Michigan Football: Michigan State Players to Watch
By Jay Meade
Oct 3, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive end Shilique Calhoun (89) is defended by Purdue Boilermakers offensive tackle Cameron Cermin (66) during the 1st quarter of a game at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Shilique Calhoun was an absolutely dominant force in the Big Ten a year ago. This year has been, well, a disappointment for most. I was truely scared of the young defensive lineman. This year he has amassed 12 solo tackles and 12 assisted tackles for a total of 24.
Though that’s not absolutely terrible, it’s not what we were expecting. It’s only halfway through the season, so there is much that can change.
Where some may consider a disappointment, I still see as a threat. Of those tackles six are for a loss and five are sacks. If there is one thing that can be said of the young lineman, he knows how to get his penetration.
It’s going to take two linemen to control him, which can open up lanes for other rushers. The senior will be a force to pay attention to, otherwise Rudock will be eating a lot of shots, and I’d rather Calhoun wasn’t the guy delivering them.
Calhoun is an experienced veteran, and a sure player for the next level. He’s got great technique and an arsenal of moves. As one of the veterans of this defense, expect him to pave the way for the rest of the unit.
If the Michigan front can knock Calhoun out of his rhythms early, the Wolverines should be successful. Rudock has yet to have someone to worry about this season. He will need to be much more aware of what’s going on around him on Saturday.
Next: LB Riley Bullough