Pat Fitzgerald Takes the reins at Michigan State
Pat Fitzgerald, the architect of Northwestern’s recent rise in the Big Ten, has been announced as the 27th head coach of Michigan State, taking over the program ahead of the 2026 season. His tenure at Northwestern produced 110 victories, multiple bowl appearances and conference titles, setting a high bar for the Spartans as they look to rebuild under his leadership.
The Spartans will open preseason camp on August 6, 2026, in East Lansing, with the first game of the year scheduled for September 4 against Toledo. The early start gives the new coaching staff a chance to evaluate talent and install schemes before the season officially begins.
Returning talent includes redshirt sophomore quarterback Alessio Milivojevic, who started four games in 2025 and posted a 58% completion rate for 986 yards and seven touchdowns, and senior linebacker Jordan Hall, who led the defense with 88 tackles and earned first‑team All‑Big Ten preseason honors.
The roster will also feature a wave of 32 transfers, 15 on defense and 17 on offense, bringing a combined 357 starts of experience. New assistants Nick Sheridan and LeVar Woods join a staff that retains four veteran coaches, adding fresh perspectives to the offensive and special‑teams units.
Schedule and Early Tests
Michigan State’s nonconference slate includes matchups with Eastern Michigan, Notre Dame and a road test at Toledo, before diving into Big Ten play against Nebraska, Wisconsin, Illinois, Northwestern, UCLA, Michigan, Washington and Oregon. The varied schedule is designed to test the team early and prepare it for conference competition.
Several players have already been recognized on preseason watch lists, with cornerback Tre Bell earning a spot on the Shrine Bowl 1000 list and Hall repeating as a Phil Steele first‑team All‑Big Ten selection. These honors highlight the expectations placed on the Spartans’ key contributors.
With a blend of seasoned veterans, impactful transfers and a coaching staff eager to prove itself, the 2026 season offers Michigan State a chance to reclaim its place among the Big Ten’s elite. The early buzz surrounding the program suggests that fans can anticipate a competitive and exciting year ahead.