Spartans lose Ed Davis for the season

Michigan State linebacker Ed Davis is out for the season after injuring his knee in practice Wednesday. The linebacker suffered the injury during Wednesday’s practice, and an MRI determined that surgery will be required to fix the injury. “Ed is a tremendous playmaker and a solid leader”, coach Mark Dantonio said in a statement.

Michigan State flexed a bit of its newly established national appeal with this class, signing players from atypical areas such as Arizona, California, Florida, Texas, Utah and Virginia. As well, the absence of Davis’ pass-rushing skills makes it all the more important that All-Big Ten defensive end Shilique Calhoun, also a senior, has a productive year on passing downs.

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“Our program has faced adversity before, so now it’s time to adopt the “next man up” mentality”, Dantonio said. According to that system, Davis was the most productive player on the defense in 2014 as he finished the season with 58 tackles and seven sacks. “Ed’s season-ending injury provides others with an opportunity to have a positive impact on this team”. A native of Detroit, Davis was named to the watch lists for both the Nagurski and Bednarik Awards. Sophomore Chris Frey or JUCO linebacker Drake Martinez could take his spot.

As Dantonio mentioned, it’s possible Davis could seek a medical waiver and be granted a sixth year of eligibility, which would allow him to return next season.