Back in the fall of 1995, Tom Izzo was entering his first year at the helm of the Michigan State basketball program. During that first year, with the help of freshman power forward and Flint native, Antonio Smith, Izzo signed a high school recruit who would go on to lead the Spartans back into the national basketball spotlight. That player was point guard Mateen Cleaves.

To refresh the memory bank on the type of prep talent Cleaves was, here is a portion of his bio (courtesy of Michigan State's official Athletic site):

Cleaves choose Michigan State at a time when it was not chic to do so. He came at a time when many in the Spartan community were wondering whether or not Jud Heathcote's handpicked successor was the right man for the job. Izzo was coming off a 16-16 (9-9 Big Ten) record in his first season as coach. A year-and-a-half later, on December 13, 2007, the Spartans lost to Detroit at the Breslin Center, 68-65, and stood with a record of 4-3.

Needless to say, the sharks were circling around Tom Izzo. A local sports columnist was even urged by his editor to write a "Fire Izzo" column. To his credit, the columnist refused. He was one of the few who saw beyond the latest box score. The columnist's instincts told him that things were going to get better. They soon did.

Seventeen days later, on December 30, the Spartans, now at 7-3 after wins against Wright State, South Florida and Eastern Illinois, opened up Big Ten play on the road at West Lafayette against defending Big Ten champion and fifth-ranked Purdue.

In that game, Cleaves scored a game-high 25 points as Michigan State stunned the Boilermakers, 74-57, ending a seven-game losing streak versus Gene Keady's crew.

The Spartans went on to win 14 of their next 18 games before their season came to an end in a Sweet-Sixteen loss to North Carolina, 73-58.

Two years later, in the spring of 2000, Cleaves' Spartan career ended in with a National Championship victory in Indianapolis. During his four years in East Lansing, the Spartans earned a 104-32 record (50-16 Big Ten). They also won three-straight Big Ten titles, and made two trips to the Final Four.

Cleaves was a monumental recruit. His choice to attended Michigan State made a statement. The statement being that he, and his Flint Northern pal Antonio Smith, felt that maybe they could help Michigan State win a championship. Cleaves remains in the opinion of many, the greatest player in Michigan State hoops' history this side of a guy named Earvin Johnson.

Since that national title in 2000, the Spartans have garnered another Big Ten championship, an appearance in the Elite-Eight, and two more Final Four runs. The program is clearly one of the country's best. And as the national accolades and media coverage pour into East Lansing, many feel that the Spartan basketball program could be on the verge of reaching the next level of elite status. It is a place that programs like Kansas, North Carolina, Kentucky and Duke have occupied for much of the last half century.

Tom Izzo has often said that those programs have "talent trees" that allow talent to simply fall into their laps. While that maybe a slight overstatement, it is not without some merit.

When the hardware of numerous NCAA tournament runs begin to pile up in a school's trophy case and NBA rosters are dotted with that school's former players, the branches of the talent tree do get a bit easier to move.

Now that doesn't mean that the old farmer back at the alma mater can start to get lazy and lean on his shovel. It just means that he has to get a bigger basket to catch all the fruit.

MSU's All-Time Football Team - December 16, 2005

Many of you play video games. I used to play them when I had much more time on my hands. My favorite games of course where the football ones. John Madden Football and the various college games on X-Box and Playstation are pretty amazing when you compare them to the old Atari and Intellivision games of my youth. All I can say is that I'm glad Sega Genesis wasn't invented before I graduated or I never would have gotten my diploma.

What prompted this topic below is that someone a month or so ago in the Underground Bunker posted about how the latest College Football 2006 version did not have a all-time Michigan State squad when some lesser known and accomplished teams did. Of course folks in these parts know that while Spartan football has had taken some lumps in recent years, the historical accomplishments of the program and its player stack up against nearly every other school on the map. So, for what it's worth, I decided to come up with my all-time Michigan State starting 22 (and 4 special teams players) to give the video game folks a head start on next season's versions of their games.

By the way, feel free to take me to task if you disagree with my selections. Part of the fun of this is the debate afterward.

* Denotes player bios that come courtesy of the Michigan State 2005 Media Guide.

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So many great offensive lineman, running backs and receivers to choose from, it was tough to narrow it down. I had to leave off All-American O-Lineman like Frank Kush, Buck Nystrom, Ed Budde, Norm Masters, Flozell Adams. Running backs who didn't make the cut like Sonny Grandelius, Leroy Bolden, Clint Jones, Eric Allen and T.J. Duckett. TE's like Billy Joe DuPree and Mark Brammer were omitted. Maybe the toughest to leave off the final 26 was WR Gene Washington.

*One of the country's premier signal callers, Morrall was an All- America selection his senior year in 1955 as picked by the Associated Press, Collier's, Look Magazine, International News Service, The Sporting News, Paramount News, NBC-TV, Hearst Syndicate and Frank Leahy. Morrall completed 42-of-68 passes for 941 yards, then tying the school record, and ranked among the top 10 in the nation in total offense with 1,047 yards. He averaged a nation-best 9.1 yards per play. He passed for a school-record 274 yards against Marquette, a mark that stood until 1969. No. 4 in the voting for the Heisman, he ranked No. 2 in the nation in punting with a 42.9 average. He concluded his MSU stint in the top spot in passing yards (2,015), and pass completion percentage. Chosen by the San Francisco 49ers in the first round of the 1955 NFL Draft, he enjoyed a successful 21-year pro career in which he played in four Super Bowls. In 1996, he was chosen as a member of MSU's Centennial Super Squad.

*White captured All-America honors as a sophomore in 1985 as chosen by the Associated Press, United Press, Football Writers, The Sporting News, American Football Coaches and the Walter Camp Foundation. As a senior in 1987, seven different agencies tabbed him as an All-American including Kodak, United Press, Football Writers, the Walter Camp Foundation and Football News. In 1985, he finished fourth in the voting for the Heisman Trophy after rushing for a school and Big Ten seasonal record 2,066 yards. His 1,908 yards during the regular season at the time was the fourth-best single-season rushing total in the history of college football and the highest by a sophomore. He rushed for 200 or more yards on four occasions including a 286-yard effort vs. Indiana. During the '87 season, White helped MSU to its first Rose Bowl since 1966 by rushing for 1,572 yards. His 132.6 rushing yards per game during the regular season ranked him No. 6 nationally. He rushed for 100-plus yards on seven occasions and established a school record for attempts in a game with 56 vs. Indiana while finishing that contest with a personal best 292 yards on the ground and finished with school records in rushing yardage (4,887, then No. 2 in the history of Big Ten) and attempts with 1,082. In 1996, he was named to the MSU Centennial Super Squad.

