Rutgers Scarlet Knights

Michigan State Football: 3 things we learned vs. Rutgers

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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What three things did we learn from Saturday’s Michigan State football victory over Rutgers?

Michigan State football finally snapped its losing streak and celebrated as if it won the Big Ten Championship, and the Spartans deserved to do that given the way the season has gone. The Rutgers game provided hope for the future and exercised a few demons for the Spartans.

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I wondered as I watched the Rutgers/MSU game if I was watching the Spartans of 2015 instead of 2016. Yes, Rutgers is terrible. We all know they got pummeled by Michigan in New Jersey as well as Ohio State in Columbus.

However, this was a a hapless Michigan State team that was desperate for a win and, in fact, had beaten itself in many games this year. Losing can have a snowball affect on a team and it was important this young team got a win like this in preparation for Ohio State and Penn State. This was a confidence-building win for program that faced much adversity.

Here’s what we learned from the win:

1. The offensive line is getting better

We witnessed glimpses of this against Michigan, but they then took a step back against the Illini. One reason I believe the line play is getting better is because of Cole Chewins. Over the last two Saturdays, he has been a difference-maker for the line. He should be the starting right tackle going forward. He is athletic, a former tight end and strong enough to hold his own. Obviously, the true test will be the next two weeks.

The rest of the line was able to open holes for the running backs and Tyler O’Connor had time to throw the football. Freshman Tyler Higby has played well all year, too, but he is out for the season with a broken ankle. Inconsistent play and injuries has plagued the line all season, however, they may have found the correct combination of players, which should give Spartan fans hope for the future.

2. The defensive line held it’s own

Yes, again I understand it was Rutgers. Michigan State started a defensive line that had three freshmen and a sophomore. Josh King played well with discipline and appears to be growing into the position, which is critical for next year. Raequan Williams showed up in a huge way in controlling the line of scrimmage. Any time a defense shuts out a team is a big win no matter the opponent.

3. Trishton Jackson is a playmaker

During his recruitment, much was written about Trishton Jackson’s potential. Many projected him to be a player who could be just as good as Donnie Corley. He’s not just quick, but fast as well. Jackson was able to dodge and duck defenders with lightening speed in the red zone in the third quarter. He made a fantastic catch from O’Connor in the first quarter. He maintained his balance and jetted to the end zone dragging two defenders in.

The future is bright for MSU and Saturday’s game was a sign of things to come.