Michigan State football: 2019 QB Sam Saxton talks Spartans
I was able to speak with his dad Jim Saxton to get his thoughts on Sam, Michigan State and some family connections to the area. He told me that his wife’s entire family is actually from Michigan. Most of them live in the Flint, and Holly area. Having so much family within an hour from East Lansing would be another really neat thing if he was to become a Spartan.
Jim Saxton broke down his son’s game to me:
"“Sam isn’t what people think of when they think pro-style. His quickness definitely makes him a dual threat, but given his height it’s just assumed he’s slower footed. I honestly believe he will be close to a 4.5 forty before he sets foot on a college campus. I’ve watched Sam play football since second grade, playing quarterback the entire time. I know I am his dad, so I would say this, but from the very beginning we noticed some uncanny abilities. Namely his accuracy, his calmness and ability to quickly process what is happening on the field, and being able to distribute the ball where it needs to go. He was calling his own games as early as sixth grade.”"
His dad elabortaed:
"Sam works his butt off, but also maintains his priorities. Football is very important to Sam, but it’s not the most important part of his life, I admire him for that. Sam has seen a lot of success, but what I tell folks is this, he is a kid with about 80% left in the tank. I truly believe he has just scratched the surface on what he’s capable of on the football field. With his continued effort and the right coaches, and right program I truly believe he will turn into one of the greats."
Again, that’s dad talking, but time will tell. The last thing I will say about Sam is that he is a better human than a quarterback. He has an oversized heart that truly cares for those around him. He has a perspective on life beyond his years. It is the young man that he is that I’m most proud of.”
Jim gave me his thoughts on Michigan State football program. “Michigan State is one of those programs that look for a true pro-style guy, coach Dantonio has a proven track record of developing quarterbacks and winning games.” He has heard great things about coach Dantonio’s character and loves that he strongly evaluates the character of the guys he’s going to recruit. “I would be 100% supportive of Sam if he chose Michigan State, no reservations whatsoever.”
Next: Preseason Top 25 following spring practices
Michigan State football coaches are using the dead period to evaluate possible quarterbacks for the class, Sam Saxton is one quarterback who’s tape and character fits what the coaches are looking for. I’ll keep an eye on the recruitment of Saxton and the Spartans going forward, and post further updates as they come.