Spartans still have work to do

Boy was I wrong about the opener against Montana State. I thought Dantonio would concentrate his offense on running the ball in an effort to get his offensive line use to working with each other. I predicted MSU would throw 25 passes or less between Cousins and Nichol (they threw 35), and I expected MSU to have several runs of forty yards or greater, they didn’t. About the only thing I did get right was expecting the defense to dominate.

The concerns I had going into the season remain, that being the OL struggling. With having to replace the entire right side of the line, Cironi coming off of shoulder surgery, and Nitchman being a serviceable center at best (my opinion only) this unit would have to show marketed improvement to just reach last years level (which was average at best, again my opinion). The 175 yards rushing looks impressive, but MSU should have easily eclipsed 250 yards rushing, especially with the threat of the passing game. One would think that a strong passing game would force defenses from stacking the box, making it easier for MSU to run. If that was indeed the case against Montana State then that would create even more concern. In any case the OL is still a question mark, and improvement is required.

Neither Cousins or Nichol dissappointed in their collective debut as each showed their abilities by throwing three and two touchdowns, respectively, without an interception. The arguement as to who should be named the starter will continue for at least another week. I get the feeling that Dantonio is waiting for one of them to blink so that he can make a final decision. Cousins was my choice before camp started because of his performances last year, and the comments made by Hoyer regarding his film study and always asking questions of the coaches. The kid is a cerebral QB with an outstanding arm and quick release.

The trio of Ray, Baker and Caper had a respectable showing, and has potential to be great if the OL gets its act together. From the photos I have seen of Saturday’s contest, Ray looks strikingly similar to Ringer. Caper and Baker will likely remain the second and third options behind Ray unless one has a “Wow” type performance. Also, don’t overlook the re-emergence of Glen Winston. Though I have a personal issue with his reinstatement, he displayed a few Caulcrick type moments during his limited playing time.

Greg Jones showed why he was selected as one of the captains. The guy was all over the field and making plays. The defensive backfield had a respectable performance, but I expect this group to come up with a take away or two each game. The DL was adequate but in order for MSU to be considered a strong contender they need this group to pressure the quarterback without the aid of blitzing from the linebackers or the secondary.

This is far from a polished product and Dantonio and his staff have a great deal of work to do if anyone wants to entertain the notion that MSU will challege for a conference title.