Michigan State University Athletics
Spartan Football Prepares For Showdown Against Bowling Green
9/7/2007 12:00:00 AM | Football
Sept. 7, 2007
2007 MSU Football Weekly Release vs. Bowling Green
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DATE: Sept. 8, 2007
SITE: Spartan Stadium (75,005/natural grass), East Lansing, Mich.
KICKOFF: 12:07 p.m. EDT
BROADCAST COVERAGE: Radio - The Spartan Radio Network, featuring veteran play-by-play announcer George Blaha, color analyst Jim Miller, sideline reporter Jason Strayhorn and broadcast host Will Tieman, will broadcast the game to 38 affiliates throughout the state. Michigan State football broadcasts can be heard locally on flagship station WJIM (AM 1240) and WMMQ (FM 94.9) and in Detroit on WJR Radio (AM 760). The MSU-Bowling Green game can be heard live on XM Satellite Radio (Channel 196). Television - The Big Ten Network will televise the Michigan State-Bowling Green game live, with Wayne Larrivee handling the play-by-play, Chris Martin providing color commentary and Lisa Byington serving as the sideline reporter. The game can be seen on DIRECTV (Channel 218).
FIRST-AND-10 (what you need to know about Saturday's MSU-Bowling Green matchup) -
• Saturday's game marks just the second meeting between Michigan State and Bowling Green. The first meeting came on Sept. 26, 1981, as the Spartans won a defensive struggle, 10-7, in East Lansing. The two teams combined for just 460 total yards.
• The first time Bowling Green visited Spartan Stadium in 1981, the Falcons were coached by Denny Stolz, who previously had served as Michigan State's head coach for three seasons from 1973-75.
• Michigan State has compiled a 35-6-2 record (.837) against current members of the Mid-American Conference. The Spartans have won 13 straight and 20 out of the last 22 meetings vs. MAC teams, with the only losses coming to Central Michigan in the 1991 (20-3) and 1992 (24-20) season openers.
• The Spartans have outscored their last 10 MAC opponents, 407-138, for an average score of 41-14.
• Michigan State has compiled a 24-8 record (.750) in games played against non-conference opponents since 1999. The Spartans have won seven of their last eight non-league games.
• MSU quarterback Brian Hoyer and Bowling Green linebacker John Haneline were teammates at St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland, Ohio. In 2000, Haneline served as Hoyer's backup at quarterback on the freshman team.
• For the first time in his career, running back Jehuu Caulcrick has been named Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week (shares honor with Wisconsin quarterback Tyler Donovan) after rushing 10 times for 93 yards and four touchdowns - all in the first half - in MSU's 55-18 season-opening victory over UAB. His four rushing TDs represent a career high and the second-best single-game total in Spartan history.
• MSU junior quarterback Brian Hoyer has recorded three-straight 200-yard passing games. In the 2007 season opener against UAB, Hoyer completed 14-of-17 throws for 201 yards, including a 44-yard scoring strike to Devin Thomas. He completed his first 10 pass attempts against the Blazers for 172 yards.
• Michigan State ranks among the NCAA's Top 10 in total offense (No. 6 at 593.0 yards per game), scoring offense (t-No. 8 at 55 points per game) and rushing defense (No. 8 at 12.0 ypg.).
• After one week, Caulcrick ranks tied for second in the nation in scoring with West Virginia's Steve Slaton and Nebraska's Marlon Lucky. Oklahoma freshman DeMarco Murray leads the NCAA in scoring with five TDs.
THE COACHES -
Mark Dantonio (South Carolina 1979) is 1-0 (1.000) in his first year with the Spartans and 19-17 (.528) in four seasons as a college head coach. Dantonio compiled an 18-17 record (.514) in three seasons at Cincinnati, including two postseason bowl appearances. Prior to accepting his first head coaching position at Cincinnati, he spent three years as defensive coordinator under Jim Tressel at Ohio State (2001-03) where he helped the Buckeyes to a combined record of 32-6 (.842), including the 2002 National Championship. Dantonio previously spent six seasons as secondary coach at Michigan State (1995-2000), including five years under Nick Saban and one under Bobby Williams. His college full-time coaching credits also include stops at Kansas (1991-94), Youngstown State (1986-90) and Akron (1985).
