Michigan State Football News: Five Key Players to Watch in Michigan State's Opener Against FAU

Michigan State football is set to kick off its season this Friday against the FAU Owls at Spartan Stadium, marking the debut of new head coach Jonathan Smith.

After a challenging previous season, which was marred by off-field issues and disappointing performances, the Spartans are looking to turn the page with a fresh start and a roster bolstered by new transfers.

Here are five key aspects to watch as Michigan State takes the field for the opener:

1. Aidan Chiles

The spotlight will be on freshman quarterback Aidan Chiles , who has limited experience with just 35 career passes. Fans are eager to see if he can live up to the hype and lead the team effectively in his first game.

2. Offensive Line Improvement

Last season, the offensive line struggled significantly, leaving running back Nate Carter to fend off defenders in the backfield. With new offensive line coach Jim Michalczik and the addition of transfers Tanner Miller and Luke Newman, there’s hope for improvement. Observing how well they adapt to a more complex blocking scheme will be crucial.

3. Pass Defense

Michigan State's secondary has been a weak point in recent years. As they face a competitive Big Ten schedule, improving their pass defense will be essential to avoid being exploited by opposing quarterbacks.

4. Wide Receiver Development

While tight end Jack Velling is generating buzz, the wide receiver corps has flown under the radar. With promising talent like freshman Nick Marsh and veteran Montorie Foster, it will be interesting to see who steps up, especially Antonio Gates Jr., who is looking for a breakout opportunity.

5. Nate Carter's Performance

Despite a tough season last year, running back Nate Carter managed to rush for 798 yards. With a potentially improved offensive line, he could become one of the standout players in the conference this season.

As the Spartans prepare for their season opener, all eyes will be on these key areas to gauge how the team has evolved under new leadership.