Early Years and the Foundation of Spartan Football
The history of Michigan State quarterbacks can be traced back to the early 20th century. The program began in 1896, but it wasn’t until the 1940s and 1950s that the quarterback position started to gain prominence. During this period, Michigan State began to establish itself as a competitive force in college football.
Notable Early Quarterbacks
- Al Dorow (1949-1951): One of the first standout quarterbacks at Michigan State, Dorow led the Spartans to a winning record and helped lay the foundation for future success.
- Bob Apisa (1960-1963): While primarily known as a fullback, Apisa’s versatility and leadership helped shape the team during his tenure, showcasing the multifaceted nature of the quarterback position.
The Duffy Daugherty Era
The 1960s marked a significant turning point for Michigan State football, particularly with the arrival of head coach Duffy Daugherty. His teams were known for their innovative offensive strategies, and the quarterback became a central figure in executing these schemes.
Key Quarterbacks of the Daugherty Era
- Davey O'Brien (1960): Although he played only one year at Michigan State, O'Brien's ability to lead the team and his strong passing game set the stage for future quarterbacks.
- Jimmy Raye (1965-1967): Raye was instrumental in Michigan State's 1966 championship season. His leadership on the field and ability to manage games effectively made him a beloved figure among fans and teammates.
The Rise to Prominence
By the late 1960s and into the 1970s, Michigan State football began to rise to national prominence. This era saw the emergence of several quarterbacks who would go on to have successful careers in the NFL.
Quarterbacks of the 1970s
- Earl Morrall (1951-1953): While he played primarily in the 1950s, Morrall's legacy continued into the 1970s as he became a notable NFL quarterback, winning Super Bowl V with the Baltimore Colts.
- Jeff Smoker (2000-2004): Smoker's tenure in the early 2000s saw him break several school records, including career passing yards, and he became a fan favorite for his resilience and ability to make big plays.
Modern Era Quarterbacks
The 1990s and 2000s brought about a new generation of Michigan State quarterbacks who displayed exceptional talent and led the team to numerous victories.
Key Figures of the 1990s and 2000s
1. Bill Burke (1995-1999): Burke's leadership led Michigan State to significant bowl appearances, and he became known for his strong arm and ability to read defenses.
2. Drew Stanton (2003-2006): Stanton brought a dual-threat capability to the quarterback position. His ability to pass and run effectively made him one of the most dynamic players in the Big Ten during his time.
3. Kirk Cousins (2009-2011): Cousins is perhaps one of the most recognizable names in recent Michigan State history. Under his leadership, the Spartans enjoyed unprecedented success, including a Big Ten Championship and a berth in the inaugural College Football Playoff.
The Impact on the NFL
As Michigan State quarterbacks made their mark on college football, many transitioned to successful careers in the NFL. The program has produced some notable NFL quarterbacks who have made significant contributions at the professional level.
Notable NFL Quarterbacks from Michigan State
- Earl Morrall: A Heisman Trophy runner-up, Morrall had a long and successful NFL career, winning two Super Bowls and earning a reputation as a reliable backup and starter.
- Jeff Smoker: Although his NFL career was brief, Smoker's collegiate achievements and records at Michigan State left a lasting impact.
- Kirk Cousins: Cousins has become one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL, known for his accuracy and leadership. His success has brought additional recognition to the Michigan State quarterback legacy.
Recent Developments and Future Prospects
In recent years, Michigan State football has continued to evolve, with new quarterbacks stepping into the spotlight. The program remains committed to developing talented players at the quarterback position.
Recent Quarterbacks
- Connor Cook (2013-2015): Cook led the Spartans to a Big Ten Championship and a trip to the College Football Playoff, further solidifying Michigan State’s reputation as a quarterback-friendly program.
- Brian Lewerke (2017-2020): Lewerke showcased his dual-threat abilities, leading the team through challenging seasons and setting multiple passing records.
Future Prospects
As Michigan State continues to recruit and develop talent, the future of the quarterback position looks promising. With a strong focus on skill development and athlete support, the program aims to produce the next generation of successful quarterbacks.
Conclusion
The history of Michigan State quarterbacks is a testament to the program’s commitment to excellence and the development of its players. From early pioneers to modern-day stars, each quarterback has contributed to the legacy of Spartan football. As the program looks to the future, fans can be excited about the continued evolution of this crucial position and the potential for new legends to emerge. With a history rich in talent and achievement, Michigan State quarterback history will undoubtedly continue to be a cornerstone of the program's identity for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is considered the greatest quarterback in Michigan State history?
Many consider Kirk Cousins, who played from 2009 to 2011, as the greatest quarterback in Michigan State history due to his leadership, passing records, and successful NFL career.
What notable achievements did Jeff Smoker have during his time at Michigan State?
Jeff Smoker, who played from 2001 to 2004, is known for setting several school records, including career passing touchdowns and yards at the time, and leading the Spartans to a bowl game in 2003.
Which Michigan State quarterback was the first to start in the NFL?
The first Michigan State quarterback to start in the NFL was Earl Morrall, who played for the Spartans from 1951 to 1953 and went on to have a successful professional career.
How did Brian Hoyer perform during his tenure at Michigan State?
Brian Hoyer, who started for the Spartans from 2007 to 2009, had a successful college career, setting multiple records and later transitioning to a long career in the NFL.
What was the significance of the 1987 Michigan State football season for quarterbacks?
The 1987 season was significant as it featured a notable quarterback competition between quarterbacks Don Smith and Bobby McAllister, reflecting the program's depth at the position.
Which Michigan State quarterback led the team to a Rose Bowl victory?
Kirk Cousins led Michigan State to a Rose Bowl victory in the 2013 season, marking a significant achievement in the program's history.
What impact did Connor Cook have on Michigan State football?
Connor Cook, who played from 2013 to 2015, was instrumental in leading the Spartans to the College Football Playoff in 2015 and is known for his poise and clutch performances.
Who was Michigan State's starting quarterback before Kirk Cousins?
Before Kirk Cousins, the starting quarterback was Keith Nichol, who played primarily in the 2009 season and contributed to the team's success with his dual-threat capabilities.