Bowling Green's Gregg Brandon (Northern Colorado 1978) is 31-19 (.620) in his fifth year with the Falcons. Before being promoted to head coach, Brandon spent two seasons as offensive coordinator under Urban Meyer at Bowling Green (2001-02). His previous coaching credits include stints at Colorado (1999-2000), Northwestern (1992-98), Utah State (1991), Wyoming (1987-90) and Weber State (1981-86).
TEAM COMPARISONS -
Michigan State Bowling GreenBasic Offense Multiple Spread Basic Defense Multiple 4-3 4-3 Offensive Starters Returning 6 6 Defensive Starters Returning 6 8 Specialists Returning 1 0
AVERAGE HEIGHTS & WEIGHTS (STARTERS) -
Michigan State Bowling GreenOffensive Line & Tight End 6-5, 303 6-4, 295 Offensive Backs & Wide Receivers 6-1, 212 6-0, 194 Defensive Line 6-4, 266 6-4, 259 Linebackers 6-1, 221 6-0, 221 Defensive Backs 6-1, 206 5-11, 187
CLASS BREAKDOWN (STARTERS) -
Michigan State Offense: 3 seniors, 6 juniors, 1 sophomore, 1 freshman
Michigan State Defense: 4 seniors, 4 juniors, 1 sophomore, 2 freshmen
Bowling Green Offense: 3 seniors, 3 juniors, 4 sophomores, 1 freshman
Bowling Green Defense: 2 seniors, 7 juniors, 2 sophomores
STAT LEADERS -
Michigan State (after one game):
Rushing - Jehuu Caulcrick (10 carries for 93 yards, 9.3 avg., 4 TDs)
Passing - Brian Hoyer (14 of 17 for 201 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs)
Receiving - Devin Thomas (5 catches for 106 yards, 21.2 avg., 1 TD)
Tackles - Jon Misch (9 tackles, 5 solos, 4 assists)
Bowling Green (after one game):
Rushing - Chris Bullock (9 carries for 47 yards, 5.2 avg., 0 TDs)
Passing - Tyler Sheehan (34 of 51 for 388 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs)
Receiving - Eric Ransom (7 catches for 96 yards, 13.7 avg., 1 TD)
Tackles - John Haneline (15 tackles, 10 solos, 5 assists)
STAT COMPARISON -
Michigan State Bowling GreenScoring 55.0 32.0 First Downs 28.0 24.0 Total Offense 593.0 512.0 Rushing Yards 298.0 100.0 Passing Yards 295.0 412.0 Time of Possession 29:53 26:54 Third Down Conversions .615 .357 Points Allowed 18.0 31.0 Total Offense Allowed 226.0 434.0 Rushing Yards Allowed 12.0 246.0 Passing Yards Allowed 214.0 188.0
MSU/BOWLING GREEN CONNECTIONS -
• Michigan State running backs coach Dan Enos and Bowling Green linebackers coach Deion Melvin spent the 1999 season together at Southwest Missouri State. Enos served as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for the Bears, while Melvin acted as assistant head coach and defensive coordinator.
• Michigan State quarterback Brian Hoyer and Bowling Green linebacker John Haneline were teammates at St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland, Ohio. In 2000, Haneline served as Hoyer's backup at quarterback on the freshman team. Hanline made the transition to linebacker prior to his sophomore season.
• Michigan State running back Javon Ringer and Bowling Green quarterback Anthony Turner were high school teammates at Chaminade-Julienne in Dayton, Ohio.
• Bowling Green defensive tackle D.J. Young (Lansing, Mich./Sexton High School) is the son of former Spartan tight end Duane Young (1987-90).
Duane earned first-team All-Big Ten honors from the coaches as a senior in 1990, finishing with 12 catches for 95 yards and a touchdown. A four-year letterman for Coach George Perles, he had 35 career receptions for 347 yards and a score. Duane became a fifth-round selection by the San Diego Chargers in the 1991 NFL Draft. He spent six years in the NFL, including five seasons with the Chargers (1991-95) and one with the Buffalo Bills (1998).
