How Michigan State football will deal with Indiana without LB Jordan Turner for a half

East Lansing, Mich. -

No. 11 Michigan State football will be without starting linebacker Jordan Turner for the first half of Saturday's game against Indiana due to a targeting penalty he was called for in last week's win over Michigan.

The Spartans are already thin at linebacker, so Turner's absence will be a significant loss.

Turner is second on the team with 43 tackles and has also recorded 3.5 tackles for loss and two sacks.

However, Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio said he is confident that the Spartans can overcome Turner's absence.

“We have a lot of depth at linebacker,” Dantonio said. “We have guys who have been waiting for their opportunity to play, and I'm confident that they'll step up and make plays.”

Here's a look at how Michigan State could replace Turner in the lineup:

• Ben VanSumeren: VanSumeren is a redshirt sophomore who has played in all six games this season, primarily on special teams. He has eight tackles on the season, including one tackle for loss.
• Tyriq Thompson: Thompson is a true freshman who has played in four games this season. He has three tackles on the season.
• Noah Harvey: Harvey is a redshirt junior who has played in four games this season. He has two tackles on the season.

Dantonio said he will likely use a combination of VanSumeren, Thompson and Harvey to replace Turner in the lineup.

“We'll see how it goes,” Dantonio said. “We have a plan, but we'll adjust as needed.”

Turner is expected to return to the starting lineup in the second half against Indiana.