MSU’s MVP: How the Spartans’ Best Player Is Carrying the Team Forward”…READ…MORE…

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“MSU’s MVP: How the Spartans’ Best Player Is Carrying the Team Forward”…READ…MORE…

MSU’s MVP: How the Spartans’ Best Player Is Carrying the Team Forward

In a season marked by rebuilding and resilience, one player has emerged as the undeniable heartbeat of the Michigan State Spartans: running back Nate Carter. As the 2025 college football season hits its midpoint, Carter has cemented his status as the team’s MVP, providing leadership, production, and a much-needed spark on both sides of the ball.

Through seven games, Carter has rushed for 785 yards and 9 touchdowns, averaging 5.6 yards per carry. He’s also added value as a receiver, hauling in 21 catches for 213 yards, showcasing his versatility and reliability. More importantly, his performance has come at crucial moments—converting third downs, scoring late-game touchdowns, and giving the Spartans momentum when it was desperately needed.

“Nate’s been everything we hoped for and more,” said head coach Jonathan Smith. “He’s the kind of player that makes everyone around him better—his work ethic, his toughness, and his drive set the tone for this team.”

Carter transferred to Michigan State from UConn and made an immediate impact upon arrival. In a year where the Spartans faced numerous roster changes and a transition under a new coaching staff, Carter’s consistency has been a stabilizing force. His ability to break tackles, extend plays, and energize the offense has kept Michigan State competitive in tight matchups—even against powerhouse Big Ten opponents.

In a recent upset win over Maryland, Carter was unstoppable. He racked up 143 rushing yards and two touchdowns, including a game-sealing 47-yard breakaway that brought Spartan Stadium to life. After the game, Carter downplayed the spotlight, crediting the offensive line and teammates for the win.

“I just do my job,” Carter said. “We’ve got a lot of guys grinding every day, and I’m just proud to be a part of this group.”

Teammates are quick to praise Carter’s leadership off the field as well. Quarterback Katin Houser noted Carter’s role in the locker room: “He leads by example, and he’s vocal when we need it. We look to him in crunch time—he always answers.”

Carter’s MVP-like performance is also drawing national attention. He’s currently on the watch list for the Doak Walker Award, given annually to the nation’s top running back. Analysts have also begun to discuss his NFL potential, citing his vision, strength, and balance as traits that translate to the next level.

Despite the praise, Carter remains focused on helping the Spartans finish strong.

“We’ve got a lot of football left,” he said. “My mindset is one game at a time—stay humble, stay hungry.”

With Michigan State sitting at a respectable 4–3, the team is still eyeing bowl eligibility. If Carter continues to perform at this level, the Spartans could surprise critics down the stretch. In a season where questions surrounded Michigan State’s identity, Nate Carter has provided a clear answer—he’s the engine driving them forward.