MICHIGAN STATE vs. MAC TEAMS -
Michigan State has compiled a 35-6-2 record (.837) against current members of the Mid-American Conference (2-0 vs. Akron, 1-0 vs. Bowling Green, 4-2 vs. Central Michigan, 7-0 vs. Eastern Michigan, 1-0 vs. Kent State, 3-1 vs. Miami-Ohio, 1-0 vs. Ohio, 7-1-2 vs. Temple, 1-0 vs. Toledo and 8-2 vs. Western Michigan). The Spartans have won 13 straight and 20 out of the last 22 meetings vs. MAC teams, with the only losses coming to Central Michigan in the 1991 (20-3) and 1992 (24-20) season openers.
Here's a look at Michigan State's last 10 games vs. MAC teams:
Sept. 9, 2006 Eastern Michigan W, 52-20 Spartan Stadium Sept. 3, 2005 Kent State W, 49-14 Spartan Stadium Sept. 11, 2004 Central Michigan W, 24-7 Spartan Stadium Aug. 30, 2003 Western Michigan W, 26-21 Spartan Stadium Aug. 31, 2002 Eastern Michigan W, 56-7 Spartan Stadium Sept. 8, 2001 Central Michigan W, 35-21 Spartan Stadium Sept. 9, 2000 Marshall* W, 34-24 Spartan Stadium Sept. 11, 1999 Eastern Michigan W, 51-7 Spartan Stadium Oct. 3, 1998 Central Michigan W, 38-7 Spartan Stadium Sept. 6, 1997 Western Michigan W, 42-10 Spartan Stadium
Date Opponent MSU Result Site
* Joined Conference USA prior to the start of the 2005 season.
The Spartans have outscored their last 10 MAC opponents, 407-138, for an average score of 41-14.
SPARTANS TOUGH IN NON-CONFERENCE GAMES -
Michigan State has compiled a 24-8 record (.750) in games played against non-conference opponents since 1999. The Spartans have won seven of their last eight non-league games.
Here's a look at Michigan State's non-conference results since 1999:
Sept. 1, 2007 UAB W, 55-18 Spartan Stadium Sept. 23, 2006 Notre Dame L, 37-40 Spartan Stadium Sept. 16, 2006 Pittsburgh W, 38-23 Pittsburgh, Pa. Sept. 9, 2006 Eastern Michigan W, 52-20 Spartan Stadium Sept. 2, 2006 Idaho W, 27-17 Spartan Stadium Sept. 17, 2005 Notre Dame W, 44-41 (OT) South Bend, Ind. Sept. 10, 2005 Hawaii W, 42-14 Spartan Stadium Sept. 3, 2005 Kent State W, 49-14 Spartan Stadium Dec. 4, 2004 Hawaii L, 38-41 Honolulu, Hawaii Sept. 18, 2004 Notre Dame L, 24-31 Spartan Stadium Sept. 11, 2004 Central Michigan W, 24-7 Spartan Stadium Sept. 4, 2004 Rutgers L, 14-19 Piscataway, N.J. Dec. 29, 2003 Nebraska L, 3-17 San Antonio, Texas Sept. 20, 2003 Notre Dame W, 22-16 South Bend, Ind. Sept. 13, 2003 Louisiana Tech L, 19-20 Spartan Stadium Sept. 6, 2003 Rutgers W, 44-28 Spartan Stadium Aug. 30, 2003 Western Michigan W, 26-21 Spartan Stadium Sept. 21, 2002 Notre Dame L, 17-21 Spartan Stadium Sept. 14, 2002 California L, 22-46 Spartan Stadium Sept. 7, 2002 Rice W, 27-10 Spartan Stadium Aug. 31, 2002 Eastern Michigan W, 56-7 Spartan Stadium Dec. 31, 2001 Fresno State W, 44-35 San Jose, Calif. Dec. 1, 2001 Missouri W, 55-7 Spartan Stadium Sept. 22, 2001 Notre Dame W, 17-10 South Bend, Ind. Sept. 8, 2001 Central Michigan W, 35-21 Spartan Stadium Sept. 23, 2000 Notre Dame W, 27-21 Spartan Stadium Sept. 16, 2000 Missouri W, 13-10 Columbia, Mo. Sept. 9, 2000 Marshall W, 34-24 Spartan Stadium Jan. 1, 2000 Florida W, 37-34 Orlando, Fla. Sept. 18, 1999 Notre Dame W, 23-13 South Bend, Ind. Sept. 11, 1999 Eastern Michigan W, 51-7 Spartan Stadium Sept. 2, 1999 Oregon W, 27-20 Spartan Stadium
Date Opponent MSU Result Site
SPARTANS FROM THE BUCKEYE STATE -
