It might be safe to say that the biggest question in the minds of Michigan State football fans is, “Who the heck is going to be our quarterback when the season starts?”

As of now, that question still doesn’t have an answer. However, two players — Temple transfer Anthony Russo and redshirt sophomore Payton Thorne — are out making their case for the starting job. That included during Monday’s practice when Russo wowed fans with a long touchdown.

Heading into fall camp, it seemed like Thorne would be the obvious choice to take over QB duties for Tucker’s squad. However, Tucker has made it clear through camp that it’s an open job and Russo is in the running.

The case for Thorne can be made based on what he did in limited run in 2020. He came on in relief in three games and started one against Penn State where he shined, throwing for 325 yards and 3 touchdowns.

But as we’ve seen those numbers haven’t guaranteed Thorne much of anything. His top competition for the job, Russo, has a different background. The Temple transfer has more experience at the collegiate level with 26 career starts and 31 games total.

Russo’s career stats include more than 6,000 career yards passing and 44 touchdowns. However, he has struggled with turnovers as he has thrown 32 interceptions in his career.