*Apisa was an All-America selection as a sophomore in 1965 by Football News and his junior year in 1966 by Football News and the New York News. In '65, despite missing most of

the last three games due to a knee injury, he rushed for 666 yards, then the best seasonal mark turned in by a Spartan fullback, along with nine TDs. In 1966, Apisa once again was hampered by knee problems, but rushed for 445 yards and eight six-pointers. His career-high 140 yards on the ground against Michigan in a 20-7 victory earned him UPI Back of the Week honors. He finished his career as MSU's most prolific rushing fullback with 1,343 yards in 262 attempts. A ninth-round pick of the Green Bay Packers in the '68 NFL Draft.

*Rison was an All-American as a senior in 1988 as selected by the Gannett News Service. The big play wide out hauled in a team-high 39 receptions for 961 yards that year and his 24.6 yards per catch ranks second on MSU's all-time seasonal chart. In addition, he tied the school record for TD receptions with eight. He closed out his career by grabbing nine passes for a then school record 252 yards against Georgia in the Gator Bowl. Career-wise, he holds the school record for both receptions (146) and reception yardage (2,992). He was taken in the first round by the Indianapolis Colts in the 1989 NFL Draft.

*Rogers was named a consensus All-American in 2002, earning first-team honors from the

Associated Press, Football Writers Association of America, American Football Coaches Association, Walter Camp, The Sporting News, ESPN.com, CNNSI.com and CBS SportsLine.com. The 2002 Biletnikoff Award winner caught a school record 68 passes for 1,351 yards and 13 touchdowns as a junior. In 2002, Rogers became only the second receiver in MSU history to record back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, joining Plaxico Burress who accomplished the feat in 1998-99. His receiving yards and TD catches represent the second-best single-season totals in Spartan history. Rogers led the Big Ten in receiving yards (112.6 per game) and TD receptions while ranking third in receptions (5.67 per game). He also ranked among the NCAA leaders in TD catches (third), receiving yards (eighth) and receptions (t-27th). Fifty-seven of his 68 receptions (84 percent) resulted in first downs. With his 21-yard TD reception in the second quarter vs. Northwestern (Sept. 28), Rogers set both NCAA and Big Ten records by catching a TD pass in his 13thconsecutive regular-season game and his 14th-straight game overall. The 6-foot-4, 205-pound junior from Saginaw, Mich., had six 100-yard receiving games in 2002, tying the single-season mark he set as a sophomore. He had a season-best 175 yards vs. Notre Dame (seven catches). Rogers finished his career ranked among MSU's all-time leaders in touchdown receptions (first with 27), receiving yards (second with 2,821), yards per catch (second at 20.9), receptions (third with 135) and scoring (12th with 174 points). He produced a school-record 12 career 100-yard receiving games, including a Spartan single-game record 270 yards vs. Fresno State (10 receptions) in the 2001 Silicon Valley Football Classic. Rogers accounted for 3,108 career all-purpose yards and his 29 career touchdowns rank seventh on MSU's career chart. He was selected No. 2 overall by the Detroit Lions in the 2003 NFL Draft.

*One of the great receivers in MSU history, Gibson was an All-American as a senior in 1978 as chosen by United Press, The Sporting News, Football News and the Newspaper Enterprise Association. Gibson hauled in 42 receptions for a team-high 806 yards, then No. 1 on the school's seasonal list. He paced all Big Ten players in receptions (31) and receiving yards (613) in league outings. He turned in a pair of 100-yard receiving games in '78, including a 146-yard performance (three catches) vs. Wisconsin, the high-water mark by a conference player that year. One of his catches was an 86-yard toss from QB Ed Smith, the longest pass play in the conference that season. His game-breaking speed helped the Spartans to a Big Ten co-championship and a No. 12 national ranking. He closed out his career as MSU's all-time leader in receptions (112) and receiving yards (2,347). In addition, his 21.0 yards-per-catch average still ranks as the No. 1 mark in Spartan history. Gibson was a standout as a baseball player as well, earning All-America honors in that sport, making him just one of three MSU athletes to earn that recognition in two sports. A No. 1 draft pick by the Detroit Tigers in 1978, he played on Detroit's World Series championship team in '84 and the Los Angeles Dodgers' title team in '88. In 1996, he was named to the MSU Centennial Super Squad.

*Coleman was MSU's first unanimous All-American as a senior in 1951 as picked by the

Associated Press, United Press, Collier's, Look, The Sporting News, New York News, Football News, Newspaper Enterprise Association, All-American Board, International News Service,

Chicago Tribune Players and Central Press. Although just 185 pounds, Coleman used his quickness and technique to become a devastating blocker. The squad's MVP in '51, he finished runner-up to Jim Weatherall (Oklahoma) in the voting for the Outland Trophy. Known as the "60-minute man," Coleman stood out on defense and special teams. Against Penn State, he made every tackle on MSU's kickoffs and punts. Against Michigan, he made eight key blocks which enabled teammates to go for long gains. Coleman became the first Spartan player ever to have his jersey retired (No. 78) and was called by former head coach Biggie Munn "the finest lineman ever to play for Michigan State." He was chosen to the National Football Foundation College Hall of Fame in 1975 and was a member of MSU's Centennial Super Squad (Pre-Big Ten) as chosen by the Lansing State Journal in August of 1996.

*Mandarich was an All-American as a junior in 1987 by the Football News and then gained consensus All-America honors as a senior in 1988. A dominant offensive lineman, he finished sixth in the Heisman Trophy voting and was among the top three finalists for the Outland Trophy. After missing the first three contests of '88 due to NCAA suspension, he helped MSU average 268.8 rushing yards over the final eight regular-season games. At 6-foot-6, 315 pounds, he did not allow any sacks during his final year and recorded well over 50 pancakes. He was selected by the Green Bay Packers in the first round (second player overall) of the 1989 NFL Draft.

