Michigan State football: 3 takeaways from hapless Maryland loss in Week 4

EAST LANSING, MICHIGAN - SEPTEMBER 23: Head coach Harlon Barnett of the Michigan State Spartans talks with Malik Spencer #43 in the second quarter of a game against the Maryland Terrapins at Spartan Stadium on September 23, 2023 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Mike Mulholland/Getty Images)
EAST LANSING, MICHIGAN - SEPTEMBER 23: Head coach Harlon Barnett of the Michigan State Spartans talks with Malik Spencer #43 in the second quarter of a game against the Maryland Terrapins at Spartan Stadium on September 23, 2023 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Mike Mulholland/Getty Images) /
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Michigan State running back Nathan Carter runs against Maryland defensive back Dante Trader Jr. during the second half of MSU’s 31-9 loss on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, in East Lansing.
Michigan State running back Nathan Carter runs against Maryland defensive back Dante Trader Jr. during the second half of MSU’s 31-9 loss on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, in East Lansing. /

2. Nathan Carter deserves better

After a horrible game last week due to poor blocking and just no running lanes, Nathan Carter bounced back to rush for nearly 100 yards against Maryland.

Not only did he nearly rush for 100 yards, but he looked like the best player on either side of the field. He was tough to bring down and he turned a few no-gainers into chunk plays and he just looked like the kind of player that this offense can build around.

If Carter stays here next season, the offense should feature him. He’s too good.

Honestly, the UConn transfer deserves better. He should not have to work as hard as he does just to get back to the line of scrimmage most of the time. He deserves better blocking and more play calls that play to his strength.

Carter deserves better than what he’s gotten at Michigan State through four games.