Michigan State Football: 3 important Jonathan Smith quotes

2. On Tanner Miller

"Great story because he was a walk-on initially and we did talk about earning his opportunities as a walk-on and took advantage of everything his first couple of years plugging away. And his position flexibility, guard or center, leadership, understanding command of line of scrimmage, needing to make some calls. All of those things. Plays the game physical but he's overly athletic so his story of where he started to really becoming a leader and a guy you can count on. We feel awesome about him coming over here."

Successful programs are filled with stories like Oregon State transfer Tanner Miller.

Starting his career as a walk-on only to become a key figure in the Beavers' success is exaclty what Michigan State football needs in its building. Not only his work ethic and leadership, but as a role model for some young kids on this team.

Maybe they feel like they don't belong on a Power Five roster and looking to leave with the transfer process being so easy. This kid can look at a player like Miller, talk to him, and learn how to improve their game to the level that Michigan State needs him to be.

There's even an award called the Burlsworth that recognizes the best player in college football whose career started as a walk-on. It's this kind of work ethic that even the most talented players should emulate.