Michigan State football: With run game starting to click, Spartans need more TDs

Michigan State football is at a pivotal juncture in its season, where improvement in the run game has become a focal point of discussion. Sophomore quarterback Aidan Chiles has observed significant strides in the Spartans’ offensive line and running game, despite a rocky start that saw the team averaging only 120.2 rushing yards per game and ranking a dismal 102nd nationally as they approached their bye week. Chiles, however, remains optimistic and believes that the issues were not solely with the offensive line but with the overall offensive execution.

“I don’t think they were ever struggling. I think we just weren’t clicking as an offense,” Chiles stated. His confidence in the offensive line reflects a broader sentiment within the team that the pieces were in place, but they just needed time to coalesce into a functioning unit. This belief has proven prophetic in the last couple of games, where the Spartans have turned things around.

In their last two outings, the Spartans showcased a resurgent running game. The 212 rushing yards against Iowa were a season high, and they followed it up with another strong performance, accumulating 163 yards in a tough 24-17 loss to Michigan. The offensive line, in particular, has begun to show its potential, creating openings for running backs Nate Carter and Kay’Ron Lynch-Adams, who have been pivotal in moving the ball downfield. This improvement aligns with what head coach Jonathan Smith has been advocating since the beginning of the season, emphasizing the need for larger gains on the ground.

Running backs coach Keith Bhonepha has been integral to this turnaround. “It’s been really a collaborative effort for us as an offensive staff, and obviously (offensive coordinator Brian) Lindgren, to get the run game going, something that was lacking,” Bhonepha said. His approach has emphasized decisiveness and confidence among the running backs, which appears to be paying off. “Just more emphasis on not being hesitant in the hole. I think the guys are really starting to believe in that based on the O-line, the tight ends, the receivers (blocking), and then us doing a great job up front of trusting where those spaces will be.”

This newfound confidence is evident in the way the backs are hitting their holes, which Bhonepha describes as “puncturing in the hole.” This phrase encapsulates the urgency and aggression that the running backs have begun to exhibit, allowing them to take advantage of the openings created by the offensive line. As the Spartans prepare for their next matchup against No. 13 Indiana, this momentum will be crucial.

The Hoosiers come into the game boasting the fourth-best run defense in the nation, allowing only 86.1 rushing yards per game. This presents a significant challenge for the Spartans, who will need to continue their momentum in the run game if they hope to be successful. Controlling the clock will be vital, especially given Indiana’s potent offense. By maintaining possession, the Spartans can keep the Hoosiers’ offense off the field, a strategy that has worked well for them recently. In their games against Iowa and Michigan, MSU had significant advantages in time of possession, showcasing their ability to control the game tempo.

Chiles articulated the importance of this strategy: “Keeping other offenses off the field is big for our team in general, just giving us a chance to score. And also, it’s making it harder for them to get on the field and score.” This strategy allows the Spartans not only to create opportunities for their offense but also to wear down opposing defenses.

Despite the recent successes in the run game, the Spartans face a pressing issue: the inability to convert these long drives into touchdowns. While they have improved their rushing statistics, they rank just 114th in scoring nationally, averaging only 21.0 points per game. This stark contrast highlights a critical flaw in their offensive performance, particularly in the red zone where they have struggled to capitalize on their possessions. The Spartans currently sit at 116th out of 133 teams in red-zone efficiency, managing to score on only 70% of their visits.

In the loss to Michigan, missed opportunities were painfully evident. The Spartans had two drives stall out in the Wolverines’ territory, failing to convert what should have been scoring opportunities. Additionally, while they did manage a touchdown—Carter’s 2-yard run—it was a small consolation compared to what could have been. This underperformance in the red zone remains a significant hurdle that the Spartans must overcome if they hope to achieve greater success.

Running back Nate Carter, who had a standout game against Michigan with 118 rushing yards, echoed this sentiment. “Unfortunately, we can’t keep getting stalled out when it gets to the red zone, because that’s where it hurts us,” he said. Carter emphasized the need to finish drives with points, ideally touchdowns. “We have to figure out a way in order for us when we drive the ball down there to finish with points. Hopefully touchdowns.” This necessity to convert in critical situations will define the Spartans’ chances moving forward.

As Michigan State prepares for Indiana, they will need to address these red zone challenges directly. The coaching staff is aware of the importance of not only generating yardage but also translating that into scoring opportunities. They will likely emphasize drills that focus on executing plays in tighter spaces, enhancing the team’s ability to finish drives successfully.

The game against Indiana also serves as an opportunity for Chiles to showcase his capabilities as a dual-threat quarterback. His ability to contribute in the run game adds a different dimension to the offense. His mobility can help alleviate some pressure from the running backs and open up more options for the Spartans’ offense. As Chiles develops, his growth will be critical in determining how effectively Michigan State can navigate through difficult defenses like Indiana’s.

With each week, the Spartans have the chance to build on their recent success and address their shortcomings. The journey to improve is not just about individual performances but also about developing a cohesive offensive strategy that capitalizes on the team’s strengths while minimizing weaknesses. The camaraderie and belief among the players have fostered a sense of resilience, which will be essential as they face formidable opponents in the weeks to come.

The upcoming game against Indiana will be a litmus test for Michigan State football. It will not only gauge how far the team has come in terms of running the ball effectively but also highlight their ability to score in crucial moments. With the stakes high, the Spartans must leverage their momentum and execute their game plan effectively.

As the Spartans continue their season, the goal remains clear: to convert their improved offensive performance into points on the board. The success of the running game is encouraging, but it must translate into scoring opportunities for Michigan State to achieve their objectives. With a mix of determination, strategy, and skill, the Spartans can aim to turn their season around and position themselves for a strong finish. Ultimately, it will come down to their ability to maintain focus, execute in critical moments, and continue building on the progress they’ve made in recent weeks.