Lansing Sun

The Michigan State football team has entered its third week of preseason camp, completing its 12th practice on Monday. Head coach Jonathan Smith provided an update following the session, reflecting on the team's progress and upcoming plans.

Michigan State conducted its first scrimmage last Saturday at Spartan Stadium and is preparing for another later this week. "I was pleased with all that we got done," said Smith about the scrimmage. "Over 100 snaps of live scrimmage, all four phases and special teams, got quality reps there. It was not flawless by any stretch of the imagination; it was really good work to recognize where we were at after 11 practices."

Smith emphasized the importance of the coming week as they approach their next scrimmage on Saturday. "We have to keep pushing. We are getting to that time in camp where our bodies aren't feeling great... We have to push through that and be in a constant state of improvement."

MSU will open the 2024 season on Friday, Aug. 30 against Florida Atlantic at Spartan Stadium, with the game televised on BTN.

Smith also addressed various aspects of the team's development:

On team progress: "I thought we were a work in progress... I feel good with where we're at and the progress we are making."

On goals for the next 18 days: "We have to tighten up so many details... We want more guys earning opportunities to be on the field so we can have a deep team."

On starters: "We definitely have some guys that are going to start... We want to be playing full speed and with full effort."

On competition: "The linebacking side... is competitive. The receiver position has been pretty competitive too."

On Saturday's scrimmage performance: "The defense showed great resilience... Offense put some great drives together but did not finish in the end zone."

On player health: "Nothing long term... Some bumps and bruises but no one is missing the season right now."

Smith highlighted areas needing improvement before their next scrimmage, including offensive identification and defensive communication. He noted that practice exposure helps elevate overall team performance.

As MSU prepares for its season opener against Florida Atlantic, Smith acknowledged a heightened sense of urgency among players competing for positions. “Good teams are not just going to go through the motions to get through camp,” he remarked.