The Michigan State offense continues to fall on hard times. With losses to Ohio State, Wisconsin and Penn State in the last three games, mustering a grand total of 17 points in that span, none of the concerns have subsided.

But the most brutal portion of Michigan State’s schedule is now behind it. At 4-4, the Spartans have games against Illinois (5-4), Michigan (7-2), Rutgers (2-7) and Maryland (3-6) remaining. With two off Saturdays in the last three weeks, there’s some hope that MSU can figure something out for the final month of the season.

Any potential changes to the offense won’t include a change at quarterback, though. On Tuesday, Mark Dantonio stood behind Brian Lewerke, saying he’s the guy who gives Michigan State the best chance to win football games.

Because Michigan State’s offense has been so stagnant over the last two seasons, there have been some thoughts that maybe Dantonio needs to insert backup Rocky Lombardi into the lineup and see if he can ignite a spark. Clearly, that won’t be happening, at least not just yet.

Lewerke has thrown for 1,761 yards and 11 touchdowns with just four interceptions, while completing passes at a 56.1 percent clip.

Michigan State has a good opportunity to move the football against Illinois this week, though the Illini have been playing much better defensively over the last three weeks. If the Spartans don’t get anything going, maybe Dantonio will have no choice but to make a change.