Michigan State's 2007 roster features 17 players from Ohio: freshman punter Aaron Bates (New Concord/John Glenn), junior cornerback Mike Bell (Shaker Heights), freshman tight end Garrett Celek (Cincinnati/LaSalle), sophomore offensive tackle Rocco Cironi (Warren/Warren G. Harding), freshman wide receiver B.J. Cunningham (Westerville/Westerville South), junior cornerback Kendell Davis-Clark (Alliance), sophomore safety Dan Fortener (Kettering/Archbishop Alter), junior quarterback Brian Hoyer (North Olmsted/St. Ignatius), red-shirt freshman safety Marcus Hyde (Fostoria), freshman nose tackle Antonio Jeremiah (Hilliard/Hilliard Darby), freshman linebacker Greg Jones (Cincinnati/Archbishop Moeller), junior defensive tackle Justin Kershaw (Columbus/Reynoldsburg), freshman snapper Michael Linger (West Chester, Lakota West), junior defensive end Brandon Long (Canton/GlenOak), sophomore offensive guard Brendon Moss (Bay Village), junior running back Javon Ringer (Dayton/Chaminade-Julienne), and freshman cornerback Chris L. Rucker (Warren/Warren G. Harding).
 Josh Thornhill ranks among MSU's all-time Top 10 in tackles and tackles for losses.  | |
Josh Thornhill NAMED HONORARY CAPTAIN -
Two-time first-team All-Big Ten linebacker Josh Thornhill has been selected as an honorary captain for Saturday's game against Bowling Green. Thornhill, a four-time letterman from 1998-2001, ranks among Michigan State's all-time Top 10 in tackles (fourth with 395) and tackles for losses (tied for sixth with 33). He also ranks as one of only eight Spartans to be named a multi-year captain (2000-01). Thornhill, who will address the team during Saturday's pre-game meal, also will accompany the 2007 team captains, including his brother Kaleb, to midfield for the coin toss.
Josh, who started 40 consecutive games for the Spartans, led the team in tackles as both a junior (114 in 2000) and senior (128 in 2001). A three-time Academic All-Big Ten selection, he earned second-team Academic All-America honors in 2001. Josh is currently pursuing a master's degree in physician assistant studies at Grand Valley State University.
Josh and Kaleb are the sons of the late Charles "Mad Dog" Thornhill, who played for legendary MSU head coach Duffy Daugherty. In his final two seasons, "Mad Dog" helped the Spartans to a combined record of 19-1-1, including back-to-back Big Ten and National Championships in 1965-66. He passed away on Dec. 21, 2006, at the age of 62.
HALL OF FAME WEEKEND -
Michigan State University will induct 11 members into its Athletics Hall of Fame on Saturday, Sept. 8 prior to the Spartans' home football game against Bowling Green. The Class of 2007 includes: Richard Frey (cross country/track & field) from the Pioneer Era; Shirley Cook (basketball/field hockey/track & field), Jim Ellis (football), George Guerre (football) and Dean Look (football/baseball) from the Early Era; Marshall Dill (track & field), Tom Ross (hockey), Scott Skiles (basketball) and Val Sterk Kemper (volleyball) from the Contemporary Era; and Grady Peninger (wrestling) and George Perles (football) from the former coach/administrator category. In addition, the Class of 2007 will be introduced at halftime of Saturday's MSU-Bowling Green game in Spartan Stadium.
The MSU Athletics Hall of Fame, located in the Clara Bell Smith Student-Athlete Academic Center, opened on Oct. 1, 1999, and displays key moments in Spartan athletics history as well as plaques of the 92 inductees. The charter class of 30 former Spartan student-athletes, coaches and administrators was inducted in 1992.
Here are bullet-point sketches for MSU's Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2007:
Shirley Cook (Field Hockey/Basketball/Track & Field, 1955-58)
Hometown - Port Hope, Mich.
One of MSU's pioneer female student-athletes . . . Founder of Women's Varsity Alumni Club . . . Endowed scholarship created in her memory to promote women's athletics.
Marshall Dill (Track & Field, 1972-75)
Detroit, Mich.