*DeLamielleure gained All- America honors as a senior in 1972 as selected by The Sporting News. He helped the Spartans rank No. 2 in the Big Ten (conference games) in rushing with a mark of 260.6 yards per contest. He was chosen as UPI's Midwest Lineman of the Week against Purdue. He also played a key role in helping the Spartans rush for 334 yards in a 19-12 victory over No. 5 Ohio State. A three-year starter and two-time first-team All-Big Ten choice, he was part of an offensive line that helped Eric Allen rush for a then NCAA-record 350 yards vs. Purdue in 1971. Tabbed by Buffalo in the first round of the 1973 NFL Draft, he enjoyed a 14-year pro career, earning All-Pro honors on six occasions.

*Bagdon garnered All-America status as a senior in 1949 as chosen by Look, United Press, The Sporting News, New York News, Central Press, Newspaper Enterprise Association and Tele-News. The recipient of the 1949 Outland Trophy as the nation's top interior lineman, he was part of a group known as "Duffy's Toughies" who knocked holes in opposing defenses from his guard position for Spartan backs. He developed a peculiar, but effective, shoulder brush-type block that took tacklers out of the play, but permitted him to keep on his feet and on the move. Named team captain in 1949, he started every game during his varsity career. Following his stint at MSU, he played professionally with the Chicago Cardinals and

Washington Redskins.

*Currie was an All-American his senior year in 1957 as selected by the Associated Press, Football Writers Association, International News Service, Football Coaches Association and NBC-TV. A stalwart performer on both sides of the ball, Currie's blocking helped the Spartans to a No. 1 ranking among Big Ten squads in both total offense and scoring. Defensively, he was the catalyst from his linebacker post of a brigade that stood No. 1 in the league in rushing defense and total defense. He was team MVP of the '57 unit that claimed a No. 3 national ranking. Named as the outstanding college player in '57 by the Football Coaches Association, he was drafted in the first round by the Green Bay Packers in 1958. He earned NFL All-Pro honors twice at linebacker with the Packers during a seven year stint.

*Andersen was an All- America honoree his senior year in 1981 as chosen by The Sporting News, United Press and the Walter Camp Foundation. He was MSU's leading scorer with 73 points on 28 PATs and 15 field goals (20 att.). He set a school and Big Ten record when he drilled a 63-yard field goal against Ohio State. In addition, opponents returned just 17 of his 56 kickoffs. Andersen closed out his college career ranked No. 1 on the MSU and Big Ten lists in field goals with 45 while holding down the top spot on the school's alltime chart in PATs (126) and total points (261). He recorded seven field goals of 50 or more yards and three others of 49 yards. Picked by the New Orleans Saints in the fourth round of the 1982 NFL Draft.

*Cobb, a first-team All-America selection by Collegefootballnews.com, led the Big Ten and ranked No. 11 in the NCAA in kickoff returns with his 27.2-yard average in 2003. His 763 kickoff return yards rank fourth on Michigan State's single-season chart. Cobb returned five kickoffs for 167 yards (33.4 avg.) vs. Ohio State, including a 93-yard runback for a touchdown in the third quarter. It marked the first kickoff return for a TD allowed by the Buckeyes since 1984 when Michigan State's Larry Jackson returned a kick 93 yards. Cobb set a Spartan single-season record with his third runback for a score, breaking the mark (two TDs) previously shared by Herb Haygood (2001), Derrick Mason (1995) and Derek Hughes (1979). His three kickoff returns for TDs also tied the NCAA I-A single-season record shared by Texas A&M's Leeland McElroy (1993), New Mexico's Terance Mathis (1989), Tennessee's Willie Gault (1980), Southern Cal's Anthony Davis (1974), Purdue's Stan Brown (1970) and San Francisco's Forrest Hall (1946). The 5-foot-10, 186- pound Cobb also scored on kickoff returns of 100 yards vs. Minnesota and 94 yards vs. Rutgers. His 100-yard runback against Minnesota tied the Spartan record for longest return (Herb Haygood vs. Iowa, 2001; Derrick Mason vs. LSU, 1995, and Penn State, 1994; and Derek Hughes vs. Oregon, 1979). In two seasons (2003-04), Cobb returned 64 kickoffs for 1,632 yards and four TDs. His career 25.5-yard kickoff return average ranks sixth on the Big Ten's all-time list. He was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the sixth round of the 2005 NFL Draft.

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Again, the omissions left some All-Americans and All-Big Ten players on the cut list. D-lineman like Don Dohoney, Ron Curl, Sam Williams and Larry Bethea, LB's like Charlie Thornhill, Julian Peterson and Ron Goovert and DB's named Harlon Barnett, James Burroughs, Allen Brenner, Phil Parker, John Miller, Todd Krumm and Amp Campbell all get special mention. By the way, I apologize to fans of the 43 defense. With the four linebackers below, to not run a 34 front would be insane.

*Another of MSU's all-time greats, Bubba Smith brought home All- America recognition as a junior in 1965 as chosen by the American Football Coaches Association, and UPI before being selected to nine different squads as a senior. During the '65 season, he helped the Spartans rank No. 1 in the nation in rushing defense while playing a key role in holding Ohio State, Notre Dame and Michigan to minus rushing yards. At 6-foot-8, 280 pounds, his statistics of 30 tackles in 1966 (10 tackles for losses) don't nearly represent his impact on opposing squads which either tried double- or triple-teaming him or running away from his side of the field. The UPI named him Lineman of the Year, and the Baltimore Colts made him the No. 1 pick overall in the 1967 NFL Draft. He went on to enjoy an eight-year pro career before being inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1988. In 1996, he was chosen to MSU's Centennial Super Squad in a poll conducted by the Lansing State Journal.

*Lucas landed All-America recognition as a senior in 1965 as picked by the Newspaper Enterprise Association. From his middle guard position, he helped the Spartans limit Big Ten foes to an average of just 34.6 rushing yards while leading the nation in rushing defense, allowing 45.6 yards per game. Lucas, who at the time was deemed the heaviest player ever to suit up for MSU at 286 pounds, was named Lineman of the Week twice, the first time by UPI following his effort against Ohio State and the second by AP after the Notre Dame game. He was the No. 2 pick of the St. Louis Cardinals in the 1966 NFL Draft.

*Robaire Smith was named a first-team All-American by the Walter Camp Foundation following his junior season in 1998. He led the defensive line and was fourth on the team in tackles with 52 (23 solos, 29 assists) before suffering a broken leg in the first quarter against Ohio State Nov. 7. The 6-foot-5, 268-pounder from Flint, Mich., led the Spartans in tackles for losses with eight (22 yards) through the first eight games, including twoand- a-half sacks. He ended his MSU career with 38 tackles for losses and 22 sacks, fourth- and fifthbest in school history, respectively. He was chosen in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans.

