Michigan State Reveals 2026 Football Schedule

Matchup with rival Michigan set for late in the season

Jan. 27, 2026 at 7:31pm

Michigan State University has announced its 2026 football schedule, which features a late-season matchup against in-state rival University of Michigan. The Spartans' head coach, Pat Fitzgerald, is looking to lead the team back to relevancy after a period of struggles.

Why it matters

The annual Michigan-Michigan State game is one of the biggest rivalries in college football, drawing intense interest from fans across the state. The timing of this matchup on the 2026 schedule could have major implications for both teams' seasons and playoff aspirations.

The details

Michigan State's 2026 schedule includes 12 games, with the highly anticipated matchup against Michigan set for November 28th. The Spartans are hoping to build on recent recruiting successes and improve upon their performance in recent seasons under Coach Fitzgerald's leadership.

  • Michigan State's 2026 football schedule was announced on January 27, 2026.

The players

Pat Fitzgerald

The head coach of the Michigan State University football team, tasked with leading the program back to relevancy after a period of struggles.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to unveil our 2026 schedule and look forward to the challenges ahead. The Michigan game is always a highlight, and we're ready to compete at the highest level.”

— Pat Fitzgerald, Head Coach, Michigan State University Football

What’s next

As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on the Spartans and their progress under Coach Fitzgerald's leadership. The matchup with Michigan on November 28th will be a key test for both teams.

The takeaway

The announcement of Michigan State's 2026 football schedule, featuring a late-season clash with rival Michigan, underscores the importance of this in-state rivalry and the Spartans' ongoing efforts to regain their footing as a top program in the Big Ten conference.