What has gone right and what has gone wrong three games in for Michigan State
As non-conference play has come to a close, here are three things that have gone right and three things that have gone wrong for the Spartans.
Non-conference play is over and Michigan State is 3-0. At the end of the day, that’s the result the Spartans needed in order to find the success they expect this year. Through three games, there is a lot we’ve learned about this Spartan team and still a lot that needs to be figured out.
Since the Spartans have won three games, let’s take a look at three things that have gone right for Michigan State and three things that haven’t. A lot of these things could change by the time conference play starts next week versus USC, but as things stand right now, this is how I see it. Let’s start with the positives.
Three Things That Have Gone Right
Aiden Chiles
Chiles had an up and down first year at Michigan State, displaying great talent and playmaking ability at times, while struggling to protect the ball and make good decisions at others. So far this season, Chiles has thrown for 656 yards, six touchdowns, and just one interception. He has a 71.6% completion percentage. He’s looked mature, poised, and is also making things happen with his feet. On the ground he has rushed for 123 yards and one touchdown.
This is the version of Chiles that Michigan State fans had hoped for when he first followed Jonathan Smith from Oregon State. The signs were there last year, however the mistakes were too plentiful to really feel good about his performance.
If Chiles continues to play this way, the Michigan State offense is going to be able to put up points and have a chance in most of their remaining games. On Saturday afternoon versus Youngstown State, Chiles was picking apart the Penguin defense, standing strong under pressure, and extending plays. The Spartans are going to need that kind of performance next week versus USC if they want to have a chance in that one.
While it’s still early in the year, Chiles has shown the potential and on field performance to be considered amongst the very best signal callers in the Big Ten.