*Banks earned All-America honors as a senior in 1983 from the Associated Press, United Press and The Sporting News. Named the Spartans' MVP that season, he recorded 86 tackles, despite opponents rarely running to his side of the field, while closing out his career with 279 hits. Named as college football's linebacker of the year by the Columbus Touchdown Club, he was named first-team All-Big Ten three times and was MSU's first non-kicker to be named to the all-league team more than twice. He was taken in the first round (third player overall) by the New York Giants in the '84 NFL Draft. In 1996, he was selected as a member of the MSU Centennial Super Squad as picked in a poll conducted by the Lansing State Journal.

*One of the most decorated MSU gridders of all time, Snow was an All-America choice as picked by The Sporting News his junior year in 1988 and garnered first-team distinction in 1989 by the following entities: Kodak, Associated Press, United Press, Football Writers, Football News, The Sporting News and the Walter Camp Foundation. During the '89 campaign, he became the first player ever to capture both the Butkus and Lombardi Awards. He led all Big Ten players in total tackles with 172, then an MSU record. He turned in 11 performances of double-digit tackling his senior year and notched 23 takedowns vs. Illinois. A three-year starter, he closed out his career with 473 tackles, No. 2 on MSU's all-time list. He was a first-round selection (13th player overall) of the Kansas City Chiefs in the 1990 NFL Draft.

A native of Bath, Michigan, Bass is the Spartans all-time leading tackler with 541 stops and in fumble recoveries with 12. He also holds the Michigan State single-game tackling record with 32 stops versus Ohio State in 1979. He was a four-year starter from 1976-79 and remains the only Spartan to lead the team in tackles four-straight seasons. Bass was named 2nd team All-Big in 1978 and was a unanimous 1st team pick in 1979. After his college career, Bass began a long and distinguished career in the Canadian Football League where he played for the Toronto Argonauts (1980), Calgary Stampeders ('81-'83) and Edmonton Eskimos ('84-'91). He was a six-time CFL all-star, the 1989 most outstanding defensive player and was inducted into the CFL Hall of Fame in 2000. Some other highlights of his twelve-year pro career included 23 interceptions for a total of 243 yards returned and 1 touchdown, 21 fumbles recovered for a total of 109 yards and 2 touchdowns, and 52 quarterback sacks.

*Webster earned All-America acclaim his junior (1965) and senior (1966) years by the

Associated Press, United Press, American Football Coaches Association, Football News, the Newspaper Enterprise Association and New York News while being named to the Football Writers, The Sporting News and Central Press teams his senior year. Webster revolutionized the position of roverback and helped MSU to a No. 1 ranking in the Big Ten in total defense in 1965 (No. 2 nationally, 169.9 ypg.) and 1966. As a senior, he posted 93 tackles, including 10 tackles for losses, and helped MSU rank No. 3 nationally in rushing defense. The Spartans' MVP in '66, he became just the second MSU gridder to have his jersey retired (No. 90). Drafted in the first round by the Houston Oilers in 1967, he played 10 years in the pro ranks. He was named MSU's Greatest Player in a vote taken by Spartan fans in 1969. In 1996, he was chosen as a member of MSU's Centennial Super Squad.

*Chandnois was an All- America pick as a senior in 1949 as chosen by the International News Service, United Press, Central Press, Football News and Collier's. One of the great two-way performers of his day, Chandnois rushed for a school-record 885 yards on 129 carries. Chandnois also intercepted seven enemy pass attempts, returning those thefts a total of 183 yards (tops in the nation). He paced the club in scoring with 60 points and rushed for over 100 yards in four contests that season, including a career-high 163 yards against Arizona. In the 75-0 win over the Wildcats, he sprinted 90 yards for a TD, still the longest rushing play in Spartan history. He played 55 minutes or better in six games while going all 60 in two outings. He closed out his career in the No. 1 spot in a variety of career categories at MSU, including rushing with 2,093 yards, total touchdowns with 31 (currently No. 4) and in points with 186. His 20 career interceptions are still the all-time MSU standard as is his 384 pass interception return yards. A No. 1 pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers, he played with that franchise until 1957.

*Simpson brought home All-America honors as a senior in 1973 as picked by The Sporting News and Universal Sports. Simpson spearheaded an exceptional Spartan secondary that ranked No. 2 nationally in passing defense and No. 12 in total defense, intercepting a team-high five passes. He also ranked No. 2 in the Big Ten in punting (39.3 avg.). He recorded 64 tackles, tops in the MSU defensive secondary, including three touchdown-saving stops. A two-time first-team All-Big Ten honoree, Simpson was drafted in the second round by the Los Angeles Rams in 1974 (first defensive back chosen). In 1996, Simpson was named to MSU's Centennial Super Squad in a poll conducted by the Lansing State Journal.

*A standout both as a return specialist and as defensive back, Ellis was named to the Chicago Tribune Players All- America defensive team as a safety both as a sophomore (1951) and junior (1952). During the 1951 season, he picked off six passes while returning 24 punts a total of 305 yards. He returned 10 kicks an average of 24 yards and turned in a 79-yard effort against Michigan, then the second longest in MSU annals. Ellis returned punts for touchdowns in back-to-back contests vs. Penn State (57 yards) and Pittsburgh (54). In '52, he recovered four fumbles and was credited with seven touchdown-saving tackles. In addition, Ellis picked off a pair of passes while returning 17 punts a total of 148 yards, including a 59-yarder for a score vs. Syracuse. He closed out his career in the No. 1 spot on MSU's career ladder in kickoff return yards (515) and punt return yards (619).

*Van Pelt was an All-America pick as a junior in 1971 by the Football News and United Press and was a consensus choice as a senior in 1972 including the Associated Press, Walter Camp Foundation, United Press, The Sporting News, Time Magazine, American Football Coaches, Football Writers Association and Universal Sports. He helped the Spartans to a No. 2 ranking in the Big Ten in total defense by posting 92 hits, tops among MSU defensive backs, while picking off four passes, returning two of those for TDs (both vs. Oregon State). As a senior, he registered 84 hits and picked off four passes. His efforts helped the Green and White allow just 2.8 yards per rush, the benchmark in the league. He became the first defensive back ever to receive the Maxwell Award (symbolic of college football's outstanding player) and was tabbed as college football's defensive back of the year by the Columbus Touchdown Club. He closed out his career with 256 tackles and was No. 2 on the school's career interception list with 14. He was drafted in the first round by the New York Giants in 1973. He played 14 years in NFL ranks and was an All-Pro selection on five occasions. In 1996, he was named to the Lansing State Journal's MSU Centennial Super Squad.

