Anyone hoping to get the inside scoop on Michigan State’s quarterback situation would be disappointed. Right now, it’s still a toss-up.

Second-year head coach Mel Tucker was asked about the battle for the starting job heading into the 2021 season, a competition featuring Payton Thorne and Temple transfer Anthony Russo. The two were really close during spring ball and nothing much has changed.

“I feel good about the competition that we have,” Tucker said. “It’s an open competition. We have capable quarterbacks that all have different skillsets, but it’s going to be competitive and we’re going to go into camp and it’s wide open.”

Thorne was perceived to be the leader after spring football, but both quarterbacks brought something to the table. Wide receiver Jalen Nailor says it’s far from a done deal.

“It’s really close, really close,” he said at B1G Media Days. “Neck-and-neck.”

Heading into the season, Thorne has the advantage from a schematic standpoint. He’s been in the locker room longer and understands the offense, playing four games for the Spartans during the 2-5 season in 2020.

Russo is still learning the offense and is playing “catch-up.” Tucker said it’s imperative that the former Temple starter understand the offense before allowing his talent to take over.

The big takeaway?

Michigan State hasn’t made a decision on its starting quarterback yet. And while the season is approaching, Tucker is comfortable with the competition he has between Thorne and Russo.

It won’t be until fall camp that a decision is made.