EAST LANSING ~ Former MSU quarterback Aidan Chiles will return to Spartan Stadium on Saturday, this time as Northwestern’s starter, in a matchup that also marks MSU head coach Pat Fitzgerald’s first meeting with his former program. Both sides arrive with injuries and history underlining the game.
Chiles, now leading the Wildcats’ offense, has shown clear improvement since transferring. He threw 10 touchdowns across 10 starts for Michigan State in 2025, while at Northwestern, he has nine through only five games. His efficiency and production have climbed in his second season as a starter, giving the Wildcats a steadier passing threat than they had a year ago.
Michigan State enters the week in a different position. The Spartans extended their losing streak to four with an overtime loss to Illinois in week six, and injuries continue to define Fitzgerald’s debut season. At least 14 players are expected to be unavailable Saturday, including eight defensive starters. Fitzgerald’s “next man up” mentality will be tested again as defensive coordinator Joe Rossi works to stabilize a thin lineup.
PODCAST:
Oct. 14, 2026 ~ Chris Renwick, Jamie Edmonds, and Steve Courtney talk with Michigan State head coach Pat Fitzgerald about the recent loss, the upcoming game against Northwestern, and team resilience.
(CONTINUED) Fitzgerald dismissed any suggestion that facing Northwestern adds personal motivation. He said on 760 WJR’s JR Morning “that’s in the rearview mirror and I’m a Spartan and I’m proud to be.”
The Spartans host the Wildcats on Saturday, Oct. 17 at noon in Spartan Stadium. WJR’s coverage begins at 9 a.m.
