V-Cast: what we learned on the first day of Michigan State training camp

East Lansing, Mich. – Michigan State conducted its first of 25 training camp practices on Thursday as preparation for the 2023 football season officially got underway. The Spartans are projecting confidence despite coming off a 5-7 season in 2022. After practice and interviews on the first day of practice, SpartanMag.com staffers Jim Comparoni and Paul Konyndyk shared their thoughts on the opening day of training camp in the latest V-Cast.

Quarterback competition: Noah Kim and Katin Houser resumed their competition for the job of starting quarterback for Michigan State with true freshman Sam Leavitt joining the fray in the push to earn the keys to Jay Johnson’s offense. Both Kim and Houser were made available for interviews. Each downplayed the competition for a starting job, focusing instead on using each practice opportunity as a vehicle for improvement.

Outlook at wide receiver: The competition for three openings in the starting line-up at wide receiver is one of the biggest storylines in camp. Seniors Tre Mosley and Montorie Foster are both well-positioned for starting jobs, but don’t count out second-year wideouts Tyrell Henry, Antonio Gates Jr., or Jaron Glover. Nebraska transfer Alante Brown brings something to the mix with regard to explosive athleticism as a slot receiver. Also, don’t count out Christian Fitzpatrick, a big-bodied wideout that had a strong spring and appears to be all the way back after missing most of last season following hernia surgery.

Strength at defensive tackle: The late addition of massive Colorado transfer Jalen Sami (6-6, 330) has given Michigan State a wealth of depth on the interior defensive line. Sami is one of three 300-pounders that are 6-5 or taller that are new to the program. While the newcomers have generated buzz, don’t forget about impact junior Simeon Barrow, sophomore Derrick Harmon, or senior Maverick Hansen.

High grades in Chemistry: Michigan State coaches and players continue to laud the improved chemistry on the 2023 roster. The Spartans have taken steps improve chemistry, and it appears to be working based on reports from Tucker and numerous players. A new locker room at the Tom Izzo football building should only help to improve the camaraderie of this football team.

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