
Spartans’ Linebackers Poised to Dominate the 2026 Season
Michigan State's revamped linebacker unit blends star talent, strategic coaching and depth that could reshape its pass rush.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Max Bullough across Football.

Michigan State's revamped linebacker unit blends star talent, strategic coaching and depth that could reshape its pass rush.

Pat Fitzgerald begins his first season at Michigan State amid a 4‑8 record, a depleted roster and a historic winless streak in the Big Ten, aiming to rebuild the program for future competitiveness.
Alessio Milivojevic and Jordan Hall return as pivotal figures for Michigan State football, aiming to lift the team in the Big Ten.
Coach Pat Fitzgerald’s early‑season directives — from dormitory living to uniform precision — signal a decisive shift as he seeks to rebuild a defense anchored by retained coordinator Joe Rossi and veteran players like Jordan Hall.

A deep dive into the Irish defense’s interior line, edge rush, linebackers and secondary as fall camp approaches, highlighting key players and their career trajectories.
Pat Fitzgerald, a Chicago native with deep roots in the Midwest, has taken the helm of Michigan State's football program, inheriting a 4‑8 team and a conference eager for structural change. With key players like Jordan Hall leading the charge and Commissioner Tony Petitti advocating for reforms, the Spartans hope to turn a modest rebuild into a competitive resurgence.
Michigan State’s wide receiver corps, though still finding its footing, is quietly emerging as a source of optimism for the program. Key players include senior transfer Chrishon McCray, freshman Samson Gash, and a supporting cast that could reshape the offense.

Despite a disappointing haul of linebackers, Nebraska’s coaching staff remains focused on developing the few prospects who have pledged to the program, while navigating injuries and missed opportunities.

Ranked thirteenth among the top thirty Spartans, Dion Crawford is set to contribute his pass‑rushing prowess and tackling consistency to Michigan State's defense.

Four-star linebacker Roman Igwebuike pledged to Notre Dame, boosting the Fighting Irish's 2027 recruiting class and underscoring a resurgence under head coach Marcus Freeman.

With 32 newcomers arriving via the portal, the Spartans bolster their backfield, secondary and linebacker corps, promising a fresh dynamic under coach Jonathan Smith.

With visits from Ohio edge prospect Lawrence Kanneh and Colorado tight end Ryan Pankey, Michigan State's recruiting efforts are gaining traction as the program eyes key additions.

Amarri Irvin, a top 2027 linebacker prospect, toured Michigan State this weekend despite being bound to Notre Dame. The visit, orchestrated through family ties and former coach Max Bullough, has reignited speculation about a possible switch.

Florida linebacker Amarri Irving pledged to Notre Dame in November 2025, but Michigan State, his father's alma mater, is making a push after an official visit and the exit of coach Max Bullough.

Amarri Irving, a highly touted Florida linebacker, pledged to Notre Dame in November 2025, but Michigan State is intensifying efforts to flip him, a pursuit complicated by the exit of his former position coach.

Transfer linebacker Caleb Wheatland arrives in East Lansing with a proven track record of sacks, tackles and special‑teams impact, aiming to bolster Michigan State's front seven this season.
This offseason, Notre Dame replaced its defensive coaching staff with seasoned coordinators, including Chris Ash, Charlie Partridge, Brian Jean‑Mary and Aaron Henry, whose shared history and individual achievements promise a stronger, more cohesive unit.