Michigan State Football: 3 bright spots heading into Michigan game

2. Duo of Jalen Nailor and Jayden Reed

One of the biggest bright spots ahead of the Michigan game has to be the play of Jalen Nailor and Jayden Reed. They combined for 17 receptions for 212 yards and three touchdowns and helped take some pressure off Rocky Lombardi and they still aren’t reaching their peaks yet.

This solid game didn’t come without hiccups, however.

On Michigan State’s first drive, Lombardi hit Reed for a first down and he tried to make a move upfield and was stripped as he was careless with the ball in his hands and Rutgers took over in Spartan territory. This led to another Scarlet Knights score as they made it 14-0 early and Michigan State had a tough time playing catch-up all game.

Then later in the half, Nailor and Lombardi had a little miscommunication and it looked like the wrong route was run and Rocky threw an interception which was almost returned for six but it did lead to a touchdown for Rutgers.

Reed did fumble again and dropped an easy pass, but he made defenders miss on a beautiful 50-yard touchdown catch and run for Michigan State’s first score.

Nailor did the same in the second half on a beautiful throw by Lombardi

This duo might end up being one of the Big Ten’s best if they can continue this type of play.