Spartans 2-minute drill

MSU will try to win back some lost respect vs. Western

Eric Lacy / The Detroit News

Storylines to follow during Michigan State's game against Western Michigan on Saturday:

Inspiring lockdown?

Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio limited media access to two players this week and didn't release a depth chart. Dantonio said the Spartans "need to be around people that understand our situation," by trying to eliminate potential distractions.

We'll see if this bunker mentality leads to improved play.

"We've lost some respect," Dantonio said. "It's about rebuilding respect. It's about building that fire."

Pass-time

Western Michigan coach Bill Cubit, an offensive coach by nature, is expected to give QB Tim Hiller plenty of chances to air the ball out.

And why not? Michigan State's defense appears to be in desperate need of an overhaul after allowing 42 points to Minnesota last week.

And, at 6-foot-5 and 228 pounds, Hiller is an NFL prospect running a pro-style offense that averages 284 passing yards a game.

Many are called

While true freshman RBs Larry Caper (concussion, game-time decision) and Edwin Baker are taking the bulk of the snaps, A.J. Jimmerson and Ashton Leggett soon could join the mix.

"We're going to do whatever it takes and play whoever it takes to win," RBs coach Dan Enos said. "I would anticipate all four guys will get it somehow."

This situation is a far cry from earlier this season when Glenn Winston (season-ending injury), and Caulton Ray and Andre Anderson (both dismissed) were on the roster.

Beware the MAC

Michigan State hasn't lost to two Mid-American Conference schools in the same season, and doesn't want that streak to end now. At arguably its most vulnerable point in Mark Dantonio's tenure, the program can't afford too many more self-inflicted wounds.

That's what led to a 29-27 loss to Central Michigan, ending a 15-game win streak against MAC foes.

The series stands 8-2 in the Spartans' favor.

Lineup moves?

Since Mark Dantonio didn't release a depth chart this week, he might have some changes in mind. Dantonio, a former South Carolina defensive back, could make some moves in the secondary.

Defensive line coach Ted Gill said Thursday his starters haven't given up yet, but mentioned some second- and third-stringers have shown improvement. Players who could get more reps up front defensively against the Broncos include tackles Ishmyl Johnson and Blake Treadwell, and end David Rolf.