East Lansing — Entering this season, much was expected of safety Montae Nicholson.
The Michigan State sophomore showed plenty of promise as a true freshman, appearing in all 13 games and starting three.
But during the second half of last weekend’s victory over Central Michigan, Nicholson found himself on the sidelines as Demetrious Cox moved from cornerback to take over for Nicholson at safety.
Mark Dantonio said Nicholson simply needed to play better.
That point was expanded Wednesday by co-defensive coordinator Mike Tressel.
“Attention to detail (and) discipline,” Tressel said of things Nicholson needs to improve.