3 Areas of Growth From Michigan State Football's Spring Practice
Michigan State football kicked off its third week of spring practice today, and head coach Jonathan Smith identified three position groups that have already shown signs of progress.
"I've seen growth really across the board," Smith said. "I think about really where our secondary is at, and those guys are adapting to some new schemes, doing a good job."
This offseason, Smith brought secondary coach Blue Adams to East Lansing from Oregon State, while also adding cornerbacks coach Demetrice Martin from Oregon. They join defensive coordinator Joe Rossi, who comes over from Minnesota, and defensive line coach Legi Suiaunoa, who also followed Smith from Oregon State.
"I think Rossi and that crew have been working well," Smith said. "They've got some good minds in the room, so, obviously Rossi has a system that he's been around, but [adding] some nuggets and new things coming from other places — it's gone well."
Smith also pointed to the offensive line as a group that progressed under veteran position coach Jim Michalczik.
"Jim does a good job mixing a lot of guys at the O-line, different spots. So, they're learning and growing there," Smith said.
Michigan State added Oregon State transfer Tanner Miller this offseason, who has been helping the rest of the room learn the new offensive scheme under coordinator Brian Lindgren. Holy Cross transfer Luke Newman will compete for a starting spot at O-line, along with returnees Geno VanDeMark, Brandon Baldwin, Ethan Boyd and others.
Finally, Smith noted MSU's wide receiver group has made strides under position coach Courtney Hawkins, the lone staff member of former head coach Mel Tucker that Smith retained.
"We've been pleased with the understanding, kind of the learning in the receiver group, in general," Smith said. "Brand new offense, a lot thrown at them, they've handled that well. So, there's been progress."
Smith said redshirt sophomore Antonio Gates Jr. has been making plays "throughout" spring practice, while also singling out redshirt seniors Montorie Foster and Alante Brown for strong practices on Tuesday.
"I'll tell you, this whole group, I've enjoyed watching them dive in," Smith said of his team as a whole. "Football means a ton to them. They're wearing out in the meetings, digesting it all, going to practice. It's a fun group to coach."
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