Can Michigan State's B.J. Cunningham's Injury Help Alabama?

By Larry Burton, Syndicated Writer

Alabama wasn't the same when Julio Jones was on the sideline, and Michigan State may be the same way without leading receiver B.J. Cunningham, who accounted for nine touchdowns this season.

Michigan State's offense is eerily similar to Alabama's; their bread and butter is using the pass to take some of the pressure off the running game, just like Alabama.

However, just as with Alabama, there are other talented players ready to stand up and shine. Michigan State will miss not only Cunningham's athleticism, but also his experience.

Keshawn Martin, Mark Dell, Keith Nichol and Bennie Fowler are expected to step up in Cunningham’s absence.

Cunningham broke his foot in practice Saturday and had season ending surgery the following day.

"It was just one of those freak things", said Cunningham. "Bored at home...mom won't let me move unless it's to go use the bathroom lol," Cunningham tweeted today.

But his injury isn't making the team laugh very much. MSU's Kirk Cousins said that you don't lose a player like B.J. and not hurt a little.

“B.J. had another outstanding season, and I know that he’ll work hard during his rehab and set himself up for a big senior year,” Coach Mark Dantonio said in a press conference. “Fortunately, wide receiver is a position of strength for this football team, so B.J.’s injury will provide opportunities for others to step forward and make plays for us offensively.”

The Capital One Bowl features Michigan State and Alabama on New Year's Day at 1:00 PM, and though Alabama has not commented on Cunningham's injury, the team is aware of it and the effects it could have.

While the Tide players hate to see any fellow athlete hurt, this is an injury that they will accept as fate and hope to capitalize on in the Capital One Bowl.