Caulcrick, Rayner, Mitchell steal show in Spring ball

Spring game photos by ES

(photo by the ES, 04/24/04)-- The ES joined 16,000 others on Saturday and watched the Spartan offense struggle throughout the game, but was pleased to see a good running game from Jehuu Caulcrick and DeAndra Cobb. Caulcrick ran hard with solid runs up the middle and a nice 35 yard gain early around left end. He ended up with 108 yards and a TD on 16 carries. The ES gives Caulcrick the game ball for most outstanding performance in the spring game. The ES will publish his Spring Review in May -- look for it in pubs, coffee shops, and right here in a few weeks.

The ES was disappointed in the play of Matt Trannon early -- on one play in the first quarter, he stopped his route about 40 yards downfield and tried to leap for the ball on a dart of a long throw by Reaves. If he would have kept running, he would have caught it in stride. Brandon Fields boomed a 70 yard punt, and Dave Rayner kicked a 62-yard field goal. The kicking game is in top shape.

Reaves struggled early and found his stride as the game moved alone. He finished 15-of-26 passes for 184 yards, with two interceptions. Dowdell completed 10-of-22 passes for 69 yards and an interception -- and surprised the ES by actually looking fairly competent. One of his passes was a TD dropped by Shabaj in the end zone, which instead resulted in a Goss field goal.

The pass defense looked fairly sharp, with Seth Mitchell intercepting a pair of passes (this is a concern on offense, since no blitzing was allowed) and Kaleb Thornhill picking off the other. And, CB (converted from RB) Jason Harmon made 11 tackles.

Senior DE Clifford Dukes was carted off with an undisclosed knee injury -- the only injury of the game, but a serious one to a stud on our defense. We can't lose Dukes.

All in all, look for Stanton to win the job in the fall, with Reaves at #2 and Dowdell to possibly quit after being given the #3 spot on the team. That would be the ES' preference, and this is the most likely scenario at this point.

Here is the official release from MSU Media Relations (msuspartans.com):

Questions still abound about the Michigan State football team's 2004 prospects, but coach John L. Smith felt he was a little closer to finding answers after the Spartans' spring game Saturday.

A crowd of about 16,000 watched the team's final spring practice, which covered 115 plays and ran for about two hours.

The biggest question remains at quarterback, where Stephen Reaves and Damon Dowdell alternated series. Drew Stanton, who did not play Saturday due to a knee injury suffered in the Alamo Bowl, will compete for the job this summer. The winner will succeed the graduated Jeff Smoker, who started all or part of the past four seasons.
  
The Spartans offense struggled Saturday, especially early.
"That concerns me," Smith said. "We lacked a sense of urgency out there, and that comes down to leadership. We need more fire out there." Stanton believes he can fill that bill. "I've got the confidence, and I plan to take more of a leadership role," he said. Stanton said that he had participated in everything except contact drills for the Spartans this spring, and watched the scrimmage from the sideline.

Reaves, a redshirt freshman, completed 15-of-26 passes for 184 yards, with two interceptions. Dowdell completed 10-of-22 passes for 69 yards and an interception.

"Right now, it's going to be Reaves battling Stanton," Smith said. "If Damon shores up his grades, he might be in the mix, too. But he's got to show me something in the classroom, first." Dowdell, a redshirt senior, said his grades won't be a problem after the spring semester. "My plan is to be the starting quarterback," Dowdell said. "I'm going to get my academics tightened up and then hit the film room. I plan on being in the mix" at quarterback.

At running back, redshirt freshman Jehuu Caulcrick rushed for 108 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries, while DeAndra Cobb carried nine times for 77 yards, including a 24-yard scoring run.
"Both had good days," Smith said. "I could see us putting both of them on the field sometimes, to change up our offense. They both give us the same thing."

The offense was helped a little bit by the defense, which did not blitz during the scrimmage, but linebacker Seth Mitchell intercepted two passes.
"It's still early," Mitchell said. "I know there's a lot of room for improvement. We still have to work on the fundamentals. We played well in the first half (of the scrimmage) but we let up in the second half, and we can't have that."

Smith also was pleased with the results of competition at kicker, between redshirt senior Dave Rayner, who kicked a 62-yard field goal, and junior-college transfer John Goss. Goss also competed with Brandon Fields at punter, and both averaged over 45 yards per kick.

At his previous stops in Louisville, Utah State and Idaho, Smith's teams had won a conference championship by his third year at those schools. "I think so," he said when asked if the Spartans were on a similar pace. "I think it's realistic. But I hope to challenge now, too. We've got to come out of the blocks strong."

The Spartans begin the 2004 season at Rutgers on Sept. 4

Spartans to kickoff Spring finale at Spartan Stadium at 1 pm on Saturday

(04/23/04)--Just a reminder for everyone to get out to Spartan Stadium on Saturday at 1 pm to check out the Green and White game. As reported in Friday's Lansing State Journal, WR Terry Love will not suit up -- he has blazing 4.4 speed, but suffered a bruised knee in practice last Saturday. He is expected to be 100% by the summer, and will likely backup Matt Trannon.

What to watch for: RBs Jehuu Caulcrick, Jason Teague and DeAndra Cobb; QB Stephen Reaves; BANDIT Tyrell Dortch; CB Jaren Hayes; LB Seth Mitchell; PK Dave Rayner and P Brandon Fields vs. newcomer PK/P John Goss; TE Eric Knott; DT Brandon McKinney; OT Sean Poole.

Clarett tackled for loss by courts; NCAA to penalize teams for not graduating players

(04/20/04)--Wow, the ES is all over this. Clarett got smacked in the face by the courts, as a Federal Appeals Court issued a stay of a previous ruling that declared the NFL's rule against allowing college athletes into the draft without until three years after high school graduation. That means Ohio State's Maurice Clarett -- yeah, that guy who was suspended last year for claiming an insurance loss that didn't really happen; and, that guy who got extra help in class that other students didn't get -- as well as USC's Mike Williams will NOT be able to enter the NFL's draft this Sunday while the case continues to wind through the courts. It is possible the court can issue a final opinion in favor of Clarett, but it would be after the draft and the NFL would have to hold a supplemental draft for these players.

This is a big plus for college football -- these players aren't ready yet and by leaving early it diminishes the game at the college level and takes away time from coaches doing what they do best (coaching Xs and Os) and instead spend that time recruiting looking for other players. The ruling also limits allowing players to leave college early would enhance their risk of an injury-plagued NFL career (their bodies are still growing).

In another interesting development this week, the NCAA is considering -- and will likely adopt -- new standards to penalize schools with scholarship losses if they do not graduate players at a specified rate (to be determined). Penalties could be as severe as NCAA tourney disqualification and loss of money from championships.

The ES is supportive of the concept -- listen, players are STUDENTS first, and if they can't cut the mustard in the classroom, then don't use the scholarship and try to be a pro. Scholarships are money, and they should be used to study -- players are already getting paid, and there are plenty of financially-strapped students that would gladly trade places with these athletes for a scholarship (if they had the athletic ability).

However -- and a big HOWEVER -- the ES is concerned that leagues such as the NBA are influencing players to leave college early, thus reducing the scholarship rate for schools at the expense of coaches. MSU's Tom Izzo is case in point, with Zach Randolph, Jason Richardson, Marcus Taylor, and Erazem Lorbek all leaving early and reducing MSU's scholarship rate. (and, for John L Smith, Matthias Askew's departure to the NFL is another example). This MUST be taken into consideration when this rule is being enforced. You can't force a student-athlete to stick around no matter how hard you try-- hey, it is a free country, and coaches shouldn't be penalized for it. Let us hope the NCAA acts wisely here.

