Malcolm Bell is a fifth-year defensive back who brings something Michigan State needed this off season: experience. Before transferring to East Lansing, Bell carved out a solid career at UConn, where he appeared in 33 games, started 20, and logged 1,424 snaps. That kind of background fits right into what coaches emphasized in their portal search this offseason: depth and experience.

Experience in the Secondary

Last year, the Spartans were thin across the board, particularly in the secondary. Head coach Jonathan Smith and his staff made it a priority to add mature players with real game reps. Bell has stepped into that role quickly. He’s already seen heavy action against Western Michigan and Boston College, recording a couple tackles and providing solid coverage without giving receivers much room. He currently leads the team in total snaps (111).

The defense looked sharp in Week One with a shutout, but the Eagles posed different problems in Week Two. The front struggled to generate pressure, giving Alabama transfer Dylan Lonergan too much time to work. He picked the Spartans apart, going 34-for-45 for 390 yards and four touchdowns. Still, Bell’s coverage held. Like his track record at UConn suggests, he doesn't allow touchdowns easily.

Bell, who has made the transition from UConn to MSU look seamless, is eager for tougher matchups.
“The stats are nice right now, but inflated,” Bell said. “I played teams, I played nice people (while at UConn), but I’m just waiting for the competition to get higher.”

From Montreal to Michigan State

Growing up in Montreal, Bell played soccer before turning to football. He credits the sport with giving him stamina and quick feet. That conditioning now pays off on the field, as he puts it.