The Michigan State Spartans and quarterback Aidan Chiles looked improved during the 27-24 win over the Maryland Terrapins.
Chiles, a transfer from Oregon State, spent last season sitting behind now Florida State starting quarterback DJ Uiagalelei. Chiles struggled in his starting debut for the team, recording 11 completions for just 114 yards and two interceptions. The quarterback struggled with turnovers still, but looked to be on a much better, much more confident page with his receivers during the win over the Terrapins.
Michigan State Spartans, QB Aidan Chiles Look Improved Against Maryland Terrapins
The Michigan State football team looked improved during their win over the Maryland Terrapins after a narrow game against the FAU Owls. The Spartans defense came up clutch for the team multiple times against a strong Terrapins offense. On offense, the Michigan State football team and quarterback Aidan chiles looked improved over their first showing this season.
While Chiles may have made mistakes, including three interceptions against the Terrapins, the quarterback also showcased what he can offer the offense. Freshman wide receiver Nick Marsh is developing into the clear favorite for Chiles when looking deep down the field. Marsh hauled in a big 77-yard touchdown reception after Chiles put the ball right on the money for the receiver.
During the first game of the season, the Michigan State football team seemed to struggle with finding their offensive identity. However, in the second game, the Spartans took plenty more shots down field and used their run game to throw the Terrapins off balance. Running backs Nate Carter and Kay’Ron Lynch-Adams displayed excellent physical running play that helped break off big chunks of yardage.
How Can the Michigan State Football Staff Further Develop Chiles?
Moving forward with Chiles, the Michigan State football staff should pull in the aggressiveness of their quarterback a tad bit. His first interception of the game occurred on an overthrow in double coverage, which led to the deep safety picking off his pass. Even if the intended receiver, freshman Nick Marsh, somehow caught the ball, the other defender would have been in position to deliver a massive hit.
The second interception was in single coverage and the intended receiver actually had his man beat, but Chiles again threw the ball to a deep cornerback. The cornerback red the play perfectly and was able to drop back fast enough to catch the ball and run out of the back of the end zone. Despite the receiver being relatively open, it would have taken a great throw and Chiles did not need to force a touchdown at that point in time.
The third interception for Chiles actually looks like a fumble at first, but since his arm came forward and the ball was caught by the defense, it was ruled an interception. Chiles is still developing a feel for the pocket and judging by the amount of hits he has taken through two games, it may take a while. The offensive line has also struggled and allowed far too many people past, but Chiles has wheels and should exit the pocket more often.
Chiles also struggled at times to recognize the situation he was in, which is something the Michigan State football staff must correct. During a play in the third quarter, Chiles rushed the ball on third down near the marker, but ran out of bounds without extending himself or the ball past the marker. Maryland scored and took a 24-17 lead just a few plays later.
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