Michigan State Football: Report card for crushing loss vs. Arizona State

Defense

Once again, the defense gave a herculean effort and it was wasted because of the offense’s inability to reach the end zone.

Defensive Line: B+

For the second straight week, this group was tough to judge. Jayden Daniels was getting the ball out quickly like Jon Wassink did a week ago and that led to minimal pressure. The Spartans still managed four sacks and when Daniels did hold the ball for more than a few seconds, he was under duress. Raequan Williams made a couple of mistakes (though they were questionable) with a late hit on the quarterback and a hands to the face call that cost the Spartans a strip sack. Kenny Willekes was disruptive again, as were Jacub Panasiuk and Mike Panasiuk.

Linebackers: A-

Joe Bachie led the team in tackles but his name didn’t seem to be called that much because of the quick passing game. He made a huge pass breakup late in the game to force a fourth down, but Daniels ultimately rushed for a 15-yard first down which set up the game-winning touchdown. And it’s the coaching staff’s fault, but not having someone spy Daniels on the final drive was the deciding factor. Antjuan Simmons was second on the team in tackles with nine and Tyriq Thompson played well, too.

Secondary: B+

This group may have finished with an A if it wasn’t for the fourth-quarter meltdown which allowed the game-winning touchdown drive. A long pass on Josh Butler who was beat down the sideline decided the game and if it wasn’t for that mishap in coverage, the Spartans win the game. Josiah Scott, Xavier Henderson and David Dowell all played well and Butler did, too, for the most part outside of the final drive. There were also some dropped interceptions.

Special Teams: D+

How is this not an F? Well, you can’t forget that special teams is not only field goal units but also the punt and return teams. Kick returns weren’t incredibly impressive, but Cody White did a solid job in punt return, but a hold brought back a big return in the second half. Also, Jake Hartbarger had a huge punt front his own end zone in the fourth quarter which looked to help the Spartan defense, but it still ended up giving up the game-winning touchdown. That punt alone nearly saved the game. And we know how Matt Coghlin’s day went.

Coaching: F

This is a bonus category because we need to talk about just how poorly the game was coached for the Spartans. The 12 men on the field during the game-tying field goal was entirely on the staff for waiting to decide to kick a field goal and rushing the unit on the field. To top that off, the staff continues to take out a red-hot Elijah Collins in situations for Connor Heyward and not take advantage of plays that are working. Drives stalled out because the staff got conservative. Kind of like playing not to lose instead of playing to win with a three-point lead. Oh, and not having a spy on Daniels for the Sun Devils’ final drive? Unacceptable.