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Big Ten Football Spring Preview: 10 biggest questions and storylines

By Patrick Schmidt

Nov 28, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes head coach Urban Meyer and Michigan Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh prior to the game at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes head coach Urban Meyer and Michigan Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh prior to the game at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 14, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans quarterback Tyler O’Connor (7) attempts to throw the ball against the Maryland Terrapins during the 2nd half of a game at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 14, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans quarterback Tyler O’Connor (7) attempts to throw the ball against the Maryland Terrapins during the 2nd half of a game at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports /

How does Michigan State replace Connor Cook?

The Michigan State Spartans lost their winningest quarterback in program history in Connor Cook who is also the school’s all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns. Getting the first crack at replacing him is Tyler O’Connor who led Michigan State to an upset win over Ohio State last season. He completed 7-of-12 passes for 89 yards and a touchdown vs. the Buckeyes so it’s not like he’s a proven commodity under center, however.

Cook is not the only player Mark Dantonio needs to find a replacement for this spring as receivers Aaron Burbridge and Macgarrett Kings, All-American left tackle Jack Conklin, two-time All-American center Jack Allen and two-year starting guard Donovan Clark are also gone.

Michigan State has recruited the receiver position well and should have some viable options to step up and fill the void, but replacing two All-American linemen will be nearly impossible to replace in one offseason. However, the Spartans have a deep backfield led by LJ Scott who led the team with 699 yards and 11 touchdowns last year as a freshman.

Defensively, look for defensive tackle Malik McDowell to continue his progression into one of the best interior linemen in the nation.

Next: Any hope for the downtrodden teams?

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