason he should have played unless the staff wanted to use him primarily for his legs — which they did early and often. He looked good running the ball, but his arm strength and accuracy is still not where it should be, signifying he’s still not 100 percent.

Rocky Lombardi would have been a better option, at least passing the ball, on Saturday as Lewerke just wasn’t himself again.

Going into the Ohio State game, the only reason Lewerke should take the field is if he’s at full-strength. The performance against Maryland may have hindered his healing process.

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