A Detroit sports radio host has going into the season with a bold projection for Michigan State. Mike Valenti of 97.1 The Ticket named Aidan Chiles the Spartans’ breakout player for 2025 and floated a headline-grabbing idea: Chiles could lead the Big Ten in passing this season.
Valenti argued on his show that Michigan State has the pieces in place for a big leap. He pointed to an improved offensive line and a receiving corps that has finally added the speed they were missing, thanks to the transfer portal. He noted that Chiles faced growing pains as a first-year starter last season and should take a significant step forward in his second year as the starter.
Last season, Chiles threw for 2,415 yards with 13 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He also contributed 225 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns. Valenti suggested that if Chiles can become the conference’s leading passer, Michigan State could rise into the Big Ten’s upper tier this year. He stressed that while the prediction is bold, he believes in a meaningful year-two maturation for Chiles and even hinted at a strong finish as Chiles approaches a potential big senior season in 2026.
The Spartans open their season next week, and Valenti’s take adds an extra layer of intrigue around how MSU will deploy its revamped offense.
What to watch
– Pass protection and the offensive line’s ability to keep Chiles clean
– The speed and playmaking ability added at wide receiver through the portal, and how Nick Marsh fits as a top target
– Chiles’ decision-making and ball security as he builds on last year’s experience
– How the schedule and home/road matchups could shape his passing volume and efficiency
Why this matters
A breakout season from Chiles could accelerate Michigan State’s ceiling for 2025, influence how the offense is built around him, and impact recruiting momentum. If the Spartans can unlock a prolific passing attack, they could become a tougher matchup within the Big Ten and generate momentum heading into the 2026 season.
Summary note
The piece centers on a bold, timely take from a prominent local voice, pairing it with recent on-field context and projected factors that could determine whether Chiles can deliver a breakout season in 2025.
Positive note
If Chiles does elevate his production and leads the conference in passing, it could mark a turning point for MSU’s offense and boost overall team confidence, setting the stage for a memorable season.
Overall, Valenti’s hot take adds energy to the preseason chatter and highlights the key areas the Spartans need to address to reach a higher level in 2025.