Michigan State Football: 5 reasons to be optimistic about 2019 season

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EAST LANSING, MI – NOVEMBER 24: Running back Jonathan Hilliman #23 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights is tackled by defensive tackle Raequan Williams #99 of the Michigan State Spartans and linebacker Tyriq Thompson #17 of the Michigan State Spartans during the second half at Spartan Stadium on November 24, 2018 in East Lansing, Michigan. Michigan State defeated Rutgers 14-10. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images) /

1. Defense will be elite again

When you look at the depth chart on the defensive side of the ball, you probably can’t help but to get giddy at the amount of talent returning.

In fact, guys like All-Big Ten linebacker Joe Bachie, former freshman All-American cornerback Josiah Scott and All-American defensive end Kenny Willekes are all back and the only major losses are Justin Layne, Khari Willis and Andrew Dowell.

Andrew’s brother David Dowell will be back to roam the defensive backfield as a former first-team All-Big Ten selection and he’ll have one of Mark Dantonio’s top recruits Xavier Henderson alongside him as a sophomore, presumably. Replacing Layne at cornerback shouldn’t be an issue seeing as that’s one of the deepest positions on the team.

Who replaces Andrew at Star linebacker? It’s tough to say but we will see plenty of Tyriq Thompson next season and even Antjuan Simmons. The latter had a great sophomore season and could be a breakout junior for the Spartans — he has all the pieces. Also, Brandon Randle is a guy everyone has been waiting to see bust out for a big season.

On the line, Mike Panasiuk and Raequan Williams are also back up the middle and Jacub Panasiuk on the end, along with some solid redshirt freshmen and a decent incoming class.

Next. 3 reasons Mark Dantonio's staff changes make sense. dark

This defense will be elite once again.

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