There’s been a lot of discussion about Chiles being the starting quarterback this upcoming season, what he’ll have to do to help the Spartans succeed after last season and if he has the skills to lead Michigan State to high achievements.

In his eyes, he’s got what it takes.

“I love the pressure, I get to prove what I can do this year," Chiles said in a press conference after practice on Thursday. "The pressure isn’t there, not in my mind. I think I’m the best quarterback in the Big Ten (and) in the nation. Everybody has (that mentality), but my job is to prove it.”

It’s not just him that needs to perform well, however. While Chiles is part of the equation, the team playing together is what solves the numerous problems last season’s team had, something that Chiles said will come together throughout the preseason.

“I think we have all the tools we need (to win), we just need to put it together now,” Chiles said.

Offensive coordinator and quarterback coach Brian Lindgren, who also came from Oregon State, said the team is improving every day and will have “most of what we’re doing by game one” on August 30. 

Part of this preseason from a coach’s perspective, Lindgren said, is affirming that Chiles can lead the team, a process that will take a lot of time and effort.

“We’re challenging (Chiles) on maturity,” Lindgren said. “I’ve seen him take steps. We’re just looking for it more consistently.”

Chiles said that since coming to Michigan State, it’s “cool being able to take that leadership role" to help and work with younger players when possible. 

“I’m the type of person to encourage you (when leading),” Chiles said. “I’m not their boss, I’m just here to be with them.”

As the preseason unfolds, it will become clearer how Chiles will handle the pressure of being the starting quarterback and how he’ll lead the team.