Michigan State Football: Dantonio era comparisons for key 2020 players

Julian Barnett

Mark Dantonio era comparison: Tony Lippett

At this point it would probably be appropriate for me to apologize for comparing almost every player to someone from the 2013 Rose Bowl squad, I’d like to think that these are all pretty accurate comparisons. Maybe I just really like that team.

Julian Barnett is one of those guys that would succeed anywhere on the field. He’s an athlete in its purest form and a key piece of MSU’s offense moving forward. A rare talent that can make an impact on both sides of the ball. Reminiscent of Justin Layne and more accurately, Tony Lippett.

Barnett looks just like Tony out on the field with a little bit of added muscle, a trait that Lippett lacks to this day. Offensively, Lippett increased his yardage total and yards per catch each year as a Spartan. Barnett’s already got his freshman totals beat, so it’s only a matter of time before his accolades — likely on defense — catch up with the former Big Ten Receiver of the Year. I believe Barnett is a copy of Lippett with a slightly higher ceiling.

Despite the lack of experience, Michigan State has more talent on offense than most people would expect behind Elijah Collins, Jalen Nailor and Barnett. Even with huge departures, expect a huge step forward for the green and white in 2020.