Editor's note: This is the seventh part of a series projecting Michigan State's depth chart by position heading into fall camp.
Andrew Dowell, Joe Bachie and Chris Frey.
Those were Michigan State's starting linebackers last season - all 13 games.
Good health and continuity at the position were significant changes from the 2016 season in which the Spartans started six different linebackers while limping to a 3-9 finish. They also helped lead to an improved performance for the defense.
Aided by a strong defensive line, Michigan State finished second in the nation in run defense at 95.