Third Spring Scrimmage Features Deeefense

(04/17/04)--Highlights on Friday's scrimmage, the third this spring:

• Stephen Reaves completed 12-of-20 throws for 76 yards in Friday's scrimmage.
• Ronald Stanley eight tackles, 2.5 stacks.
• John L Smith: "The defense did a great job and won today's battle."
• Greg Cooper injured with sprained shoulder.
• Teague 4 carries for 46 yards; Cobb 13-42; Caulcrick 10-36.

Here is the release from MSU Media Relations (msuspartans.com):

With temperatures in the mid-70s, Michigan State second-year head football coach John L. Smith sent his team through a 110-play "controlled" scrimmage in Spartan Stadium Friday, April 16 to conclude the third week of spring practice.

"We saw great competition today," Smith said. "The players took the intensity and emotion to another level. Nobody backed down. The guys fought each other for 110 plays and were disappointed when I blew the whistle at the end of practice, because they wanted to keep going.

"The defense did a great job and won today's battle. The defense found a way to come up with third-down stops. The offense went three-and-out on seven of 15 possessions. The defense also didn't give up many big plays.
"We're definitely making some progress. The offense took better care of the ball today, committing only one turnover (lost fumble). The first-team offense needs to show more consistency moving the football. The bottom line is we need to develop more leadership on the first unit.

"It's been a difficult spring for our inexperienced offensive line and quarterback because we've thrown a ton of material at them. In the long run, I really believe that's going to payoff."

The first-team defense nearly posted a shutout as the first-team offense failed to score on its first seven possessions. On its eighth and final series, the first-team offense, led by red-shirt freshman Stephen Reaves (6-1, 200), put together a five-play, 52-yard scoring drive.

Linebacker Ronald Stanley (6-0, 232, Sr.) paced the first-team defense with eight tackles, including 2.5 sacks for 24 yards. Strong safety Cole Corey (5-10, 191, R-Fr.) recorded seven tackles, while free safety Jason Harmon (5-11, 199, Sr.) contributed four stops.

"Ronald Stanley seemed to be all over the field, making tackles," Smith said. "Ronald ran down plays on both sidelines, stuffed runs up the middle and sacked the quarterback. He had a smile on his face every time he came off the field. Ronald is a different player this year because he played hurt (shoulder) most of last season."

"The defense had a good day," Stanley said. "The offense seemed a little out of sync, so the defense had its way. The offense ran the ball well in the first two scrimmages, but we came out focused on shutting down the running game today."I had a lot of fun today. I like being involved in pressuring the quarterback, so I got to blitz a few times today and came up with a couple of sacks."
Defensive end Michael Bazemore (6-3, 260, Jr.) led the second-team unit with six tackles, including a 3-yard sack.

Reaves took all of the snaps with the first-team offense and completed 12-of-20 throws for 76 yards. His 25-yard completion to Matt Trannon (6-6, 228, Jr.) on a third-and-7 play set up the first unit's only touchdown. Two plays later, Jason Teague (5-9, 191, Jr.) scored on a 24-yard run up the middle. "Stephen Reaves made some good decisions and didn't throw the ball up for grabs," Smith said. "We've thrown so much material at Stephen that the light hasn't gone on yet, but he's improved each week." Damon Dowdell accounted for 149 total yards and two scores in Friday's scrimmage.

Veteran quarterback Damon Dowdell (6-1, 220, Sr.) accounted for 149 total yards and two scores while directing three TD drives for the second-team offense. He hit 4-of-9 passes for 88 yards and rushed for a scrimmage-best 61 yards on seven carries.

"With Damon Dowdell at quarterback, the second team showed more composure and leadership," Smith said. "The second-team offense displayed some want, some grit and some focus. We need to develop those same traits with the first unit." Dowdell capped a nine-play, 63-yard drive with a 9-yard TD strike to Aaron Alexander (6-5, 196, Jr.) in the left corner of the end zone. He opened the next series with a 55-yard bomb to Alexander. Three plays later, Dowdell scored on a 1-yard sneak.

On the scrimmage's final possession, Dowdell converted a fourth-and-4 play by racing 34 yards around right end on a naked bootleg. Jehuu Caulcrick (6-0, 250, R-Fr.) finished off the five-play, 43-yard drive with a 3-yard TD run up the middle. Jason Teague rushed for 46 yards on four carries, including a 24-yard TD run.

Teague gained 46 yards on only four carries, including his 24-yard TD gallop. He also had an 18-yard TD run wiped out by an illegal-shift penalty. DeAndra Cobb (5-10, 191, Sr.) picked up 42 yards on 13 rushes, while Caulcrick contributed 36 yards on 10 attempts. "Jehuu Caulcrick showed some toughness running the football today," Smith said. "Jehuu has to be that kind of bruising back for us all year."
Tight end Jason Randall (6-5, 260, Sr.) and Trannon had three receptions each for 31 and 30 yards, respectively. Nine different receivers caught at least one pass.

Alexander, who sat out six practices this spring including the first two scrimmages while recovering from off-season foot surgery, returned to the lineup and had an immediate impact. He caught two passes for 64 yards. His first catch, a 9-yarder from Dowdell, resulted in a TD and his second grab (55 yards from Dowdell) set up another score.
"Aaron Alexander brings a lot of positives to the field," Smith said. "He saw action with the second-team offense today and added some confidence and maturity to the lineup. Aaron also brings a ton of energy to the field. He's almost hyper when he's in the huddle."
"It felt good to score a touchdown today," Alexander said. "I'm just glad to be back out on the field with the guys. Physically, I'm probably 75-percent back from the foot injury, but I have to keep pressing forward.

"Offensively, the guys need to come out and play with more focus. The defense played with more intensity today and punished us. We got beat at the line of scrimmage. It all starts with the offensive line but unfortunately, we didn't get a great push." JC transfer John Goss converted 6-of-11 field-goal attempts during Friday's scrimmage, including a 58-yarder.

John Goss (6-3, 217, Jr.), a transfer from Scottsdale (Ariz.) Community College, continues to push incumbents Dave Rayner (6-2, 207, Sr.) and Brandon Fields (6-6, 233, So.) for the placekicking and punting duties, respectively. Goss converted 6-of-11 field-goal attempts, including a 58-yarder, and averaged 50.3 yards on three punts, including a 58-yarder. Rayner also hit 6-of-11 field-goal tries, including a 47-yarder, while Fields averaged 44.5 yards on four punts, including a 59-yarder.

Michigan State concludes its 15 spring practices with the Green-White intrasquad scrimmage Saturday, April 24 at 1 p.m. in Spartan Stadium. Admission is free. Following the scrimmage, Spartan players will be available for autographs on the field.

Additional Spring Football Notes:
* The only injury occurred on the first play of Friday's 110-play scrimmage as strong safety Greg Cooper (5-11, 185, So.) sprained his shoulder while tackling tight end Jason Randall after a 19-yard reception from Stephen Reaves.

* Michigan State's coaching staff and players will conduct a youth football clinic prior to the Saturday, April 24 scrimmage. Children, ages 8-12, are invited to attend the youth clinic from 10-11:30 a.m. on the practice fields behind the Duffy Daugherty Football Building, located at the corner of Chestnut Rd. and Shaw Lane. Clinic participants and their parents are requested to enter the practice fields through the gate on Shaw Lane.

The purpose of the clinic is to introduce youngsters to the game by stressing fundamentals. No football gear is required. Admission is free for the youth clinic. Following the clinic, all participants will be provided a complimentary hot dog and Coke.

* The annual MSU Athletics Department and Concessions "Spring Garage Sale" will be held Saturday, April 24 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. in the Sideline Shop, located at the south entrance of Spartan Stadium. Featured sales items include: new assorted football cleats and artificial turf shoes (low, mid and high tops) from sizes 8-18, blank game jerseys and T-shirts.

