Transfer OL Tanner Miller Likely to Start For Spartans

While depth chart spots are not typically determined in spring football, it seems Oregon State transfer Tanner Miller is a lock to start at center for Michigan State this fall.

Michigan State offensive line coach Jim Michalczik didn't explicitly mention that during last week's media availability, but he did confirm that Miller would play center for the Spartans in 2024 after starting at guard for the Beavers a season ago. Miller is also the only offensive lineman who has previously played in the system Michigan State coach Jonathan Smith and offensive coordinator Brian Lindgren brought to East Lansing.

"I started off as a center and realized that, my dad always told me to be available at as many positions as you can," Miller said. "So, knowing guard, center and the other guard makes me more available and gives me more of an opportunity to get on the field. ... Last year, played more guard than center, but had to come in a little bit because of injuries. And here, more of a center because I know the offense and all that."

The center position is the most important along the offensive line in terms of communication. The center recognizes blitzes and makes sure his fellow hog mollies know their blocking assignments. Miller's familiarity with Michalczik and the offense gives him a head start over the rest of the Spartan offensive linemen.

"Being with the other guys, they like having me in there because I can call the stuff quick, and by me calling it quick it kind of helps them out," Miller said. "It's kind of a progression ... if the front guy's good, then we got everybody else on the same page. So, getting it all squared away and playing fast and physical is what we need to get to."

Miller also has familiarity with sophomore quarterback Aidan Chiles, who transferred with Miller from Oregon State.

"Last year, I was the starting right guard and also the backup center," Miller said. "So, in practice, me and Aidan got a lot of reps, so our chemistry is kind of there and our feel for each other is there."

The Michigan State Spartan Football Spring Green and White Game (Spring Showcase) will be held at the High Cathedral of the Spartan Nation, Spartan Stadium, on April 20, 2024, at 2 p.m.

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