DETROIT -- Michigan State quarterback Jeff Smoker has sought help for a substance abuse problem.

Smoker, the third-leading passer in school history, was suspended indefinitely Oct. 24 for violating team rules. At that time, school officials declined to release specific reasons for the suspension.

''Jeff apparently has been fighting this battle alone for some time,'' Smoker's family said in a statement released Sunday. ''When (head coach) Bobby Williams and the rest of the staff became aware of Jeff's problem, they responded immediately and for this we are grateful.''

The family said it ''had hoped to keep this matter private until Jeff was well and ready to speak about it, but it appears that we cannot have that luxury.''

University spokeswoman Becky Olsen said Sunday that the family was not immediately releasing further details about the type of care Smoker was receiving or the nature of the substance abuse.

Smoker's suspension was a blow to Michigan State, which was expected to compete for the Big Ten championship. The Spartans (3-6, 1-4) have lost four in a row, including a 49-3 loss to Michigan on Saturday.

''Jeff Smoker's health and well-being remain my top priority,'' Williams said in the statement. ''I'll provide whatever support I can to help Jeff win his personal battle. My thoughts and prayers are with Jeff and his family during this difficult time.''

Smoker is one of two players suspended for violating team rules. Defensive end Greg Taplin was suspended Thursday for an unspecified violation. Two other players have quit voluntarily.

Sunday, starting tailback Dawan Moss was dismissed from the team after being charged with a felony and two misdemeanors after police said he resisted arrest in Lansing.

''MSU will continue to support Jeff Smoker as he confronts the challenge before him,'' athletic director Ron Mason said. ''I call us all to look at Jeff beyond his quarterback role, because he is a young man fighting a very difficult human battle.''

Mason also said that, as of Sunday, ''absolutely nothing'' related to Smoker's situation indicated a violation of NCAA rules.