SpartyMSU

Preview - Spartans 2009 Game 3: Notre Dame

2009-07-01T18:14:00Z

SpartyMSU is starting our Early look at each Spartan Game...
and how the Spartans will March to 12 - 1 in 2009

Notre Dame
September 19, 3:30: in South Bend

2007: 3 -9 (No Bowl… No hope)
2008: 7 – 6 (Hawaii bowl, Beat Hawaii… )

Here is a rivalry to cherish.. No matter what is written below, I still look forward every year to this game.

The Megaphone trophy is what we are playing for, and of course the naming rights to the Stadium in South Bend. . It’s important to note that the Spartans have won 6 straight at Notre Dame … Spartans winning 9 out of the last 12 games with Notre Dame (since 1997).

I am trying to suggest a Name for the Stadium in South Bend, Notre State, Michi-Dame, Spartan South… I’m sure we can come up with something that can be put in Gold Gilded Etching on the Entrances. Any and All Ideas Welcome ! Send them in…

The last 2 seasons under Charlie Weis have been nothing but Dismal.. from players jumping ship mid-season , the over rated and under watched TV coverage, to the Teams W/L record.

This year, Game 3 sees Notre Dame coming off a Game at Michigan, these 2 teams evenly matched, both play weak schedules and neither one in the Top Tier of the Nation. No tell’in at this point if Notre Dame will win that one. Or what their over all record will be... As much as the Irish Hype out there wants them to be great, its not the year for them... Not even with the Notre Dame attempted rewrites to history, or the sucky SOS (Strength of Schedule).

The pangs to be Great again are so strong, that the Golden Domer s found it righteous to expunge the unsatisfactory records from history.. Notre Dame didn’t like 3-9 2007 season (God doesn't recognize a losing season at ND ?), so they removed it from their spring prospectus. They also removed Coach Weis’s less than 500 season records during non ND years... Can the Catholics re-write History ?

Charlie Weis record at Notre Dame is 29 – 21.. Still on the sunny side of 500 … He might add some more “Ws” to their record this year, but only by help of a weak Strength of Schedule (SoS), as Larry Burton put it in the Bleacher Report (http://bleacherreport.com/articles/190329-charlie-weis-making-his-own-hot-seat-hotter ), “Except for USC, Notre Dame will not play another team in the top 10 and may only play one or two others that even make the top 20.” Of course Michigan State is one of those teams… Though this might improve the overall record, but will it gain you respect ? or do you get an asterisk by the season stats ?

In the 2009 Phil Steele’s College Football Preview they rank the strength of schedules using the NFL toughest schedule method: MSU is ranked 28, Notre Dame a sad 85…. Nuff said here….

In last year’s game (2008) with the Spartans, ND had 3 fumbles, 3 missed field goals, 3 sacks, and allowed 3 touchdowns. This string of three’s was Notre Dame’s Holy Trinity of futility that guaranteed failure. They lost handily....

Now, What about this year ?

Most important position for ND this year is the “O” Line. Five starters returning to the offensive line. Paul Duncan is back from a hip injury has to protect Jimmy Clausen’s blind side, Sam Young, Robinson, Wenger and Eric Olsen. They should be better than the last 2 years and give Clausen a little more time… All seniors and 1 soph.. They should (should...) have gotten better by an appreciable amount...

This is the Same unit that didn’t protect the QB all that well in 2008 against top tier teams..… Sure, they probably will be incrementally better, sure they are upper-classmen. But, how can practice / training in the Off Season make incremental improvements to cause you to be great ? Better yes, great no….

As for the QB Jimmy Clausen, he was better in 2008 then he was in 2007.. So I expect to also see some improvements this year… Last year he threw 17 picks.. But, with an incrementally better front, this will give him more time check off receivers.. Jimmy is talented, but, is he the Heisman super star once touted? No…

Jimmy needs a strong front line for him and the team to improve. The OL is the Key to ND putting up points this year. Not the Skill players, given time they can do their jobs… .

The offense never had a running game in 2008. Only 16 rushing yards in the game against the Spartans. Incrementally, better line gives them maybe 100yrds rushing against the Spartans. Amando Allen and James Aldridge are the keys to a potential rushing game.. Allen led the team with 585yrds for 2008… Aldridge had 357. Both are good, physical backs, and with the low SoS for Notre Dame, they should gain more this year. An incrementally better “O” line will help them possibly pull gaps for the backs, but, don’t forget they will be playing against DL that is also incrementally better as well…

Clausen will have Golden Tate as his number 1 go to guy.. Tate is the real deal, He leads the receiving corps, Tate avg. 18.6 yrds per catch, and made some talented circus catches last year... “4.4 speed, he is one of the biggest deep threats in college football”…. Michael Floyd, and Kyle Rudolph (6'6", 258) are decent catchers as well, if they can get to the ball, they are definite threats. And the Spartans can’t ignore Junior Duval Kamara, freshman Shaq Evans, and Rob Parris.

But, the Spartans LB and Safeties are a strength, so they should be able to stay tight with the receivers.

On the “D” side of the ball, They are returning 5 Starters…. The new D coordinator is focusing on speed and blitzing. The D line is manned by 1 junior and 3 sophs.. Last year they had only 60 tackles for losses, and a so-so 26 sacks…. But, they are 1 year more mature, and are touted to be more mobile and aggressive.. …. Ian and Hafis Williams will try to stuff the run and provide a push up the middle, with Ethan Johnson and Kapron will also try to Slow the Spartans advances.. again.. will it work.. ? They will be better than last year, there is no Javon Ringer, but how much better is a debate.

Additional key players returning are SS Kyle McCarthy, MLB Brian Smith, FS Harrison Smith, and FS Raeshon McNeil… Incoming Freshman LB Manti Te’o and Zeke Motta are bound to make a difference joining Smith in the LB coprs. … Smith looks to be the Leader of the “D” this year.. Secondary seems to be the clear strength on this side of the ball..

ND Defense, will stiffen and be much better than last year… but, but… Not good enough against the Spartans..

With the weak schedule of ND, the history of them losing in South Bend, the pressure for success and desperation on Charlie, the magnitude they have to improve from where they were the last 2 years, , add in a pinch of underachievement … It still does not bode well this year for the Domers. Maybe in 2011…

ND is 1 year older, incrementally better, but so are the Spartans… ND lost last year, and they’ll lose again in 2009 in a much closer contest than last year.

Even Domer writers are predicting a loss:
“9/19/09 vs. Michigan State – L
Michigan State always gives the Irish fits. I think this game will be a field goal game either way. Just remember Golden Domers, I am an Irish fan as well. “
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/208309-notre-dame-football-2009-expectations

Prediction:
Spartans 24,
Golden Domers 17

Sparty On !!

Preview - Spartans 2009 Game 2: Central Michigan University

2009-06-28T15:55:00Z

SpartyMSU is starting our Early look at each Spartan Game...
and how the Spartans will March to 12 - 1 in 2009

Central Michigan Chippewas
September 12, noon: in East Lansing

Mt. Pleasant is 68 miles from East Lansing, and Ann Arbor is 64 miles away… I feel closer the Chips than I do to the arrogant asses in Ann Arbor, that’s for sure. But, We don't want to beat them any less either.

CMU Chips have been to Three Straight Bowl appearances, and likely to make it a forth (unless Western Michigan has anything to say about it…) Last December they played Florida Atlantic, in a shoot out.. a very exciting game: 24 – 21. I think they are aching to get back and win in the post season… That’s more recent Bowl games than the Spartans…

This game makes me a little nervous.. Not that I think the Chips will win, but that they can and will hang in there with the Spartans. Plus they did beat the Spartans twice.. I know.. its as hard to say as it is to read.. they beat us twice in the 90’s… The beating was ’91 and ’92.. and I’m still sore about it.

Spartans are going to be coming off a win against Montana State, CMU will have completed a game against Arizona.. Arizona is a better team than Montana State… CMU’s learning curve in higher than the Spartans at this point in the season.

You can’t take CMU lightly.. Dan LeFevour is Pre-Season one of the Top 5 quarterbacks in the nation. This kid is getting great press. In their Magazine, ESPN featured CMU Signal caller LeFevour with other senior quarterbacks: Max Hall (BYU), Tim Tebow (Florida), Todd Reesing (Kansas), Daryll Clark (Penn State) and Colt McCoy (Texas). Also in Phil Steele's College Football Preview 2009, LeFevour is listed as the fourth best quarterback in the nation behind McCoy, Tebow, and Sam Bradford (Oklahoma). He is the real deal… As well as the Chips passing sensation, he was their leading rusher with 592 yrds in 2008.

All this being said.. Lets not get ahead of ourselves… Yes, SpartyMSU likes CMU.. and Yes, SpartyMSU thinks Michigan State will handily beat Central Michigan…

What do the Chips have going for them… Besides Mr. Dan ?

Running Backs.. Not really… LeFevour was the leading rusher last year…a close second was the Graduated RB O. Sneed.. CMU rushed for 1738 yrds., but passed for over twice as much at 3767, averaging 289 / game.

