Reinforcements arrive in Madison as the Spartans regain key defensive depth, leaning on freshman standout Brady Pretzlaff to anchor the linebacking corps despite devastating injuries to two stars.

The Spartans face a depleted roster for their Big Ten opener as injuries sideline rising star linebacker Brady Pretzlaff and key offensive blocker Jay Coyne against Nebraska.

Here are the players who have jumped out the most through the first two games of the year.

MSU LB Brady Pretzlaff_ From Injury to Starting Role

Michigan State LB Brady Pretzlaff broke down having to step up in win over Eastern Michigan.

Brady Pretzlaff missed most of last season after a shoulder injury. The sophomore is now a starting linebacker for Joe Rossi's Michigan State defense.

MSU DC Joe Rossi _ Meet Our Fierce New Linebacker