All-time Michigan State football defensive starters from Mark Dantonio era

Cornerback 2: Darqueze Dennard

Darqueze Dennard potentially is the best corner in Michigan State history, and he has the accolades to back it up.

Beginning his career in 2010, he saw an impressive two starts as a true freshman. From there Dennard went on to become a full time starter in 2011 and was an All-Big Ten honorable mention selection. In 2012 he took it up to another level and was a first team All-Big Ten selection, but that doesn't even compare to Dennard's 2013 season.

Dennard's 2013 season is the best I have ever seen from a corner, or an player for that matter, in Michigan State football history. During the season he racked up 62 tackles (3.5 for loss), four interceptions, two forced fumbles, and 14 pass defenses. This impressive season gave him one of the longest lists of accolades I have ever seen. This includes first-team All-Big Ten, first-team All-American, Big Ten Defensive Back of the year, Big Ten Defensive MVP, and the winner of the Jim Thorpe Award which goes to the nation's best defensive back.

Then to top it all off, long after his career was complete Dennard was named to the Big Ten All-Decade team.

A true cover corner like Dennard may never be seen again at Michigan State. It truly was an honor to watch him play throughout the years, and I hope what he brought and did for Michigan State is never forgotten.