Michigan State Faces Tough Challenge in Home Finale Against Nebraska with Multiple Starters Out
ICARO Media Group
EAST LANSING - Michigan State's football team is set to face a daunting challenge in its home finale as they take on Nebraska. However, the Spartans will be without several key offensive starters for the game.
With a disappointing record of 2-6 overall and 0-5 in the Big Ten, the Spartans are eager for a win as they host the 5-3 Nebraska Cornhuskers on Saturday at noon. Unfortunately, Michigan State will have to navigate the matchup without the services of wide receiver Tre Mosley, tight end Maliq Carr, and left tackle Brandon Baldwin.
Mosley, a fifth-year senior, suffered an injury during last week's 27-12 loss against Minnesota and did not return to the field. This means that he will be unable to participate in the team's senior day. Carr, who has been out for the past game, will continue to be sidelined. Interim coach Harlon Barnett stated that both Mosley and Carr are considered day-to-day regarding their injuries.
Replacing Baldwin at left tackle will be Ashton Lepo, as the regular starter was also injured late in the Minnesota game. In addition to the offensive starters, the Spartans will be missing several defensive backs, including Charles Brantley, Semar Melvin, and Marqui Lowery, along with defensive tackles Jarrett Jackson and Dre Butler. Defensive end Bai Jobe, linebacker Darius Snow, and running back Davion Primm are also sidelined for the game.
Notably, redshirt freshman Katin Houser will remain as the starting quarterback, while true freshman Sam Leavitt will also see playtime against Nebraska. Houser took over the starting position three games ago after Noah Kim's injury but struggled in the last two games. Leavitt stepped in during those games late in the matchups.
The Spartans, who have suffered six consecutive losses, face an uphill battle as they strive to win their final four games in order to become bowl eligible. Michigan State's challenging schedule includes an upcoming matchup against unbeaten Ohio State, a trip to Indiana, and a regular season finale against Penn State, which will take place at Ford Field in Detroit.
On the other hand, Nebraska, led by first-year coach Matt Rhule, enters the game with a three-game winning streak and five victories in their last six matchups. The Cornhuskers are one win away from securing their first bowl game appearance since 2016.
Michigan State's home finale against Nebraska on Saturday promises to be a test of resilience for the Spartans. With multiple starters out, the team will need to dig deep and execute their game plan to avoid extending their losing streak and keep their bowl hopes alive.
Stay tuned for more updates on MSU football news.