Brian Lewerke intent on utilizing his legs in Spartans' new-look offense
Michigan State is debuting a new-look offense in 2019, but the plan is still to utilize one of Brian Lewerke’s biggest strengths.
Lewerke took control of the quarterback position with an impressive year in 2017. He threw for nearly 2,800 yards and 20 TDs, but it was his work on the ground that made him a difference-maker. He added 559 yards rushing and four more touchdowns on the ground in a 10-win season for the Spartans.
Unfortunately, Lewerke was much less effective in 2018. A part of that was certainly injuries, but his scrambling was a part of it as well. He rushed for just 184 yards while averaging two YPC in a rather disappointing offensive year.
RELATED: WATCH: Brian Lewerke appreciative of ‘control’ within Michigan State’s new offense
Heading into 2019, the coaching staff and Lewerke both want him to utilize his legs a bit more because he can be so effective with it. According to Stephen Brooks with Spartan Tailgate, Lewerke knows he essentially eliminated a big part of his game during the 2018 struggles:
“I think looking back on it, I tried last year to — (I) kind of took an element out of my game that was big and was helpful to our offense by trying to stay in the pocket and pass more,” Lewerke said.
“Whatever is given to me, whether I need to run or pass it, I’m gonna do that. Whether I need to both, I’m gonna try and do both.”
Hopefully, Lewerke is able to return to the dual-threat he was in 2017. Doing so would go a long ways towards improving Michigan State’s offense.