There was much angst late in Mark Dantonio's tenure as Michigan State's football coach.
Most of it centered on the Spartans' offense.
It was boring, dull and predictable.
In sharp contrast, MSU's offense was explosive during Friday night's surprisingly methodical 38-21 defeat of Northwestern.
Kenneth Walker III ran 75 yards for a touchdown on his first play from scrimmage, and the tone was set.
Walker III, a highly-touted transfer from Wake Forest, has excellent speed, vision and feet. He benefitted greatly from a stellar performance by MSU's veteran offensive line, which has been much-maligned in recent seasons. Two-hundred-sixty-four yards and four touchdowns rushing speaks loudly about Walker III.
But the Spartans won't necessarily be a run-first offense.
Quarterback Payton Thorne was solid managing the offense and showed some wheels in the open field. And the Spartans' biggest strength may be wide receiver. Jayden Reed, Tre Mosely and Jalen Nailor are an ideal combination.
A star in the making is MSU offensive coordinator Jay Johnson. Last season, Johnson's game plan keyed MSU's stunning upset of Michigan. He clearly has an eye for exploiting defensive weaknesses and making in-game adjustments.
Head coach Mel Tucker's impact is evidenced by MSU's toughness. The Spartans seem invigorated emotionally. They played with confidence and the classic physicality MSU football traditionally displays when at its best.
Statistically, it appeared as if Northwestern moved the ball well. But most of the yardage came after MSU had a decisive lead and on time-consuming drives. The Spartans played smart, mistake-free, tough football.
One game, obviously, doesn't make a season. The Spartans upset Northwestern last year, too. Remember how giddy Michigan fans got last season after beating Minnesota in its opener? Miami in Florida at high noon on September 18 certainly presents a challenge.
But in a sense Tucker and MSU are playing with house money.
The Spartans are expected to be a four-win team in 2021. They were a lot better than that Friday.
And it was definitely encouraging.
