Michigan State’s bid to defend its Big Ten championship got a lift Tuesday with the announcement Brandon Clemons has been granted a sixth year of eligibility by the NCAA.
A veteran of 32 college games, Clemons is a three-year letter-winner and has already earned his degree in psychology.
With the Spartans offensive line dealing with significant injuries for much of the 2015 season, Clemons was an important part of the rotation and saw time in 13 games.
“Brandon Clemons adds a great deal of experience and stability to the offensive line,” coach Mark Dantonio said in a news release.
The 6-3, 303-pounder figures to vie for a starting role this fall on a unit that lost All-Americans Jack Conklin and Jack Allen at tackle and center, respectively, as well as starting guard Donavon Clark.
“I believe the team is only as good as the seniors,” Dantonio said. “Brandon has been part of a winning culture here the past five years and we’re excited he’s getting the opportunity to maintain that level of excellence for his sixth season. He’s everything you’re looking for in a quality student-athlete. He earned his degree last year and will be a go-to guy in the offensive line room this season for our football team.”
With quarterback Connor Cook and top receiver Aaron Burbridge among those graduating, the Spartans face a major rebuild on offense.
However, a four-headed monster at tailback including Big Ten championship game hero L.J. Scott could give Dantonio’s team a major building block if the line can come together quickly.