*Montgomery was an All-American as a junior in 1986 by the Football Writers Association and as a senior in 1987 by the Football News and the Gannett News Service. In 1986, he averaged 47.8 yards per punt, a mark that still ranks as an MSU seasonal record, and his 49.7 average in conference games is still the Big Ten standard. Among his efforts that year was a school record 86-yarder against Michigan. In 1987, he ranked fifth nationally in punting with a mark of 44.7 yards. During his career, he registered at least one punt of 50 or more yards in 33 of 35 outings. In addition, his career average of 45.2 yards ranks No. 1 on the school's all-time list and is No. 2 on the Big Ten chart. He was chosen by the Houston Oilers in the third round of the '88 NFL Draft. In 1996, he was named to the MSU Centennial Super Squad.

*Lewis captured All-America status as a senior in 1963 as picked by the Associated Press, United Press, Central Press, Football Writers Association and the New York News. Lewis rushed for 577 yards on 90 carries and was the squad's leading receiver with 11 catches for 303 yards (27.5 avg.). Lewis was on the receiving end of what were then the longest two pass plays in Spartan history, an 88-yarder vs. Southern Cal and an 87-yard strike vs. Wisconsin (those rank 2-3 presently). In a game vs. Northwestern, he sprinted 87 yards for a TD, then the third-longest run in MSU history, and returned four punts 103 yards, earning him UPI's Midwest Back of the Week honors. Named the team's MVP in '63, he finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting, making him just one of two MSU players ever to finish that high in the balloting. Lewis closed out his career No. 5 on the school's career rushing list with 1,566 yards, No. 3 in total TDs (23) and third in total points (144).

When you're talking Michigan State receivers in a historic context, the name Charles Rogers must be mentioned. Although he was only on the Spartan Stadium field for two seasons, he left his mark in the Spartan record books and highlight reels along with names like Kirk Gibson, Andre Rison and Gene Washington. He was among the best to ever play his position in the Green and White – no one can dispute that.

A consensus First Team All-Big Ten selection in 2002, Rogers holds the Michigan State career record for touchdown catches (27). He holds Spartan single-season records in receptions (68), yardage (1,470), and touchdowns (14). He also ranks in the top three for career marks in receptions (3rd with 135), yardage (2nd with 2,821) and yards-per-catch (2nd with 20.9).

He was a man among boys on the field for Michigan State. However, since he left East Lansing his career has been almost as bad as Matt Millen's tenure as Detroit Lions' President and CEO.

The Detroit Lions choose Rogers number two overall in the 2003 NFL draft. However, he has played a total of just 12 NFL games in three years. His first two seasons in Detroit were wiped out by a twice-broken collarbone. This season, after a slow start – just 5 catches for 77 yards in the team's first three games – he was suspended by the National Football league for violating the league's substance abuse policy.

Make no mistake, Rogers deserves the blame for the drug suspension. It doesn't take a genius to figure out that if you're making millions of dollars working in a job that requires you to take random drug tests at a moment's notice, it's probably a good idea to give up some previously acquired habits. Rogers choose to roll the dice and came up snake eyes on at least three different occasions, which led to the suspension.

Rogers' drug suspension was a major case study in stupidity. He screwed up and paid the price of the mandatory four-game suspension. If the Lions have anything to say about it though, four games won't be all that Rogers will have to pay.

On the morning of November 20, 2005, as the Lions were preparing to play a road game that afternoon versus the Dallas Cowboys, it was learned that the Lions had filed a grievance with the NFL's Management Council, asking that Rogers pay back $10.1 million of the $14.4 million he got in signing bonuses when he was drafted and signed to a six-year contract as a rookie in 2003.

The Lions claim Rogers was in violation of a clause in his contract because of his four-game suspension.

That afternoon, Rogers came off the bench in a reserve role and had his best game of the season, catching four passes for 41 yards, all in the fourth quarter. It was his second game back after the suspension and by all accounts, it looked as if he was earning his way back toward a starting role. Four days later, Rogers caught one pass off the bench in a loss to the Atlanta Falcons on Thanksgiving.

The Atlanta loss was followed by a 96-hour whirlwind that saw firing of head coach Steve Mariucci, the promotion of Lion defensive coordinator Dick Jauron as interim coach and a promise of a youth movement over the team's final-five games by Lions' President and CEO Matt Millen (man, that still doesn't sound right).

"We have not lived up to our expectations," Millen said. "I believe we have underachieved as a football team and I also believe that we have not developed our younger players and that is bothersome, especially in the way that we had anticipated going.

"Some of you may ask 'why now? Why not at the end of the season?' (Or in the case of Millen himself, Why now? Why ever?), To me, it is simple: we have five games left," he continued. "We have five games to develop our younger players. We have five games to prove that we are what we think we are, especially with our younger players."

Apparently, that youth movement will be without Charles Rogers. He was deactivated and wore street clothes on the sideline last Sunday as the Lions lost to the Minnesota Vikings.

All indications right now are that, barring injury, he will remain in dress casual mode for the rest of the season.

The question that begs to be asked is why? Why would the Lions not want to see if Rogers' can make a comeback? Why not give him a chance to redeem himself and finally showcase the talent that made him the second-overall draft choice in 2002?

After apologizing to his organization, teammates and fans and serving his four games in exile, shouldn't Rogers be allowed back onto the field to try and redeem himself?

The answer, at least for the Detroit Lions organization, is likely to be found at the bottom of a bag of cash – a $10.1 million bag of cash to be exact.

Maybe the Lions are simply trying to balance their books. An $11.5 million buyout to Steve Mariucci here, a $10.1 million rebate from Charles Rogers there. The NFL is all just a big business right?

Yeah, it is big business. And the Lions are once again conducting bad business – this time on the issue of Charles Rogers.

Right now, there is little debate that Rogers is damaged goods. Due to injury and bad judgment, no one knows if this guy can play in the NFL at a high level on a consistent basis because he hasn't had enough snaps. Despite that, with five games left in a season that would make the Los Angeles Clippers ashamed, wouldn't you want to give your damaged goods one last shot to prove he is worth anything?

