:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53132983/usa_today_9706655.0.jpg)
The Michigan State Spartans suffered a big blow when offensive lineman Thiyo Lukusa, who was a likely starter on the offensive line, announced he was quitting the team.
The news was first reported by the Detroit Free Press. The rising sophomore and Traverse City native said he will sign paperwork to relinquish his scholarship:
“I really haven’t been in love with football since I was in high school,” Lukusa told the Free Press. “It’s been awhile, probably since I was a sophomore or junior. I went home for Christmas and had a great time with my family Up North -- just being away from football and doing other things and working out and playing basketball and running.”
Lukusa added that he’s not passionate enough about football right now to have his life revolve around it.
The 6-5, 305-pound lineman appeared in seven games last season, a rarity for a true freshman, and was projected to start at right tackle in 2017.