3 Michigan State football freshmen who could push for a starting job in 2024
The much-anticipated Michigan State football season is right around the corner and this is the start of the Jonathan Smith era after three-plus years of Mel Tucker.
The Spartans are hoping to turn things around quickly and for that to happen, some newcomers are going to have to step up to the plate and exceed expectations. While most of the newcomers that'll be able to have immediate impacts will be transfers, there will be a handful of freshmen who could push for starting jobs at some point this season.
These are the three freshmen who could push for a starting job at some point in 2024.
3. Justin Denson, CB
I had a tough time choosing between Brady Pretzlaff and Justin Denson for this spot but I truly think that the linebacking unit is the deepest and most talented on the team so it'd be tougher to crack that starting rotation than the cornerback spot.
That's why I'm giving the slight edge to Denson here.
The All-American cornerback from Pennsylvania drew plenty of interest during his recruiting process but ultimately decided to stick it out with the Spartans and he looks the part of a guy who could legitimately come in and have an immediate impact. He has the skill and plenty of confidence and plus, the defensive backfield has been a weakness for years.
2. Rustin Young, OL
I feel like I have to put Rustin Young on this list because he's my favorite 2024 signee outside of the No. 1 guy on here. Young is talented and built for Big Ten football at 6-foot-4 and 282 pounds. He's added nearly 10 pounds since his high school days and it looks like he could play either tackle or on the interior and that versatility could earn him a starting job at some point in 2024.
Now I'm not saying he's going to take over for any of the veterans or projected starters, but if there's an injury along the offensive line, he should be one of the first replacement options.
Young is going to be a star in East Lansing.
1. Nick Marsh, WR
Are we really surprised by this choice? Nick Marsh is one of the most talented incoming freshmen to come through East Lansing in years and he might be the top receiver prospect to commit to Michigan State since Donnie Corley (we unfortunately know what happened there).
Marsh has been on campus all spring and he's developed a strong connection with Aidan Chiles which should only help his chances.
Michigan State brings back Montorie Foster Jr., Alante Brown, and Jaron Glover, but the least shocking development would be seeing the 6-foot-3, 210-pound freshman from Rouge River, Mich., get the nod for the third receiver slot before becoming a breakout star.
It's only a matter of time for Marsh.