Michigan State's Xavier Henderson explains biggest key for Spartans' defense vs. WKU
Michigan State will look to improve its undefeated record to 5-0 when they host Western Kentucky on Oct. 2. Michigan State is coming off a thrilling 23-20 overtime victory vs. Nebraska.
With Western Kentucky having a potent passing attack, Michigan State safety Xavier Henderson believes the biggest key on defense is clearly tackling in space.
MSU S Xavier Henderson on facing Western Kentucky’s Air Raid offense: “We know this game is gonna come down to open-field tackling.”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) September 29, 2021
The 6-foot-1, 210-pound senior has recorded 27 solo tackles and an interception this season.
Through three games, Western Kentucky quarterback Bailey Zappe has amassed 1,224 yards, 13 touchdowns, and two interceptions. Three Western Kentucky receivers have at least 10 receptions this season: Jerreth Sterns (23 receptions, 360 yards, four touchdowns), Mitchell Tinsley (14 receptions, 219 yards, two touchdowns), and Malachi Corley (20 receptions, 184 yards, two touchdowns).
The stingy Michigan State defense hasn’t allowed over 21 points this season. Western Kentucky is off to a 1-2 start, most recently being edged 33-31 by Indiana. This is the first meeting between the programs.
Michigan State-Western Kentucky is slated for a 7:30 p.m. (EST) kickoff and will be televised on FS1.