Three-time All-American and 11-time Big Ten champion . . . 1973 NCAA outdoor champion in 220-yard dash . . . Won four-consecutive Big Ten titles in the outdoor 220-yard dash and two straight in the outdoor 100-yard dash . . . Won three-straight Big Ten titles in the indoor 300-yard dash . . . Set world record in 300-yard dash.
Jim Ellis (Football, 1951-53)
Hometown - Saginaw, Mich.
First Spartan to receive All-America honors in consecutive years (1951-52) . . . Named to All-Western first team in 1952 . . . Captain of the 1953 Big Ten and 1954 Rose Bowl Championship team . . . Ranks among MSU's all-time and season leaders in punt return yards.
Richard Frey (Cross Country/Track & Field, 1936-40)
Hometown - Buffalo, N.Y.
Captain of 1939 cross country NCAA Championship team, the first NCAA title won by a Spartan team . . . Earned six varsity letters and became a four-time All-American (two-time cross country and two-time track) . . . Member of IC4A Championship team in 1937 . . . Won freshman IC4A title in 1936.
George Guerre (Football, 1946-48)
Hometown - Flint, Mich.
Led the Spartans in rushing for three-straight seasons from 1946-48 . . . Averaged 6.75 yards per carry, the best career rushing average in school history . . . Recorded six career 100-yard rushing games, including a single-game best 180 yards against Marquette in 1946 . . . 1946 team MVP.
Dean Look (Football/Baseball, 1957-59)
Hometown - Lansing, Mich.
1959 football All-American . . . Named to UPI's Backfield of the Week three times during the 1959 season . . . 1958 baseball team MVP and first-team All-Big Ten selection led the Spartans in runs, RBI, total bases, stolen bases, doubles and home runs . . . Spent 29 years as an official in the NFL.
Grady Peninger (Wrestling Coach, 1963-86)
Hometown - Ponca City, Okla.
First Big Ten coach to win seven consecutive conference titles (1966-72) . . . MSU won 1967 National Championship and placed in top five nationally on six occasions . . . During his tenure, Spartan wrestlers earned 10 NCAA titles, 40 Big Ten titles and All-America honors 54 times . . . 1987 U.S. Wrestling Hall of Fame inductee.
George Perles (Football Coach, 1983-94)
Hometown - Allen Park, Mich.
Guided the Spartans to two Big Ten titles (1987 and 1990) and seven bowl appearances in his 12 seasons . . . Three of his teams finished among the nation's Top 25, including the 1987 Big Ten championship team that ranked No. 8 in the final polls . . . Tutored nine first-team All-Americans and three first-team Academic All-Americans . . . Spent 10 years as an assistant coach with the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers, winning four Super Bowl championships (1974, 1975, 1978 and 1979).
Tom Ross (Hockey, 1974-76)
Hometown - Dearborn, Mich.
Holds MSU career records with 324 points, 138 goals and 186 assists . . . Second college player to reach 300-point mark . . . 1975 and 1976 All-American . . . NCAA record-holder with 72 career power-play goals.
Scott Skiles (Basketball, 1983-86)
Hometown - Plymouth, Ind.
Led Big Ten in scoring in 1985-86 to earn All-America honors . . . 1986 Big Ten MVP . . . 1983 Big Ten Freshman of the Year and two-time All-Big Ten selection . . . Became second Spartan to score more than 2,000 career points.
Valerie Sterk Kemper (Volleyball, 1993-96)
Hometown - Byron Center, Mich.
First female team sport athlete at MSU to earn First-Team All-America honors twice (1995 and 1996) . . . Led nation with .449 hitting percentage in 1996 . . . First Spartan volleyball player to earn first-team All-Big Ten honors three times . . . 1996 third-team Academic All-American.
CAULCRICK NAMED BIG TEN CO-OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK -
Fifth-year senior Jehuu Caulcrick shared Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week honors (with Wisconsin's quarterback Tyler Donovan) after rushing 10 times for 93 yards and four touchdowns - all in the first half - to lead Michigan State to a 55-18 season-opening victory over UAB. His four rushing TDs represent a career high and equal the school record for rushing TDs in a half (Blake Ezor vs. Northwestern, 1989). Caulcrick's four rushing TDs also marked the second-best single-game total in Spartan history (Ezor scored six rushing TDs vs. Northwestern, 1989).