Reaves solidifies spot as #1 QB in 2nd Scrimmage

(4/11/04)--Much to the chagrin of fifht-year senior Damon Dowdell, redshirt freshman Stephen Reaves has distanced himself from the rest of the competition as the Spartans top QB; noting that Drew Stanton is injured and won't be healthy until fall camp. The second scrimmage had Reaves pass 12-of-23 for 107 yards and a pair of TDs... but also with a pair of INTs. The ES appreciates Dowdell (7-of-12 for 44 yards) for his service, but also notes that thankfully we Spartans have found some QBs with faster and better decision making ability than Dowdell.

Meanwhile, on defense: Tyrell Dortch has made an impact at the BANDIT position (nine tackles and a forced fumble), and Jaren Hayes made an immediate impression filling in at CB with some big hits. Safety Jason Harmon was the star, who made both INTs of QB Stephen Reaves. John L Smith stated that he was happy the defense is improving and not giving up any big plays -- but that it still needs to stiffen up.

Here is the release from MSU Media Relations (www.msuspartans.com):

Michigan State second-year head football coach John L. Smith sent his team through a 108-play "controlled" scrimmage in Spartan Stadium Saturday, April 10 to conclude the second week of spring practice.

"The execution was better on both sides of the ball," Smith said. "I'm also pleased because the guys picked up the intensity. The pads were really popping.

"The offense played with a better sense of urgency today. Both Stephen Reaves and Damon Dowdell helped establish a good tempo, getting the offense in and out of the huddle. The offense also sustained some drives, but it committed too many stupid penalties and turnovers. We ran the ball well again today because the offensive line created some push up front and the backs hit the openings.
 
"The defense stretched today, but it didn't give up many big plays. Once again, the defense ran to the ball hard and created some turnovers in the red zone."

The first-team defense nearly recorded a shutout as the first-team offense failed to score a touchdown on its six possessions, managing only one field goal.
Stephen Reaves (6-1, 200, R-Fr.) took the majority of snaps with the first-team offense and completed 12-of-23 throws for 107 yards, including a 24-yard touchdown toss to Agim Shabaj (5-10, 187, Jr.). Reaves threw two interceptions.

"We've thrown a ton of material at Stephen, so he's still learning," Smith said. "He's an extremely competitive kid and at times, he's his own worst enemy. Stephen will learn to eliminate the mental mistakes. He tried to force the action too much today. He'll learn that there's nothing wrong with dropping the ball off to a running back for a 6- or 7-yard gain, instead of throwing the ball into coverage down field. He'll also learn to throw the ball away in the red zone to make sure the offense gets some points out of long drives." Left guard Kyle Cook provides pass protection for Stephen Reaves during Saturday's scrimmage.

The first-team offense opened the scrimmage with a 12-play drive, recording four first downs, but failed to put points on the scoreboard. Running back DeAndra Cobb (5-10, 191, Sr.) picked up 36 yards on his first four carries and a 16-yard completion from Reaves to Matt Trannon (6-6, 228, Jr.) set up a first-and-goal at the 7. Two plays later, free safety Jason Harmon (5-11, 199, Sr.) intercepted a pass in the end zone, intended for Kyle Brown (6-1, 200, Jr.).

On its second possession, the first-team offense again threatened to score. Three consecutive plays produced first downs as Reaves completed a 10-yard toss to Shabaj, Cobb ripped off a 20-yard run up the middle and Reaves again hooked up with Shabaj for a 13-yard gain. On second-and-9 from the 25, Cobb caught a screen pass from Reaves but fumbled after BANDIT Tyrell Dortch (5-10, 206, Sr.) delivered a big hit and defensive end Clifton Ryan (6-2, 289, So.) recovered the ball before it rolled out of bounds at the 32.

"The defense faced a big mental test today," Harmon said. "The offense put together some long drives, but the defense really dug in and made some big plays in the red zone. We had some players, like Tyrell Dortch, step up as emotional leaders today."
Midway through the scrimmage, veteran quarterback Damon Dowdell (6-1, 220, Sr.) put the second-team offense in the end zone, directing a six-play, 62-yard drive. Dowdell kept the drive alive by scrambling for 11 yards around left end on a third-and-8 play. Three plays later, he fired a 21-yard TD strike to Jeremy Scott (5-10, 183, So.), who made the grab after the ball went through the hands of tight end Matt Walters (6-2, 241, Jr.).

Dowdell, who also played one series with the first-team offense, connected on 7-of-12 passes for 44 yards.

Cobb paced a well-balanced ground attack with 77 yards on 14 carries. Jason Teague (5-9, 191, Jr.) gained 50 yards on 11 rushes, while Kris Bush (5-11, 200, R-Fr.) contributed 36 yards on six attempts. Jehuu Caulcrick (6-0, 250, R-Fr.), who produced 80 yards on seven rushes in the April 6 scrimmage including a 66-yard TD run, sat out Saturday's practice with a sprained shoulder.
Shabaj had a team-high six receptions for 63 yards. Scott and Trannon had two catches each for 38 and 28 yards, respectively. Nine different receivers caught at least one pass. Free safety Jason Harmon recorded five tackles and two interceptions Saturday.

Dortch produced a team-high nine tackles, including one that caused a fumble and resulted in a 7-yard loss. Harmon contributed five tackles to go along with his two interceptions, while linebacker Seth Mitchell (6-2, 248, Jr.) recorded four stops, including a 6-yard sack.

"I can't say enough of good things about Tyrell Dortch and Jaren Hayes (4 tackles today)," Smith said. "I'd love to get both of those guys on the field full time. They bring a lot of toughness to the lineup.

"Tyrell stuck his nose in there and made some plays today. I can't believe how quickly he's picked up the system.

"We moved Jaren outside to cornerback today, and he played some with both the first- and second-team. He really has a chance to earn a starting job at corner."

"Both Tyrell and Jaren have a lot to learn, but we feel real comfortable with them on the field," Harmon said. "Those guys are playmakers.

"Tyrell brings a lot of energy and emotion to the field. He encouraged the guys today when our backs were against the wall. Tyrell definitely provided an emotional lift.

"Jaren adds a lot of athleticism and quickness to the lineup. I really think he played well at corner today."

With eight of the 15 allotted practices in the books, Smith has identified some points of emphasis for the remainder of spring ball.
"Over the next two weeks, we're going to stress taking care of the football," Smith said. "We'll also focus on cleaning things up by eliminating the mental mistakes.

"I'm disappointed in the number of yards the defense has given up on the ground in the two scrimmages, but I'm pleased that it hasn't been allowing any easy scores."

Michigan State concludes spring practice with the Green-White intrasquad scrimmage Saturday, April 24 at 1 p.m. in Spartan Stadium. Admission is free.

Cobb, Rayner (62-yd FG) shine in Spring scrimmage; QBs rusty

(4/7/04)--(photo above of QB Stephen Reaves, courtesy MSU Media Relations)--MSU went through its first scrimmage of the spring on Tuesday, with the PK Dave Rayner hitting a 62 yard FG among 7-of-8 tries, and the running game (181 yards rushing from Cobb and Caulcrick) stealing the show. On the negative side, Coach John L. points out that defensive tackling was "horrendous" and that the QBs "never found rhythm." PK Dave Rayner converted seven-of-eight field-goal attempts, hitting from 27, 32, 37, 42, 52, 57 and 62 yards (missed 47-yard wide left). DeAndra Cobb had 101 yards on 18 rushes. Jehuu Caulcrick gained 80 yards on seven carries, including a 66-yard touchdown run around left end. QB Stephen Reaves took all the snaps with the first team, but was rusty with three INTs on 10-of-21 throws for 105 yards. Reaves threw a 16-yard TD strike to Matt Trannon on the final play. Four of his 10 completions went for 20 or more yards.