But who will run the ball in 2009?.. will they rely on the QB again ?.. Probably not. But all are relatively untested: Paris Cotton, Bryan Shroeder, Jahleel Addae, Volny, Redd.. so far (from what we can research) its anyone’s guess who will line up in the back field..

Receivers.. If LeFevour can deliver the ball, if the line gives him time, he does have a crop of decent catchers. Antonio Brown (998 yrds in 2008), Bryan Anderson, Kito Poblah, Jean Pitts.. all have decent Hands..

Now, the reasons for the Big ifs.. If LeFevour can get the ball to the receivers, this is dependent on the Chips “O” line.. Unfortunately for the Chips, they graduated key players.. they lost 2 OT and the Center, plus OG Joe McMahon dropped out of school. They have all kinds of fix ‘in up to do. Replacing them is going to be difficult this year. Replacements include Jeff Maddux and Allen Ollenburger at the Guards who have had 27 starts between them. Jake Olson (Fr) and Rocky Weaver (Soph) at OT. But after this thin group… in the depth chart behind them.. Zip.. Zot. Nada.. No one. If they have injuries.. who’s going to fill in ? Note: Rocky was a TE until Spring. He’s 40 Lbs lighter than most OT…

In a CMU Blog Drew Ellis wrote that (http://sunsportsblog.blogspot.com/2009/05/2009-football-season.html ) even they are concerned: “ the big concern is at offensive line, yet the line will be anchored by two 3-year starters. Colin Miller and Jeff Maddux are reliable and senior Allen Ollenburger has playing experience to go on, but the two tackle positions, which are arguably the most important, are dominated with inexperience.”

Spartans Anderson and Neely should be able to pressure, hurry LeFevour all day… toss in a couple blitzes, they will pass pressure all day… plus they most likely will be banged up form playing Arizona (first PAC 10 team ever).. Their scoring chances dwindle.

Even if Dan L. gets the ball out and aimed at a receiver, the Spartan secondary is a strength this year, they are more than ready to give Levour a few ints. to start the season.

Suffice it to say, the Chip front 5 is less than it was last year and that’s being very.. very kind. And it is a BIG guess if the All Star QB will have time to deliver the Ball.. And playing against the Spartan “D”.. they don’t stand a chance, and LeFevour wont get the ball away too often…. He won’t be getting many points on the board.

Chips “D” stat: all 10 TEN tacklers are back this year…. That might be important…. The “D” line for the Chips is better off than the Offensive side of the ball. DT Frank Zombo (6’4” – 280) and Sam Williams (6’3” – 240) helped led the Chips to a 14th in 2008 for NCAA sacks. But they pass “D” was 118th. Kind of Jeckle and Hyde routine… After Zombo, there is little else for the Chips to be excited about. MSU’s “O”-line should have no trouble protecting Nicol and Cousins and open some holes for the running game. Note: Zombo might move to NT before the season begins…

The Chips will probably lead the MAC.. Get to another Bowl, but won’t beat the Spartans. Spartans have too much depth, and talent. Chips will hang in there and compete to be sure… . But, this isn’t the early 90’s.. Spartans win.

Game Prediction:
Spartans 42
CMU Chips 24

Sparty On !!!!

Preview - Spartans 2009 Game 1: Montana State

2009-06-26T19:57:00Z

SpartyMSU is starting our Early look at each Spartan Game...
and how the Spartans will March to 12 - 1 in 2009

Montana State BobCats
September 5, noon: in East Lansing

Last year: SOS: 234, Ranking of 174th to end the year, never beat a team ranked 181 or higher.

Who are they, Why are we playing them, how will the game go…..

Why are we playing them?
Probably the last vestige of the John L. era. We should be playing teams either local like CMU / WMU / EMU, or teams that have been in the top 3 of their conference at least 3 times in the last 10 years (http://blog.spartymsu.com/2008/12/26/fill-spartan-stadium.aspx ) but, ok. No disrespect to Montana State, but I expect a higher ranked team than Montana State to start our season. Let scUM play teams like Montana State or Delaware State. Let Rob Ash rebuild the team, and in 2013 and then maybe play them..

Who are they?
Montana State in Bozeman truly a beautiful part of the country, really a dreamscape for a place to live.. Between Bozeman and Detroit, really a poor comparison, I’d take Bozeman…It Looks like a fantasy vacation if your into the outdoors..

But.. after Googling them, it seems they have had all kinds of trouble….

APR (Academic Progress Rate) the reported scores are:
2005 – 2006 868
2006 – 2007 902
2007 – 2008 892
And a team needs a passing score of 925 to maintain scholarships and no penalties…

Their graduation rates were only 21% for players who were freshmen in 1999, and only 2% of football transfers in 2003 graduated. Currently they have lost scholarships, and have appealed the penalties to the NCAA. They seem to be improving, but their scores and rates are relatively low….

On top of that, Sports Illustrated did an article in 2007 titled “Trouble in paradise”, and the local paper’s editor did an article titled something like: Murder, Kidnapping and Cocaine in Paradise, So very Wrong… trouble seemed to stem from Ex-players and players and locals getting in to a bunch of trouble.

The tribulations finally reach a head in 2007 when the Head coach was fired… There is much more to the story, but suffice it to say that Montana State Football has had its challenges, and is trying hard to improve and right the ship.

Gotta hand it to’em, New Coach Rob Ash just might be on to something .. And might be building a respectable team and program.. This all being said.. Lets talk about the team this year.. These are the guys trying to improve the reputation.. Can they make progress agains the Spartans ?

In 2008 they never beat a team ranked Higher than 181…
In 2008 they were out scored in the fourth quarters 63 – 120, Spartans outscored opponents 94 – 72.
Maybe the BobCats will do a little better this year.. maybe not…

As SpartyMSU has researched them in the Blog-O’sphere, there seems to be much talk about injuries being the reason for less than stellar success… Hmmm… ok..

Also much reported that their success, in 2009, will rely on Pass plays, and a “O” line giving the signal caller time..

What did we read about their team:
Their receivers Desin, Elvis, and Thomas… OK..
Their “O” has been called, “ Under achieving” in Bobcat blogs…
DT: Small and inexperienced…
CB: inexperienced…
Mark Iddins is the #1 Quarterback: OK… Last year 33 – 68 -3 (Comp – Att – Ints)
Kicker: Not so Much…
But “O’ line: veterans, that’s a Bright spot…

They recently added a couple JC transfers, DB Cosme-Peko, and Receiver Lloyd. Cosme-Peko believe he will have an immediate impact.. Nice to have confidence..

Now What:
This is the first game of the year, fist game other than internal scrimmages…

The Spartan Linebackers should plug the gaps, and eliminate the middle passes.. The Spartans DT Hoover / DT Anderson will be in their back field all day…. All Spartan Defense Linemen are returning except the Left side DT / DE but their experienced and played last year.. Spartan Backs will pick them apart as they try to throw. Spartan offense will have a big day..

Truly, you’d be delusional if you thought the Bobcat receivers were going to get any separation between themselves and Spartan Secondary and get many points on the board, and with no RB (s) to speak of, really can’t see too many points for the Bob Cats. Their game plan gets flushed. Sorry BobCats...

No disrespect, but, They just aren’t in our league, even last years game 3 with Florida Atlantic, was against a higher ranked team.. They might do well in the Big Sky Conf., And I hope they do. Even with this being a loss, Rob Ash is headed in the right direction.

Bottom line:
Spartans : 35
Montana State: 10

Are there any Montana State BobCat Blogs to maybe add to the Preview / Forecast ??

Sparty On …..!!!

2009 Michigan State Spartan Football Team Preview

2009-06-24T00:15:00Z

Michigan State Spartans
2008: 9 -4, 6 – 2, Lost to Georgia in the Capital One Bowl.
2009: Prediction 11 – 1, loss to Penn State, Plus Bowl Victory give them 12 -1 for 2009….

The graphics from MSU really get you Pumped up.... This is from the Spring Program...

The Spartans continue to make successful progress under Mark Dantonio and his staff. 2009 will be no exception in the march toward national prominence. SpartyMSU will detail each of the opponents so that YOU, can have an idea how they will fare and who they are up against… poor Purdue…

This years strength of schedule is ranked to be (By CFN) 44th, and 4th in the Big Ten.. but they don’t play the OSU Buckeyes this year.. or if you want to believe Phil Steele’s toughest opponents rankings method, the Spartans are ranked 28thand 5th in the Big Ten… Either way, its not a cake walk.

As the Spartans enter the year they have huge holes to fill with the loss of:
Javon Ringer RB (96% of all carries in 2008)
Brian Hoyer QB
Justin Kershaw DT
Brandon Long DE
Roland Martin G
Jesse Miller OT
Otis Wiley S

Ringer was the focus, the heart and soul of the Spartan offense last year, incredible 390 carries.. No one yet seems to be as versatile and talented.. that’s not to say the spot is empty.. Ohhh contraire Pierre… Ashton Leggett, A.J. Jimmerson, Andre Anderson and Caulton Ray will compete for starting job… in looking at last years stats, with Javon getting so many touches, it didn’t leave room for anyone else to even make a dent in the records, second closest was Andre Anderson with 26 carries and 116 yrs. …. but based upon the limited stats in 2008, and with watching the Spring game I think its down to Leggett (5’11” – 235) and Jimmerson (5’10” – 215). Either one will be a success and difficult to stop…

This is one of the first years in a long time I have seen so much talent in the Green and White QB position. This is a real boon for the Spartans. Kirk Cousins and Keith Nichol seem to be 1 and 1A for the spot. Combine this with the loss of Ringer, plus the depth at receivers.. and the Ball will be in the air much more than last year. Watching both of these guys throw the ball in the spring with accuracy and zip makes me feel real good about our chances.. Cousins seems to have a smidge faster release than Keith, but I watched them both check off receives and then let the ball go. This year, we will miss Hoyer.. but, we’ll be OK…..

