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Michigan State Football Showcases Defensive Strength in Spring Game
Spartans utilize 'thud' tackling to avoid injuries ahead of 2026 season
Apr. 19, 2026 at 12:45am
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Michigan State's Spring Showcase showcased the team's defensive prowess and depth, as the Spartans prepare for the 2026 season.East Lansing TodayMichigan State's annual Spring Showcase on Saturday featured a modified scrimmage with an emphasis on defense, as the Spartans opted for 'thud' tackling rather than full contact to prevent injuries. The event highlighted the team's depth at running back, led by transfers Cam Edwards, Marvis Parrish, and Jaziun Patterson, as well as the continued development of quarterback Alessio Milivojevic as the clear starter for the upcoming season.
Why it matters
The Spring Showcase provided an opportunity for Michigan State to evaluate its roster and identify areas of strength and improvement ahead of the 2026 season. The focus on defense and the decision to use 'thud' tackling suggest the Spartans are prioritizing player safety and building a strong foundation for the fall.
The details
During the Spring Showcase, Michigan State utilized 'thud' tackling, which involves players making contact without taking each other to the ground. Head coach Pat Fitzgerald said this approach will not inhibit the team's ability to tackle effectively during the season, as they have emphasized tackling fundamentals throughout the offseason. The event also highlighted the Spartans' depth at running back, with several transfers, including Cam Edwards, Marvis Parrish, and Jaziun Patterson, all making an impact. At quarterback, Alessio Milivojevic has solidified his role as the starter, with experienced veteran Cam Fancher and promising underclassmen Leo Hannon and Kayd Coffman providing depth behind him.
- The Spring Showcase took place on Saturday, April 19, 2026 at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing, Michigan.
The players
Pat Fitzgerald
Head coach of the Michigan State Spartans football team.
Alessio Milivojevic
The clear starting quarterback for the Michigan State Spartans in the 2026 season.
Cam Fancher
An experienced veteran quarterback for the Michigan State Spartans, who previously played at FAU and Central Florida.
Leo Hannon
A redshirt freshman quarterback for the Michigan State Spartans.
Kayd Coffman
A true freshman quarterback for the Michigan State Spartans with substantial upside.
What they’re saying
“Thud tackling will not inhibit the ability of his defense to tackle effectively during the season given the emphasis placed on tackling fundamentals throughout the off-season.”
— Pat Fitzgerald, Head Coach
What’s next
The Spartans will continue to evaluate their roster and make any necessary adjustments ahead of the 2026 season, which kicks off in the fall.
The takeaway
Michigan State's Spring Showcase highlighted the team's defensive strength and depth at key positions, particularly running back. The decision to use 'thud' tackling suggests the Spartans are prioritizing player safety and building a strong foundation for the upcoming season.
