CHICAGO -- Michigan State troubled quarterback Jeff Smoker might be able to regain his starting job later this season after being suspended last year for a substance-abuse problem.

Redshirt freshman Drew Stanton will be the starting quarterback at the start of the season but that may be temporary, new coach John L. Smith says.

"It might not be right off the bat, but I can see him possibly being the guy,'' Smith said Wednesday at the Big Ten meetings.

Smoker was suspended for the final five games last year after acknowledging a substance-abuse problem. He still hasn't been officially reinstated to the team.

But Smith said Smoker stayed on track this summer in his comeback bid.

"Do we think he's going to be there? Yeah, we do,'' Smith said. "Our quarterback position is pretty darn good. That would add some icing on the cake."

Smoker passed for 2,579 yards and 21 touchdowns, with eight interceptions, during the 2001 season. But his personal problems led to a miserable season last year for him (six touchdown passes, seven interceptions) and the Spartans (4-8).

Michigan State's opener is Aug. 30 against Western Michigan.

"When it feels right ..., then we'll do it,'' Smith said. "Hopefully, knock on wood, we can throw Smoker into the mix.''