Seven of his 10 carries resulted in either a touchdown or a first down. Caulcrick finished off MSU's first three possessions, scoring on runs of 1, 5 and 42 yards. The 42-yarder marked the longest scoring run of his career. He added another 5-yard TD run early in the second quarter as the Spartans jumped out to a 35-0 lead.
The 6-foot, 255-pound Caulcrick has rushed for 1,616 career yards and 22 TDs. He needs just one more rushing TD to crack MSU's all-time Top 10 in that category. The Findley Lake, N.Y., native ranks among the NCAA's Bowl Subdivision (formerly known as NCAA I-A) active career leaders in rushing TDs (tied for No. 12) and yards per carry (No. 16 with a 5.05 avg./minimum 300 carries).
HOYER PLAYS NEAR-PERFECT GAME IN SEASON OPENER AGAINST UAB -
Junior quarterback Brian Hoyer connected on 14-of-17 throws (.824) for 201 yards, including a 44-yard touchdown strike to Devin Thomas in the second quarter, in Michigan State's 55-18 victory over UAB in the 2007 season opener.
The Spartans scored touchdowns on their first six possessions against UAB, with five of those scoring drives directed by Hoyer. He completed his first 10 pass attempts for 172 yards against the Blazers.
The 6-foot-2, 212-pound Hoyer ranks second in the Big Ten and ninth nationally in passing efficiency with his 201.1 rating. He has recorded three-straight 200-yard passing games.
THOMAS EMERGES AS PLAYMAKER IN PASSING GAME -
Junior flanker Devin Thomas recorded his first 100-yard receiving game of his career against UAB, with a career-best five catches for 106 yards including a 44-yard touchdown grab from Brian Hoyer early in the second quarter. Four of his five receptions resulted in either a first down or a touchdown against the Blazers.
Thomas appeared in the first 10 games of the 2006 season and finished with just six receptions for 90 yards and one score.
Kellen Davis MAKES HIS PRESENCE KNOWN ON BOTH SIDES OF THE FOOTBALL -
In the 2007 season opener against UAB, senior multi-purpose end Kellen Davis showcased his athleticism and versatility. A tight end by trade, Davis caught two passes for 44 yards, including a 25-yard grab from Brian Hoyer that set up Michigan State's second touchdown. He also saw limited duty at defensive end and produced two tackles, including a 7-yard sack in the fourth quarter. In addition, Davis saw action on special teams with the field goal/PAT unit.
The 6-foot-6, 246-pound Davis became the first Spartan to pull triple duty since linebacker Mark Goebel was forced to expand his role against Iowa on Sept. 27, 2003. Goebel was thrust into the defensive lineup after starting linebacker Ronald Stanley suffered a hamstring injury in the first quarter. He played a total of 76 snaps against the Hawkeyes, including 47 on defense. Goebel also played six downs on offense as the fullback in MSU's "Thunder" package and 23 snaps on special teams.
SWENSON FEATURED ON LOU GROZA AWARD WATCH LIST -
Michigan State sophomore Brett Swenson is listed among 30 preseason candidates for the 2007 Lou Groza Award, which is presented annually to the nation's top collegiate placekicker by the Palm Beach County (Fla.) Sports Commission.
The 5-foot-8, 160-pound Swenson accounted for a career-best 13 points in the season opener against UAB, hitting 2-of-2 field-goal attempts and all seven extra-point tries. On the final play of the first half, he converted a 45-yard field-goal attempt as the Spartans built a 45-3 halftime lead. Swenson capped off a 14-play, 60-yard drive with a 38-yard field goal late in the third quarter as MSU extended its lead to 48-5.
In 2006, he earned first-team Freshman All-America honors from Scripps/Football Writers Association of America, The Sporting News, CollegeFootballNews.com and Rivals.com. Swenson led the team in scoring with 78 points, converting 15-of-19 field-goal attempts and all 33 extra-point tries. His 15 made field goals represent the ninth-best single-season total in Spartan history (tied with Morten Andersen, 1981). An honorable mention All-Big Ten selection by both the coaches and media, Swenson ranked among the conference leaders in field goals (tied for third with 1.25 made per game), field-goal percentage (tied for third at .789), kick scoring (fourth at 6.5 points per game) and overall scoring (sixth).
