Payton Thorne discusses potential of players opting out of Michigan State's Peach Bowl appearance
Bowl season typically brings about opt-out watch.
The College Football Playoff has lessened the importance of the other bowls in the eyes of some, and with players in many situations just a game away from the NFL and big money, business decisions have to be made. We’ve seen in recent years even the New Year’s Six bowl games aren’t immune to opt-outs. A team thinks it should be playing elsewhere, it isn’t, and players try and protect themselves.
Doesn’t sound like that’ll be the case for Michigan State in the Peach Bowl.
Tucker asked about if MSU expects everyone to play, says he hasn’t heard anyone plans to sit it out.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) December 5, 2021
Thorne reiterates he believes all of MSU's players, including Kenneth Walker III, will be playing in the Peach Bowl because of the stature of the NY6 game.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) December 5, 2021
Kenneth Walker III is the big name to keep an eye on. He’s not showing up in first-round mocks from folks like The Athletic’s Dane Brugler or ESPN’s Todd McShay, but he is still the 4th-best running back on McShay’s big board. The tailback has enjoyed a breakout season in his first year with the Spartans, rushing for a Big Ten best 1,636 yards (second-most nationally) and 18 touchdowns.
The Spartans meet Pittsburgh in the Peach Bowl on Dec. 30. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET on ESPN.