Michigan State’s Freshmen Set to Make Their Mark
Michigan State is set to welcome a group of talented freshmen who could significantly impact the team this season. While their exact roles and contributions remain uncertain, there’s growing anticipation about how quickly these young players will adapt to college football.
Head coach Jonathan Smith has already confirmed that several freshmen will see action in the Spartans’ home opener against Western Michigan. When asked about which true freshmen would be on the field, Smith named Derrick Simmons, Aydan West, Jace Clarizio, and Braylon Collier. However, he also hinted at another player—Jayden Savoury—who might make an appearance depending on how the game unfolds.
“Those four, you’re talking about true freshmen out the gate. Jayden Savoury, we’ll kind of see how the game goes. Still up in the air,” Smith said. “And that’s the beauty of being able to play four games; we want to get those guys in games, whether they end up redshirting or not. So, beyond those four you listed, Savoury would be one.”
Savoury, a three-star tight end from Orchard Lake St. Mary’s, was highlighted during fall camp as a standout freshman. His potential to contribute early is a key point of interest for fans and analysts alike.
Potential Leaders Among the Freshmen
While it’s still early in the season, several of these freshmen are seen as future leaders within their position groups. Here’s what some of the coaches had to say about them:
Derrick Simmons
Coach Jonathan Smith praised Simmons for his physical tools and effort. “He physically has the tools, and he’s close to playing what you need to play in this Big Ten at the line of scrimmage. Smart, and he plays with great effort. I mean, he’s actually a little bit more elusive for his size, (for) interior D-linemen. Elusive, he has a little bit of a pass rush game.”
Jace Clarizio
Running backs coach Keith Bhonapha noted Clarizio’s progress. “Jace is really taking a step from where he was at in January to where he is now. He put on some good pounds. I think he’s starting to understand the rigors of college football when it comes to off the field, academics, how you need to operate in a meeting room, and taking what happens in a meeting room and taking it out there on the football field. Let’s be honest, he’s a true freshman, and he’s going to make mistakes and things are going to come up, but I’ve had that before, but I’m excited. It’s a high ceiling for that kid from the athletic standpoint. Now, it’s just getting into the day-to-day of being the best football player.”
Braylon Collier
Wide receivers coach Courtney Hawkins highlighted Collier’s route-running ability and quickness. “He’s a really good route runner for as young as he is. And he’s got a good approach to the game, he’s got a really good quickness, can take the top off. And the deal is — his name has floated around some — he’s made some plays. Through the spring and this fall, he’s made some really tough contested catches. And he’s going to be a good player, man.”
Looking Ahead
With the season just beginning, the performance of these freshmen will be closely watched. Their ability to adapt to the speed and intensity of college football will determine how much they contribute this year. For now, the focus remains on gaining experience and preparing for the challenges ahead.
Fans are eager to see how these young players will perform on the field and what role they’ll play in shaping the future of the Spartan program. As the season progresses, more insights into their development and impact will emerge.
