Michigan State Football: 5 position battles to watch in spring 2019
![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) 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)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/42f0ff6153556962c8e6a1e7647585b49b89b5e620c977e1c5706377f3d30191.jpg)
3. Cornerback
We all know Josiah Scott is gearing up to start for the third consecutive season at cornerback, but an opening has presented itself after Justin Layne decided to forgo his senior season for the NFL.
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Josh Butler returns for a senior season which could mean that he’s prepared to take over the No. 1 spot — finally — after four years of waiting. He had some spot starts in Scott’s absence last season, so this wouldn’t be the biggest shock if he’s chosen as the starter for the Spartans, but there are other options, too.
You have guys like Tre Person, Shakur Brown, Christian Jackson, Kalon Gervin and Davion Williams who all stand out as adequate replacements with plenty of potential.
Each one of those guys brings some intrigue to the table and you’ll probably see each of them quite a bit this season, even if it’s to give Scott a breather for a play or two.
Butler isn’t a lock to start since he has about 4-5 underclassmen right on his tail.