Michigan State hero will soon be an American hero

The player who scored on the epic blocked punt to beat Michigan is headed to the Air Force and leaving football behind.

It’s one of the most improbable plays we’ve ever seen: Michigan State beating rival Michigan in the Big House on a walk-off blocked punt.

But the man who was in the right place at the right time that night is done playing football. Jalen Watts-Jackson is heading to the Air Force to pursue a career of military service.

In March, Watts-Jackson announced he’d be transferring from Michigan State to further his football career.

He would have been a graduate transfer with immediate eligibility, but he’s decided to ditch the gridiron.

His focus with the Air Force will be on cyber system operations and security. Watts-Jackson gave an interview to Spartan Nation to discuss his decision.

“My parents did a great job of raising me and my siblings. They are so supportive of us and everything that we do. I have a lot of family that has served a lot of time serving this great country. It will be great following their teachings and what they have taught me. What an honor. I am really looking forward to it.”

Watts-Jackson broke his hip on the play that made him a legend, and could never really stick in the lineup as more than a special teams player in East Lansing. But he’ll forever live in Sparty lore both for that play and his service.