Depth.. I though that Izzo had a corner on that market.. but, I be wrong Bob ! Receivers: Mark Dell, B.J. Cunningham, Charlie Gantt, Blair White, Myles White, Brian Linthicum. Don’t think there is a better or deeper group in the Big Ten. This spring saw some phenomenal catches by both of the Whites, Gantt and Linthicum. These guys all have sure hands.. and if its in the area. They will pull it down. Knowing the offense will be more diverse and is headed to a more air attack, these numbers are guaranteed to increase….
2008:
Blair White      39 for 628 yrds
B.J. Cunningham  35 for 476 yrds
Mark Dell        31 for 618 yrds
Charlie Gantt    19 for 302 yrds

How do these skill players do it.. they make their numbers due to the guys up front. Yeah.. no question, a big loss is Roland Martin RG and Jesse Miller RT, but.. but, all others are returning, a tight comfotable group: C Joel Nitchman, LG Joel Foreman, and LT Rocco Cironi... one year older, more experienced as a group. Probably filling in at RG is the talented McGaha and at RT Deane, both of these young men can, Nay must .. Nay.. Will step up and fill the shoes of the talented Miller and Martin… With the balance of the line being returning starters.. Either signal caller should have the time he needs… and with Javon playing this year in the NFL, we will need time to exercise the air attack… The front 5 are KEY this year…

Lets take a look on the other side of the ball…. D.. Big D… SpartyMSU’s favorite side of the ball… Fun Stat: 9 out of the 12 top tacklers for the Spartans are returning..

The strength of the “D” are the line backers.. 3 Positions, 3 Stars… Gordon at WILL, Decker at MIKE, and Greg Jones at the SAM. Jones is clear Leader. Check out what Hondo S. Carpenter Sr. said about Jones: “ Greg Jones is the most complete player on the Spartans. “ I share the solid sentiment.. he’s not only the leader but probably the best back in the league.... I don’t want to even talk about these guys.. why ruin the surprise as opposing teams try to run, throw to the middle... Jones, Decker and Gordon are the 3 Horsemen of Doom for Opposing teams. With depth in mind: a new name to the group that you will hear often, DB Trenton Robinson. This will be fun to watch.. bring it.. nuf said.

Another Big Green Stat Alert… . This one says more about the Spartan Big D then it does about the offense. The Spartans finished the Big Ten Season, in 3rd place, but they were only 8th in the Big Ten in total offense.. Oooohhh SNAP !.. that’s Big “D”.

Up front on “D” Spartans have lost Brandon Long DE and Justin Kershaw DT, they are back filing with Blazing fast speed, talent and strength… Worthy DT (6’3” – 297), Tyler Hoover ( 6’7” 268). But much like the offense, the balance are returning starters… DE Anderson, DE Hoover, NT Wilson . … Yeah we can hold’em… Big Green “D” Stat: the Michigan State Spartans were #1 Stingiest Defense in the nation last year on 4th downs: 17 attempts, 3 conv., for 17.7%.. Can you say.. Don’t bring that Weak ass effort…

Last year the weakness was supposed to be at Safety.. that didn’t end up being the case, and this year we’re that much stronger with Rucker and Weaver. I will miss Otis “My Man” Wiley, a talented, smart, and articulate young man, but again, the Spartans have talent to fill. Even with Otis gone, 75% of the “D” interceptions are all coming back.. Danny Fortener, Chris Rucker, Ross Weaver.. The Pass D is another strength of the “D” Corp.

And we can’t forget about the Spartan Kicker, Mr. DNBTU (Dead Nuts Between the Uprights) Mr. Brett Swenson. The kid is M-O-N-E-Y…. He showed it last year, the year before, this spring.. and certainly this fall…

The Spartans are talented, they have depth, the do have a winning season on the Horizon.. We’re predicting 11 -1 in the Regular Season..

Below is what we think the line ups will be….

With all of is all being said.. SpartyMSU will review the Season Game by Game.. and forecast the fortunes..
Bottom Line: and it looks to be another Great Season of Spartan Football…

Sparty On!!

More National Love for the Spartans

2009-06-22T17:27:00Z

More Projections of the Spartans going 12 – 0…

Thank you Zombie Nation for the Heads Up.. One of the prominent Penn State Blogs has given the Web another first look at the year.. and SpartyMSU must jump on Board... They point to a new Poll and Projection as Truth / Fact of what will be... and what is to come....

http://collegefootballpoll.com/analysis_big_ten.html

CFN has the Spartans ending up First in the Big Ten.. See.. SpartyMSU’s predictions aren’t looking so bad anymore as the National Love Pours... Nay Rains... Nay Floods in…

Gotta say it again... Projected by CFN to go 12 – 0, win the Big Ten, and head to the Rose Bowl.. This is just giving me goose Bumps..

Thank you Zombie Nation for the Heads Up..

Sparty On !!!

2009 Spartan Football Preview Game Summaries

2009-06-13T18:47:00Z

2009 Football Season is Forecasted to be a successful one.. SpartyMSU posted the Win/Loss matrix, now its time to look at a sumary / brief preview of the season. Note: Coming up next, we will look at the 2009 Michigan State Spartans team, after that begin posting previews and forecasts of each game…

Many of the E-mails I have received this week indicated that several of you doubt the forecasted success of the Spartans, and some of you even questioned our manhood… and we really can’t do some of the anatomical suggestion that were made.. Some of you take this stuff way too serious….

It’s the vitriol that was stirred up we found most amusing. Please, look to the left of this posting, the Address is right there, Keep it coming.. We’re Scotch Taping the best and most obnoxious letters to the SpartyMSU office wall.. and will post some (just to share the giggles) after the season begins and our prognostications are vindicated on the gridiron.. Please keep sending the Emails and comments, we want to cover the wall…

So, here we go.. 2009 Summary Preview Game by Game..
with the Best guess - Forecast details to begin next week…

Spartan Opponents

Home against Montana State; Sept. 5, 2009
Montana State should be an easy win for the Spartans. Montana State has been struggling to build a team that fits the description of Student/Athletes. After years of the team’s poor academic performance, NCAA sanctions, the coaches were replaced. This rebuilding effort has come at a cost. The price is providing an early season win for the Spartans. The only question will be the weather.
Score: Montana State 10 – Spartans 35

Home against Central Michigan; Sept. 12, 2009
Central Michigan: The Chippewa’s are a good team. In fact, they could be the top MAC team, if not the second best (Western Mich. is talented as well). They have many returning starters (7 on offense and 10 on defense) and can field a good team. While some Spartan defensive linemen have left, the returning players can make-up the difference against a suspect offensive line for the Chips. The Chip QB (LeFevre for Heisman?) can throw and Antonio Brown can catch. This is an issue to watch. The Chippewa defensive front is strong, but passing will be available for the Spartans (Chippewa pass defense was 118 out of 120 teams last year). In the end, a well prepared Spartan team should handle the Chippewa’s. Spartans are now 2-0 to start the season.
Score: Chippewas 24 - Spartans 42

Away at Notre Dame; Sept. 19, 2009
Here is a rivalry to cherish. Last year's game with the Spartans was a mess for Notre Dame: 3 fumbles, 3 missed field goals, 3 sacks, and allowed 3 touchdowns. This string of three’s was Notre Dame’s Holy Trinity of futility. This year, the ND defense returns five starters, and they have a new Defensive Coordinator. Yet, these guys do have some talent and will be able to choreograph a better defensive effort then they did in 2008. But, the pass rush will be slow, more like altar boys strolling down the aisle to the Apse, than a threatening rush. The ND Linebackers (i.e., Smith and Te’o…. Te’o is spelled like it sounds) and the safeties are good.
On the other side of the ball, the ND offense will be able to score a little more than last year, since the front line is incrementally better. However, Hoover (MSU DE) will spend plenty of quality time with Clausen, sharing a sunny South Bend afternoon in the backfield. The Spartans are also incrementally better, yes losing Ringer and Hoyer hurts, they have been replaced and the schemes retooled for success. Face it, we own South Bend, having won 6 straight times… This will make it 7.

News Flash: SpartyMSU’s Byzantine network of unsubstantiated rumor operatives have found it curious that Jimmy seems to likes the bars and possibly can be a bit of a trouble-maker. If Jimmy can focus on football more than a game of beer pong, he might provide some much-needed offensive spark. Come on Jimmy, starting trouble then telling bouncers.. You know who I am…. But probably not true, but… Remember you do represent the University of Notre Dame.
The final score will be 24 – 17, and the Spartans are now 3 – 0.

