Michigan State University Athletics
Van Dyke Set To Take Reins At Quarterback
9/20/2000 12:00:00 AM | Football
Sept. 19, 2000
By Jeff Barnes
Sports Information Student Assistant
After backing up Bill Burke the past two seasons at quarterback, junior Ryan Van Dyke is set to take over a leading role in Michigan State's offense after a long summer of hard work and two even longer years on the bench.
His patience, hard work and dedication in the off-season are characteristics he hopes work to his benefit this season now that he has earned the starting spot. Even though he enters the 2000 season as the only quarterback on MSU's roster with any game experience, the self-motivated Van Dyke forced him self to work hard in the off-season.
"Obviously, with the job I prepared a lot harder. I spent a great deal more time in the weight room and worked on particular things like strengthening my shoulder and legs," said the 6-foot-5, 223-pounder. "We also got started on seven-on-seven drills much earlier this season so we would be more prepared come fall."
Besides Van Dyke's improved physique, fans will also notice a new uniform number this season as he switched back to No. 3, which he wore in high school.
Van Dyke's hard work has resulted in better arm strength and more confidence on the field. He believes his confidence has grown a great deal from last season, partially because he was named the starting quarterback.
"I am more confident in the balls I throw now as a result of my improved arm strength" said Van Dyke. "I also benefited from playing more catch with the receivers during the off-season."
Early signs of Van Dyke's off-season improvements were evident in the spring Green-White game where he completed 17-of-25 passes for 219 yards. Last season, Van Dyke completed 58 percent of his passes while throwing for 393 yards and four touchdowns.
As a result of Van Dyke's new role he believes he has to be more of a leader for the Spartans both on and off the field. Leadership was a quality the Spartans were laden with last season and Van Dyke now feels that responsibility lies with him.
"Leadership is something I think comes with the position," explained Van Dyke. "When things start breaking down, I think everyone looks to the guy who is calling the plays to gain a sense of reassurance. It is an on and off the field job as well."
Van Dyke, a high school All-American from Marshall, Mich., played in 11 games his first two years at MSU, throwing for six touchdowns and 746 yards. He entered school as a highly touted freshman and expected to contribute immediately. Realizing that he would not get a lot of playing time, his first two years were spent waiting.
With the graduation of Burke, Van Dyke, relishes the opportunity of a lifetime and looks to add to the Spartans' recent success throwing the ball over the past two seasons.
"Bill and I have different approaches to the game," Van Dyke said. "I like to get more excited. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I am going to get excited.
Van Dyke's job is to lead an offense that lost two of its biggest weapons to the NFL this off-season. Gone are receivers Plaxico Burress and Gari Scott, with senior LaVaile Richardson and juniors Herb Haygood and Shawn Foster are in their places. The quarterback welcomes the challenge and insists that his biggest concern for the team and himself is winning this season.
"Our biggest challenge as a team is to win one game at a time," said Van Dyke. "We have to focus on one team a week and not look forward to any other games down the road.
