Notable Alumni of Michigan State Football
Michigan State University's football program boasts a rich history and tradition, marked by six national championships and eight Big Ten Conference titles. Over the years, many talented athletes have donned the Green and White, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. This article explores some of the most notable alumni of Michigan State football, highlighting their accomplishments both on and off the field.
Gridiron Greats: Top Players in Spartan History
Michigan State football has been home to some truly exceptional players. Here's a look at some of the very best who have graced Spartan Stadium:
DL Charles “Bubba” Smith (1965-66): Smith is widely regarded as the best player in the history of the Michigan State program. A dominant defensive lineman, he led Michigan State to the top of the college football world in 1966. Known for his intimidating presence, Smith was a two-time All-American and the No. 1 pick in the 1967 NFL Draft. Beyond football, he enjoyed a successful career in television and movies, becoming a pop culture icon through Miller Lite commercials and the "Police Academy" movies.
LB Carl Banks (1980-81): Banks was a hard-hitting linebacker who consistently disrupted opposing offenses. His ability to rush the passer, overpower blockers, and cover receivers made him a force to be reckoned with. Drafted No. 3 overall by the New York Giants in 1984, Banks played nine seasons with the Giants, earning Pro Bowl honors and winning two Super Bowls.
RB Lorenzo White (1984-87): White was a dominant running back during his time at Michigan State, thriving in a ground-oriented offense. In 1985, he led the nation in carries (386), rushing yards (1,908), and rushing touchdowns (17). White earned All-American honors and was a first-round NFL draft pick.
Read also: Notable Alumni of Boston College Football
RB Le'Veon Bell (2010-2012): Bell was an explosive running back known for his patience, vision, and ability to make defenders miss. He had a signature season in 2012, rushing for 1,793 yards and 12 touchdowns, solidifying his reputation as an NFL-caliber talent. Bell went on to star for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
WR Plaxico Burress (1998-99): Burress excelled at making contested catches and big plays. The 6-5, 232-pound receiver had two consecutive seasons of over 1,000 receiving yards. Drafted No. 8 overall by the Steelers, Burress had an 11-year NFL career, highlighted by his Super Bowl-winning catch for the New York Giants in 2007.
QB Kirk Cousins (2008-2011): Cousins is considered the most talented quarterback in Michigan State history. He became the starter in his sophomore season. Noted for his accuracy and dependability, Cousins has had a notable NFL career with Washington, Minnesota, and Atlanta.
PK Morten Andersen (1978-82): Andersen was an exceptional college player, connecting on 45 of 72 field goal attempts and 126 of 130 extra-point attempts. A strong argument can be made that Andersen was the best placekicker in the NFL throughout his long professional career.
WR Andre Rison (1985-88): Rison was a dangerous receiver known for his speed and explosiveness. He caught a career-best 54 passes for 966 yards and 5 touchdowns in the 1986 season.
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WR Kirk Gibson (1975-1978): While Gibson would gain his greatest fame on the baseball diamond for the Detroit Tigers and Los Angeles Dodgers, he proved to be a dangerous player for the Spartans. He was a magnificent athlete in his days with the Spartans, and he could use his toughness and speed to make big plays for three winning Michigan State teams. Gibson had his best season in 1978, catching 42 passes for 806 yards with 7 touchdowns. The versatile Gibson also ran for two TDs that season.
WR Gene Washington (1964-1966): While Bubba Smith was the key player for the defense on the legendary 1966 team, Washington was one of the offense's top players. He was a threat to make a big play on nearly every possession, and he caught 27 passes for 677 yards and 7 touchdowns for an average of 25.1 yards per reception.Washington went on to a solid NFL career that included 6 years with the Minnesota Vikings and 1 more with the Denver Broncos. He was drafted with the No.
Transfer Portal Success Stories
In recent years, the transfer portal has become a significant factor in college football. Michigan State has benefited from several impactful transfers, including:
Kenneth Walker III: Walker is considered not only the best transfer in MSU history but also one of the best transfers in modern NCAA football history.
Jayden Reed: Before becoming an NFL player, Reed transferred to MSU and made two All-Big Ten teams.
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Bryce Baringer: Baringer is considered the best punter in school history after transferring from Illinois.
Domata Peko: Peko, who transferred from the College of the Canyons, had a long and successful NFL career.
Jonathan Kim: Kim, a transfer from North Carolina, set a school record and made the All-Big Ten team.
Honorable Mentions
Keith Nichol: The former Oklahoma quarterback recruit was responsible for some of the biggest plays in MSU history.
DeAndra' Cobb: Cobb made the All-American team for his spectacular kick return skills.
Hall of Fame Nominees
The achievements of Michigan State football alumni have not gone unnoticed. Several former Spartans have been nominated for the College Football Hall of Fame, including:
- Flozell Adams (OT)
- Morten Andersen (K)
Former Michigan players Steve Hutchinson (OL) and Mark Messner (DT) are also on the ballot.
Coaches Who Shaped the Program
Several coaches have played pivotal roles in shaping the Michigan State football program:
Chester Brewer: Brewer revolutionized the football program during three different stints as head coach. Considered a defensive genius, his teams posted shutouts in 49 of the 88 games he coached.
Biggie Munn: Munn led Michigan State to national championships in 1951 and 1952. The "Biggie Munn Award" is given to the team's most motivational player.
Duffy Daugherty: Daugherty's tenure of 19 seasons is the longest of any head coach in the program's history. His 1965 and 1966 teams won national championships.
George Perles: Perles led the Spartans to two Big Ten Conference titles, seven bowl games, and a victory in the 1988 Rose Bowl.
Mark Dantonio: Dantonio is Michigan State's all-time winningest coach with 114 wins.
Leveraging Alumni Connections
Michigan State has several famous alumni who can use their businesses and connections to attract football and basketball recruits.
Magic Johnson and Mat Ishbia: These alumni serve as prominent faces of MSU.
Sam Raimi: The famous director could potentially help recruit athletes by offering opportunities to be extras in Marvel movies.
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