Harlon Barnett sticking with Noah Kim at quarterback

Michigan State‘s quarterbacks struggled in the Big Ten opener against Maryland. Noah Kim was the initial starter but two interceptions frustrated the Spartan faithful and acting head coach Harlon Barnett decided to make a change. Katin Houser and Sam Leavitt got opportunities on Saturday.

Barnett gave an update on who Michigan State was going to be rolling with moving forward, saying Kim was going to be the guy. He acknowledges the interceptions but also likes what Kim can potentially bring to the table as a dual-threat quarterback.

“We’re going to stick with how we have it right now with Noah being our quarterback,” Barnett said. “The glaring thing is the interceptions but he put some balls on the money where guys have got to make those plays. I like the nice run. I like him running a little bit, personally. That’s just me because he’s fast. So, he can put pressure on a defense running the football.”

Kim completed 18 of 32 pass attempts, having 190 yards (5.9 YPA), just one touchdown, and two interceptions. On the ground — an area Barnett said he likes Kim — the quarterback had six yards on eight carries. But Maryland had three sacks mixed in there.

As for the other two guys, Barnett said Houser did the job Michigan State asked him to, and Leavitt was able to get some good experience. While they might not be the starting quarterback heading into next week, both got positive reviews from the staff.

“Katin came in there and did his job,” Barnett said. “Did what we asked him to do and try to come in and help us. And then I thought it was good to get Sam in there and get some minutes and get a feel.”

Six of Houser’s 10 throws were completed, going for 75 yards. Leavitt was successful on his two attempts but went for just nine yards. Not the biggest sample size from either player. Barnett must think if Michigan State is going to win games moving forward, the experience is going to help the offense out.

Michigan State has Iowa next up on the schedule, with both teams having a 0-1 record in the Big Ten. Barnett will be looking to get his first win as the Spartans’ acting head coach, something that has been a long time in the making. Doing so on the road will be a tough challenge.