“We sort of feel like our football team has a little bit of an edge to them right now. We’ve got a lot of experience back,” Dantonio said in a release by the Big Ten.

Ranking second in the nation last season in fewest touchdowns allowed with 20, MSU found its strength in its defense. The team will look to continue its defensive authority next season.

“The defensive side of the ball is loaded with seven starters — back with a lot of players ready to make their mark,” Dantonio said.

Senior linebackers Max Bullough and Denicos Allen will lead the MSU defense.

Last year, an inexperienced Andrew Maxwell and the wide receivers struggled to get on the same page at the beginning of the season.

Maxwell now has 13 games of starting experience under his belt, as well as a returning core of receivers, and Dantonio expressed confidence in his offense.

“Right now, Andrew is our No. 1 quarterback,” Dantonio said. “He’s got a great deal of experience and a lot of confidence right now.”

Dantonio has changed the culture of MSU football and hopes to bring the team back on track in 2013.

“It will always be our hope to chase the dream as I said, to go to the Rose Bowl, to become a champion at the highest level, to get into the championship format,” Dantonio said.

Senior offensive guard Blake Treadwell and Max Bullough and senior cornerback Darqueze Dennard will speak Thursday at the media days luncheon.