LINCOLN, Neb. − The injury issues continue to grow for Michigan State football, even with the return of linebacker Wayne Matthews III.

The Spartans will be without two starters in their defensive backfield against Nebraska, with both safety Nikai Martinez and nickelback Ade Willie out for the 4 p.m. game (FS1) on Saturday, Oct. 4.

It is tough timing for MSU, which ranks 115th in FBS in both passing yards allowed (263.5) and passing efficiency defense (149.81).

Huskers quarterback Dylan Raiola, the son of former Detroit Lions and Nebraska offensive lineman Dominic Raiola, has completed 75.6% of his passes while throwing for 1,137 yards and 11 touchdowns to just one pick this season.

The injuries likely will thrust senior Armorion Smith back into starting duty at one of those spots

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