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Michigan State Football: 3 attainable goals for the second half of 2023 season

By Scott Tolonen

Michigan State's Katin Houser throws a pass against Washington during the fourth quarter on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing.
Michigan State's Katin Houser throws a pass against Washington during the fourth quarter on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing. /
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Sep 30, 2023; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive lineman Ethan Hurkett (49) and linebacker Jay Higgins (34) tackle Michigan State Spartans running back Nathan Carter (5) during the third quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 30, 2023; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive lineman Ethan Hurkett (49) and linebacker Jay Higgins (34) tackle Michigan State Spartans running back Nathan Carter (5) during the third quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Average 4.0 yards per carry

For whatever reason, the offensive line has been maybe the biggest disappointment of the season. There seems to be talent up and down the position group and Coach Chris Kapilovic was named as the best offensive line coach in the Big Ten before the season so why are they only average a 3.8 yards per carry (tied for 94th best in the country)? Why are they constantly missing blocks on fourth-and-short and costing this team possessions?

Especially on early downs, the Spartans are unable to run the ball, setting up obvious passing plays, putting Noah Kim behind the 8-ball, forcing to either turn the ball over or throw it out of bounds.

Last year, a punt was a win with Bryce Barringer booting the ball, pinning the opposing offense deep in their own territory. This year, the Spartans are eighth in the Big Ten in punting.

In conclusion, any time the Spartans have the ball in their hands, it ends poorly. I don’t know what needs to be done in terms of scheme or personnel, but it better look different with two weeks to prepare for Rutgers.

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