Away at Wisconsin; Sept. 26, 2009
Wisconsin has a good fight song and they like cheese. SpartyMSU likes to say something nice about every team, and that is the best we can say about a team with a young defense that has only two seniors. If McFadden could play every position, they’d be good. Instead, MSU will run through the Badger defense like mice through Swiss. Their best returning player is their kicker. For the love of Brats, how can these guys be competitive? MSU will put up big points. The Spartan defense will do well to let Wisconsin’s Oglesby guard one side of the line and attack from the young side. Worry not, the Spartans are now off to a 4-0 start and the final score will be 28-15 (Spartans only giving up five field goals).

Home against Michigan; Oct. 3, 2009
Michigan’s offensive line is Ann Arbors only bright spot. After this observation, Dick Rodriguez will have trouble in East Lansing. Historically, rookie UM coaches for the Wolverine rodents (weasels) lose in their first UM/MSU match-up. Rodriguez was no exception and he’ll keep the rodent’s (skunk bear’s) losing streak alive by losing a second game to the Spartans. Even if we let the rodents (vermin) score a few touchdowns, Spartans will not have a problem with the Annabel’s defense.
Sad that this storied team, ScUM’s only two Big Ten wins last year came by sheer luck, yet they might incrementally improve to 3 wins this year, maybe 4 in total for 2009.

However, none of those wins will happen in East Lansing. The only strong players returning are Obi and Brandon. Combined with new coordinators, they got nothing. The best thing about this match-up will be savoring a Spartan victory over the rodents (varmints) on a bright, sunny day.
Holy cow!! The Spartans are 5-0 after a 41 – 20 win (Spartans getting an extra 7 points on a late score).

Away at Illinois; Oct. 10, 2009
Ron Zook ushers in Homecoming in Champaign. Juice Williams is back, along with Arrelious Ben. Juice will have plenty of targets for throwing. These guys will be number 5 in the Big Ten this year. The offensive line is weaker this year (one can politely call it “re-tooled”) with a questionable left side. Spartan defense should be tough for the Illini, with the Illini success coming only on big plays. The Spartan offense faces three newbies on the Illini defensive line. Dere Hicks, Martez Wilson and others are talented but so far in untested in 2009. Here is a hidden trap for the Spartans, but with good preparation, the final should be Spartans with 20 points and Illinois with 17 points. Keep pressure on Juice and the Spartans are now 6-0.

Home against Northwestern; Oct. 17, 2009 (Homecoming in East Lansing)
This is Northwestern, Home of “Nerd “U”.
Cory Wooten is good. Quentin Davie and Nate Williams are good. Eight returning starters for D. Last year’s QB graduated (Bacher was good), but Kafka returns with some game experience (69% completion rate). Blah, Blah, Blah… Details of the Nerd U team later next month…
Spartans 42, NWU 14, Spartans are now 7-0.

Home against Iowa; Oct. 24, 2009
Waterloo? If the Spartans can gel the offense by the 8th game of the season, and if the Hawkeyes have suffered injuries battling through a tough schedule, then the Spartans have a chance. The healthiest team wins this game.
Another angle to consider is that the undefeated Spartans are facing the Hawkeyes that have already lost to Penn State. This will appear as a potential upset, but the game is too closely matched to call a “potential upset”. It is at Spartan stadium…
The SpartyMSU.com Department of Analysis is divided over this game. Executive management has ruled that we will have an overtime win for the Spartans, kicked by DNBTU (Swenson)! (On the banks of the red cedar, there’s a school that’s known to all, …)
Spartans are now 8-0 after a 24-21 OT win.

Away at Minnesota; Oct 31, 2009
Ever notice the similarities between Goldy and Mighty Mouse, are they the same person ?

The Spartans should be banged-up by this point in the season. However, the Gophers will be hobbling on little gopher crutches and riding little gopher wheelchairs, as well…. The Gophers are returning 18 starters, but it does not bode well that are playing one of the toughest schedules in the nation! The Gopher QB Adam Weber is good, and there are a couple decent receivers, especially Eric Decker. Minny “D”, they might not be able to recover form the loss of VanDeSteeg. In the end, it is all for naught. Spartans will play wack-o-mole (wack-o-Gopher) against the otherwise-talented Weber and Decker team. Halloween in East Lansing will see Jack-o-lanterns decorated with “9-0” after a Gopher drubbing.
Spartans 35, Gophers 17

Home against Western Michigan; November 7, 2009
Praise Western Michigan Broncos as a top team in the MAC. Is it enough? Let’s analyze.
The Broncos lost three good receivers, the secondary, and a few other key players. This makes the secondary suspect after the Broncos have contributed several to Sunday afternoon play. The offensive line is full of returning players, but in the end, SpartyMSU expects a high scoring game, with the Spartans winning, 24-37. Spartans are now 10-0

Away at Purdue; November 14, 2009
Purdue is predicted to be at the bottom of the Big Ten, is it time to Panic ? Is there Hope for Danny Hope.. maybe not so much.. Hope’s hope is put on hold until 2010 or later. Kory Sheets is sadly missed, Jaycen Taylor will try to fill his shoes.. In 2008 they were last in the Big Ten for rush defense, but their secondary was a bright spot, and might still be in 2009. All 4 front linemen return in the Offensive side of the ball, but, with a Ok RB, and So-So receivers, not sure how many points they’ll put up. Spartans cross the Wabash and head out of West Lafayette with another Victory..
Score: 28-17… They are 11 – 0..

Last Big Ten Game of the Year is In Spartan Stadium…
Home against Penn State.
In 2008 the Spartans were embarrassed by the Big Ten Elite (OSU and PSU) In 2009, we may lose, but won’t be embarrassed... JoePa is old, doubt he really has his hands on the team, more likely hands on the bottle of Geritol and the remote (Switching between re-reruns of Art Linkletter and Lawrence Welk ). Regardless, the team is talented again.

We are playing for the bragging right for the ugliest Football trophy in the nation, Land Grant Trophy. Even if we were to win, they can keep that piece of shit. As for the Game, I do not think the Spartans are yet ready to match up with the Nittany Lions on the field, home or away.   That being said, Penn State doesn’t exactly have a tough schedule. The toughest games will be at Illinois, Ohio State, and at Michigan State, any hiccup could spell a lesser Bowl since they did lose in the Rose Bowl last year.

On “O”, Their Receivers are inexperienced, Lost 3 outstanding linemen.. On “D”, the corners are suspect, not too much experience at DE, and too much Ganja smoking in Apartment 4103, allegedly (from http://nittanywhiteout.com/2009/05/04/not-again-psu-players-caught-smoking-the-ganja/ ) it was Devon Still, Stephfon Green, Eric Latimore, and Johnnie Troutman, no one has been accused yet.
This isn’t all to say the Spartans don’t have a shot, ‘cause they do. But, its a long shot. We’ll leave it here until we post the predicted details in a couple weeks.

Maybe dropping a dime bag and Zig Zags on the line will slow the Nittany Lions down a little.. maybe.. just maybe…   Spartans Lose this tilt, 35 – 21
Spartans end the regular season 11 – 1

2009 Football season looks to be a successful one..

Sparty On !!!

A Successful Season on the Horizon...

2009-06-09T23:34:00Z

Throwing Caution to the Wind.. Going for the Gusto… Possibly it was the Beer.. Possibly the Analysis.. Possibly the Truth.. But, The Spartans are headed for another successful season..

2007: 7 - 6

2008: 9 - 4

2009 Prediction: 12 – 1, including Bowl Win..

“By the great beard of Zeus you say… The Spartans 12 - 1?” Yes, that’s correct... the consensus at the SpartyMSU Football Conference (last weekend in East Lansing), was that there is only 1 game that is a high risk loss, all others are likely to be in the win column….. And we are sticking to our guns… The Coin flip prediction was a little less optimistic at 7 – 5, 4 – 4, but, that’s just the flip… its always wrong, and least 80% of three quarters of 50% of the time.

Click Here

Our BlogoSphere Friend and colleague “The ES” is predicting a good season for the Spartans as well.. ES I’m stealing your Thunder.. The Enlightened Spartan predicts 9 – 3 for the Spartans, Plus a Bowl Win (10 – 3)… we assume his predicted loss is JoePa, Iowa and somebody else, we’ all will check daily at http://www.enlightenedspartan.com until we find out for sure...

Harken my friends, the Spartans will do better than you think this year.. . SpartyMSU owes ES a Pitcher of Brew at P.B. if we are wrong...

In many of the Posted Predictions on the Spartan Season, I see Lots O’ Love for the Spartans this year…. I think ES, SpartyMSU and all of the Spartan Blogfica residents are looking forward to another positive season..

Heck.. even the anti-Spartan, Angelique S. Chengelis of The Detroit News, predicts the Spartans will go 10 – 2. Our beloved Hondo S. Caprenter Sr. at Spartan Nation dot COM is predicting 9 – 3… Feel the Love.. Feel the Love.. So, as you can see, we’re not that far off, in fact SpartyMSU is the accurate one at 11 - 1.

Lets go.. Let the Season Begin..!

