Another season opener, another sleepy win for Michigan State football.
The Spartans raced out to a 21-0 lead before stumbling to a 23-6 victory over Western Michigan to open the season on Friday night. It started as a dominant performance by the Spartans and ended with some question marks, mostly due to the offense remaining stagnant in the second half.
Michigan State did have some impressive performers in the win, despite it being a ho-hum victory.
Although J Batt received the official game ball from Jonathan Smith following the win, here are three guys who were more than deserving.
1. Makhi Frazier, RB
In his first-ever start, Makhi Frazier broke 100 yards with a touchdown on 14 rushes. He was hitting holes hard, showing patience, and running with a purpose. He looked like a veteran running back which is exciting when you realize he's only going to get better. Frazier is the clear RB1 after watching the opener, but Brandon Tullis is an impressive backup, too.
2. Jordan Hall, LB
Jordan Hall led all Spartan defenders with eight total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, and a sack. He was all over the field and played like the linebacker we expected to see last season. Not only did Hall prove to be a great leader this offseason, earning captainship, but he also worked on his overall game. He has the tools to be the next great Michigan State linebacker. He led a great defensive effort on Friday.
3. Omari Kelly, WR
Nick Marsh was the receiver everyone talked about this offseason and heading into the opener, but Jonathan Smith hinted that Omari Kelly is the team's WR2, and he didn't disappoint. It felt like Aidan Chiles and Marsh were on a different page for a lot of Friday's game, but fortunately he had help from the sure-handed Kelly who caught a game-high seven passes for 75 yards. Having two elite receiving weapons is only going to help Chiles get better.
Guys like Caleb Gash, Grady Kelly, Quindarius Dunnigan, Tullis, and Chiles all missed the cut in the game ball category. These guys all played well on Friday.
I'm hoping the game ball picks are more difficult next week.