Regular Season Review: Michigan State

Michigan State wrapped up its regular season on Saturday with a 26-10 victory over Minnesota. Spartan Digest's Dave Berk reviews the Spartans' 6-6 regular season and looks to the future.

1. With the regular season over, has Michigan State met or failed expectations?

This Michigan State squad entered the season with high expectations as many felt the pieces were in place to compete for a Big Ten title and Rose Bowl berth. However, despite having one of the best defensive squads in the country the lack of production on offense saw them lose five conference games by a total of 13 points. This team failed to meet expectations.

2. What one player has made the difference this season?

If not for the play of junior running back Le’Veon Bell the Spartans offense would have been even worse. Bell carried the ball 350 times for 1,648 rushing yards. His ability to get yards after contact was huge as he ranked first among all NCAA FBS running backs with 834 rushing yards after contact.

3. What are the key improvements that need to be made before the bowl game?

Michigan State must get their passing game in order if they hope to win the bowl game they are invited to. If not there is a very good chance they could lose another game by 3-points or less.

4. What has been the dominant headline of the regular season?

The lack of points scored during conference play was a theme talked about each week of the season as the Spartans loss to Ohio State by one point, Iowa in overtime by three points, Michigan by two points, Nebraska by four points and Northwestern by three points.

5. If the recruiting class stays in-tact, what are your expectations for next season?

Michigan State has built quality depth and will return the majority of players on both sides of the ball. The recruiting class is strong but we expect the majority of them to redshirt. The Spartans will have a chance to redeem themselves in 2013 with a better offensive line and better play from quarterback Andrew Maxwell and his group of receivers.