How we will roll out the Predictions…

Saturday we will post a Summary of the Entire 2009 season for the Michigan State Spartans..
Tuesday we will Post the 2009 Spartan football Team review….
After that, we will begin the week by week prediction and forecast for the Entire 2009 Football season, looking at each enemy, one by one…

SpartyOn my Friends !!!

2009 SpartyMSU Summer Conference

2009-06-09T00:33:00Z

Summer SpartyMSU Conference held June 6 – 7, at the Marriott and Peanut Barrel restaurant in East Lansing. The Peanut Barrel (http://www.peanutbarrel.com/ ) was gracious to allow us to spend 6 hours discussing and typing, soaking up pitcher after pitch of cold of brew (and a few Shots of Crown)..

We couldn’t have picked a better spot in East Lansing that has food any more delightful, delicious and delectable Plus a friendly, warm and enjoyable ambiance that makes this a must visit when in East Lansing… Yeah.. we’re coming back… Thanks Joe !

Besides, we had a huge table and a power outlet nearby… Of course we hit other Hot spots, ElAzteco, a LugNuts Game (Lost the White Caps), and the Nut House to watch the Red Wings kick Pittsburgh’s ass: 5 – 0…

Headed over to Lou and Harry's for drinks where we bumped into the owner who also has roots on the East Coast and went to UofD (University of Delaware)….

But most importantly for the day, we completed the reason for the assemblage, the 2009 SpartyMSU Football Season Preview / Forecast / Look-see / Projections…

Gav, Dave, Andy and myself made it for the meeting, others either had to wash their cat, sprinkle the garden or missed the event for some other lame excuse.. Suffice it to say, the SpartyMSU 2009 Spartan Football Season is previewed, Forecasted, and in the can.

Season Preview will be posted in 4 stages:
1) The Pick Matrix: (Note: in the last 49 Spartan Games, SpartyMSU has only missed 8 picks..)
2) Review of the Spartans
3) A Summary of all the games.
4) A detailed review of the games week by week and the Spartans will face....

Sample Prediction Matrix..Not filed in yet..... yet.. gotta wait till Wednesday...

Now before you call us Homers.. Drinking form the Green Kool-Aid fire hose.. you have to clearly understand the academic debate and cogitating that went in to this, it was not taken lightly, but after review and consensus agreements based upon the preponderance of evidence.. This is what it do be..

Wednesday we’ll put up the Matrix… AND It is Forecast to be another Good year for the Spartans…

SpartyON !!!!

We're Baaaackkkk...

2009-05-29T18:59:00Z

Few Items as SpartyMSU begins to Rev up the Blogging again for 2009…

1) Winter SpartyMSU Sports Conference.. February 2009 at the Kellogg Center in E.L.
    • Danny had too much to drink (Say it aint so..) and in an attempt to secure a double bed for himself at let the 3 of us fend for ourselves.... at 2:30AM.. he called down to the front desk.. yelling.. “Call DPS.. there a man in my bed who wants to sleep with me..!”.. The besotted laughter in the back ground was the only reason the desk clerk hung up on him… Right out of planes, trains and automobiles…


Click here..
"thoses aren't pillows....."

o   Mike arranged a Suite for the Basketball game (very Cool), Discussions on the Final Four and the 2008 / 2009 Football season held over Ouzo in the Kellogg Center bar.
o   Closed the RoadHouse Pub.. Great place. Great Times!

2) SpartyMSU Summer Conference will be held on June 6 – 7 in E.L at the Marriott, most of the typing and dicsussions will be at the Peanut Barrell…

2009 Football MSU predictions are the expected outcome and postings..

3) Why would schools eliminate, purposely omit school game and season records ? That’s not being transparent.. Thats more akin to Dick Cheney than Obama-ish… Lets all be transparent now...

Notre Dame didn’t like 3-9 2007 season, God doesn't recognize a loosing season at ND.
Minny eliminated the 55-0 loss to Iowa in the 2008 season.. nope don't want to remember it…

4) Soft Schedules.. Its known that to remain or raise the prominence of a team / program you need to schedule teams of the same higher stature. Put team’s on the schedule that have been in the Top 3 of their conference since 2000 … These are the teams to add to a schedule to help a program… I discussed this earlier in : http://blog.spartymsu.com/2008/12/26/fill-spartan-stadium.aspx

Michigan’s schedule is a cream puff… Guess this is one way to try to regain momentum.. Don’t think it’ll help any. Can you say 5 – 9 season… Delaware State on Oct. 17.. Come on.. Dick Rod, Man up pal..
Not pleased with the Spartans playing Montana State, but this was probably schedule via John L. Cowboy. Future schedule look better….

5) Go Red Wings !!

More later…

Sparty ON !!!

Big Ten Spring Football Attendance

2009-04-27T23:41:00Z

Spring Football…. Coming right on the heels of the Spartan Men’s Basketball NCAA Championship game against North Carolina… And this Green and White game was as welcomed as a Hymnal on Sunday…

But also signals the dearth of Sports, until about August...

We are now launched into the Summer time… where we Dream of Spartan Stadium and The Breslin Arena.. Aaaaahhh… Looking forward for the days to come..

Big Ten Spring Football Scrimmage attendance.. From what I can see...

In retrospect.. The Spartan Spring Game was very enthusiastically attended.. MSU had one of the highest attendances in the Big Ten.. Even with the inclement weather… The Spartan Faithful, Family, Fans, and Friends turned out for the game.

Surly we can improve, increase and ignite the attendance for next year, 2010… Fire up the BBQ next April Boys.. it’s the Spartan Spring Tail gate.. Note: MSU needs to open up more parking close the stadium…And lift the Alcohol ban…

Hope the Football and Basketball High I’m on lasts until at least June 6 when SpartyMSU.com holds the Summer Spartan Sports Conference at the Marriott in East Lansing (and / or at various pubs)…

Sparty On

Green and White Game

2009-04-26T01:09:00Z

Great Day at Spartan Stadium… Weather started out Summer like ..Perfect for El Azteco or Tailgating… Myself.. well I stopped in to the Post bar for an Oberon and a shot of Padron before the game…

The Campus is in Full Bloom and Fans were streaming in for the Green and White game action.. The bars and restaurants are filled, tons of alumni back in town for the day..

New Graphics on the JumboTron.. Nice…

I hope they have permanently moved the band to the end zone.. New location is better for sound… Maybe it will help the Island of Dullness between sections 6 and 8…..

My guess, rough estimate is that there was 30,000 in attendance (including Andy, Gav and I).. but a little fewer after the rain hit… Everyone was enjoying themselves.. it is the best Free Spring Entertainment in the State of Michigan.. Will plan a tailgate for next year… No reason not to fill Spartan Stadium next year .....

Based on what I saw.. I am thinking I'll go out on a ledge and place a prediction... the Spartans go 9 – 3 (or better) for the season… theres talent on this team again this year..

Observations from the Game:
1) Spartans have 2 good quarterbacks.. Both Keith and Kirk. Both have good arms, both showed good aim and distance on their throws.. Who will be #1 to begin the season.. maybe both.. Regardless, it seemed to be an air attack day.. not much was given out on the ground.
a. Nichol (White): 28 Att, 20 Comp for 357 yrds. Owned the first half…
b. Cousins (Green) : 43 Atts, 29 comps, 357 yrds. Did better the second half…

2) Miles White (White): This kid made some catches.. Didn’t know him until today.. sure we’ll see allot of him this fall. 2 Huge for 86 yrds…

3) Brian Linthicum (White).. Anther new name.. whos this guy.. Soph, 6’4” kid 6 catches.. Sweet catches…

4) Charlie Gantt (Green): Some Big time moves on the field.. 4 catches 70yrds…

5) Punting: Kyle Selden (Green).. this kid got some leg into it.. He can hit it.

6) Blocking Skills: Andre Anderson (Green). Besides 9 carries for 30 yrs, he was a savior in the backfield with his blocking. Nice to see !

7) Concern: Snapper.. Many low snaps gave both QBs trouble. But Cousins seemed to have more issues. He had to pick several up off the turf. Need to work on this over the summer.

8) Looks like no Jovan Ringer replacement.. No one stood out. Very few carriers, mostly an air attack day. Green had 70 yrds rushing and White had 45.

9) 10 or more rushing attempts were broken up by wet grass.. is it wrong shoes.. special slippery grass, or just not used to loose footing.. ? Needs to be figured out.

10) “O” Line.. Seemed to let too many Defenders past them.. Need to work on this too.

Bottom Line.. a great time.. Great Day.. Can’t say enough about the Spartans Green and White game..

Take a look at some photos…

www.spartymsu.com has the Countdown clock to the first game against Montana State..
See you in East Lansing soon !

Sparty On...

2009 Green and White Game Roster

2009-04-23T01:50:00Z

The Player Draft was held Wednesday (Earth Day) ... It showed a little about what the players think about each of the positions as the Seniors divided up the roster.

