Michigan State's Mark Dantonio comes to defense of Dan Roushar

The Michigan State Spartans football team hasn't been as explosive as some believe it should be, leading some to believe that issue is due to offensive coordinator Dan Roushar. The blame shouldn't be on the coaching staff, however, according to head coach Mark Dantonio.

Dantonio spoke to the media on Tuesday, coming to the defense of his offensive coordinator while placing the blame firmly on the players -- and himself, if anyone on the staff is to be criticized.

"It's about players making plays," Dantonio said Tuesday. "The offense really has not changed. Play-calling, you try to help guys make plays. My impression of the whole thing right now is (Roushar) is tucked right here under my wing. They want to criticize, they can criticize me a little bit because I'm in charge."

Michigan State currently sits in the middle of the road with a 4-4 record through eight games this season, but Dantonio believes that injuries on the offensive line and an inexperienced quarterback -- not the playcalling -- should be blamed for the Spartans' mediocre start.

The Spartans are currently ranked eleventh in the Big Ten as far as scoring offense is concerned.