Big Ten Media Days Kick Off in Chicago
The Big Ten’s annual Media Days kicked off this week in Chicago, drawing a packed room of coaches, players and journalists for a three‑day marathon of interviews and press conferences. Each day features six different conference programs, setting the stage for the upcoming season.
Pat Fitzgerald’s First Season in East Lansing
On Wednesday, Michigan State took the spotlight, bringing its new‑look roster to the podium. Head coach Pat Fitzgerald, a Chicago native who spent 17 years at Northwestern before joining the Spartans, fielded questions about his transition and the program’s recent bowl drought.
Fitzgerald’s tenure got a fresh start after he was dismissed from Northwestern amid a hazing scandal that ultimately led to a settlement; the university noted that no evidence directly linked him to the misconduct. His arrival in East Lansing marks the first time in four years that the Spartans have not qualified for a postseason bowl.
Milivojevic Leads the Offense
Quarterback Alessio Milivojevic, another Chicago‑born talent, emerged as the team’s starter last season, throwing for 986 yards with seven touchdowns and two interceptions. His performance has given the offense a new focal point as the squad looks to break its four‑year bowl slump.
Defensive Stalwarts Return
Linebacker Jordan Hall and safety Nikai Martinez, both of whom opted to return for an extra season under the NCAA’s new 5‑in‑5 rule, bring veteran presence to a defense that has been reshaped by injuries and departures.
Schedule Highlights and Playoff Talk
The media session also highlighted the non‑conference slate, noting that Michigan State will meet three former quarterbacks — Noah Kim at Eastern Michigan, Katin Houser at Illinois and Aidan Chiles at Northwestern — adding extra storylines to the schedule. Beyond the Spartans, the gathering served as a forum for discussion about the College Football Playoff expansion and the broader realignment conversation, with the Big Ten favoring a 24‑team bracket while the SEC pushes for a 16‑team format.