SpartyMSU Thoughts on the Spring Game Player Draft:
1) QBs were picked very late: both must be good and comparable.
2) Injuries / Inactive: what does this mean for the season ? Clark-Davis ? Cironi ? Need to look into this more...
3) Greg Jones first player pick this year.. and last..
4) Rumor: Hoover is hurt ??
5) White's Backs: Jimmerson, Leggett and Hawkin
6) Greens' QB Kirk C. paired with Mark Dell, Rucker, Smith and the Blair White Project.
7) "D" : Both look strong, White's LB look a bit stronger with Gordon, Decker, and their secondary is filled with Adams, Fortener, Johnson.

Either way it'll be a great game...
This is only a prelude to September.. with most questions answered by late August during the Fall Camp...

A forecasted Summer like blue sky day.. and the Spartans on the field.. doesn't get much better !!

GREEN TEAM
Offense
Receivers: Mark Dell, Chris D. Rucker, Brad Sonntag, Fred Smith, Blair White

Offensive Line: J'Michael Deane, RT; John Deyo, LT; Zach Hueter, RT; Jared McGaha, RG; Brendon Moss, LT; Joel Nitchman, C; Ethan Ruhland, LG; Mike Schmeding, RT; Hugh Stangeland, C; Anthony Woods, RG

Running Backs: Andre Anderson, Caulton Ray, David Spears

Quarterback: Kirk Cousins

Fullback: Josh Rouse, Adam Setterbo

Tight Ends: Garrett Celek, Charlie Gantt

Defense
Defensive Line: Tyler Hoover, DE; Ishmyl Johnson, NT; Michael Jordan, NT; Colin Neely, DE; Kevin Pickelman, DT; Johnathan Strayhorn, DE

Linebackers: Brandon Denson, WILL; Greg Jones, MIKE; Tyrone Mattison, SAM; Jon Misch, SAM; Marcus Webb, WILL

Secondary: Chase Parker, FC; Chris L. Rucker, BC; Donald Spencer, FS; Brynden Trawick, SS; Ross Weaver, FC, FS

Specialists
Alex Shackleton, SN; Kyle Selden, P; Dan Conroy, K

Injured/Inactive: Josh Bodell, Rocco Cironi, Kendell Davis-Clark, Marcus Hyde

WHITE TEAM
Offense
Receivers: Milton Colbert, B.J. Cunningham, Cam Martin, Keshawn Martin, Myles White

Offensive Line: Joel Foreman, LG; Antonio Jeremiah, RT; Chris McDonald, RG; John Stipek, C; D.J. Young, LT

Running Backs: Andre Buford, A.J. Jimmerson, Ashton Leggett

Quarterback: Keith Nichol

Fullback: Nick Bendzuck; Andrew Hawken, Andrew Pendy

Tight Ends: David Duran, Brian Linthicum

Defense
Defensive Line: Todd Anderson, DE; Trevor Anderson, DE; Cameron Jude, DT; David Rolf, DE; Oren Wilson, NT; Jerel Worthy, DT

Linebackers: Adam Decker, MIKE; Steve Gardiner, SAM; Eric Gordon, SAM; Drew Stevens, WILL; Jamiihr Williams, MIKE;

Secondary: Johnny Adams, BC; Danny Fortener, SS; Jesse Johnson, FS; Trenton Robinson, FS; Patrick White, FC

Specialists
Aaron Bates, P; Forrest Cohn, SN; Brett Swenson, K

Injured/Inactive: Ashton Henderson, Arthur Ray Jr., Jeremy Ware

Great day to Come out to Spartan Stadium .....

Sparty ON !!!

Tailgates for Green and White Game...

2009-04-22T14:01:00Z

With Spartan Friendly weather... sunny skys and high temps.. its an attractive option to TAILGATE this Saturday at MSU...

MSU has laid out the plans for tailgating... But no clear time for the parking to open, so the assumption is that parking will open at 10AM (??), and thats with the stadium gates opening at noon.

Guaranteed to be a great Family Event.. I'm bringing my kids... as well as joining the SpartyMSU Crew at ElAz...

MSU has stated:
Parking is free (in Lots T-79, A-62, S-56, P-39/40, H-63 and M-66), and the stadium gates (Gates B, C, J and K) open at 12 p.m. Admission is free.

Also, a reminder that DPPS has made it clear that there is no waiver for this weekend on alcohol. (Booo...Hissss.... Come on a couple beers on a sunny day...??)

They have a posting on the days events...

http://msuspartans.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/041409aab.html

P.S. thanks for the help Ben at the Athletic Dpt.

Sparty On !!

Green and White Game..2009

2009-04-22T11:52:00Z

3 Days before the Green and White Game...

The Green and White Game Player draft is today.. come back tomorrow for the line ups..

The weather Forecast continues to improve like the Spartans Football Team.. Wear your sun glasses, Shorts and Sun Screen....

Have spoken to many Spartans in the Detroit Metro Area.. Many are planning on going to the game..

Sparty ON !!

MSU Spring Game.. 2009

2009-04-21T12:08:00Z

Green and White Game.. 2009...
Saturday April 25, 1:30PM.. Gates Open at Noon...

SpartyMSU is very interested to see how we deal with the departure of: RB Javon Ringer, QB Brian Hoyer, SS Otis Wiley and DT Justin Kirshaw…

And very excited about the QB opportunities with Andrew Maxwell Oklahoma transfer Keith Nichol, and Kirk Cousins. I believe it will be Kirk who wins out, but the talent is there to back fill for Brian Hoyer.

Have been reading about the improvements on “D”.. But want to see it for myself..

With good Weather forecasted.. Should be a huge Crowd.. Expected to be larger than usual, and the weather will help.. Bring the Kids, Grandparents, Neighbors.. This is the Spring event in the Entire State of Michigan…

SpartyMSU is headed to El Az for Beers and Nachos before the game…

Since Coach Dantonio arrived.. we are are looking at The Spartans from a new angle.. New Perspective.. and it all looks GOOD !!! The Program has taken successive and sucessfull steps forward.. we can only expect to continuation of forward progress....

Its Great to be a Spartan !!!!

Can’t wait to see the team…

SpatyMSU analysis of the Game / Team will be up Next week... First Review of 2009...

Sparty On !!!

Spring Football... Can't wait

2009-04-10T12:44:00Z

Spring Football...

Green and White game Saturday April 25 at 1:30...

All Spartans Should go... First time in 2009 to be in the Green and White High Spartan Cathedral...

More on the practices and Roster and Football Hype later this week...

SpartyOn !!!

2010 Indy... Here we Come...

2009-04-09T12:42:00Z

SpartyMSU Already making plans....

Spartans have all the tools.. all the skillsets.. all of the Coaching and Staffing needed...

Sparty On !!!

Spartans Lost in NCAA Final.. Still Winners

2009-04-09T12:29:00Z

Congratulations Spartans… Coach Izzo, Team, Staff, Izzone…. Great Year.. Great Accomplishment…

You reminded the entire Big Ten on Whats its like to be a Spartan and a Part of the Best Athletic conference in the USA..

The Spartan Team had tough Road to the NCAA Final Game..
Beating 2 Number One seeds..
Pomeroy Rank of Spartan Opponents:
USC: 26
Kansas: 10
Louisville: 4
Connecticut: 3
North Carolina: 1

Toughest Road to the Final of any Team… The Spartans made the Entire Big Ten Nation Proud!
Looking forward to the Final Four in Indy 2010….

Kori and Raymar had surgery to repair broken Bones in their feet from the Final against the Tar Heels...... These guys sacrificed their bodies for a Shot at Greatness...

CONGRATULATIONS Spartans !!!!

Box Score from the NCAA Final Game:

Official Basketball Box Score
Michigan State vs North Carolina
4/6/09 9:21PM at Ford Field, Detroit, MI
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VISITORS: Michigan State 31-7
                          TOT-FG 3-PT         REBOUNDS
## Player Name            FG-FGA FG-FGA FT-FTA OF DE TOT PF TP A TO BLK S MIN
02 Morgan, Raymar...... f 1-2    0-0    2-2    1 0 1   5   4 0 1 0 0 19
10 Roe, Delvon......... f 1-1    0-0    0-1    2 6 8   3   2 0 1 1 0 17
14 Suton, Goran........ c 7-10   3-4    0-0    3 8 11   3 17 0 3 2 0 31
01 Lucas, Kalin........ g 4-12   0-1    6-8    0 0 0   2 14 7 6 0 0 35
05 Walton, Travis...... g 0-2    0-0    2-2    0 1 1   3   2 3 4 0 0 24
00 Ibok, Idong.........    0-0    0-0    0-0    0 1 1   0   0 0 0 0 0   1
03 Allen, Chris........    0-8    0-7    3-5    1 0 1   2   3 1 0 0 0 17
13 Thornton, Austin....    0-1    0-0    2-2    0 3 3   1   2 0 0 0 0   3
15 Summers, Durrell....    4-10   2-6    3-4    2 3 5   1 13 2 2 1 0 21
22 Dahlman, Isaiah.....    1-1    0-0    0-0    1 0 1   0   2 0 0 0 0   1
23 Green, Draymond.....    2-2    0-0    3-5    2 5 7   3   7 0 2 0 1 12
25 Crandell, Jon.......    0-0    0-0    0-0    0 0 0   0   0 0 0 0 0   1
34 Lucious, Korie......    2-5    2-5    0-0    0 0 0   3   6 0 2 0 0 14
40 Herzog, Tom.........    0-0    0-0    0-0    0 0 0   0   0 0 0 1 0   1
41 Gray, Marquise......    0-1    0-0    0-0    1 0 1   2   0 0 0 0 0   3
   TEAM................                            2 2
   Totals..............   22-55   7-23 21-29 13 29 42 28 72 13 21 5 1 200

