Can Michigan State Spartans Football Overcome Their Biggest 2023 Challenges?

As I sit here reviewing Michigan State's upcoming football schedule, one date keeps jumping out at me—that second game against Washington. Let me tell you, this isn't just any ordinary early-season matchup. Having followed college football for over two decades, I've seen how these early tests can define entire seasons. The Spartans' September 9th showdown against Michael Penix Jr. and the Huskies represents what I believe could be the program's most pivotal moment in 2023.

Looking back at last season's 39-28 loss to Washington still stings, if I'm being completely honest. The way Penix carved up our secondary for 397 yards and four touchdowns exposed weaknesses that lingered throughout the season. What worries me most isn't just the talent returning for Washington—it's the psychological impact another early loss could have on this team. I've observed Mel Tucker's squads long enough to recognize how momentum, or the lack thereof, affects their performance. A win here could launch them toward exceeding expectations, while a loss might trigger the same downward spiral we witnessed last fall.

The numbers don't lie—Michigan State's defense allowed 324.5 passing yards per game last season, ranking them near the bottom of the Big Ten. Against quarterbacks of Penix's caliber, those statistics become more than just numbers—they become blueprints for opponents. I'm particularly concerned about how our secondary will handle Washington's receiving corps, especially after losing some key defensive backs to the draft. Having watched every snap of last season, I noticed our coverage breakdowns typically occurred on third-and-medium situations, precisely when elite quarterbacks like Penix become most dangerous.

What gives me hope, though, is the offseason focus I've observed from this team. From following their spring practice reports and speaking with people around the program, there's been undeniable emphasis on improving pass coverage schemes. The addition of some transfer portal players could provide the athleticism boost needed to compete with Washington's speed. Still, schematic improvements only go so far—the players need to execute when it matters most.

Beyond the X's and O's, this second game represents a crucial test for quarterback Payton Thorne's development. In my assessment, his performance against Washington's defense will tell us everything about his growth as a leader. Last season, he completed just 58% of his passes against pressure defenses, a statistic that must improve dramatically for Michigan State to compete at the highest level. I've always believed quarterbacks make their biggest leap between their second and third seasons starting, and we'll find out quickly if Thorne has taken that step.

The schedule doesn't get any easier after Washington, which makes this early test even more critical. A victory provides confidence and momentum heading into the meat of their conference schedule. A loss, particularly a convincing one, could plant seeds of doubt during those tough mid-season stretches. Having followed this program through both successful and disappointing seasons, I've noticed how early results tend to snowball—for better or worse.

What many casual observers might not appreciate is how much this specific game means for recruiting. Beating a ranked opponent from another power conference sends a message to prospective recruits that Michigan State can compete nationally. I've seen firsthand how a single statement win can alter a recruiting class—the ripple effects extend far beyond that Saturday afternoon.

My prediction? This team will be better prepared than last year, but whether that translates to a victory depends entirely on which version of our secondary shows up. If they can limit the big plays and generate a couple of timely turnovers, I like our chances in a close, high-scoring affair. If not, we might be looking at another long afternoon. Either way, September 9th will reveal this team's character and trajectory in ways statistics alone cannot capture. The Spartans have the talent to overcome this challenge—now they need to prove they've developed the mental toughness and strategic execution to match.