We're taking a quick look at the state of each Big Ten program as less than a week remains until the start of spring practice in the league. We'll examine recent performance, trends, coaching, and current and future personnel.
Michigan State, it's your turn.
2014 record: 11-2 (7-1 Big Ten, second in East Division)
Three-year record: 31-9
Coaching situation: As solid as any program in the league, even without Pat Narduzzi, who left his longtime post as defensive coordinator to take over the program at Pitt. Narduzzi was like a head coach of the defense, and it will take time for Mike Tressel and Harlon Barnett to grow into that role. But head coach Mark Dantonio has elevated Michigan State to a great place in eight seasons. The Spartans are a proven brand nationally under his leadership, developing talent as consistently as any Big Ten team.
Roster situation: The Spartans endured a few big hits with the loss of their senior class, headlined by receiver Tony Lippett, running back Jeremy Langford, defensive end Marcus Rush and safety Kurtis Drummond. But star juniors Shilique Calhoun at defensive end and Connor Cook at quarterback elected to return. Despite the early loss to the NFL of cornerback Trae Waynes, MSU should be well positioned to reload on defense and at running back, where the Spartans have a history of success with physical play.
Recruiting situation: Dantonio told everyone who would listen this year that Michigan State sells results -- not hope -- in recruiting. While that may not have ranked as a direct shot at rival Michigan, MSU won’t back down against the Wolverines or any program in going after elite talent. The Spartans ranked 29th in the class rankings each of the past two years, but Dantonio recruits with a purpose. MSU signees -- like running back L.J. Scott this year and defensive tackle Malik McDowell in 2014 -- fit the style of his teams. Such a method lends to an efficient process in team-building.
Trajectory: The Spartans finished No. 3 nationally following the 2013 season after a Rose Bowl win over Stanford and fifth following the 2014 season on the strength of a victory over Baylor in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic. Are they a preseason pick to make the College Football Playoff in the 2015 season? Probably not, but this program is as steady as you'll find. Recruiting is on the upswing. The Spartans’ identity is rock solid. Their image nationally continues to improve, even as Ohio State (deservedly) and Michigan (not so much yet) steal attention in the East Division.
A fine line exists, though, between Michigan State’s perch and a return to the seven wins of 2012. Cook figures to rank among the nation’s best next season, but an injury or two at key positions could make Michigan State vulnerable with trips to Michigan, Ohio State and Nebraska. Oregon visits East Lansing Sept. 12, an opportunity for the Spartans to make a splash nationally and trend up early in the season.