Here is a synopsis from MSU Media Relations, www.msuspartans.com:

"Jehuu Caulcrick ran hard early and really set the tone," coach John L. Smith said. "Jehuu ran over a couple of guys on his way to the end zone. DeAndra Cobb came on strong late in the scrimmage and ran with some toughness. Cobb has the ability to make guys miss tackles plus when he runs with toughness, he can break tackles."

The team was in full pads through a 2 1/2-hour workout, including a 76-play "controlled" scrimmage. The scrimmage was indoors in the Duffy Daugherty Football Building.
"The running game was a positive today," Smith said. "It's important to get the running game going, so we can take some pressure off of our inexperienced quarterbacks. I also like the fact that there's some competition for playing time at running back. Competition certainly brought out the best in those backs today. Offensively, we must execute more consistently and operate with a greater sense of urgency. We produced some big plays in both the running and passing games today, but we need to develop the ability to sustain drives."

"We need to have a productive running game to help loosen up the passing game. Last year, teams paid little to no attention to our running game. This season, we want to make our opponents respect our running game. When we can mix the run with the pass, it really opens up the playbook."

"None of the quarterbacks really found the rhythm," Smith said. "Stephen Reaves has the ability to ad-lib a play and get out of trouble when the pocket breaks down. Like all lefties, he has the ability to make big plays out of nothing.
"He's a rookie, so he needs to learn how to take care of the ball. We have to be patient and understand the fact that Stephen hasn't taken a snap from center in a college game yet. Stephen will learn where to go with the football and how to limit his mistakes."

Damon Dowdell (6-1, 220, Sr.) and Sean Clayton (6-4, 222, R-Fr.) shared snaps with the second-team offense. Dowdell hit three-of-five passes for 18 yards and an interception, while Clayton connected on two-of-four attempts for 20 yards. "Damon Dowdell did some good things when he was on the field," Smith said, "so we may have to get him more snaps in the next scrimmage."

Trannon and tight end Ryan Woods (6-4, 251, Jr.) had three receptions each for 39 and 31 yards, respectively. Eight different receivers caught at least one pass. Ronald Stanley's interception inside the 20-yard line ended an early scoring threat.

Michigan State's defense came up with four interceptions, with linebacker Ronald Stanley (6-0, 232, Sr.), cornerback Roderick Maples (5-10, 189, Jr.), linebacker David Herron Jr. (6-1, 250, So.) and cornerback Ashton Watson (5-11, 179, Sr.) each picking off a pass. BANDIT Tyrell Dortch (5-10, 206, Sr.), a converted running back, recorded six tackles. Maples had five tackles and a pass break-up to go along with his interception, while defensive end Clifton Ryan (6-2, 289, So.) produced two sacks (10 yards). "The defense created four turnovers and that's another positive sign, but our tackling was hideous in the open field," said coach Smith.

The Spartans have another closed scrimmage scheduled for Saturday, April 10. Michigan State concludes its 15 spring practices with the Green-White intrasquad scrimmage Saturday, April 24 at 1 p.m. in Spartan Stadium.

Trannon makes strides after basketball stint

(4/2/04)--As reported last night on WLNS-TV 6, Spartan basketball forward and football WR Matt Trannon has returned to the football team with renewed confidence that has helped him stand out in Spring ball. "[Basketball] definitely helped his confidence," said coach John L. Smith. "He has some difficulties last year, but he looks much improved." Good thing; at times, Trannon was butterfingers and just didn't stand out... he was a better blocker than a receiver last year. Keep up the good work, Matt!

The Lansing State Journal is featuing a great story in today's paper on redshirt-freshman Jehuu Caulcrick, the 2003 Spartan RB recruit - turned LB - now turned back to RB. Check it out at: http://greenandwhite.com. John L. stated that if it doesn't work out at RB, that Caulcrick will quickly be moved back to LB, where the Spartans are thin and in need of his 6-0/250 frame and 4.41-40 speed.

Dowdell vs. Reaves at QB as Spring Ball Begins

(03/25/04)--With Drew Stanton still recovering from a bumb knee suffered on the opening kickoff in the Alamo Bowl, senior Damon Dowdell and redshirt frosh Stephen Reaves will compete for the starting spot at QB this spring. Stanton went under the knife on Jan. 23 and is undergoing rehab five days a week.

ES notes: watch for Stanton, who is the superior athlete and who has had the most practice reps last year, to be named the starter in the fall. Stephen Reaves should be #2 -- he has a very strong arm and is a lefty... something John L has liked in the past. Dowdell will remain at #3... Dowdell needs to improve and speed up his decision making, and he is deceptively SLOW - he needs to run faster than a 4.9-40 yard dash.

Both Jaren Hayes and Tyrell Dortch are working out on defense, so the top RB looks to be hard-hitting Jason Teague and speedster DeAndra Cobb. Jehuu Caulrick and Kris Brown are also competing for the RB slot. Freshmen Sylvester "Bobo" Brown is a non-factor at this point. The surprise seems to be OL Mike Gyetvai at 6-7, 312-lbs. "He is a crushing run blocker," said John L.

Injury Update: Junior safety Eric Smith, who was a suprise early on last season with his command of the defense, good decision making, and hard hits -- continues to rehab his shoulder and knee. He will not compete this spring, but should be fully healed by fall. RB Tyrell Dortch had the plate removed from his leg in offseason, and John L. is trying him out at the defensive BANDIT position. Junior wide receiver Aaron Alexander will see limited action because of a recent surgery on his foot to replace a bent screw.
Freshman offensive tackle Peter Clifford broke his jaw over spring break and will miss all upcoming practices.

Other Player News: Matt Trannon is back on the football team after MSU men's basketball's abrupt finish in the NCAA tournament. Walk-on special teams contributor Dave Lesmeister, safety Derron Ware and bandits Robert Flagg and Carlos Alexander are no longer with the team.

Join the ES' 2004 NCAA Basketball Tourney Pool 

(03/16/04)--Join the ES' NCAA tournament pool via Yahoo. You need a Yahoo ID, but sign up at Yahoo Fantasy when ready...

Website: tournament.fantasysports.
yahoo.com
Group ID: 16666
Password: gostate

As the ES boards a plane to Washington DC Sunday morning, he'll land and check the tournament brackets in the nation's capitol. Where will the Spartans be seeded after yet another disappointing loss to them stinkin' Badgers? At 18-11/12-4, the ES thinks MSU will probably get a #8 or #9 seed.

This is your chance to beat the ES at his own self-professed infinite wisdom! Go STATE!

ES: lawmakers are silly if they buy NCAA testimony
 
 
(03/11/04: AP) -- The ES says, if lawmakers seriously belive they can change the nature of college athletics, then they should head straight for the bar. Gimme a break. What a waste of time by Congress... anyhow, here's the lastest report by the AP on the NCAA pleading with Congress that it will clean up its act... whatever (yawn), we've heard this before.

