Michigan State football OC discusses two changes to make to the offense
One thing really surprised me during Michigan State football's 16-10 win over Florida Atlantic, and that is the Spartan's defense being the group that played extremely well. Going into Friday night I think we all expected the offense to be solid with the defense being the unit that struggled at times, but it was actually the complete opposite.
So as the team prepares for Maryland it's very clear that something needs to change on offense if Michigan State wants to come home with a win.
There are a lot of things offensive coordinator Brian Lindgren could adjust, but he discussed on Tuesday two of the most important things that need to be better going forward.
Lindgren on giving Chiles some rhythm throws: “That was the plan going in. Going into the game I wanted to have a mix of it.” Says FAU showed more man coverage than expected which changed some things a bit.
— SpartanMag.com (@TheSpartanMag) September 3, 2024
This is one thing I kept screaming at my TV against FAU. Aidan Chiles was taking way too many deep shots, especially on third downs. Now I don't know if that was his choice or what Lindgren was calling or wanting him to do, but any first time starter at quarterback needs to have more easy "rhythm" throws to get their feet wet during the game.
Chiles did not have enough of these and that may have been one of the biggest reasons he struggled.
The second major change Lindgren wants to make is getting transfer tight end Jack Velling more involved.
Lindgren says he wants to get Jack Velling more involved. Says he was the first read on multiple plays but FAU did a good job of taking him away.
— SpartanMag.com (@TheSpartanMag) September 3, 2024
Last year at Oregon State, Velling led the FBS in touchdown receptions for tight ends. But that production was nowhere to be seen on Friday as Velling only hauled in one pass for 15 yards.
The nice thing about these two goals is that they can be accomplished at the same time. The best way for Lindgren to get the offense going at Maryland is to give Chiles some simple throws to his most sure-handed receiver and in this case that is Velling. So look for that connection more than a few times when Michigan State takes on Maryland this weekend.