"By me sitting, what have we gained? Nothing," Rogers said on Wednesday. "I can help this offense, but that's my opinion.

"It's not about me, it's not about my talent or being able to play this game," he continued. "It's about me being able to help this team. Do I feel like I can help this team? Yes. Can I go out there and make plays for this team? Yes. Would this offense be better if I was out there? No doubt about it."

Let's assume that the Lions just want to sever all ties with Rogers, which isn't a stretch considering the aforementioned grievance the team filed. If that is the case, then the lions must be asked a two-fold question.

1. Would it be good business to sit Rogers in the dunce chair for five games, then release him next year and get nothing, except money and some salary-cap space, in return for your three-year investment? Or . . .

2. Would it be better business to showcase Rogers for five games before putting him on the trading block in the offseason, then hope you could trade him for something short of jack straps and get cap relief that way?

The answer seems simple to me. But then, what the hell do I know, I'm just a guy typing on keyboard. Matt Millen and the Detroit Lions, with their NFL worst 20-56 record over the last five seasons must have all the answers, right?

Rogers was asked Wednesday if he thinks he will play again this season.

"As of right now, I don't think I'll play all year, the way I feel about it. Nothing's changed," Rogers said. "There are four weeks left and things might change this week but, if they don't, it won't surprise me. I won't be shocked; I'll just handle it like a professional.

"I'm still going to practice hard and develop my skills as a receiver. I'm 24 (years-old) and I've got a lot of room to grow in this league. As far as writing it off, I'm not going to do that."

The problem with the Detroit Lions under the 41-year ownership of William Clay Ford – whether it be with Ford himself, or with executives like Matt Millen, Chuck Schmidt or Russ Thomas or GM/head coach types like Bobby Ross – is that they have always had a problem with letting their personnel feelings get in the way of sound business decisions. More than anything else, this has been the Lions' Achilles heel the last four decades. They have been a sports laughingstock more often than not because of it..

Whether it is/was with (Brace yourself folks, I'm going back a way with some of these battles):

A. Matt Millen versus Charles Rogers/Steve Mariucci/Johnnie Morton/Charlie Batch/Herman Moore

B. Bobby Ross versus Barry Sanders/Herman Moore/Scott Mitchell

C. Chuck Schmidt versus Kevin Glover/Bennie Blades/Lomas Brown

D: Russ Thomas versus Billy Sims/Bubba Baker/Monte Clark/Joe Schmidt

Or, E: William Clay Ford versus L. Brooks Patterson/Jerome P. Cavanaugh/Joe Schmidt/George Wilson

For the last 41 years, the Detroit Lions organization has never let solid business thinking get in the way of a good grudge match.

The saga of Charles Rogers is the latest example of that.

Twelve Spartan seniors will make their final starts in Spartan Stadium this Saturday. It's time for a tip of the cap.

Michael Bazemore: A guy who has never dodged a tough question. Bazemore has turned out to be a pretty good defensive end, after beginning his career as an outside linebacker. For as much as he has accomplished on the field, he is an even better student. Bazemore earned his first bachelor's degree last May. He is working on his second degree as I write. For a guy like me who just turned 34 and is still plugging away on my first BA, I admire that more than anything he has done with a helmet on.

Kyle Brown: A three-time Academic All-Big Ten selection, Brown has been a three-year starter at flanker for the Spartans. One of those "program kids" that coaches love, Brown has been a major example of how a college student-athlete's hard work can pay off. Playing hurt the last few games this season; Brown has gutted it out down the stretch and has produced while doing it.

Jaren Hayes: I made a mistake during Tuesday's media session and I'm upset about it. I talked to quite a few seniors – but I forgot about Hayes. Some of you may have been trying to forget about him on purpose. If you count yourself among that group – shame on you. Hayes was one of the bright spots during the 2002 trainwreck, as he gained 941-all purpose yards as a true freshman. Only Charles Rogers gained more that season. He led the Spartans in rushing (609 yards) and total yards (1,064) one year later. Then came the decision to switch him to defense.

Hayes has always played hard. He has always given his best effort. If you have been hurt by the fact that he has been beaten at times by wide receivers who have and will be chosen on the first day of the NFL draft – I can damn' well guarantee you that he hurts more. Anyone who saw him after the game outside of Ohio Stadium last month can attest to that.

Brandon McKinney: The big fella with the quiet voice and shy smile has been plagued by injuries throughout his career. A foot injury sidelined McKinney for 12 games in 2003 and an ankle injury slowed him during portions of this season. He and fellow senior Domata Peko (see below) have logged major minutes this year in the middle of the Spartans' defensive front and have held up pretty well. I have a feeling we won't know just how valuable their wide-body duo was until a year from now.

Chris Morris: The anchor of the Spartans' offense – Morris might be the best Michigan State offensive lineman since Flozell Adams. Although a fellow senior on the current team may have something to say about that (see below). Morris is a four-time Academic All-Big Ten selection who is zeroing in on his second-straight All-Big Ten team nomination. He will make his 36-consecutive start Saturday.

"It's going to be a weird experience," Morris said about his final home game. "Going through that tunnel and hearing that crowd for the last time is going to be sad but nice at the same time. I've had a few moments lately to look back and visit some old memories. I've talked to fellow linemates Stef (Stefon Wheeler) Gordy (Niebylski) about some memories of the past. But we still have more memories to make. I'm really looking forward to Saturday."

Gordon Niebylski: A literal quote machine, Niebylski has been a media favorite this season. He's not a bad player either – a solid program guy who bided his time as a reserve behind William Whitticker and Stefon Wheeler before taking over for the departed Whitticker at RG this season. Like Bazemore, Brown and Morris, Niebylski has gotten it done in the classroom. A four-time Academic All-Big Ten selection, he already has a degree in supply chain management. He is currently working on a master's degree in labor relations and human resources. Man, he sounds like a guy who might hire you someday.

Domata Peko: His rumbling ramble and end zone leap down the west sideline versus Michigan is lodged in the Spartan highlight reel for eternity. It was a hell of a play for a 6-2, 320 pounder. It was the biggest example of the Peko's tireless play. He is a fine example of why JUCO players can make a difference if given the opportunity. Do you think Michael Hart is still thanking the football gods that Peko didn't land on him?

