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Michigan State Football: Grading transfers during 2021 season

By Brandon Martinez

MIAMI GARDENS, FL - SEPTEMBER 18: Kenneth Walker III #9 of the Michigan State Spartans runs with the ball against the Miami Hurricanes on September 18, 2021 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. . (Photo by Joel Auerbach/Getty Images)
MIAMI GARDENS, FL - SEPTEMBER 18: Kenneth Walker III #9 of the Michigan State Spartans runs with the ball against the Miami Hurricanes on September 18, 2021 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. . (Photo by Joel Auerbach/Getty Images) /
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Michigan State’s Ben VanSumeren, left, tackles Nebraska’s Adrian Martinez during the second quarter on Saturday, Sept. 25, 2021, at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing.210925 Msu Nebraska 133a
Michigan State’s Ben VanSumeren, left, tackles Nebraska’s Adrian Martinez during the second quarter on Saturday, Sept. 25, 2021, at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing.210925 Msu Nebraska 133a /

Ben VanSumeren, LB, Junior

Stats (7 games): 12 tackles, 7 solos, 1 TFL

Ben VanSumeren was a slightly shocking pickup. It’s not often you gain a player from your in-state rival. Tuck Comin’, right?

VanSumeren started in Ann Arbor as a fullback, eventually switching to linebacker and even starting there for a couple of games. Coming in, VanSumeren was expected to compete for a starting role on the defense but playing most of his snaps on special teams.

There were only five games this season where he played at least 14 snaps on defense. He did a solid job stopping the run, but it was clear his strength was in coverage. VanSumeren only allowed 4.4 yards per catch and allowed only one game that resulted in more than eight yards after catch.

Overall, VanSumeren did a solid job filling in when he had to and was a reliable special teamer this season.

Final Grade: B-

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