Michigan State DT's no longer playing on cruise control thanks to upgrade in depth, talent

PKonyndyk

Maverick-Hansen-Michigan-State-DT — Michigan State defensive tackle Maverick Hansen sees improved depth on the interior d-line as a game-changer (photo by Dane Robison).

Playing 50 or even 60 snaps a game as a Power Five defensive tackle isn't easy, as several Michigan State players discovered last season. To get through games, those interior line were forced to find ways to conserve energy. As a result, production suffered. As Michigan State gears up for the 2023 season, the Spartans have one of the deepest defensive tackle groups in the Big Ten. The players in the d-tackle room are giddy with excitement at the prospect of playing without holding anything in reserve. “I pride myself on going hard, running to the ball and being a big motor guy,” said senior tackle Maverick Hansen, "but last year, I had to preserve myself."