Michigan State Football Showcases Spring Progress

Coach Fitzgerald emphasizes spring game is just one of 15 practices

Apr. 18, 2026 at 10:38pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented views of a Michigan State football spring game, with sharp planes of green, white, and bronze representing the players and field.Michigan State's spring game offers an early glimpse of the team's progress, though coach Fitzgerald cautions against reading too much into the non-contact scrimmage.East Lansing Today

Michigan State football held its annual spring game, giving fans a glimpse of the team's progress ahead of the upcoming season. Head coach Pat Fitzgerald cautioned against reading too much into the non-contact scrimmage, noting it was just one of 15 spring practices the team will hold.

Why it matters

The spring game provides an early look at roster changes, position battles, and the overall direction of the program under Fitzgerald's leadership. While not a full-contact game, it allows coaches to evaluate players in a game-like setting as they prepare for the fall season.

The details

The spring game featured constant rotation of the first, second and third-string units, with no full tackling to avoid injuries. Fitzgerald emphasized that the spring game should be viewed as just one practice out of the 15 the team will hold this offseason as they work to build towards the upcoming season.

  • The spring game took place on April 18, 2026.
  • Fitzgerald spoke about the early spring practices on March 31, 2026.

The players

Pat Fitzgerald

The head coach of the Michigan State football team, Fitzgerald is entering his third season leading the program.

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What they’re saying

“And we're excited that he is. And we're looking forward to him leading the program.”

— Pat Fitzgerald, Head Coach

The takeaway

While the spring game provides an early look at the team, Fitzgerald's emphasis on viewing it as just one of 15 practices highlights his focus on the long-term development of the program rather than overreacting to a single exhibition. Michigan State fans will have to wait until the fall to see the full potential of this year's team.