Spartans To Ground And Pound With Le’Veon Bell
Michigan State has big plans this season and RB Le’Veon Bell is a big part of them. Literally.
Standing at 6-foot-2, 244 pounds, Bell is as nimble and quick as he is big. Last season, he rushed for 948 yards on 182 carries (5.2 ypc) and 13 touchdowns on the ground. Bell also added 267 yards on 35 receptions. Showing he can move out of the backfield and provide a tough matchup for linebackers.
2012 will be different for Bell heading into the season. He’s the unquestioned number one back after coming in last season behind Edwin Baker who is now in the NFL.
There’s no doubt Bell has the potential to put up big numbers this fall and be one of the best backs in the Big Ten. He’ll have the luxury of running behind an experienced offensive line and continue where he left off during spring practice.
It also benefits Bell going against one of the best defenses in the country everyday during practice. That’s something not everyone has the chance to do each day in preparation for Saturday.
Another reason Bell may thrive this year as the number one back at MSU is because of inexperienced first year starter at quarterback Andrew Maxwell. Mark Dantanio has to be happy he has an experienced and big back like Bell to hand off to that will provide a smooth transition for Maxwell.
As long as he remains healthy through the season, Bell can a expect close to 300 carries or more this year. A lot will fall upon his shoulders with a new quarterback and a group of unproven receivers.
He’s definitely big enough to handle the load.
Will Wilson is a writer for Rant Sports covering College Football and the Big Ten Conference.
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