The award is named in honor of former National Football League great Lou Groza, who earned the nickname "The Toe." Groza, who scored 1,608 points in 21 years with the Cleveland Browns (1946-59, 1961-67), was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1974. The former Ohio State Buckeye made nine Pro Bowl appearances as a standout offensive tackle and placekicker.
A national panel of 300-plus voters, including college head coaches, sports writers, sportscasters, conference representatives, professional kickers and previous Lou Groza Award finalists, selects the recipient.
The selection committee will identify 20 semifinalists on Nov. 6, while three finalists will be named on Nov. 20. The winner will be announced during the ESPN College Football Awards Show on Dec. 6 in Orlando, Fla.
DANTONIO PRODUCES WIN IN SPARTAN COACHING DEBUT -
With a 55-18 victory over UAB in the 2007 season opener, Mark Dantonio became the 13th head coach in Michigan State history to produce a win in his Spartan debut.
Here's how Michigan State's 24 head coaches have fared in their opening games (winning coaches in bold):
• Mark Dantonio - Sept. 1, 2007 vs. UAB (W 55-18)
• John L. Smith - Aug. 30, 2003 vs. Western Michigan (W 26-21)
• Morris Watts - Nov. 9, 2002 at Indiana (W 56-21)
• Bobby Williams - Jan. 1, 2000 vs. Florida (W 37-34) in Florida Citrus Bowl
• Nick Saban - Sept. 9, 1995 vs. Nebraska (L 10-50)
• George Perles - Sept. 10, 1983 vs. Colorado (W 23-17)
• Frank "Muddy" Waters - Sept. 13, 1980 at Illinois (L 17-20)
• Darryl Rogers - Sept. 11, 1976 at Ohio State (L 21-49)
• Denny Stolz - Sept. 15, 1973 at Northwestern (L 10-14)
• Duffy Daugherty - Sept. 25, 1954 at Iowa (L 10-14)
• Clarence "Biggie" Munn - Sept. 27, 1947 at Michigan (L 0-55)
• Charlie Bachman - Sept. 30, 1933 vs. Grinnell (W 14-0)
• Jim Crowley - Sept. 28, 1929 vs. Alma (W 59-6)
• Harry Kipke - Sept. 29, 1928 vs. Kalamazoo (W 103-0)
• Ralph Young - Sept. 29, 1923 at Chicago (L 0-34)
• Albert Barron - Oct. 1, 1921 vs. Alma (W 28-0)
• George "Potsy" Clark - Sept. 25, 1920 vs. Kalamazoo (L 2-21)
• George Gauthier - Oct. 5, 1918 vs. Albion (W 21-6)
• Frank Sommers - Sept. 30, 1916 vs. Olivet (W 40-0)
• John Macklin - Oct. 7, 1911 vs. Alma (W 12-0)
• Chester Brewer - Oct. 3, 1903 at Notre Dame (L 0-12)
• George Denman - Sept. 28, 1901 at Alma (L 5-6)
• Charles Bemies - Sept. 29, 1899 at Notre Dame (L 0-40)
• Henry Keep - Sept. 25, 1897 vs. Lansing High School (W 28-0)
BIG TEN/NCAA STAT LEADERS -
Here's a glance at how Michigan State ranks among the Big Ten and NCAA stat leaders in 2007:
Rushing Offense 298.0 1st 13th Passing Offense 295.0 5th 20th Total Offense 593.0 1st 6th Scoring Offense 55.0 t-2nd t-8th Rushing Defense 12.0 2nd 8th Passing Defense 214.0 t-7th 46th Total Defense 226.0 4th 22nd Scoring Defense 18.0 6th 58th Passing Efficiency 177.9 3rd 15th Pass Efficiency Defense 103.3 7th 46th Turnover Margin +1.0 t-3rd t-24th Net Punting 30.7 8th 81st Punt Returns 0.0 11th t-57th Kickoff Returns 20.5 t-5th t-57th
Category Stat Avg. Big Ten NCAA
NCAA STAT LEADERS -
Here's a glance at how Michigan State ranks among the NCAA individual stat leaders in 2007:
Individual Statistics (Top 50)
Passing Efficiency: Brian Hoyer (9th with 201.1 rating)
Receiving Yards: Devin Thomas (t-21st at 106.0 receiving yards per game)
Interceptions: Chris L. Rucker (t-10th at 1.0 interception per game)
Field Goals: Brett Swenson (t-12th at 2.0 field goals made per game)
Scoring: Jehuu Caulcrick (t-2nd at 24.0 points per game); Brett Swenson (t-18th at 13.0 ppg.)
