After Opening Day Route, Questions Still Remain

MSU started its 2009 campaign flying high as it scored 44 points and kept the visiting Bobcats of Montana State out of the end zone. The Bobcats’ only points came by way of a second half field goal. The Spartans’ offense sputtered in its opening series, but quickly got on the scoreboard when starting quarterback Kirk Cousins connected on a 29-yard touchdown pass to B.J. Cunningham on the second offensive series. Cousins would finish the game 10 of 17 for 183 yards and three touchdowns.

 

Not to be outdone, transfer Keith Nichol promptly scored on his first drive, connecting with Dion Sims on a 26-yard touchdown pass. Nichol finished the day 9 of 18 for 135 yards and two touchdowns. Blair White caught nine passes for 162 yards and two touchdowns to help lead the Spartans’ attack.

 

On the other side of the ball, the defense nearly held the Bobcats scoreless, led by junior linebacker Greg Jones who loaded up 14 tackles in the game. Saturday’s game was the eighth straight game in which Jones has racked up double-digits in tackles.

 

The confusing issue contained within the Spartans’ victory is trying to figure out just how good this team really is. The scoreboard looked nice, and the young players (specifically at running back) were able to get their feet wet in a game that was never going to be close. But, Montana State is far below the level of play in which the Spartans will engage throughout the rest of the season. The defense, despite the score, still could have locked up the running game a bit more. And, the Bobcats probably should have never scored at all.

 

Another mystery that remains is what will take place with the quarterback situation. Cousins looked fantastic, and he seems to be a team leader; but, Keith Nichols also appeared very cool with the ball in his hands, and certainly displays a level of athleticism that surpasses Cousins. Perhaps this could be a year in which Dantonio chooses to platoon both his running backs and his quarterbacks. One thing that is certain: the Central Michigan game should be a much better gauge as to where this team is.

 

Central comes into next week with a highly touted quarterback that should challenge the Spartans’ secondary. The Spartans will need to make sure that they do not look ahead to Notre Dame, and get the job done at home against a team in which it should beat soundly.