Michigan State football managed to secure a win against Florida Atlantic on Friday night, and here are my candid, spontaneous thoughts.
While you can never apologize for a victory, Michigan State won’t be doing that after narrowly winning 16-10 in their season opener. Here are some thoughts right after the final whistle.
The Defense Shined
The entire defensive unit deserves major credit. Michigan State excelled at all three levels, allowing only one touchdown due to a miscommunication. Khris Bogle stood out with 2.5 tackles for loss, contributing to a total of 10 tackles for loss and seven sacks. FAU struggled on the ground, running 47 times for just 132 yards. The Spartans were tough when it mattered, limiting FAU to 2-for-14 on third down and 2-for-5 on fourth down. The defense repeatedly stepped up, especially in the fourth quarter of a tight game. Had it not been for some frustrating penalties (more on that later), this could have been a shutout. Even if FAU may not be an offensive powerhouse this season, MSU did what was needed against them.
Absurd Penalties
Cam Fancher’s tendency to exploit the quarterback slide rule contributed to many penalties. It felt like Michigan State was on the receiving end of almost every questionable call, but their lack of discipline was alarming. The broadcast noted early on that the defensive staff was aware of Fancher’s late slides, yet the Spartans appeared taken by surprise. This issue popped up all night with several players. Malik Spencer got ejected for targeting, Dillon Tatum had a horse collar penalty, and Jordan Turner was penalized for taking off his helmet on the field. These mistakes are unacceptable, especially coming from seasoned players meant to lead. The Spartans managed to escape this game, but they won’t be so fortunate moving forward.
Offensive Struggles
I anticipated a slow offensive start due to many new players, but the performance was even below my expectations. Aidan Chiles completed only 10 of 24 passes and struggled in the second half. His best play rolling out to find Aziah Johnson was overshadowed by a poor underthrow at the goal line, which FAU intercepted. Chiles and his receivers were frequently out of sync, particularly on sideline throws. The lack of a dependable running game compounded the issues, and the concerns about the receiving corps seem valid. Montorie Foster fumbled in the red zone, and no other receiver managed more than one catch. Chiles’ first interception was a poor decision, and he fumbled again in the first half while hesitating on what looked like a designed run. Unless FAU’s defense is as elite as last year’s Georgia squad, this won’t suffice.
Kay’Ron Lynch-Adams Emerges
I thought Nate Carter could be an all-conference talent this season, but he struggled, averaging just 2.5 yards per carry on 19 attempts. In contrast, Lynch-Adams rushed for 101 yards on just nine attempts, showcasing decisiveness and hitting gaps hard. His 61-yard touchdown was MSU’s most explosive play of the night. While Carter remains a valuable asset, Lynch-Adams may fit this scheme better.
Ryan Eckley is a Weapon
Michigan State’s punter, Ryan Eckley, quickly proved his value again, pinning his first punt at the FAU one-yard line and contributing to a safety. Overall, he kicked six times for 297 yards, averaging 49.5 yards per punt, significantly affecting field position. This is a crucial advantage for a team that may need those hidden yards this season.
A Note for Jonathan Smith
It seemed like Jonathan Smith was overly excited for his first game, as evidenced by his decision to go for it on fourth-and-2 while leading by six in the fourth quarter. A field goal there, which Jonathan Kim would likely make, would have been wise, especially with the defense performing so well. At that point, FAU likely had only two possessions left; it would be better to force them to score on both. The offense wasn’t in a rhythm, so they should have taken the points.
Most late-game drama wouldn’t have mattered had MSU opted for the field goal to go up by nine. I believe this won’t be a recurring issue for Smith. Let’s hope this game is not reflective of the season in terms of offensive struggles and discipline issues.
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