Michigan State Football: 3 standout newcomers vs. Western Michigan

Following the season-opening victory against WMU, several newcomers are already making their presence known for Michigan State football.

After an offseason that brought a lot of change to East Lansing, Michigan State football provided a new look to kick off the season. Whether a transfer or a freshman, several Spartans stood out in the 23-6 victory against Western Michigan.

Here are three of the most notable newcomers following the Spartan home opener.

Anelu Lafaele, EDGE, Freshman (RS) (Wisconsin)

After not getting any playing time he was looking for in Madison, Anelu Lafaele decided to take his talents to East Lansing. He started making an impact almost immediately. On his first play as a Spartan, Lafaele got a sack and stripped the ball for a fumble. While the Spartans did not recover the ball, it was a good signal for what this young man is able to make happen. The strip sack was the only recorded tackle that Lafaele had for the game, but he made an impact throughout by adding pressure.

Grady Kelly, DL, Senior (Florida State)

After a disappointing junior season at Florida State, Grady Kelly wanted to make a change. Smith and the Spartans took advantage of that and brought him to East Lansing to help shore up the defensive line. Kelly made himself know throughout the game against the Broncos. He secured a share of a sack, two tackles, and also had a great pass breakup in the game. As he continues to find his footing within the Spartan defense, it is clear that his role will only grow as a veteran on this team.

Omari Kelly, WR, Senior (Middle Tennessee State)

The Spartans put a lot of focus on getting a supporting cast for Nick Marsh during the offseason. They did exactly that. Rodney Bullard, Chrishon McCray, Evan Boyd, and Omari Kelly created a new look Spartan wide receiver room but the standout was Omari Kelly. He made himself a weapon early for the Spartans, bringing in six catches for 54 yards in the first half alone.

The plays were not flashy, but they helped the Spartans continue drives. The best example was a 10-yard reception in the second on a 4th-and-4 which later ended in a touchdown by Nick Marsh.

The Spartans struggled last season to move the ball. If Kelly can provide those easy check down and cross passes the Spartans offense will be drastically improved.

Takeaways

This is obviously a small sample size. Also, the opponent does not exactly match up to the usual Big Ten competition. It is encouraging though to see a number of transfers already making themselves know on both sides of the ball. They will all see an increase in talent next week as the Spartans prepare for a rematch with Boston College.

After a difficult loss last season in the “Red Bandana” game, the Spartans are hoping to split the series. It will be essential that all of the new talent acquired in the offseason is ready to go.

The Spartans take on the Eagles next Saturday night on NBC at 7:30 p.m. ET.

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