What to know about Michigan State football in 2026

As the summer rolls along on our march to the start of a brand new college football season, we are beginning to dig deep into the makeup of the Big Ten and the rest of the college football world. The Big Ten has been riding high these past few years with three straight seasons ending with a Big Ten team crowned as kings of the college football world. The Michigan State Spartans certainly don’t fit into that equation quite yet, but believe they are headed in the right direction with new quarterback Alessio Milivojevic and head coach Pat Fitzgerald.

Here is a quick look at the Michigan State Spartans heading into the 2026 season.

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Quick 2025 Recap

• Record: 4-8, 1-8 in Big Ten

The Michigan State Spartans were nothing short of disappointing, to say the least. Oregon State transfer quarterback Aidan Chiles was supposed to revitalize this Michigan State offense. However, after a promising start that saw the squad achieve three straight non-conference wins, it all fell apart in Big Ten play.

Chiles proceeded to throw 14 interceptions across the half of the season in which he started, leading to eight consecutive conference losses. Two tight losses to both Minnesota and Iowa convinced former head coach Jonathon Smith that Alessio Milivojevic should get some playing time. While he lost to Minnesota, he did throw for 311 yards, showcasing his promise. It was his performance in the Spartans’ season finale against Maryland that showed glimpses of his true potential. In a 38-28 victory at Ford Field, the young QB had four touchdowns paired with 292 yards passing.

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While the season did not quite go according to plan, Milivojevic’s rise proved to be highly promising.

Head coach: Pat Fitzgerald, first season

Pat Fitzgerald may not seem like a convincing hire for a rebuild, but his Big Ten pedigree certainly helps his case. Being the longest tenured head coach in Northwestern history, along with being a stalwart defensive player in his college days, could help Michigan State get back to national prominence. While the Spartans’ schedule does project to be a bit tougher, Fitzgerald’s expectations for the year are simply to ensure that Milivojevic keeps growing as a player and this young team can show some signs of chemistry.

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Offensive player to know: Chrishon McCray, wide receiver

While Milivojevic will earn all the headlines, it is McCray who has to be the most integral part of this offense. The former Kent State product will step into the void that Nick Marsh has left behind and hope that he can help his young QB out. While he only had 24 catches last season, three went for touchdowns. Now, with Marsh off to Indiana, it is solely McCray’s offense to lead.

Defensive player to know: Jordan Hall, linebacker

As the elder statesman in this defense, it’s safe to say that Hall is the “quarterback” of the defense for the Spartans. His 88 total tackles led the team last year, and he even added an interception to boot. One way he has become the leader of this squad is through his emotional output as well, battling through several injuries to play for this squad. His decision to stay through the start of Fitzgerald’s rebuild could prove to be pivotal.

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Does Penn State face Michigan State in 2026?

The Nittany Lions do not face the Spartans this season, but they could end up facing one another in a postseason setting, whether it be in a bowl game or(though highly unlikely) in a College Football playoff matchup.

The Nittany Lions will next face the Spartans in the 2027 season at Beaver Stadium.

Full 2026 Michigan State football schedule

Home games in all CAPS.

• September 4 (Friday) vs. TOLEDO

• September 12 vs. EASTERN MICHIGAN

• October 17 vs. NORTHWESTERN*

• November 28 at Rutgers*”*” designates Big Ten Conference game

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This article originally appeared on Imagn Images: What to know about Michigan State football in 2026