Grading the 2024 Michigan State football transfer class as the season wraps up

After a roster exodus following the 2023 Michigan State football season, many had to be replaced. Some were replaced by freshmen (mostly just Nick Marsh, but what a replacement that has been), but a lot were replaced by transfers.

As the season is coming to a close, I think its time to evaluate just how good new head coach Jonathan Smith's first transfer class has performed. Keep in mind, he had a lot of things to focus on once he took over the job recruiting-wise, so the class very well might've been a matter of getting anyone they can to play.

What I'm trying to say is, let's remember to temper our expectations a bit when it comes to this class as I look to be the objective opinion on it in this article.

To be determined

The following players will not apply to this exercise. It would be unfair to give them grades while not having much of a chance to showcase their skill due to lack of snaps. The following players have less than 100 snaps on the season to this point and will be excused from this article:

Marcellius Pulliam (34)
Semaj Bridgeman (0)
Andrew Dennis (4)
Tyler Gillison (0)
Jeremiah Hughes (80)
Lejond Cavazos (9)
Carson Voss (0)
Kaden Schickel (56)
Tommy Schuster (63)

* () indicates snaps played

Ru'Quan Buckley, DT: B-

Ru'Quan Buckley has played just over 100 snaps to this point, and has been solid in his chances. Pro Football Focus gave him grades between 70-80 across the board for defense, run defense, and tackling, which is respectable. He also has eight tackles and seven run stops on the year.

Ben Roberts, DT: C

Ben Roberts has had an up-and-down year with Michigan State, serving as a rotational piece on the defensive line. He has played 111 snaps this year but has unfavorable grades from PFF, for what that is worth. He has logged just five tackles and three pressures in 2024.