Michigan readies for 2026 season, MSU faces rebuilding year

The Michigan Wolverines are preparing for the 2026 college football season, with their non-conference schedule featuring matchups against Western Michigan, Oklahoma, and UTEP. Conference play begins with home games against Iowa and Penn State, and road trips to Minnesota and Rutgers. A significant rivalry game is slated for week nine, where Michigan will host the Michigan State Spartans under new head coach Pat Fitzgerald.

Michigan State experienced a disappointing 2025 season under former head coach Jonathan Smith, finishing with poor offensive and defensive statistics. Key offensive players, including quarterback Aidan Chiles and wide receiver Nick Marsh, have since departed. The team has brought in new offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan and several transfer players to improve the roster.

Defensively, Michigan State returns linebacker Jordan Hall but faces challenges on the defensive line, which recorded only 22 sacks in 2025. Despite expected defensive improvements under Fitzgerald, the overall talent level on the roster is considered lower than Michigan's. This suggests Michigan should hold a significant advantage in their upcoming matchup.