Michigan State Spartans Defensive Players to Watch vs. No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes

Cal Haladay and Aaron Brule are forces at the linebacker position, while sophomore Jaden Mangham looks to add to his impressive numbers in the secondary.

The Michigan State Spartans defense will have their hands full on Saturday against the No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes.

The Buckeyes are one of the top offenses in the country, but the Spartans have several options they can go to in an effort to limit the Scarlet and Gray. Here are some of the guys coach Harlon Barnett may look to against Ohio State.

1. Cal Haladay, Linebacker

Haladay has the most total tackles on the Spartans' defense with 65m including 27 on his own. The Elysburg, Pennsylvania native has more to his name than just tackles, however.

Among Haladay's season statistics are two fumble recoveries, a sack and an interception. Haladay will no doubt be looked to by Barnett to hold down the second level against the Buckeyes' offense.

2. Aaron Brule, Linebacker

Brule is the Spartans' sack leader with four on the season, making him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. The senior out of the Big Easy also has 44 total tackles and a pass deflection along with his sacks.

Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing just under 250 pounds, Brule is a force for offensive linemen when he has a full head of steam. Ohio State offensive line coach Justin Frye will have to be sure he plans for Brule during practice this week.

3. Jaden Mangham, Defensive Back

Mangham has recorded four interceptions through nine games, which is the most on the team. Along with the quartet of picks, Mangham has also batted three opposing passes out of the air.

The sophomore from Beverly Hills, Michigan posted goose eggs in these two categories last season and boosted his total tackles from 20 to 39 over that same time. Mangham will have to patrol the skies better than he ever has before if he and the Spartans want to limit the Buckeyes.