Michigan State football: Nikai Martinez Available, Several Players Out for Youngstown State Game
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Safety Nikai Martinez, who missed the first two games with an undisclosed injury, is not listed on the pregame availability report when the Spartans (2-0) host Youngstown State (2-0) on saturday (3:40 p.m., BTN).
Martinez, who played more defensive snaps than anyone else on the team last season, was listed as out each of the first two weeks as Armorion Smith took his place in the starting lineup.
While Martinez is available to return, offensive tackle Ashton Lepo is among the six Michigan State players listed as out against the Penguins, an FCS program. Lepo, the starting right tackle last season, has been part of an offensive line rotation that went eight deep in last week’s 42-40 double-overtime win against Boston College.
The other Spartans listed as out against Youngstown State are defensive backs Caleb gash and Andrew Brinson, starting long snapper Kaden Schickel, kicker Tarik Ahmetbasic and defensive tackle Jalen Satchell.
A program spokesman said Gash and Brinson are out for the season.
Expert Context
The availability of Nikai Martinez is considered a positive advancement for the Michigan State defense,given his important playing time in the previous season. The team is managing several injuries, impacting depth at multiple positions. The game against Youngstown State, an FCS opponent, provides an possibility to assess player combinations and prepare for the upcoming Big Ten schedule. The Spartans’ recent double-overtime victory suggests a competitive spirit, but maintaining consistency will be crucial as the season progresses.
Michigan State is looking to move to 3-0 for the second straight year under coach Jonathan Smith before opening Big Ten play next week at USC.
Timeline
- September 2023: Nikai Martinez is listed as out for the first two games with an undisclosed injury.
- September 2023: Michigan State begins the season with a 2-0 record.
- September 2023: Caleb Gash and Andrew Brinson are announced as out for the season.
- September 2023: Michigan State is scheduled to play Youngstown State on Saturday.
The Spartans aim to continue their winning streak and achieve a 3-0 start to the season, building momentum before entering the challenging Big Ten conference schedule, with football being central to their ambitions.
Michigan State Football Injury Update: FAQ
Michigan State prepares to face Youngstown State with key players returning and others sidelined.
Q: Who is returning for Michigan State against youngstown state?
A: Defensive back Nikai Martinez is available to return for the Spartans’ upcoming game. His availability is a positive growth for the Michigan State defense, considering his significant playing time last season.
Q: Which Michigan State offensive linemen are out for the Youngstown State game?
A: Offensive tackle Ashton Lepo is one of six Michigan State players listed as out against the FCS program.Lepo was the starting right tackle last season and part of an offensive line rotation.
Q: Are there other defensive backs sidelined for Michigan State?
A: Yes, defensive backs Caleb Gash and Andrew Brinson are also listed as out. A program spokesman confirmed that both Gash and Brinson are out for the entire season.
Q: Who is the starting long snapper for Michigan State, and is he playing?
A: Starting long snapper Kaden Schickel is among the players listed as out against Youngstown State.
Q: Will kicker Tarik Ahmetbasic be available for the Youngstown State game?
A: No, kicker Tarik Ahmetbasic is listed as out for the game against the Penguins.
Q: Is defensive tackle jalen Satchell playing against Youngstown State?
A: Defensive tackle Jalen Satchell is also among the Michigan State players listed as out for the upcoming game.
Q: What is Michigan State’s current record?
A: Michigan State began the season with a 2-0 record as of September 2023.
Q: What is Michigan State’s goal before entering Big Ten play?
A: The Spartans are looking to move to 3-0 for the second straight year under coach Jonathan Smith before opening big Ten play next week at USC, building momentum with their football ambitions.
Q: When does Michigan state begin Big Ten conference play?
A: Michigan State is scheduled to open Big Ten play next week at USC, following their game against Youngstown State.
Q: What was the meaning of Michigan State’s victory last week?
A: Michigan state secured a hard-fought 42-40 double-overtime win last week against Boston College.
Michigan State aims to maintain its undefeated streak and build momentum before the challenging Big Ten schedule begins.