Eric Smith: Another guy who has gotten it done on the field and the classroom, "Smitty" is a member of the inaugural Warren Report All-Big Ten squad (which will be unveiled later this week). He is simply a guy who makes plays by being in the right spot at the right time. I'm pulling for him to get a shot with an NFL team that will recognize his football smarts and give him a chance to earn a paycheck next season. . . . Paging Bill Belichick.

Jason Teague: I am probably in the minority on this, but I think Teague is Michigan State's best all-around running back. Blocking, receiving, running – he can do it all. Like Peko's TD versus Michigan, Teague's overtime TD run versus Notre Dame will be talked about in Spartan lore after we are all long gone. On another note – one thing you have to credit John L. Smith for is the way he has handled his player's off-the-field problems. From Jeff Smoker in 2003, to Teague and Hayes this season, he has kept things in-house and out of the spotlight which is just what a coach should do with the players under his watch.

Ashton Watson: A real good story. A guy who caught as much flak as anyone for his performance the past few seasons turned in an underrated and underappreciated 2005. Despite his early setbacks on the field, he never lost his confidence. That confidence helped him turn in a solid senior performance. He and Eric Smith will leave big shoes to fill in the Michigan State secondary in 2006.

"It's going to be big," Watson said about his last time on the field Saturday, "but I don't think I will realize how big it will be until it's over. I really want to go out of there on top. I want us to come out, give it our all and have a positive memory."

Stefon Wheeler: Another Spartan who is part of the Warren Report All-Big Ten squad, Wheeler is a simply a gridiron warrior. He has been the personification of the term "playing with pain" this season. I asked him if he could describe how he has been able to play so well and so often despite his many documented injuries.

"Prayer," he said laughing, "and trying to do your best not to think about (the pain). You have to pray that when you get banged a little bit that you can block out the hurt. The adrenaline is the big thing that helps you get through and not think about it. You just have to try and fight through it the best way you can."

When he couldn't go – his absence was glaring (see Ohio State). Nevertheless, the next week he was gutting it out play-after-play against Northwestern – hunched over like an old man between snaps due to his bruised ribs.

"It's going to be very emotional playing my last game in Spartan Stadium," Wheeler said. "It's going to be special. I think being that this is going to be our last game in the Stadium this year is going to provide a very emotional high for us."

Stefon Wheeler is going to be a staple of Sunday afternoon television for the next few years.

Ryan Woods: Another guy who has played through a lot of injuries, Woods has been a solid program player for five seasons. As part of the three TE monster along with Kellen Freeman Davis and Dwayne Holmes – Woods' unheralded blocking was a major reason for the success of the Spartans' high powered spread offense this season.

You don't know what you've got until it's gone.

Be careful what you wish for.

The grass isn't always greener on the . . .

Today, The Warren Report is taking a stance in defense of a guy who has drawn criticism of late from some Michigan State fans – offensive coordinator Dave Baldwin.

For those of you who consider yourselves part of that select group – I'm sorry folks; this guy's is a hell of a coach.

When it comes to armchair quarterbacks, and I admit to being among that group, opinions are like a certain hole that every person's got where the sun doesn't shine.

But honestly, I have a hard time understanding most, if not all, of the criticism that is being heaped upon Baldwin over the last five games.

This guy is the coordinator of one of the top three offenses in the history of Michigan State football.

Yes, I said the top three in history.

***

In my opinion, the top three offenses in the 108-year history of Michigan State football are as follows:

Clarence Munn's arrival in East Lansing began the golden age of Spartan football. Munn's teams hold the top four spots in rushing-yards-per-game in school history; 1948 (304.5); 1951 (293.9); 1952 (272.4) and 1950 (269.3).

Some older Spartan fans probably have the classic book, "Biggie Munn's Multiple Offense" on their shelves at home. Munn's quick-strike single-wing attack was the rage of college football during the early 1950's. During Munn's seven-years at the helm of the Spartans, his teams went 54-9-2 (.857), including a 28-game winning streak that spanned from Oct. 14, 1950 through Oct. 17, 1953.

The 1948 squad still holds the mark for the most rushing yards in a single-season (3,045) and the second-highest scoring average (35.9) behind Darryl Rogers' 1978 squad.

Rogers came to Spartan country on the heels of the biggest athletic scandal in the school's history. Under the weight of academic sanctions, Rogers got off to a slow start (4-6-1, 3-5 Big Ten) in his first year. However, with maturing skill players in QB in Eddie Smith, TE Mark Brammer and Flanker Kirk Gibson, Michigan State's high-flying offensive attack took off over the next two seasons. After finishing a half-game out of first place behind Michigan and Ohio State in 1977, they grabbed a share of the Big Ten title in 1978 with a 7-1 conference record (8-3 overall).

The 1978 squad still holds the school record for total-yards-per-game (481.2), total points (411) and scoring average (37.4). They also rank in the top ten in first downs (265), rushing yards (2,663), rushing yards per-game (242.1), passing-yards-per-game (239.1), and total yards (5,294).

Like, Munn and Rogers before him, Smith and Baldwin's spread attack has taken the Spartans' offense to national prominence. In 2003, they used the arm of then-senior Jeff Smoker to set a school single-season record for passing yardage (3,510). The 2003 squad also ranks in the top ten in first downs (253), passing-yards-per-game (270), total yards (4,776) and total points (363).

Last season's squad set the school record for total yards (5,520) and holds top ten marks in first downs (269), rushing yards (2,862), passing yards (2,658), total-yards-per-game (460), total points (353) and scoring average (29.4).

There is a reason that ESPN, Sports Illustrated and the rest of the national media has been singing the praises of college football's revolution known as the "Spread Offense," it's because it works. One of the main revolutionaries is none other than Dave Baldwin.

***

While this season's team has struggled at times on both sides of the ball, the level of criticism and second-guessing being thrown Baldwin's way really shocks me. With two games to play, this year's offense has already cracked the historic top ten in scoring (332 points), passing yards (2,705) and scoring average (36.9). With another 120 minutes in the books, they will reach top ten status in first downs and total points.

On top of that, if they manage to crack 300 yards passing over the next two games, they will lock up the top spot for the passing-yards-per-game record. They currently hold a 300.6 yards-per-game average. They will also break the total-yards-per-game mark if they keep their 512.4 yards-per-game pace.

