Jaziun Patterson Makes the Most of His Opportunity

It was a wild game in East Lansing last Saturday when the Michigan State Spartans fell short in overtime, losing 38-37 after a failed two-point conversion attempt ended the game. Through all the chaos, however, one player stood above the rest. One player dominated the game, and his name is Jaziun Patterson.

Michigan State's starting running back was thrust into the role after star running back Cam Edwards was ruled out for the season. Patterson embraced the opportunity but found little running room in his first start against Wisconsin.

Then came Week 6, when the Spartans hosted Illinois. The Fighting Illini did not boast one of the Big Ten's top defenses, presenting a favorable matchup for Patterson. However, the running back got off to a slower start on the ground. He made an early impact as a receiver, catching a touchdown to lift Michigan State's spirits when things seemed to be falling apart for the green and white.

Then came the second half and overtime, when Patterson finally broke through with a huge 36-yard run. He ultimately found the end zone three more times after his receiving touchdown, completing a four-touchdown performance for the Spartans.

Many might have expected Edwards to produce that kind of performance, but instead, Patterson exploded onto the scene. He finished the day with 17 carries for 93 rushing yards and three touchdowns on the ground, along with three receptions for 26 receiving yards and another touchdown through the air. In total, Patterson accounted for 119 yards and four touchdowns on 20 touches.

The Spartans knew their identity would revolve around a ground-and-pound approach, controlling time of possession and winning battles in the trenches. However, as the defense has struggled at times to contain opposing offenses, Michigan State has been forced to stray from that identity.

Even in difficult circumstances, head coach Pat Fitzgerald and offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan know what kind of team they want to build. They have continued to emphasize the running game, and against Illinois, Patterson helped deliver the results they needed.

Nicknamed the "Jazmanian Devil," a play on the Tasmanian Devil from the classic Looney Tunes cartoon, Patterson is quickly running his way into the hearts of Michigan State fans and coaches alike.

Through six games this season, Patterson has recorded 61 rushing attempts for 255 yards, averaging 4.2 yards per carry, and has scored six total touchdowns. His performance against Illinois could be a sign of what's to come as he continues to settle into his expanded role.

Now, the Spartans will play host to the Northwestern Wildcats. While the major storylines will revolve around Pat Fitzgerald and Aidan Chiles returning to their former schools, another matchup deserves attention.

Northwestern currently ranks among the four worst teams in the Big Ten in rushing defense, allowing 147.2 rushing yards per game. That could create another significant opportunity for Patterson to break through and build on his breakout performance.

With Edwards sidelined for the season, Michigan State needs someone to carry the load in the backfield. Against Illinois, Patterson showed he could be that player.

The Jazmanian Devil has arrived, and the Spartans may need another big performance from him this weekend.