2008 Week 1

The Michigan State Spartans opened up their season in Greenville, NC against the East Carolina Pirates. Using a new run oriented gameplan, the Spartans were able to manhandle the lower Pirates 31-3.

HB Javon Ringer, whom Dr. P stated would see a lot more touches this year, ran the ball 24 times for 153 yards (a dynasty record) and two scores. Backup HB A.J. Jimmerson contributed to the team's 189 yards rushing with 45 yards and a score on 13 carries.

"A guy like Ringer doesn't come around all too often, so we're going to take advantage of his great skills. Jimmerson himself is a great player, and with these two we feel we can control the ball and the clock," stated Dr. P.

The offense has steered away from Senior QB Brian Hoyer, who melted down in the second half of 2007. Hoyer finished 12 of 18 today with an interception and a touchdown, but when he missed he missed badly. It appears he's going through control issues when he throws the ball more than 10 yards.

Defensively, the Spartans didn't need to do much because the Pirates couldn't generate much. QB Pinkney struggled getting his offense moving after a first drive field goal. SS Tom Dance lead the team with 8 tackles. ROLB Eric Gordon had six tackles and a sack, while CB Ross Weaver picked up his first interception of the year.