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 12-27 44.4%   2nd Half: 10-28 35.7%   Game: 40.0% DEADB
3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 4-10 40.0%   2nd Half: 3-13 23.1%   Game: 30.4%   REBS
F Throw % 1st Half: 6-9 66.7%   2nd Half: 15-20 75.0%   Game: 72.4%    4

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HOME TEAM: North Carolina 34-4
                          TOT-FG 3-PT         REBOUNDS
## Player Name            FG-FGA FG-FGA FT-FTA OF DE TOT PF TP A TO BLK S MIN
21 THOMPSON, Deon...... f 3-8    0-0    3-4    0 3 3   4   9 0 2 0 0 23
50 HANSBROUGH, Tyler... f 6-14   0-2    6-10   1 6 7   3 18 2 2 0 0 34
05 LAWSON, Ty.......... g 3-10   0-3   15-18   0 4 4   0 21 6 1 0 8 37
14 GREEN, Danny........ g 2-4    2-3    0-0    2 1 3   5   6 4 2 0 1 24
22 ELLINGTON, Wayne.... g 7-12   3-3    2-2    2 2 4   2 19 0 0 0 0 35
02 CAMPBELL, Marc......    0-1    0-0    0-0    0 1 1   0   0 0 0 0 0   1
04 FRASOR, Bobby.......    1-2    0-1    0-0    1 0 1   3   2 1 0 0 0 23
11 DREW II, Larry......    0-1    0-0    0-0    0 0 0   0   0 0 0 0 0   4
15 TANNER, J.B.........    0-0    0-0    0-0    0 0 0   0   0 0 0 0 0   1
24 WATTS, Justin.......    1-2    0-0    0-0    1 0 1   0   2 0 0 0 0   1
32 DAVIS, Ed...........    5-7    0-0    1-4    2 6 8   4 11 0 0 0 0 14
35 MOODY, Patrick......    0-0    0-0    0-0    0 0 0   0   0 0 0 0 0   1
40 COPELAND, Mike......    0-0    0-0    0-0    0 0 0   0   0 0 0 0 0   1
44 ZELLER, Tyler.......    0-0    0-0    1-2    0 1 1   1   1 0 0 0 0   1
   TEAM................                         2     2
   Totals..............   28-61   5-12 28-40 11 24 35 22 89 13 7 0 9 200

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 18-34 52.9%   2nd Half: 10-27 37.0%   Game: 45.9% DEADB
3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 4-9 44.4%   2nd Half: 1-3 33.3%   Game: 41.7%   REBS
F Throw % 1st Half: 15-19 78.9%   2nd Half: 13-21 61.9%   Game: 70.0%    5

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Officials: Tom O'Neill, Curtis Shaw, Tony Greene
Technical fouls: Michigan State-None. North Carolina-None.
Attendance: 72922
Score by Periods                1st 2nd   Total
Michigan State................   34   38 -   72
North Carolina................   55   34 -   89
Two day attendance total: 145,378
Ty Lawson - 8 steals most ever in championship game

Points in the paint-MSU 18,UNC 30. Points off turnovers-MSU 6,UNC 25.
2nd chance points-MSU 15,UNC 14. Fast break points-MSU 4,UNC 4.
Bench points-MSU 33,UNC 16. Score tied-0 times. Lead changed-2 times.
Last FG-MSU 2nd-00:04, UNC 2nd-00:46.
Largest lead-MSU by 1 1st-19:11, UNC by 24 1st-04:48.

Congratualtions Spartans....

Sparty On !!

MSU Beats UCONN.. in NCAA Final Four

2009-04-05T12:09:00Z

Depth.. Spartans are Deep… Someone is ALWAYS stepping up….

SpartyMSU found a Hooters in Macon GA. to watch the Game.. Perfect spot if I couldn’t be at FORD Field. Chris the Bar Tender / Manager was all too helpful and kept the Yuengling flowing…..

Bring on UNC.. Spartans want a rematch… As I said a couple days ago:

“• Passion: I believe the Spartans are more passionate about this game. It is in Michigan.. It is local pride and a chance to redeem themselves against North Carolina. Note: in the first game against North Carolina this year at Ford Field (December3, 2008) Suton did not play, Green played only 6 minutes, Kalin Lucas shot 2 – 10.. The Spartans of December are not the same team this March and April. North Carolina is the same, they’re good, they’re even keel, less improvement than the Spartans… Spartans want a rematch this year in the Final !!”

Last night it was Raymar.. he looked like the Raymar BMAP (Before Mono and Phenomena)… Like Kansas, USC, Louisvile.. UConn got a taste of Michigan State and BIG TEN “D”, This is what its like to play in the Big Ten..

There have been so many Nay sayers.. ESPN, CBS, Chanel 4 in Detroit… Keep it up.. We like being the
UnderDog.. Channel 4 in Detroit had a story on why UofM (Wolverines) won't ever root for MSU... this was tastless and does nothing to support the sucesses of MSU, Big Ten, and the State of Michigan.... But, call us the underdogs... and then talk to me tuesday after the game...

The Spartans Shinned… Just as predicted in SpartyMSU last week the scenario played out perfectly. Stop Thabeet, hold A.J. Price... they had 4 players to focus on, and it worked...

The Spartans were a unifed TEAM... 10 Players scored....

What was with the flying Elbows by the UConn Cheaters.. they got frustrated that MSU won’t collapse just from their over rated reputation and Big East egos… ?

Just look at the Box Score from MSU

Michigan State vs Connecticut
4/4/09 6:07PM at Ford Field, Detroit, MI

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VISITORS: Michigan State 31-6
                          TOT-FG 3-PT         REBOUNDS
## Player Name            FG-FGA FG-FGA FT-FTA OF DE TOT PF TP A TO BLK S MIN
02 Morgan, Raymar...... f 7-13   0-0    4-6    3 6 9   3 18 1 0 0 5 30
10 Roe, Delvon......... f 2-4    0-0    0-0    4 4 8   2   4 0 0 2 0 21
14 Suton, Goran........ c 2-5    0-1    0-0    2 5 7   4   4 2 3 1 2 28
01 Lucas, Kalin........ g 7-15   3-6    4-6    0 2 2   1 21 5 3 0 0 33
05 Walton, Travis...... g 1-6    0-0    0-0    0 0 0   3   2 8 0 0 2 23
00 Ibok, Idong.........    0-0    0-0    0-0    1 1 2   3   0 0 1 0 0   6
03 Allen, Chris........    1-6    0-2    0-0    1 1 2   1   2 0 1 0 0   9
15 Summers, Durrell....    4-9    1-5    1-1    3 3 6   2 10 1 1 0 1 23
23 Green, Draymond.....    3-4    0-0    2-4    1 1 2   5   8 1 1 0 1 12
34 Lucious, Korie......    3-8    2-5    3-3    0 0 0   0 11 0 0 0 0   9
41 Gray, Marquise......    1-2    0-0    0-0    1 1 2   1   2 0 1 0 0   6
   TEAM................                         2     2
   Totals..............   31-72   6-19 14-20 18 24 42 25 82 18 11 3 11 200

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 15-38 39.5%   2nd Half: 16-34 47.1%   Game: 43.1% DEADB
3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 4-14 28.6%   2nd Half: 2-5 40.0%   Game: 31.6%   REBS
F Throw % 1st Half: 4-5 80.0%   2nd Half: 10-15 66.7%   Game: 70.0%    3

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HOME TEAM: Connecticut 31-5
                          TOT-FG 3-PT         REBOUNDS
## Player Name            FG-FGA FG-FGA FT-FTA OF DE TOT PF TP A TO BLK S MIN
04 ADRIEN, Jeff........ f 5-10   0-0    3-7    3 4 7   2 13 1 2 2 0 32
21 ROBINSON, Stanley... f 5-6    1-1    4-4    3 10 13   3 15 0 5 2 0 31
34 THABEET, Hasheem.... c 6-13   0-0    5-7    3 3 6   3 17 1 1 2 1 36
12 PRICE, A.J.......... g 5-20   1-3    4-4    1 5 6   3 15 1 2 0 2 32
24 AUSTRIE, Craig...... g 2-4    0-2    2-2    2 1 3   2   6 2 1 0 0 37
02 BEVERLY, Donnell....    0-0    0-0    0-0    0 0 0   0   0 0 0 0 0   2
15 WALKER, Kemba.......    1-5    0-0    3-9    1 1 2   4   5 2 4 0 1 20
33 EDWARDS, Gavin......    1-1    0-0    0-0    2 2 4   1   2 1 1 1 1 10
   TEAM................                         1     1
   Totals..............   25-59   2-6   21-33 16 26 42 18 73 8 16 7 5 200

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 13-25 52.0%   2nd Half: 12-34 35.3%   Game: 42.4% DEADB
3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 2-3 66.7%   2nd Half: 0-3   0.0%   Game: 33.3%   REBS
F Throw % 1st Half: 8-13 61.5%   2nd Half: 13-20 65.0%   Game: 63.6%    6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Officials: John Cahill, Leslie Jones, Michael Stuart
Technical fouls: Michigan State-None. Connecticut-None.
Attendance: 72456
Score by Periods                1st 2nd   Total
Michigan State................   38   44 -   82
Connecticut...................   36   37 -   73

Points in the paint-MSU 34,UCONN 42. Points off turnovers-MSU 21,UCONN 19.
2nd chance points-MSU 13,UCONN 14. Fast break points-MSU 22,UCONN 10.
Bench points-MSU 33,UCONN 7. Score tied-9 times. Lead changed-6 times.
Last FG-MSU 2nd-01:00, UCONN 2nd-00:29.
Largest lead-MSU by 11 2nd-03:18, UCONN by 5 1st-10:55.

