As a sophomore, 18-year-old starting quarterback Chiles was chosen as one of the captains. Chiles said in the past eight months since coming to Michigan State, he has seen himself become more of a “vocal” leader, and he's had to find that voice in himself to help lead those around him. 

“I chose that role to step up and decided to bring that energy everyday and talk to my teammates and just try to get with them throughout practices and throughout fall camp,” Chiles said. “And I know fall camp is tiring, you have to be there, someone has to bring that energy every day and I chose to be that guy.”

Chiles is now the only one amongst the captain group who still remains in his teen years and has taken on a role as a primary leader on the team. But, Chiles said he treats everyone as they are equals to him, building relationships throughout the entire squad.

“Whether it’s the starting offensive line or defensive line, whether it’s the starting guys all the way down to the walk-ons, (Chiles) spends time talking to everybody, and he makes certain that he builds that relationship with everyone,” Hansen said. “He talks to all the trainers and he talks to all the support staff… He just has so much influence because he talks to everyone and he truly cares about everybody, and that shows and that’s why everyone voted him captain, because he earned it.”

The grind has continued for the team throughout this week. Hansen said the hard work from everyone, no matter who it is, is felt throughout the practice field, and the team continues to grow and get better every single day.  

With the young team heading out under the lights of Spartan Stadium next Friday, wide receivers coach Courtney Hawkins said the team is itching to get out on the field to play competitive ball.

“I’m really excited to see the product that we put on the field next Friday, and to see these guys play in front of 80,000 people, and lights and cameras, let’s see who they are,” Hawkins said.