“We’re doing a game right now where (Smith will) call you out in the team meeting, and put up a picture of someone,” Kim said. “You have to know their name and where they’re from."

Sophomore defensive lineman Jalen Thompson said Smith has put a lot of emphasis on being a team, whereas last year he felt everyone was in their own lane. In doing so, Smith has been able to create more team chemistry and trust on and off the field between players, Thompson said.

After practice Thursday, co-special teams coordinator and running backs coach Keith Bhonapha said when it comes to special teams, the staff is trying to evaluate talent, dependability and consistency and create depth.

During practices, Bhonapha said he's looking for players who can transition well between offense and special teams. He highlighted the importance of finding players with a competitive mindset and good fundamentals over size and speed. Bhonapha values self-awareness in his players and said Massachusetts transfer running back Kay'Ron Lynch-Adams has that quality.

“I knew (Adams) went to Rutgers, and I asked him why he left, and he said he was immature and he probably should’ve stayed,” Bhonapha said. “As soon as he said that, I’m like, 'this is the kind of guy I want in my room.'”

Because Adams transferred to MSU this past offseason, he didn’t have the opportunity to get in reps during the spring. Bhonapha said he’s playing a bit of catch-up to his teammate Nathan Carter, MSU's projected starter at halfback. Yet, Bhonapha said Carter and Adams share many of the same attributes, mentally and physically.

Adams said the running back group as a whole is explosive, and Bhonapha has done a good job preparing them for practice; plus, the group has a lot of camaraderie.

“I always say 'iron sharpens iron,' so I think we’re going to continue to get better because we keep pushing each other each day,” Adams said.

Co-special teams coordinator Chad Wilt said the players are very focused and have been prioritizing how to better their craft.

“They come out every day with an intent and goal of, 'I’m going to get better at this'” Wilt said.

Wilt emphasized the importance of setting high expectations for the team and stressed the need for patience and long-term commitment from players. Players have been building up relationships with each other as well as their coaches to further that commitment.

The coaches plan to further evaluate the players’ performances during a scrimmage Saturday.