5 Players to Watch Against Michigan State

Michigan football takes on Michigan State this week in the battle for the Paul Bunyan Trophy, who are the key players to watch for it?

Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

4. DE Kenny Willekes – MICHIGAN State

Michigan State defensive end Kenny Willekes is familiar with the Michigan Wolverines, as the senior will be playing in his fourth and final game in his career. He was on the team in 2015, so he has a 2-2 record already against the Wolverines and getting that final win means a winning record against his biggest rival. Willekes will be causing some havoc against the Wolverines offensive line this week and with his teammate, linebacker Joe Bachie suspended for a failed drug test, he becomes the biggest threat on the defense.

Willekes is having another good year so far, with 55 total tackles, eight and a half tackles for loss, five sacks, and two fumble recoveries (one for a touchdown). His ability to get in the backfield quickly is impressive and one that left tackle Jon Runayn Jr. and right tackle Jalen Mayfield will have to deal with. If the Michigan offensive line can contain Willekes, they could have a good day through the air.

For Michigan, a player that the Spartans might have trouble wearing down…