Based on the depth chart so far at practice, it looks like Payton Thorne could get the nod at starting quarterback when Michigan State kicks off the 2021 season.

The redshirt sophomore was spotted at practice on August 11 taking first team reps. There’s still a few weeks to go but this does add fuel to the possibility that Thorne might emerge from the pack.

Thorne enters this season with plenty of intrigue.

Thorne appeared in four games last season, totaling 582 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions. In the first three of those games, Thorne came off the bench before starting against Penn State. In the Penn State game, Thorne amassed 325 yards and three touchdowns.

That yardage total set a record for a Michigan State quarterback in their first start.

Michigan State opens the season on Sept. 3 with a primetime matchup at Northwestern.