AP: Reports of sex and alcohol-fueled parties to entice high school players show that colleges have not done enough to police themselves, a representative told Congress on Thursday. Advertisement
 
Dave Berst, chairman of an NCAA task force reviewing recruiting rules, said the group is ready to address the problem.
"Up to this point institutions have said to us, 'We can handle that,"' Berst said. "I think the recent revelations that have come about ... require attention to the cultural issues and I believe it's the right opportunity to step in."
Options include shortening campus visits from 48 hours to 24 hours; prohibiting off-campus entertainment; reducing from five to three or four the number of visits a student can take; capping university spending on travel, meals and lodging; and requiring athletes to cover the costs for any visits.
The president of the NCAA created the task force after reports of unseemly recruiting tactics by Colorado and other schools. Myles Brand wants changes in place before the college football recruiting season.
Don McPherson, executive director of the Sports Leadership Institute at Adelphi University, told a House Energy and Commerce subcommittee, that the changes under considerations will not make a difference.
"You can't legislate the behavior of student athletes," said McPherson, a former quarterback at Syracuse. "They're trying to take a multibillion-dollar business and fit it into a nonprofit environment."
Rep. Tom Osborne, who coached Nebraska's football team for 25 years, said recruiting is much more regulated today than when he started coaching. Most coaches would not run the risk of breaking the rules, he said, and it would be unwise for Congress to try to legislate a solution.
"There is going to be a certain percentage that are going to cheat on their taxes ... that are going to cheat in recruiting. That's just the way it is," he said.
The hearing was prompted by reports that Colorado football recruits were promised sex, enticed with strippers and taken to off-campus parties.
The school's president, Elizabeth Hoffman, has set new rules that prohibit recruits from attending private parties, require adult supervision of recruits at all times and establish an earlier curfew. Football coach Gary Barnett is now on administrative leave.
Three women sued the school, alleging they were raped by football players or recruits in 2001. The women claim the school used the promise of sex to entice recruits.
In all, seven women, including a former place-kicker, said they have been raped since 1997, although no charges have been filed.
The school is investigating and the governor has appointed the state's attorney general as a special prosecutor.
Committee members noted other cases where schools went to extremes to persuade athletes to join their program.
McPherson said schools that decide to restrict recruits to on-campus activities could put the sports program at a disadvantage.
"They are not coming to a visit to go to the library," he said. "Be realistic. They're coming to a campus to find out if this is where they want to spend the next four years."
The subcommittee chairman, Rep. Cliff Stearns, R-Fla., suggested that college presidents sign an oath stating that their sports programs are clean. That would be similar to the financial voucher Congress now requires corporate chief executives to sign.
According to the NCAA database, 31 schools have been penalized for major recruiting violations since 2000. In many cases, coaches gave cash, plane tickets or other banned benefits to the high school athletes or family members.

Instant Replay Gets OK for Big Ten in 2004

(2/26/04)--Like it or not, instant replay will be implemented for Big Ten games this fall. The NCAA has approved the Big Ten's use of instant replay in all of its 44 conference games and potentially for all 22 non-conference games played in Big Ten stadiums (if opposing coaches agree to use it).

An instant replay official (IRO) will be in the press box booth, monitoring game action on tv. It will be up to the IRO to make the call whether or not play should be stopped and the previous play reversed due to a missed call by officials on the field. Coaches will have no input, and neither will officials on the field. If there is a lack of time to review the previous play or insufficient evidence, then play cannot be stopped.

MSU head coach John L Smith endorsed the plan: "it is a positive move. It's about time instant replay found its way into college football.... I hope the Big Ten puts someone in the booth who isn't afraid to say what's right or wrong. With instant replay, we can make sure the plays are called correctly."

MSU dominates Michigan again! 72-69

(2/25/04)--How many times do I have to tell all you naysayers out there... Izzo IS THE MAN! Once again, Izzo has his Spartans defeating those pesky rats from Ann Arbor -- for the 10th time in the last 11 tries -- and, has his team on a roll going into tournament time... winning 8 of its last 10 and 11 of its last 13 games. MSU smacked around Michigan when it mattered most -- in the second half -- and whipped Michigan, 72-69, for yet another (yawn) season sweep of the Wolvies. Hopefully we've knocked Meeechigan out of the NCAA tournament as well as knocking some of their teeth out. And, wow, finally Kelvin Torbert (18 pts, 3-5 treys) is coming of age... right when we need him!

FYI, since Izzo has been coach, the Spartans have never finished their final 10 regular season games at worse than 8-2. Once again, this sets up to be the case, with MSU having a commanding 11-3 record in the Big Ten and set up for a conference-crowning showdown at home against Wisconsin next Tuesday (the ES has tickets to the game, mid court seats!!!!).

All of you who picked against MSU when they were just 5-6, and who will pick against them in the NCAA tournament... when will you learn? What does it take for you to get it? MSU is the WHIP when it matters most... at the END of the season, not necessarily at the beginning. And, MSU may be the most dangerous team in the nation heading into the tournament.... AGAIN! Sure, the Big Ten may be having a down year, but MSU has taken full advantage of it to rack up its wins. MSU and Illinois are the cream of the crop in the Big10, and with a 16-9 record, MSU has an NCAA bid all but wrapped up with two remaining games.

The positives - #1 in Big Ten, 37 RPI, winning 8 of 10, no bad losses. The negatives - no big wins, 2-7 record vs. RPI top 50 (both vs. UM, #50). With some added concentration to win at lowly Penn State and vs. falling Wisky, MSU should head into the Big Ten tourney at 18-9, with at least one or two wins in the tourney to top out, at minimum, 19-10 or at good as 21-9. (21-9 would put them in the Top 20 nationally and a seed as high as #4 or #5; 19-10 would seed them around #7,#8,#9).

The lesson - NEVER bet against Izzo and the Spartans in February and March. He has the track record, and the team, to prove it. If you bet against them again, you are just going to regret it. Go STATE!

MSU Football Future Schedules Through 2011 Posted

(2/12/04)--Ok, some of this may change between now and 2011, especially the specific dates, but the ES has scoured the web and found most of the Spartan's non-conference football opponents through 2011.

You can link here for future schedules.

The 2004 schedule is posted to the right, and obviously the December trip to Hawaii is the highlight of the season. 2005 shows MSU hosting Kent State, Hawaii and travelling to Notre Dame. 2006 has MSU hosting Eastern Michigan and Notre Dame and travelling to Pittsburgh. In 2007, MSU will host Western Michigan and Pittsburgh before travelling to Notre Dame. The Spartans cap their season off with a trip to Hawaii. In 2008, the ES will travel to San Francisco to see buddies Chock and Smig as the Spartans take on California before hosting Notre Dame. The ES is still trying to find info on 2009. In 2010, Akron and Notre Dame visit MSU while the Spartans travel to Texas A&M. The Aggies visit MSU in 2011.

The Big Ten has not announced its football schedules after 2006.

Spartans score HUGE on signing day, getting PRIZE recruits Martin and Grimes

(2/4/04)--Wow! JLS got his prize recruit! Now John L Smith has brought arguably the top recruiting class into East Lansing in the past 30 years with a stunning announcement that a pair of studs, OL Roland Martin and WR/DB Carl Grimes, have committed to MSU. This lifts MSU to #16 in the nation according to Rivals.com off of 30 recruits... and the fourth-best recruiting class in the Big Ten (behind Michigan #5, Ohio State #8, Penn State #13). You can learn more about the recruits at Trippers today in Frandor at 5:30 pm, where coach Smith will give a silde show and video presentation of the new recruits to the Spartan faithful.

Roland Martin (pictured above, 6-6, 305), is considered the #2 OT prospect in the nation by Rivals.com, and the #6 OL by Insiders.com. He is also ranked the #29 player overall in the nation. He is out of Harper HS in Chicago, IL. An all-conference, all-city, and honorable mention all-state selection his junior season. Martin chose MSU over powerhouses Oklahoma, Tennessee, and North Carolina State. Insiders says: "Considered one of the top offensive line prospects in the nation. Martin will be a three-year starter on both sides of the ball in 2003. Projects as an offensive tackle at the next level. Was named all-area in 2002.
Was named all-state in 2003 by the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times and the Champaign News-Gazette."

Carl Grimes (pictured at left), who decommitted earlier this year and committed to the Florida State Bowdens, has recomitted to MSU. Grimes (5-9, 174-lbs) has a blazing sub 4.4-40 speed. Out of Detroit DePorres HS, Grimes is ranked the #9 athlete in the nation by Rivals.com, and the #20 athlete by Insiders.com.

