3 keys to victory for Michigan State football vs. Maryland in Week 2

This may be one of the biggest week two games in the history of Michigan State football, at least in the post Mark Dantonio era. The Spartans travel to Maryland for an early season Big Ten matchup that will have a massive impact on the outlook of the rest of the sesaon.

A win and bowl eligibility would feel almost a certainty. But a loss, especially if it's by a lot, will have us wondering where anymore wins on the schedule will come.

Jonathan Smith has a chance to make a statement with a win, so here are my three keys that will help him and Michigan State come home to East Lansing late Saturday night with a win.

1. Make life simple for Aidan Chiles

The most important thing Michigan State needs to do this weekend is get Aidan Chiles in a rhythm. Chiles struggled all game against FAU and a lot of that had to do with him never finding his groove. So importance needs to first and foremost be put on that when calling plays.

To accomplish this, Chiles needs more simple throws especially in the beginning of the game. I also don't think he should be throwing more than three or four home run balls in this game because that is something he did way too often last week, especially on third down. There's nothing wrong with calling a few screen passes and five yard routes early in the game to get his rhythem going.

Not only should that help MSU get some easy first downs, but it will also increase Chiles' confidence which will help him hit those deep balls later in the game.