MONDAY Night.. Bring it .....

Sparty On !!!

Spartans Final Four

2009-04-03T13:38:00Z

Great Magazine.... Its Great to be a Spartan !!!!

Michigan State v. UConn .. Final Four 2009

2009-04-02T15:23:00Z

How will the Spartans win the Final Four match up with the UConn Husky’s… As just a normal Spartan Sports Fan.. let me explain… This is what the game looks like from 30 feet.. from someone who Bleeds Green…

‘Cause that’s what a blog is all about.. No glitz.. No bull crap.. Just as SpartyMSU sees it… Oh, by the way, on a side note… its Oberon season I saw my first shipments in the stores..
(Best beer in the WORLD: http//:bells brewery Oberon is in season beer.)

• The Spartans are 18-4 away from Breslin, and 9 – 3 on neutral courts. Ford Field is a neutral court. Sure its close to friends and family, but it isn’t home. No Izzo designed plush locker room… and they’re in a hotel room.. UConn did well at home or away this year.. So Advantage Spartans…

• Goran Suton: this young man has come into his own. If he doesn’t play in the NBA, it will be in Europe. He has skills.. its on his back the team has gone forward in the Tourney, his enthusiasm, its his focus that sparked the team. He is my vote for Spartan Player of the Tournament. Love to watch his game.. Avg. 11.5 rebounds, avg. 14 points a game. This guy is averaging a Double Double in the tourney… Since his surgery in December, and his recover. He continues to play better and better…

If anyone can turn Thabeet around it’s a combo of Suton, Ibok, and Day-Day (Green).

• Kalin is one Heck of a Floor General.. fast, dead nuts shot.. Voted Player of the Year in the Big Ten… He sets it up.. takes control.. and if leave a lane open, he’ll cut to the basket faster than you can get a man on him..

• DEFENSE.. Big D.. Man to Man, hand in the face, smash-mouth Spartan “D”.. Slow them down force them set up a shot.. Travis Walton: Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year has to try work on UConn’s Price… Travis did a Herculean job with Louisville.. Now its on to UConn and A.J. Price…

• We will know quickly what type of game it will be. If its 0 – 0 after 2 minutes, then the Spartans have come out to play hard nose Spartan style “D”. If its aprox. 13 -12 after 8 minutes then “D” is alive and well. If we go into Half time knotted up or either team up with a delta of 8 or less, then it’s a “D” game. In any of these scenarios, Spartans will win…

• Passion: I believe the Spartans are more passionate about this game. It is in Michigan.. It is local pride and a chance to redeem themselves against North Carolina. Note: in the first game against North Carolina this year at Ford Field (December3, 2008) Suton did not play, Green played only 6 minutes, Kalin Lucas shot 2 – 10.. The Spartans of December are not the same team this March and April. North Carolina is the same, they’re good, they’re even keel, less improvement than the Spartans… Spartans want a rematch this year in the Final !!

To do so, we have to get past UConn… its do-able, but no easy task.

• Spartans are Peeking as a team.. They have bonded, Bench has stepped up.. they win as a unit.. A typical cohesive Izzo team…

• UConn was considered the best #1 seed in the Tournament, and the Spartans shut them down. Will be the same for # 1 seed UConn. They are about to see Big Ten “D”.

• Spartans have to limit turnovers, and protect the ball. As much as I like Kori, he has made some bad passes… Ball control is Key…

• Lady Luck… The ball has to go in the Hoop.. Spartans won’t win unless they can score and they are getting the favorable bounce. Need those fast break buckets.. Get down quickly and score…

• Riding the Pine.. the Spartan Bench has outscored the opposition’s bench this year: 27 – 36 games… To Win it All, they have to continue to contribute… These guys step up.. Spartans are Deep.. like an Izzo team.. they are Deep and everyone contributes.

Can’t wait for the Game..!!! Go get yourself a case or 2 of Oberon and Enjoy the Spartan Success.... You can all be Green and White for a Weekend..... Go Spartans.. !!!!

Sparty On !!!

Michigan State Spartans.. Final FOUR 2009

2009-04-02T14:15:00Z

The Big Ten is a Premier Conference.. and Michigan State is an Elite Program.....

Can't get enough of this Spartan Basketball Stuff... !!!

Sparty ON !!!

Go Green ! Go White ! Spartans in the Final Four

2009-03-30T11:13:00Z

SpartyMSU readers Predicted in the Survey..
Congratulations Prognosticators.....

Its Good to be a Spartan !!!

See you in DETROIT...

Sparty ON !!!!

MSU.. Final Four... AGAIN !!!

2009-03-30T10:45:00Z

Frankly, Earlier this year, SpartyMSU felt Louisville was the best team in the land… now they’re gone.. Poof.. Disappeared.... Their Press was impregnable, dominating.. Goran Suton, Lucas and team destroyed them. They were Dismantled…

Spartans dispatched Robert Morris, USC, Kansas (twice this year), and now Louisville to win the NCAA Mid-West regional…. That’s the 5th Final Four in 11 years. Aaahhhh its Good to be a Spartan… Tom Izzo has built a Family of players at MSU.. Not a team, but a Band of BBall Brothers.. and it will only get stronger next year… and the Years to come…

2 Game tournament to decide the National Champs… A Final Four Tourney in our Home State of Michigan.. Just 90 miles from MSU to Detroit and Ford Field.. Effectively a Home game…

Pre-Season SpartyMSU predicted MSU would be playing in the Final Four in Detroit and here we are.. Damn if we aren’t dead nuts on our predictions year in and year out… http://blog.spartymsu.com/2008/11/18/sparty-round-ball-has-begun.aspx

Team: 9 Spartans scored, out rebounded Louisville 37 – 29.
Shot 46% and 50% from beyond the arc, Louisville was 38% and 37%.

Lucas maybe the Point Guard leader, but Goran Suton is the Soul of the team. Without his guts, and tough but intellectual brainiac style of play, they couldn’t be here. Goran is in the right place right time. He is vocal, gutsy, selfless and a true Spartan. 19 points 10 rebounds against Louisville.

Raymar, Break my Nose, Morgan.. He threw away the mask that protected his face.. Only played 10 minutes, but they were good minutes..

Freshman Draymond Green is a wonderful surprise, and Delvon Roe has sputter in the last 2 games (Roe is my Wife’s favorite player), Watching this Freshman crash the boards for 10 rebounds reminds me of why he was Mr. Basketball in 2008 out of Saginaw.

Durrell Summers is growing into a significant contributor.. 12 points and 3 rebounds.
Travis Walton shut down Terrence Williams, Mr. Big Ten Defensive player of the year shows his stuff…
A total team effort, superbly coached and executed…

The Key to the Spartans is Defense and Depth.. as it has been all year.

As when Suton was injured and out, Roe was out, Raymar was ill for 6 weeks, the Bench responds. And now that everyone is healthy (Except for the busted up snoot of Morgan), the Bench is a killer asset.
Against UConn, the Bench will be key for MSU. Marquise, Draymond, Summers, Allen… the Bench is Deep. Izzo has 10 players avg. aprox. 9 minutes a game or more.. talent upon talent, with time being shared….

Then, of course there is Spartan swarming defense. If they can shut down Kansas, Texas, USC, Louisville, Purdue, sure as the day is long, they will shut down the Huskies.

UConn: Besides being investigated by the NCAA for rules violation, they ended up second in the Big East. But with respect to their bench.. not so much. They have effectively an 8 man rotation. They have talent, no question, a huge 7’3” center in Hasheem Thabeet: 13 points per game and 11 rebounds, A.J. Price 14.7 points per game, Jeff Adrien 13.7 points and 10 rebounds..

They can be out hustled.. and with the Spartan game of Pushing it up court, the Huskys might just run out of gas. The Huskies had a 26-6 advantage in Free throws over Missouri. They only beat Mizzou by a score of 82 – 75. So if it wasn’t for the lack of hitting the free throws by the Tigers, UConn would not have won. In Conclusion, the Huskies are a good team, they did outlast Purdue, but, I doubt they will outlast the Spartans.

Will post UConn and MSU Stats this week as the game approaches..

MSU in the Final 4 Again.. A Shot at the Brass Ring and National Champs once more...

Sparty ON !!!