College Football Preview: Michigan State Spartans have eyes on Big 10 and more in 2014

After upsetting the Ohio State Buckeyes and winning the Big 10 last year, Michigan State (13-1, 8-0 Big Ten) is now out to prove it’s an annual powerhouse. However, Spartans coach Mark Dantonio knows that’s not an easy task.

Dantonio said, “I think what we want to do is get back to where we were this past season, that will always be the goal to try and get better. I think when people say when you get to the top of the mountain, you find out there’s other mountains around to climb, and you’ve got to be able to do that. I think the big point here is we need to be able to handle success. We want to set this place up for a long time. We want to leave a legacy here. We don’t want to be in and out.”

The Spartans have 12 starters returning, including quarterback Connor Cook. Joining him will be solid running back Jeremy Langford and the explosive Tony Lippett. The only issue is on the offensive line where only two starters from a year ago remain.

On defense, it’s the pass rush where the Spartans are set with defensive ends Shilique Calhoun (Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year) and Marcus Rush providing opposing quarterbacks plenty of headaches. Look for freshman Malik McDowell to help solidify the defensive tackle position. The defensive backfield features cornerback Trae Waynes and safety Kurtis Drummond.

What’s different this year about the Spartans is the team is going to have a target on its back, making an appearance in the first ever College Football Playoff that much tougher.

ODDS to win the National Championship: 22/1