Dantonio: Connor Cook can become a 100-Yard Rusher

“I think I have to start the deal with saying, is that the biggest pumpkin you’ve ever seen down in the lobby?”

The head coach was all smiles, after his Spartans defeated the Indiana Hoosiers last Saturday, 42-28.

However, he was back to business as usual.

As expected, Dantonio was asked on the improvement of quarterback Connor Cook this season, and delivered an unexpected answer about the rushing ability of the signal caller.

“I think Connor can create and become a 100-yard rusher,” Dantonio said.

Which is a scary thought, adding the quarterback on top of a rapidly improving rushing attack behind Jeremy Langford and Delton Williams.

Dantonio also complimented the receiving core, particularly Tony Lippett, saying he is looking better than ever, and, “playing with a chip on his shoulder.”

When asked about facing the 1-5 Purdue Boilermakers, he stressed that they are improving and cannot be taken lightly. Dantonio cited true freshman quarterback Danny Etling as proof, who is only starting his second game.

There is no question that this team has received a fair amount of criticism this season. But the team is finally receiving some praise, which is also an obstacle, according to Dantonio.

“We’ve handled some adversity, now we have to be able to handle a little success.”

 

Dan Tyler is the host of Spartan Red Zone for Impact Sports.

Photo: David Defever