Insiders.com has MSU ranked #15. They say: "Other quarterbacks like Chad Henne (Michigan) and Anthony Morelli (Pittsburgh) got more press in the Big 10 region but I love Brian Hoyer’s game and what he brings to the table. He’s a steal from the Buckeye State. So is wide receiver Miles Williams who flew under the recruiting radar screen. The Spartans also landed five other wide receivers and four tight ends for Head Coach John L. Smith’s offense. Leon Pennington is a big back that could also find his way to the linebacker position. Defensively, Michigan State got some JUCO help on the D-line and loaded up in the secondary. Keep a close eye on SirDarean Adams, a super athlete from the state of Florida. He’s another steal. Linebackers Tyrone McKenzie and Huge D’Imperio were late gets by the Spartans."

Great job John L. Smith!

MSU gets unknown speedy recruit at LB

(2/3/04)--Heading into tomorrow's official signing day, MSU got nabbed their 28th recruit when Tyrone McKenzie of Riverview HS in Florida verbally agreed to join the Big Green Machine. McKenzie (6-3, 220) runs a 4.55-40 and will be slotted at LB. McKenzie is coming off a broken leg as a junior, and he has not been sought after by many D1A programs. He turned down Iowa State and UConn to come to MSU. Last season, McKenzie ran for 1,415 yards and 16 TDs. He is already academically qualified. He is a two-star recruit as rated by Rivals.com.

State gets help at LB with incoming D'Imperio; MSU now #17 in recruiting

(2/1/04)--The Spartans received their 27th committment when Hugh D'Imperio of Sewell, NJ, gave his verbal on Friday. D'imperio is a 4-star recruit according to Rivals.com, and he is the fourth four-star recruit to commit to MSU. Rivals lists him as the #17 ILB in the nation, the #43 player on its top-80 Atlantic Region players, and the #6 player to come out of NJ. He was named all-state as a senior. D'Imperio (6-4, 230-lbs) selected the Spartans over Tennessee and Virginia Tech, two national powerhouses. D'Imperio is eligible to play as a freshman. Insiders.com gives D'Imperio three stars and rates him as the #30 LB in the nation. From Insiders.com: "Hugh averaged approximately 12 tackles per game and tallied 7 sacks his junior season, helping Washington Township achieve a 10-2 record. Hugh was named 1st Team All-Area as a defender by the Philadelphia Inquirer." Link here for bio.

MSU is rated #17 in recruiting by Rivals.com, behind Penn State at #16, Ohio State at #7, and Michigan at #3. Other Big Ten teams are Purdue at #27, Wisconsin #34, Iowa #35, Illinois #47, Minnesota #55, Indiana #57, Northwestern #68. Notre Dame is at #32.

Juco WR commits to Spartans; MSU now ranked #18 in recruiting

(1/30/04)--Man, John L Smith keeps reeling in the wideouts. Kenny Jackson (6-3, 210-lbs) is now the 26th member of the 2004 recruiting class for the Green and White. Jackson hails from Bakersfield (Calif.) College. He runs a 4.5-40, and led his team in receptions the past two seasons. Last year, he caught 49 balls for 596 yards. Jackson received a three-star ranking from Rivals.com. He picked MSU over Kansas State, Iowa State and Syracuse. MSU is now rated as the #18 class in the nation according to Rivals.com.

Spartans get OL committ; JLS to have signing day gig at Trippers on Feb 4; BW gets job with Saban?

(1/28/04)--The Spartans picked up their 25th committment on Tuesday when OL Jesse Miller of Somerville, NJ, gave his verbal to coach Smith. Miller stands 6-6, weighs 275-lbs, and is a two-star pickup according to Rivals.com. Miller turned down a visit to Iowa to committ to the Spartans -- according to the Lansing State Journal, coach Smith threatened to revoke the offer if Miller made the trip to Hawkeye-land. Other teams in the running were Central Florida, Buffalo, Temple, and Northeastern. According to the Insiders.com, MSU is in on three additional recruits: "...MSU is going after Chicago area native Roland Martin who is expected to announce his decision between Tennessee and Oklahoma. The Spartans are in one of the most highly contested recruiting battles against crosstown rival Michigan for the services of Tim Jamison, who made a meteoric rise after a stunning performance in the US Army All-American Bowl where he was virtually unblockable. By virtue of his performance in that game Jamison is on everyone's "A" list. "He was the biggest surprise of the game, absolutely unbelievable," coach Bob Palko of West Allegheny (Pa.) High School said. "We could not block him. We devised plans to stop him, but he split the double-team [block]. He split the triple-team. He went right through the tackle, [guard] and the running back." The Spartans hope the super sack man picks them over Florida, Ohio State, Purdue, Wisconsin and Iowa." Link here for article.

John L will discuss the incoming recruiting class, with video highlights and bios at a "signing day announcement" on Wed., Feb. 4, at 5:30 pm at Trippers in Frandor. According to Rivals.com, MSU's class is ranked #20 in the nation; Michigan is #3, Ohio State is #4, Penn State is #16, and Purdue is #25.

Oh, yeah, if you can believe it, Nick Saban actually hired Bobby Williams to his staff at LSU. Man, now that is loyalty. BW is just a rotten coach who drove the Spartan program into the ground and even couldn't make it as a receivers coach with the lowly Detroit Lions. Saban must have hired BW out of pure loyalty and nothing more...

Big Ten to propose instant replay

(1/23/04)--A hot topic of dicussion in mid-Michigan today is a story out of CBSSportsline.com that the Big Ten will be proposing to the NCAA Football Rules committee to use instant replay this fall. The proposal would be stritctly for conference games only, unless opposing coaches in non-conference games agree before kickoff. Although the NFL spends millions on instant replay, the cost would be only $2,000 per school in the Big Ten, primarily because 95% of games are already televised. The article states: " For the Big Ten's most viable proposal, no additional manpower would be needed. A league observer already on duty in the press box would communicate via walkie-talkie with a timer on the field, who would then stop play. The Big Ten observer (usually a former official) would then review the play on a personal monitor and render a decision.
The projected costs for a set of high-end walkie-talkies at each school is $750 per school. Observers' pay would be upgraded $100 to $800 per game. Headsets would cost $50-$100. One of the monitors that already exist in every press box might have to be dedicated to the observer's spot."

There would have to be indisputable visual evidence to overturn a call, and the observer would have to review and stop play before the next snap. Of 10,800 conference plays last season, the Big Ten stated 50 would have been reviewed. CBSSportsline.com also quoted the secretary of the rules committee, John Adams: "The whole load is on the observer's shoulders. No. 1, to recognize that there is a problem. No. 2, to get the thing stopped before the next play. No. 3, to make the correct decision."

Of note, the only three D1A individuals on the rules committee are CMU athletic director Herb Deromedi, UM coach Lloyd Carr, and LSU coach Nick Saban. The rules committee meets on Feb. 9 to discuss the matter.

The ES says: you can bet your grandma's retirement that the proposal will pass. Welcome to the Big Ten, instant replay!

For the full article, link here.

Top Ohio WR/DB committs to Spartans

(1/23/04)--According to the Lansing State Journal, although he still has one more visit to go at Iowa, Miles Williams (6-2, 195-lbs) of Youngstown, Ohio, has verbally committed to MSU after Ohio State pulled its scholarship offer. When MSU heard that the Buckeyes pulled their scholarship offer, Spartan coaches were down there the next day. Ron Stoops, Jr., who is from the SE Ohio area and who has already committeed to MSU, is lured the prospect to the Spartans. Williams was a 3-star rated wideout by Rivals.com; he's listed as the #29 WR in the nation and the #9 player overall in Ohio. He runs a 4.43-40 and is already academically eligible.

