MSU's upset of Maryland raised their ceiling and expectations for this season. Not only can the Spartans use Saturday to work out kinks against a lesser team, but they can also utilize this opportunity to dominate and confirm they belong in a different conversation than a team like Prairie View.

Still, players and coaches aren't taking the Panthers lightly.

“We’re gonna respect everybody that we play, but we’re not gonna fear anyone we play,” sophomore linebacker Jordan Hall said after practice Wednesday.

Defensive Line Coach Legi Suiaunoa said the team has been playing with effort, energy and poise, even in stressful situations. 

However, MSU’s defense has totaled five injuries in the last two weeks, the most recent a long-term, upper-body injury to starting sophomore defensive back Chance Rucker, who will be out six to eight weeks, Smith said.

Even with the injuries, Suiaunoa is confident anyone on the defense can step up.

“I don’t have any lack of confidence if one goes out for the other. Those guys are working their tails off,” Suiaunoa said.

With two games under their belt, coaches and players have gained a better understanding of their capabilities and can now curate a game plan highlighting the team's skillset, Suiaunoa said.

MSU’s defense has been its strength thus far, particularly in its first game against FAU. Prairie View has given up an average of 29 points per game through two showings. 

Yet, the Spartans had the second-most penalty yards in the country last week, sacrificing 100, which Smith was not pleased with.

Smith said he's looking to see more physicality at pad level and players finishing plays on both sides. 

Having a couple of wins under their belt is encouraging, Smith said, and with each game, the Spartans are gaining more confidence and chemistry. 

“I would describe it as tight-knight, even though we have so many new faces,” Smith said.

Some of the enhanced chemistry was showcased last week when MSU sophomore quarterback Aidan Chiles and freshman wide receiver Nick Marsh connected eight times for 194 yards and a game-tying touchdown in the fourth quarter.

Wide Receivers Coach Courtney Hawkins said he liked how the team responded to the pressure of being on the road. Smith and company will only feel more comfortable at Spartan Stadium with each game. 

Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 14 at Spartan Stadium. Big Ten Network will air the game.