Michigan State has to replace quite a few skill players on offense this season, but the Spartans do have four of their five starters on the offensive line returning this season.

That fifth lineman, though, is going to be missing some time.

Michigan State announced that left guard Blake Treadwell suffered a hairline fracture in his tibia during a non-contact drill in practice on Wednesday.

The injury will keep him out for 4 to 5 weeks.

In Treadwell's place the Spartans will start Jack Allen, a redshirt freshman, until Treadwell is able to return. Which seems like it could be a problem, but with four other veteran starters on the line surrounding Allen, offensive coordinator Dan Roushar doesn't seem very worried about Allen.

"He’s very sound," said Roushar of Allen. "He’s an excellent run blocker. I think we’ve got a guy that’s got a chance to be very special in there for us. He continues to get better. I like his work ethic and his determination."

Treadwell will miss Michigan State's opener against Boise State, though there's a chance he could be back in time to play against Notre Dame.