Here is a scouting report on Willams from Insiders.com from September 16, 2003: "Unfortunately, I only got to see Miles Williams of Austintown Fitch in his game on Friday night for four plays but, believe it or not, I saw enough. Fitch beat neighboring Canfield 48-40 in a shootout.
On the very first play of the game, Williams came up from his safety position to lay a big hit on a Canfield ball carrier, making his presence known on defense immediately. And then two plays later Williams took a punt from his own 29 yard line and raced every-which-way, covering 71 yards, for a score. The return was Ted Ginn Jr.-like.
"I was screaming at him to get to the wall and then I'm screaming, ‘Oh my,' it was awesome," said Fitch head coach Neal Kopp. "I was fortunate enough to have a front row seat for it, one of the best seats in the house. He did it last week too on a kickoff when GlenOak scored to make it 28-20. He had a 65-yard kickoff return.
"He's just flat-out electric, and I've yet to see the first guy there bring him down. He'll lower his should if he has to and if he has the opportunity to use his athletic ability, he's stunning."
Unfortunately for Williams, he re-tweaked a hamstring on the punt return that he believes he originally tweaked while warming up before the game.
"During pregame when we were stretching as a team in the wrestling room, one of my coaches stretched my hamstring out," Williams said. "I laid on the ground and he just lifted my leg up and started pushing. He pushed a little too far and you could hear like a tear or a crack. I came out for pregame for specialists and it felt all right. I was sprinting and it felt all right.
"But on that punt return I made a cut and I could feel it just tighten up. I couldn't really do anything after that. I can't even jog. I would have played if I could, no matter how bad it was, but I couldn't."
The initial diagnosis from the medical people on the sideline was a grade-A pull which is the least serious one I was told.
"I'll be ready for next week," Williams said. "This is the first for me, that's why I didn't know how to take it when I first heard something pull or crack, I didn't know. But then on that punt it just tightened up. But they said I should be all right for next week."
A week earlier, Williams, a two-way performer for the Falcons, missed some playing time on the field as well.
"I had stomach cramps in the first half and they said they were going to keep me out on offense for the second half," he said. "But I still played on defense."
Fitch, 3-1 on the campaign, could have obviously used Williams against Canfield, especially on defense as the Cardinals passed for 421 yards on the evening.
"Miles in the secondary, I guarantee at corner, would have probably clamped down on that receiver that had all of those yards much better," Kopp said. "And also from a standpoint that he's one of our captains and one of our team leaders."
Williams has been getting the bulk of his playing time on offense this year at tailback and not as a receiver, the position that Ohio State recruited him to play. But Kopp did say that they were game planning to use him some as a wideout against Canfield.
"We want to use Miles more at receiver because we feel that Mike Elisio is a good tailback," Kopp said. "That was going to be our plans tonight that Miles would do a little bit of both and unfortunately he strained a hamstring -- I guess that's what it is -- and he's just got to get it healed up."
Despite the setbacks for Williams in the past two games that has caused him to miss some playing time, Kopp still gives Williams more than a passing grade on the campaign.
"He's just been outstanding," the coach said. "It's unfortunate he's lost two games now (offensively) but he is truly -- he might be a receiver down at Ohio State -- but he is truly one outstanding tailback. We're going to need him down the road because it's apparent that he's electric when he has the ball in his hands, and hopefully he will be all right."

Pair of DL recruits added to Spartan roster; MSU now at #17 in recruiting

(1/20/04)--The Peko family once again will don the Green and White as Domata Peko will play for the Spartans in 2004, following in his brother Tupe's footsteps. Peko (6-4, 280) has three years of eligibilty after playing a year of juco ball for College of the Canyons in Calif. Peko has a three-star rating from Insiders.com: "Garnering looks from the Pac-10 and as far away as Central Florida. The top defensive recruit on one of the nation's best JC teams." He runs a 4.9-40, and his photo (above, courtesy SpartansInsider.com) looks like either a rasta-man or an axe murderer (you decide). Peko also received an offer from Washington State and he will join fellow Canyon starter Daniel Zynn as a new Spartan recruit.

Justin Kershaw (6-5, 230) of Reynoldsburg, Ohio, will also join the Spartans this fall. According to Insiders.com, here's the skinny on Kershaw: "6-5, 230 pound defensive end/tight end Juston Kershaw was named second team AP All-Ohio Division I this week. Kershaw will visit Minneosta this upcoming weekend and Cinxinnati on December 12th. He has offers from Toledo and Bowling Green and is getting interest from Big Ten schools Minnesota, Michigan State and Ohio State. Very good athlete with great size. Could play on either side of the ball in college." He received two-stars from the Insiders. Link here to his bio.

For what it is worth, Rivals.com now has MSU ranked #17 in recruiting, with 888 points on 23 recruits (3 four-star, 14 three-star).

The Top 25 are:

1 Southern Cal 2,438
2 LSU 2,040
3 Michigan 1,786
4 Ohio State 1,621
5 Texas 1,613
6 Oklahoma 1,579
7 Georgia 1,560
8 Miami-FL 1 1,459
9 Texas A&M 1,294
10 Maryland 1,194
11 Penn State 1,144
12 Alabama 1,126
13 Kansas State 1,022
14 Florida 1,011
15 Washington 946
16 UCLA 928
17 Michigan State 888
18 Oregon 880
19 Missouri 877
20 Tennessee 866
21 Florida State 842
22 Purdue 823
23 Texas Tech 807
24 Pittsburgh 742
25 Boston College 725

Askew to enter NFL draft; Daniel Zynn to fill void

(1/12/04)--The Spartans found a schohlarship to fill the void on the D-line, now that DE Matthias Askew has declared for the NFL draft. With Kyle Rasmussen graduated and Greg Yeaster permanently out due to injury, only Brandon McKinney is left along the interior line with any experience... and he is coming off a broken foot. However, MSU received a verbal committment from 6-4, 305-lb Daniel Zynn of Pasadena, Calif. Zynn originally commited to Boise State where he was scheduled to red-shirt his freshman year, but instead made the decision to leave the Idaho school and go the JC route. Zynn spent last year at College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita, CA., Zynn originally played at South Pasadena HS in Pasadena, CA. before enrolling at the junior college. Zynn is considered a 3-star juco DT, ranked #43 in the nation by Insiders.com. Insiders states: "A solid defensive line prospect who was a standout at the Nike Camp in Northern California. Has good size and strength and brings everything he has to the table on every down. Earned All CIF honors last season after tallying 67 tackles, 30 for loss and seven quarterback sacks." Link here for bio.

MSU lands solid TE commit; team at #20 nationally

(1/10/04)--Kellen Freeman-Davis of Adrian has given a verbal agreement to come to Michigan State this fall. At 6-6, 232-lbs, he is rated as one of the top TE in the nation, ranked as #7 in the nation at that position by Rivals.com. KFD runs a 4.8-40. KFD turned down offers from Michigan, Purdue, Notre Dame, and Northwestern. SpartansInsider.com states: "Emerged as one of the top tight end prospects in the Midwest after the Ann Arbor Nike Camp. Will be a three-year varsity starter in 2003 as a tight end and defensive end. Had 25 catches for 586 yards and seven touchdowns in 2002. Had 10 tackles for loss on the defensive side of the ball. Named all-conference in 2002." Link here for bio.

