What MSU DL Ben Roberts said about new staff, becoming veteran leader this spring

One of the Spartans' top returning players met with the media on Tuesday to discuss the progression of the team so far this spring. Defensive lineman Ben Roberts is back as a fifth year senior, and on Tuesday he caught up with the local media to provide some perspective on the Spartans from the first few weeks of spring practice. Roberts talked about the changes from the previous coaching staff to the new staff, and how he personally has taken on a new leadership role as a veteran.

Here are some of the highlights from Roberts' media session following a spring practice session on Tuesday morning: Roberts stated the entire team has bought into what new head coach Pat Fitzgerald has started to build, with the team having "faith" and "belief" in Fitzgerald. Roberts said he had no doubt that he would return for his senior season at Michigan State. Roberts noted one of his reasons for returning to Michigan State was the retention of defensive coordinator Joe Rossi -- "Who wouldn't want to play for Coach Rossi?

He brings the fire every day. " Roberts stated the players on the roster "want to be here" at Michigan State, and is confident everyone is bought into the idea of getting Michigan State back "on top, where it belongs. " Roberts said he has no choice but to be a leader and to take players under his wing -- "It's about guiding them, leading them, taking them under my wing.

After we leave, they have the program. " Roberts said the players are in the facility at 4:30 a. m.