Michigan State’s defense outplayed it’s offense last season, and for now, it looks like that trend may continue this season as the defense defeated the offense in this year’s Green and White game 42-26.
Dantonio uses a rather unique scoring mechanism for these Spring exhibitions, which is as follows:
- The defense gets 3 points every 5 minutes.
- The offense needs 28 points to win.
- A defensive touchdown is 7 points.
- A turnover inside the 10-yard line is 7 points.
- Any other turnover is 3 points.
- A safety is 2 points.
While the offense showed some flashes, particularly from the newly-healthy Brian Lewerke, it was the Spartan defense who won the day. The defense forced four total turnovers, two fumbles and two interceptions, on their way to victory.
This should come as no surprise, as the defense was ranked 11th in the nation last year, and the offense, which struggled in 2017-18, is still instituting a new offense under new coordinator Brad Salem.
The defense will be returning nine starters from last year’s unit, losing Co-Captain Khari Willis and projected 2nd-round draft pick Justin Layne. This season, the defense will be headlined by standouts Joe Bachie and Kenny Willekes. Willekes did not play in this game, as he is still out with a broken leg he suffered in Michigan State’s loss to the Oregon Ducks in the Redbox Bowl.