As of Jan. 10, here is how Rivals.com has ranked the top 25 national recruiting classes, with MSU at #20:

Rank. Team (total commits), pts
1. LSU (21), 2091
2. USC (14), 1942
3. Oklahoma (16), 1658
4. Michigan (18), 1657
5. Texas (18), 1496
6. Ohio St (18), 1375
7. Miami-FL (12), 1288
8. Maryland (20), 1158
9. Penn St (20), 1127
10. Alabama (21), 1067
11. Georgia (10), 986
12. Texas A&M (17), 983
13. Missouri (22), 881
14. Tennessee (12), 840
15. Kansas St (17), 821
16. UCLA (21), 792
17. Pittsburgh (19), 742
18. Washington (18), 709
19. Florida (7), 685
20. MSU (20), 678
21. Oregon (15), 674
22. Florida St (9), 663
23. Texas Tech (19), 624
24. Boston Coll (17), 590
25. Iowa (15), 544

Stanton to miss spring; JLS votes for LSU as champs

(1/6/04)--The Lansing State Journal reported today that redshirt freshman QB Drew Stanton is awaiting swelling to go down in his knee before surgery. Stanton injured his knee on the first punt of the Alamo Bowl. MSU SID John Lewandowski told the LSJ that Stanton likely would not recover in time for spring ball, but should be ready for summer workouts.

Also, the ES was flipping channels last night and caught an impromptu interview on CNN Headlline News with Spartan coach John L. Smith. Former Lansing-area sports reporter Matt Morrison interviewed Smith for comments regarding the split championship between LSU and USC. Smith stated he voted for LSU out of obligation to the system, and that he supported the system: "now, you have twice as many kids who can claim a championship. What's wrong with that?" He stated that he supports the bowl system and would not support a playoff, even though he benefitted from a playoff while at I-AA Idaho: "we started out with four teams; then, the four after that started griping, so we expanded to eight; then the eight after that started griping that they should have a chance, and we moved to 16 teams. You just will never please everyone." Finally, JLS stated that he thinks a final, championship game after the bowls (ie: USC vs. LSU) may be a possibility in the near future, but that the bowl system likely is here to stay for awhile.

2003 FOOTBALL BOWLING POOL
sponsored by
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FINAL RESULTS
Click here for pix/standings (pdf)

Saban/LSU win BCS; BCS "flawed"

(1/5/04)--For those of you underneath a rock, former Spartan coach Nick Saban's LSU squad won the Bowl Championship Series title last night with a convincing 21-14 win over Oklahoma. USC was named the AP national champ earlier today. That split scenario "is what the BCS was supposed to solve," said BCS and Big East Commissioner Mike Tranghese. "We screwed up and need to find a way to fix it." Enough said.

Last nights result confirms what the ES felt after listening to The Ticket's Mike Valenti following Oklahoma's loss to Kansas State in the Big12 title game. Valenti stated "Oklahoma is STILL the best team in the country and deserves to play in the BCS title game." The ES thinks Valenti was higher than a kite after K-State dismantled Oklahoma, and the LSU domination confirmed it. Oklahoma was no better than third in the nation at season's end and did NOT deserve to play in the BCS championship. A team that doesn't even win its conference should NOT play in the BCS title game, and a team backing into the BCS title after a loss is obviously showing weaknesses that do not make it deserving of the chance. Sorry, Valenti, but your arguments don't hold up water on this one.

Trannon joins hoop team; Spartans get big time recruit

(1/1/04)--The Lansing State Journal reported that WR Matt Trannon joined the basketball team the day following the Alamo Bowl. Trannon will travel but may not play immediately. Izzo expects Trannon to help with inside play and in practice.

On Tuesday, the Spartans received a verbal committment from one of the top WR/DBs in the nation following the Alamo Bowl. WR/DB Sirarean Adams (6-2, 221-lbs) of Bradenton, Fla, has cited MSU's "need for speed" and John L's spread offense as the primary reasons for him to don the Green and White over Miami-Fla, Georgia, Ohio State, and Nebraska. Adams is rated the #27 athlete in the nation by Rivals.com and has played QB, WR and DB in high school. Adams runs a 4.42 40-yard dash and has a 38-inch vertical leap. He must still qualify on the ACT. Adams was quoted in the Lansing State Journal: "I love coach Smith and McElwain. I love everything about East Lansing." Now, that's the ES' type of guy.... hopefully, he can keep trash talking to a minimum and just perform on the field.

(Side note of interest: GVSU coach Brian Kelly has been hired as Central Michigan's new coach. Kelly's Lakers won the past two D2 national titles and finished runner up in 2001, and posted a 41-2 record over that span. The ES gives props to CMU AD Herb Dermoedi for a great choice that should pay immediate dividends.)

MSU will return seven starters on offense next year, with Drew Stanton expected to lead the team (dependent on successful knee surgery following his Alamo Bowl injury). Gone are QB Smoker, OGs Harker and Tate, and OT Stewart. However, Kyle Cook and William Whittiker have seen significant playing time along the line this year. Mike Gyetvai will likely fill the other hole. On defense, MSU will return eight, but will sorely miss the services of Greg Taplin and Mike Labinjo. Monquiz Wedlow also will graduate. Watch Brandon McKinney rebound from his foot injury to fill Taplin's spot and Robert Glagg to be slotted as Bandit (if he stays out of trouble).

At first glance, MSU looks fairly solid... it just needs to add depth and speed across the board, something coach Smith has already done with this year's recruiting class. Stanton has huge shoes to fill with Smoker gone, and his injury may slow his development. But, he has experience with game speed so at least he is not a fish out of water.

The ES will have a significant look at the Spartans in his Spring Preview, due out by April.

PS - the ES still is a little peeved that MSU coaches gave up so soon on the running game vs. Nebraska and just dialed in pass pass pass. And, too many screen passes... why try something a fifth and sixth time if it failed so miserably the first four times? Gotta be able to mix up the plays better than that, John L. But, even so, the Spartans still saw where they need there program to get to with a great display of strength and speed by Nebraska's defense.

MSU offense slumps in 17-3 loss to Nebraska

(12/30/03)--Well, Michigan State just couldn't put together a complete offensive set against a rigid Nebraska defense all night long, and the Spartans dropped the Alamo Bowl contest, 17-3. Jeff Smoker was hurried all night long, sacked five times and threw three interceptions. He finished 21-of-39 for just 159 yards. The MSU offense managed just 178 total yards for the game -- MSU had just 19 yards rushing on 23 attempts. Nebraska had 229 yards rushing and 162 yards passing for 391 total yards. MSU converted on just 3 of 14 third down attempts.

Amazingly, MSU remained in the game in the fourth quarter. Nebraska completed a 16-play, 7-minute drive with a botched field goal attempt, and MSU drove to the Nebraska 20 with six minutes remaining. However, a poor decision and throw by Jeff Smoker from right-to-left across the field to Alexander was intercepted and drove the nail into the coffin.

MSU's defense played valiantly all game long (Seth Mitchell and Greg Taplin both played extremely well), holding Nebraska with its bend-but-dont-break Big Green defense. The Huskers had plenty of opportunities, but could not convert and MSU kept themselves in the game. However, the Spartans could not convert and had numerous three-and-outs as well as stalled drives as the game wore on. MSU only scored three points -- that's piss poor for its average of 30 per game; the Spartans may not have won, but should have at least made it into the end zone at some point in the game.

Unfortunately, as was discussed before the game even on the Spartan pre-game radio show, MSU would consider this a successful season even if they didn't win the Alamo Bowl. That translates into reality, although it would have been nice to defeat the farmhands from cow country.

Backup QB (and future leader) Drew Stanton suffered a knee injury on the game's first punt that will require surgery. That is a significant loss for the future of the Spartan offense.

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MSU stadium expansion set for January; Jaren Hayes ready to run over Huskers

(12/28/03)--Spartan Stadium is ready to undergo its $62 million expansion and press box/alumni office renovation beginning the first week of January. Watch for photos from the ES throughout the process.

Spartan RB Jaren Hayes, who has been bothered by turftoe and a sore knee this season, is at about 95% and should be ready to sprint through Nebraska on Monday.

MSU and Nebraska appeared in the Alamo Bowl kickoff luncheon on Saturday, with 1,000 in attendance. MSU followed lunch with its first practice in the Alamo Dome.

The Enlightened Spartan, copyright 2005.
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