Man, I sure hope so.

The first step, I guess, is to have somebody that covers the sport label you a potential breakout player. Keith accomplished this twice over the last few weeks here and here. If it pans out this could be a major development for the 2013 Spartans. Keith showed flashes of just how good he can be early last season. His performances against FSU and IU at Breslin were two of the better games by any Spartan last year. His play in the IU game, in particular, was one of the better two-way performances I've seen. He was unstoppable on offense while wrapping Jordan Hulls in a straightjacket on defense. Over the course of the season he seemed to wear down though as the increase in minutes and responsibility seemed to get to him. It didn't help that Trice suffered various injuries causing him to miss valuable time and Keith to play even more than normal.

I consider Keith and Adreian Payne the most important players next season. Their development and improvement could be the difference between another good season and a truly great one. When MSU is projected in the 20's on some of these way-too-early top 25 rankings, like this one, it's as much about who's coming back as who's gone. Of course the team will miss Green, who wouldn't. But there is talent returning beginning with 2 top 35 recruits from the class of 2010. But when it comes to Appling and Payne, I think they're perceived as being lesser talents than the Craft's or Zeller's of the world. Start proving that perception wrong and more banners will go up soon. Apparently there are some out there that think Keith Appling is ready to do his part.