It's beyond obvious by now the O-line as currently constituted isn't working.
Every time Will Black's name is mentioned, it's because he gets outperformed.
Western Michigan gained 5.3 yards per carry against Rice. We had 3.7.
What's the solution?
Will Black has shown a lot of promise, and of course, is making a lot of rookie mistakes.
As the season progresses, he'll get better. Michigan State has a pretty solid front seven, and if he's going to learn on the job, it's a good thing that he has Knapp out there helping him.
Recall back in 2024, Anthonie Knapp made quite a few rookie mistakes as well, and by mid season was a very dependable player.
A lot will happen in a month when it comes to development, especially when you're getting your baptism by fire.
That being said, I still believe that Ashton Craig would have been a better choice at right guard, and letting Joe Otting play center, but in the end, I trust Joe Rudolph's choices.
O line is not cohesive as a unit. No push in the run game and pass blocking is not consistent. I see the back situation as sub par. Williams seems slow, lacks vision and makes dumb mistakes. Our young backs are shifty and have speed. If the line can learn how to run block, I see the youngsters exploding and Williams, sitting on the pines.
