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Alright, I really don’t like doing this.
This summer I’ve been trying to cram some optimism in everyone’s head, but sometimes you just have to call it how you see it. And guys, last year wasn’t so great.
Shocking, I know.
As we creep up on the 2017 season, let’s all act like a green and white genie (maybe that’s what Johnny Spirit actually is?) has appeared. Let’s act like he’s granting us one wish with a major stipulation — it must be used on one position or coaching group.
No lottery numbers, no smoke show supermodel wife and no unlimited wishes. Just MSU football improvements.
So, what is there to improve and what’s your wish? Let’s take a look, vote on your wish and banter about it in the comments.
A stronger pass rush
Last year’s pass rush made playing quarterback against MSU the most comfortable way to take in a Spartan game. The defense only generated 11 sacks last season, which I’m pretty sure is what we had in that 2013 Michigan beatdown alone.
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A stouter offensive line
Half the offensive line from the 2015 College Football Playoff team went to the NFL, so we knew there would be some drop-off last year. However, injuries certainly didn’t help either, and the offensive line didn’t help the passing game all too much.
However, the ground attack was still solid as the Spartans averaged 4.4 yards per carry. The air attack noticeably suffered too, giving Tyler O’Connor/Brian Lewerke/Damion Terry not a ton of time to work with whenever they dropped back.
Stronger QB play
Some people (me) think the offensive woes were on the offensive line, others think it was on the quarterback play. Hot take alert -- the Spartans are going to want more consistency this year at the helm than last year.
Folks, you’re here for the hard-hitting analysis.
Better offensive play calling
I don’t even need to dive into this one.
If — no, WHEN — MSU’s first play is a run up the middle, that yelping sound you hear from section 17 is me.
More consistent special teams
Ever since Keshawn Martin, the Spartans have had a tough time finding a consistent and dynamic kickoff and punt returner. Also, now that Michael Geiger’s four year reign is over, whoever fills his shoes will have some pressure on them. This could very well be one of those seasons packed with tight games decided by special teams.
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A return to the No Fly Zone
Man, I miss those days. While it’s likely the famed “No Fly Zone” of the 2013-14 season will be duplicated, a more lethal secondary would be just dandy. However, this is one of the biggest question marks as the two-deep at cornerback and safety are still a mystery.
A dynamic receiving corps
The Spartans are losing a lot of production from last season with graduation and team dismissals. Luckily, the future looks promising with talent, but can they learn quickly enough?
Something else?
What did we miss guys? Sound off in the comments.
Poll
Where do you want to see MSU improve the most?
This poll is closed
-
43%
Pass rush
-
12%
Offensive line
-
11%
Quarterback
-
12%
Play calling
-
1%
Special teams
-
15%
Defensive secondary
-
0%
Receiver corps
-
2%
Other