All-Purpose Yards: Devin Thomas (t-48th at 147.0 all-purpose yards per game)
Sacks: Kellen Davis/Kendell Davis-Clark/Antonio Jeremiah/Greg Jones (t-31st at 1.0 sack per game)
OPENING-DAY STARTING LINEUP FEATURED SEVEN FIRST-TIME STARTERS -
Michigan State's starting lineup for the 2007 season opener against UAB featured seven first-time starters, including two on the offensive side of the football, four on defense and one specialist.
First-time starters on offense included: wide receiver Mark Dell (6-2, 185, Fr.) and fullback Andrew Hawken (6-2, 240, So.). First-time starters on defense included: defensive end Brandon Long (6-4, 245, Jr.), linebackers Jon Misch (6-2, 200, R-Fr.) and Eric Gordon (6-0, 220, R-Fr.), and cornerback Ross Weaver (6-1, 202, R-So.). Aaron Bates (6-0, 190, Fr.) also made his debut as the starting punter.
TRUE FRESHMEN IMPACT SPARTAN DEPTH CHART -
No fewer than seven true freshmen are currently listed on Michigan State's (two-deep) depth chart, including two on offense, four on offense and one specialist. Here's a complete breakdown of true freshmen included on the (two-deep) depth chart:
Offense (2): WR Mark Dell and QB Nick Foles.
Defense (4): NT Antonio Jeremiah, LB Greg Jones, CB Chris L. Rucker and NT Oren Wilson.
Specialist (1): P Aaron Bates.
2007 CAPTAINS ELECTED -
Four Michigan State seniors - running back Jehuu Caulcrick, offensive tackle Pete Clifford, strong safety Travis Key and linebacker Kaleb Thornhill - have been elected to serve as captains for the 2007 season. Following a nomination process, members of the team and coaching staff submitted final ballots on Wednesday, Aug. 22. First-year head coach Mark Dantonio formally introduced the team captains at the Spartan Spirit Pep Rally for incoming freshmen on Thursday, Aug. 23.
SPARTANS TOUGH ON HOME TURF -
Spartan Stadium is in its 84th season as home to Michigan State football. Michigan State has compiled a 306-136-13 record (.687) since taking up residency in Spartan Stadium in 1923. With its 49-14 victory over No. 4 Wisconsin in the 2004 home finale, Michigan State recorded its 300th win in Spartan Stadium. The Spartans have gone undefeated at home 16 times since the stadium opened, including a perfect 6-0 mark in 1999. It marked Michigan State's first undefeated home record since 1966 (5-0-1) and its first unbeaten and untied home slate since 1965 (5-0-0).
MAGIC NUMBER 24 -
Since 1990, Michigan State is 87-22-1 (.795) when it scores at least 24 points and 13-76-1 (.150) when it scores fewer than 24 points. During that 18-year period, the Spartans have compiled an overall record of 100-98-2 (.505).
SPARTAN TRENDS UNDER DANTONIO -
Here's how Michigan State has fared during head coach Mark Dantonio's first season (2007: 1 game):
Games played in Spartan Stadium: 1-0
Games played on the road/neutral site: 0-0
When leading at halftime: 1-0
When trailing at halftime: 0-0
When tied at halftime: 0-0
When scoring first: 1-0
When opponent scores first: 0-0
When leading after first quarter: 1-0
When trailing after first quarter: 0-0
When tied after first quarter: 0-0
When leading after three quarters: 1-0
When trailing after three quarters: 0-0
When tied after three quarters: 0-0
Overtime games: 0-0
When gaining more first downs than opponent: 1-0
When gaining fewer first downs than opponent: 0-0
When gaining same number of first downs as opponent: 0-0
When gaining 200+ yards rushing: 1-0
When opponent gains 200+ yards rushing: 0-0
When outrushing opponent: 1-0
When being outrushed by opponent: 0-0
When gaining 200+ yards passing: 1-0
When opponent gains 200+ yards passing: 1-0
When gaining more total yards than opponent: 1-0
When gaining fewer total yards than opponent: 0-0
When leading in time of possession: 0-0
When trailing in time of possession: 1-0
