Michigan State Football: 3 goals and a prediction for Week 1 vs. CMU

As Week 1 dons us with its glorious presence in just a few short hours, us fans will forget all about realignment, corporate greed, transfers, and last year’s results. After weeks of projections and predictions, we finally get to talk about tangible results.

As we soak in the glory of Michigan State football, here’s what I want to see (besides a Spartan victory).

1. 4.5 yards per rush and over 150 yards rushing

Michigan State wants to be a run-first team and when you can’t run the ball, last year’s record is what happens. The consistent message from the Spartans is that this is the best depth they’ve had on the offensive line since Mel Tucker was named head coach.

Getting 4.5 yards per rush and getting over 150 yards rushing will show that this offensive line is the real deal. There were also issues with running backs barely getting their footing before they’re being tackled (1.7 yards before contact, near the bottom of the NCAA).

Running the ball will also set up the pass for the new quarterback under center this season. Yes, having one 100-yard rusher would be fun, but seeing 2-3 guys combine for over 150 means that the line of scrimmage is being moved in the Spartans’ favor and that’s the heartbeat of the run game.

It’s an obvious answer for all of us, but its success or failure will pretty much set the tone for the rest of the season.