Chris Solari

Detroit Free Press

EAST LANSING -- It’s official: Michigan State has a quarterback competition.

Three days after coach Mark Dantonio said he didn’t want to create controversy, the Spartans have all three of their veteran quarterbacks separated by “or” on the depth chart for Saturday’s homecoming game against Northwestern (3:30 p.m., Big Ten Network).

Fifth-year senior Tyler O’Connor is the only one with starting experience, but he was pulled after three quarters of MSU’s 31-14 loss to BYU on Saturday. Junior Damion Terry replaced him for the final quarter, throwing an interception and leading a touchdown drive. Redshirt freshman Brian Lewerke played the final drive in the loss to Wisconsin on Sept. 24 but has not played since.

The Spartans also have other questions on their depth chart, including a choice between Brian Allen or Benny McGowan at either center or right guard. Kodi Kieler, who left late in the first half against BYU and did not return to the game, is listed as the starting left tackle, with redshirt freshman Cole Chewins as his backup. Tyler Higby remains the starter at left guard, with former guard Brandon Clemons now strictly listed as a defensive tackle.

At running back, it’s once again tri-starters between LJ Scott, Gerald Holmes and Madre London. Josiah Price and Jamal Lyles remain co-starters at tight end.

Defensively, cornerback Darian Hicks is listed as starter after sitting out the BYU game with a hip injury. Linebacker Riley Bullough (right shoulder) remains listed as No. 2 at middle linebacker. Byron Bullough is No. 3 after leaving the game Saturday with an undisclosed injury.

True freshman Justin Layne is now listed on both sides of the depth chart: No. 3 at one wide receiver spot and No. 2 at cornerback, behind starter Vayante Copeland. Freshman Auston Robertson is up to No. 2 at defensive end.

Solari: Michigan State QB competition may not right ship for 2016

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