3 Key Concerns for Michigan State After Win Over Western Michigan
Despite starting the season with a 23–6 victory over Western Michigan, Michigan State’s performance revealed some areas that still need significant work. The start of a new season always brings optimism—a clean slate, fresh opportunities, and boundless potential. But after Week 1, we now have some early answers—and a few early red flags.
The Spartans looked sharp in the first half but struggled to maintain momentum in the second. While there were encouraging signs, like averaging 5.4 yards per carry (excluding sacks), Michigan State must tighten up in a few areas before taking on tougher competition like Boston College.
1. Ball Security Still a Problem for Aidan Chiles
Turnovers plagued the Spartans last season, and they haven’t gone away. Starting quarterback Aidan Chiles put the ball on the turf twice in the opener—continuing a troubling trend from 2024, when he fumbled five times (four resulting in turnovers). Though protection breakdowns contributed to both fumbles—particularly the fourth-quarter strip sack caused by a missed blitz pickup from RB Brandon Tullis—Chiles must protect the ball better, especially against tougher opponents.
2. Lack of Explosive Passing Plays 
MSU’s passing game failed to stretch the field for most of the game. The Spartans recorded just two completions of 15+ yards—and neither came until the fourth quarter. Chiles hit Omari Kelly for a 21-yard gain and Chrishon McCray for 28 shortly after, but the offense relied too heavily on short, conservative throws. While the running game managed four rushes of 15+ yards, the passing attack lacked similar explosiveness—something that must improve when facing more talented secondaries.
3. Offensive Drought in the Second Half
Most concerning of all: the offense went scoreless in the second half. Michigan State’s first four drives after halftime ended in punts—two of them three-and-outs. The only promising possession was derailed by Chiles’ second fumble. It echoed a familiar story: MSU had a second-half collapse against Boston College last season, turning a 13-6 lead into a 23-19 loss. That experience should’ve served as a warning—but Friday’s performance shows the lesson may not have fully sunk in.
Final Takeaway:
The Spartans handled business against Western Michigan, but the performance was far from polished. With a tougher schedule ahead, Michigan State will need to clean up the turnovers, find explosive plays through the air, and most importantly—play with consistency across all four quarters.
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