Michigan State picks up commitment from former four-star running back
A talented running back has decided to stay in the Big Ten. Jalen Berger, a former four-star recruit that began his collegiate career with the Wisconsin Badgers, has committed to the Michigan State Spartans. Berger announced his commitment on Twitter Monday afternoon.
Berger was dismissed from the Wisconsin program earlier in the season. He appeared in seven career games for the Badgers, rushing 84 times for 389 yards and three touchdowns. Berger also had four receptions for 30 yards. After being dismissed from Wisconsin, Berger entered the transfer portal, which led him to Michigan State.
He visited the Spartans a few weeks ago. With star Michigan State running back Kenneth Walker likely to move on to the NFL after the season, Berger could be in line for a major role right away in the Spartans offense.
Could a Kenneth Walker-like season be coming for Berger?
If Walker indeed does depart for the NFL after the season, Berger could have a similar story next season for Michigan State. Walker had just over 200 career carries in two seasons at Wake Forest with just over 1,000 total rushing yards and 17 touchdowns. But in Walker’s first season in Michigan State’s offense, he carried the ball 263 times for 1,636 yards and 18 touchdowns, also adding 13 receptions for 89 yards and another score.
Walker has played himself into Heisman consideration, and he is likely to be the top running back taken, or close to it, if he enters the NFL Draft. That must be music to Berger’s ears.
Running back Jordon Simmons also had a role in Michigan State’s offense. Simmons rushed 54 times for 255 yards on the season. Michigan State head coach Mel Tucker struck gold after his first season with the Spartans by getting Walker. Now, Tucker is hoping that he has struck gold two years in a row in the running back transfer market.