I love a Spartan victory.
Overall, the Spartans looked good, but the running game looked great. Running backs accounted for four of the five MSU touchdowns: two for Edwin Baker and two for Le’Veon Bell. Baker looked better than in 2009, showing off his explosive speed and uncanny balance. But Le’Veon bell, the true freshman, was the big surprise. He ripped off yards every time he carried the ball averaging 14 per carry. He worries me a bit because runs very tall, but hopefully his speed and his size will keep him safe and sound over the next four years. Keshawn Martin only had two carries, but he always runs well and Saturday was no exception. I’m pretty excited about a strong Spartan rushing attack because to me, a strong running games really opens up the passing game.
Speaking of the passing game, I think Cousins looked really good. Cousins was 13 for 21, but in reality, he threw the ball very well. B.J. Cunningham and Charlie Gantt struggled dropping very catchable passes. I know these guys are better than that; I’m hoping it’s just some Week 1 jitters. Thankfully, Mark Dell was hot, and then there was Keith Nichols amazing double-coverage reception in the end zone for a TD – an amazing catch and the spark the Spartans needed to get the offense rolling. I’d be remiss if I didn’t add that the O-line looked tough too. Kirk seemed to have more time in the pocket than in 2009.
The defense was solid all day, and Greg Jones continues to be where ever the action is. And Greg almost got his first career interception – so close. We’ll have to wait and see how the secondary holds against a stronger passing attack (Notre Dame).
Elsewhere in college football, or at least the teams I keep track of…
Notre Dame wons its opener against Purdue. I thought the Irish looked good and I like Coach Kelly. (Thank God Charlie Weis is gone and I can get back to liking Notre Dame.) Next week they take on Michigan which should be a really good game. I’m pulling for Notre Dame, in case you didn’t know.
Michigan was surprisingly good against Connecticut. Denard Robinson has a goofy nickname (Shoelace), but who cares when you see him run AND throw. He was amazing, and without question he carried the Wolverines to victory. The only issue I see is durability. He took some pretty major hits, and those hits are only going to get harder when they get in to Big Ten play. I just don’t know if they can play Robinson the way they did each and every game. And what happens to Michigan if Denard gets injured? That’s a lot of eggs in RichRod’s basket.
Next week, MSU takes on Florida Atlantic at Ford Field in Detroit. Go Green!
Sparty did look good. Shoelace – over in Ann Arbor – was scary. RichRod might have found a QB to bail him out of his problems.