A New Era in East Lansing
The Michigan State Spartans finished the 2025 campaign with a 4‑8 overall record and a 1‑8 mark in Big Ten play, a result that left the program searching for answers as the offseason approached.
Enter Pat Fitzgerald, the newly appointed head coach whose Big Ten résumé includes multiple conference titles and a reputation for turning programs around. Fitzgerald has already begun reshaping the roster and setting a tone of accountability.
Among the bright spots, quarterback Alessio Milivojevic has begun to justify the optimism. His performances against Minnesota and Maryland displayed poise under pressure and a stronger arm, hinting at a potential breakout season.
On the offensive side, wide receiver Chrishon McCray is expected to shoulder a larger role after the departure of Nick Marsh, whose exit opened up targets for the sophomore.
Defensively, linebacker Jordan Hall remains the anchor of the unit, combining leadership with playmaking ability that has kept opponents off balance.
The 2026 schedule features matchups against Toledo, Eastern Michigan, Illinois, Northwestern, UCLA and Rutgers, while the absence of a regular‑season game against Penn State leaves the Spartans without a marquee conference opponent on the calendar.
Although a direct clash with Penn State will have to wait for a possible bowl meeting, the slate offers ample opportunities for the team to climb the standings and secure a postseason berth.