Michigan State Sees Progress in First Spring Scrimmage

Spartans prepare for second scrimmage as new transfers make early impact

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:52am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a Michigan State football practice or game, with sharp planes of green and white representing the team's colors and the chaotic energy of the sport.Michigan State's spring football practices provide a cubist canvas to evaluate the team's new-look roster.East Lansing Today

Michigan State's football team conducted its first spring scrimmage last weekend, with the Spartans seeing progress despite limitations due to a lack of healthy offensive linemen. Several new transfer players on defense, including cornerback Tre Bell and nickel back Michael Richard, have been drawing praise from the coaching staff in the early stages of spring practice.

Why it matters

With 45 new scholarship players on the roster, every rep in spring practice is crucial for Michigan State to evaluate its talent and build chemistry ahead of the upcoming season. The Spartans' ability to identify impact transfers and get them up to speed quickly will be key to the team's success.

The details

Due to depth issues on the offensive line, Michigan State was unable to hold a true extended scrimmage last weekend. However, the team was still able to conduct 'move the ball' 11-on-11 drills with live tackling. The Spartans expect to have more extensive scrimmaging during their second spring scrimmage on Saturday. Among the new transfer players making an early impression on defense are cornerback Tre Bell, who started at Iowa State last year, and nickel back Michael Richard.

  • Michigan State held its first spring scrimmage on April 4, 2026.
  • The Spartans will hold their second spring scrimmage on April 11, 2026.
  • Michigan State's Spring Showcase will take place on April 18, 2026 at noon in Spartan Stadium.

The players

Tre Bell

A cornerback transfer from Iowa State who is expected to be a first-string starter for Michigan State this season.

Michael Richard

A nickel back transfer who has been drawing praise from the Michigan State coaching staff during spring practice.

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What they’re saying

“He is a pro's pro. The kid handles himself with class. He's super professional by everything he does.”

— Mel Tucker, Head Coach, Michigan State

What’s next

Michigan State will hold its second spring scrimmage on Saturday, April 11, 2026, as the team continues to evaluate its new-look roster and prepare for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

With a large influx of new talent, including several high-profile transfer additions, Michigan State is using spring practice to identify impact players and build chemistry ahead of the 2026 season. The Spartans' ability to quickly integrate these new pieces will be crucial to their success.