The Michigan game was where the Baldwin criticism really began. In a game where the Spartans rolled up 31 points and 455 yards of total offense – the only three offensive plays people remember are:

1. The Jerramy Scott interception.

2. Javon Ringer's run on 3-and-4 that preceded John Goss' 23-yard missed field goal.

3. The Stanton-to-Love-to-Ringer hook-and-lateral play on the final drive of regulation.

I'll admit that the hook-and-lateral was a little too cutesy-pootsey for my tastes. That was a play out of the Twilight Zone without question. But I have no problem with the other two plays, except for the fact that the Ringer run was to the short side of the field. The Spartans gained 198 yards on the ground for the game. They can run the football. They are not the Detroit Lions for cripes' sake. Run the ball to the wide side and if you don't pick up the four yards – at least Goss has a better angle for his FG – and a better shot at not becoming the Scott Norwood of East Lansing.

On the Scott interception, Dwayne Holmes was wide open and Scott under-threw him. You can split hairs until the cows come home with the put the ball in the hands of Drew Stanton stuff. I can't go that far. The play was there – the player didn't make it – plain and simple.

Those three plays have put Dave Baldwin under more scrutiny than Monica Lewinsky's blue dress could have ever dreamed of.

Bill Clinton's DNA is jealous.

***

At Tuesday's media session, I saw Baldwin bombarded with questions as to whether his play calling has gotten conservative during the second half of ballgames this season. He said that it is not case of being too conservative, but rather it's a lack of execution that has led to the offense's troubles. He pointed to their lone possession of the third quarter as an example of why the claims of conservative play calling are overblown.

"I'm going to tell you the same thing that I have been telling everyone else," Baldwin said in a calm tone. "In the third quarter we touched the ball one time – only one time. It was a 14-play drive. In that 14-play drive we ran a reverse (13-yard gain for Kerry Reed). That's pretty damn' conservative I understand that (laughs). We threw for the end zone the next time and the ball got batted down. And on fourth-and-four, we throw for the end zone again and we drop it. So if we are conservative when we run a reverse and throw for the end zone twice than I guess we are conservative and I'm going to stay that way. We need to execute is what we need to do. And we did not do that."

The Spartans converted just 5-of-13 (.384) of their third-down opportunities versus the Boilermakers last Saturday. While that number is certainly poor, a closer look at those third downs shows that Baldwin claim of an execution problem is more than just hot air.

Here are Saturday's third down plays, their results, and a breakdown of each play:

Play #1: 3-and-3 from the Purdue 32 – Javon Ringer runs for -2 yards. TE Ryan Woods lets DE Rob Ninkovich knife inside to stuff Ringer.

Play #2: 3-and-Goal from the Purdue 1 – Stanton QB sneaks for a touchdown. It's a TD – you can't do better than that.

Play #3: 3-and-Goal from the Purdue 8 – Stanton passes incomplete to Terry Love in the end zone. Stanton throws incomplete to Love versus tight coverage. The pass is broken up by CB Ray Williams. Meanwhile, Matt Trannon is wide open running a shallow crossing route at the 5 yard line.

Play #4: 3-and-30 from the MSU 46 – Stanton passes to Ringer for 6 yards. There aren't many 3-and-30 plays in the playbook. How did the Spartans get to that point? Two false starts (Tom Kaczmarek and Kyle Cook), a holding penality (Kellen Freeman Davis), an illegal formation (Kaczmarek) and a 5-on-3 draw play where RT Mike Gyetval runs right past Ninkovich, who stuffs Ringer in the backfield for a 1-yard loss. To call that drive a nightmare would be like saying Charlie Weis is pleasingly plump.

Play #5: 3-and-10 from the MSU 7 – Stanton passes incomplete to Ringer. From the shadow of his own goal posts, Stanton throws a screen pass (conservative anyone?) from the end zone that is knocked down by DE Anthony Spencer.

Play #6: 3-and-3 from the MSU 41 – Ringer runs for 2 yards. RG Roland Martin plays pattycake with WLB Stanford Keglar, who holds up Ringer in the hole before FS Brandon Whittington finishes him off.

Play #7: 3-and-4 from the MSU 26 – Stanton carries on QB option-keeper for 9-yards (5-on-4 blocking)

Play #8: 3-and-4 from the MSU 41 – Stanton runs for 5 yards on another option keeper.

Play #9: 3-and-8 from the Purdue 29 – Stanton runs a QB draw for 4 yards. The Spartans are in four down territory by order of John L. Smith, so Baldwin calls a QB draw to set up a manageable fourth down play. The following play, against an all out blitz, Stanton rolls to his left and throws to Jerramy Scott in the end zone. Scott catches – then drops – the pass with the DB all over him.

Play #10: 3-and-2 from the MSU 49 – Stanton runs for 3 yards. Another option keeper that moves the chains.

Play #11: 3-and-15 from the MSU 47 – Stanton sacked for -5 yards. Poor pass protection kills the Spartans on this drive. On first down, RT Gyetvai gets beat around the corner by DE Ray Edwards for a 14-yard loss. Then, after a 9-yard pass to Ringer on 2-and-24, LT Gordon Niebylski gets beat by Ninkovich for a 5-yard loss on third down. Brandon Fields then punts away on 4-and-20.

Play #12: 3-and-4 from the MSU 42 – Stanton passes to Jerramy Scott for 7 yards. Stanton finds Scott for the first down and his eighth catch of the afternoon.

Play #13: 3-and-13 from the MSU 46 – Stanton passes incomplete to Kerry Reed. Two plays after the Scott reception, Gyetvai is bull rushed by DE Eugene Bright, who sacks Stanton for a loss of 6 yards on 2-and-7. Then on third down, Stanton throws incomplete to Reed in the end zone. Meanwhile, Scott is running wide open on a crossing route underneath with nothing but grass in front of him.

5 conversions = 1 pass, 4 runs (1 TD)

8 failures = 1 completion, 3 incompletions, 1 sack, 3 runs

If a 7 run/6 pass ratio on third down is conservative, then I must be rockin' with Hugh Hefner and the Silicone Bunnies at the Playboy Mansion.

If you are one-dimensional you are easier to defense. Teams that mix the pass and the run are harder to prepare for and stop – provided that they don't stop themselves.

Last Saturday, the Spartans ran the ball 33 times and passed 31 times. Anyone who thinks a 50-50 run/pass ratio is conservative needs a swift beyond-the-grave kick in the keister by Woody Hayes.

There are plenty of question marks with the 2005 Michigan State football team. Dave Baldwin's play calling is not one of them.