I can explain ... no problem. First off, to shut down the parallel that some are drawing between MSU's White and Minny's Decker ... there was a huge differential in production between Decker and the #2 WR in terms of production. In contrast, there were only 300 yards between White and Decker. Furthermore, last year alone, with first-year starters at QB ... MSU still managed to have FOUR GUYS with 400+ yards. Furthermore, they had FIVE GUYS with 20 or more receptions. That implies that MSU is capable of distributing the ball. They are FAR from being a 1-trick poney on O.
Over the past 2 seasons, Dell and Cunningham have consistently been among MSU's top 3 WRs. Furthermore, Dell and Cunningham had off-field "distractions" that probably impacted their performance last year. If they actually can keep their nose clean and remain focussed, they could potentially pull off MONSTER seasons.
And it should also be noted that Keshawn Martin is perhaps the most dynamic playmaker on the MSU squad. The guy has great "wiggle" and he has very nice speed ... he's basically a big play waiting to happen. Once he becomes more consistent, he could very easily become their top WR. As it is, he still accounted for 411 yards on 18 receptions. He obviously won't keep up that YPR, however, what sort of productivity could he put up on 50 receptions?
On top of the HIGH quality guys that MSU has at WR ... it pains me to admit that they have the absolute BEST DEPTH at TE in the Big 10. Gantt and Linthicum are both EXTREMELY good and very experienced ... and Celek and Sims also have high ceilings and have seen quality game action. As the Iowa coaches can attest ... having quality TEs puts added pressure on the opposing D. It simplifies what opposing Ds can do.
Most importantly, having all those quality receiving targets means little if the QB isn't any good. However, Cousins has definitely proven himself to be an EXCELLENT passing QB. Cousins is capable of winning games with his arm. I know that many folks like to claim that Tolzien is an underrated QB ... however, Tolzien was far more of a game-manager. When the going got tough, Tolzien always had the benefit of having a strong running game to help him out. Cousins enjoyed no such luxury ... and that is a big reason why Cousins developed into a far more dangerous QB (than Tolzien). In fact, unless Pryor really surprises me with his progress throwing the ball, Cousins actually concerns me more than Pryor does.
As for what all this means in the context of our beloved Hawkeyes .... it means that Iowa's back 7 will have to work awfully hard in coverage. Mind you, I think that Iowa will be VERY good against the pass in 2010 .... however, MSU just so happens to have a passing attack that should be able to move the ball pretty well on the Hawks. I know that fans love to bring up how MSU performed against our D last year ... however, what relevance does that have on the 2010 season? The last time I checked, the MSU running game will be more dangerous in 2010 now that they're more experienced. The last time I checked, Cousins is a year more veteran and now is the undisputed starting QB. The last time I checked, Cunningham and Dell are no longer surrounded by off-field controversy. Furthermore, MSU will be able to play the "underdog" card and be able to use that for extra motivation. MSU will also play with great confidence against our Hawks. After how close they played us last year, they very well may end up having "revenge" on their minds.
Overlook MSU if you will .... but it will be a mistake.
