Dantonio Discusses Ducks

This is one of the most important weeks in Mark Dantonio’s career.

Coming off a Big Ten Championship, Rose Bowl Championship and most recently a 45-7 victory in his first game of the season against Jacksonville State, Michigan State is ranked No. 8 in the AP top 25.

His team’s next challenge will be a test that is sure to have playoff implications, as they travel to Eugene, Ore., to face the No. 3 ranked Oregon Ducks.

Dantonio did not discuss any injuries that occurred against Jacksonville State. There have been no changes to the depth chart as of yet, but do not be surprised if there are last minute changes on Saturday.

While this is arguably the biggest non conference game in Dantonio’s tenure as head coach, he is confident the Spartans can compete and is treating the game just like any other game. Just like the the first game of the season, the Oregon game is an opportunity for MSU to make a statement.

Dantonio on playing against Oregon:

      Mark-Dantonio-Oregon-Presser

Michigan State will practice in East Lansing on Thursday morning, then fly out to Oregon later in the day.

Dantonio and the MSU coaching staff had a chance to study Oregon last spring and over the summer, but this week will be the first that is fully devoted to preparation for the Ducks’ high-paced offense.

While they are treating this game just like any other game, Dantonio emphasized the importance of keeping emotions in check for the players as well as the coaches.

Dantonio on preparing for Oregon:

      Mark-Dantonio-Oregon-Presser1

Bradley Allen is a multimedia reporter for Impact Sports.

Photo: Bradley Allen/Impact Sports