Michigan State football stock watch following Western Michigan win

EAST LANSING, MI - SEPTEMBER 02: Germie Bernard #5 of Michigan State celebrates with teammates following his first quarter touchdown against Western Michigan at Spartan Stadium on September 2, 2022 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Jaime Crawford/Getty Images) /

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MSU LB Ben VanSumeren (13) and LB Angelo Grose tackle WMU RB Sean Tyler Friday., Sept. 2, 2022, during the season opener at Spartan Stadium.Dsc 6528 /

Stock up: Ben VanSumeren

Ben VanSumeren was a monster against Western. He finished tied for the team lead with 11 total tackles, including one for loss. After an underwhelming year in 2021, the linebacker was all over the field in the opener. He saw the field early and often and out-shone Cal Haladay, who had a respectable night as well, finishing with 10 total tackles.

The loss of Quavaris Crouch was barely felt in the game, as the rotation of linebackers did a great job of playing in space. The pass defense was shaky, at best, and losing their best pass defense linebacker will certainly sting.

If VanSumeren can step up in Darius Snow’s absence, the Spartans should be in good hands.

Stock analysis

This one is too early to tell. VanSumeren played great last night, but this is week one after a disappointing 2021. The passing game struggles also make it hard for me to buy into a linebacker.

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