STOCK REPORT: Winners and losers from the Spartan's 35-7 win over Eastern Michigan

Michigan State improved to 2-0 on the season with a comfortable 35-7 victory over Eastern Michigan on Saturday afternoon. While the final score suggests a dominant performance, the game was really a tale of two halves.

The Spartans entered halftime with a disappointing 14-7 lead before overwhelming the Eagles after the break, outscoring them 21-0 in the second half.

Cam Edwards continued his strong start to the season, Charles Taplin emerged as a big-play threat in the passing game, and the defense pitched a second-half shutout.

Here is this week's Michigan State stock report:

Stock Up: Cam Edwards 

Two weeks into the season, Cam Edwards is looking like perhaps the most talented player on Michigan State's roster.

The junior running back once again served as the engine of the offense, finding the end zone twice and delivering several explosive runs that helped the Spartans pull away in the second half. His 33-yard run on the first drive of the third quarter immediately set the tone, and he followed it up with another touchdown shortly thereafter.

When Michigan State needed consistency offensively, Edwards provided it, finishing with 152 yards on 21 carries and two touchdowns. Edwards also provided what was missing from his performance last week in several big plays. Despite fumbling in the red zone during the second half, his next carry went for 40 yards to cap off his day.

What stands out most is how complete his game has looked through two weeks. Edwards has shown patience, vision, and the ability to break tackles while also providing the explosive element the Spartans lacked at times last season. He may not be receiving national attention yet, but his stock is rising rapidly in East La nsing.

Stock Up: Charles Taplin

Charles Taplin entered Saturday looking to carve out a larger role in the offense after not playing in week one - and he certainly accomplished that goal.

The receiver delivered one of the biggest performances of the afternoon, hauling in a crucial fourth-down conversion during Michigan State's lengthy second-quarter touchdown drive before later turning a sharp route into a 38-yard touchdown reception. 

“His number was called and (he) stepped up big-time in two situations,” said Fitzgerald after the game. “Really happy for him, really proud of him. Just a young player that's continuing to grow. We've just gotta continue to pour into him, develop him fundamentally - technically - and his confidence. Those are two big plays."

Both plays came at critical moments and showcased the type of playmaking ability the Spartans need opposite Rodney Bullard and Chrishon McCray.

Perhaps most importantly, though, Taplin gave the coaching staff another option in the passing game. In a receiver room that needs playmakers, Taplin's emergence could create favorable matchups elsewhere.

Saturday felt like a potential breakout performance.

Subscribe to Spartans Illustrated to unlock the rest of this week’s Stock Report, including:

• Why Michigan State’s linebackers might be a concern despite allowing only seven points

• The transfer defensive lineman who continues to make an immediate impact in Joe Rossi’s defense

• Why the offensive line lands in the Stock Down category with Notre Dame looming

• The defender quietly establishing himself as one of Michigan State’s most reliable tacklers

• Another strong week from a position group that could become increasingly important

• Why an experienced offensive player’s lack of production is becoming something to watch