EAST LANSING ~ Michigan State football will face Michigan on Saturday seeking its first win in Ann Arbor since 2015. Injuries and topline turnover have affected both teams throughout the season. Offensive execution will be critical against what MSU head coach Pat Fitzgerald called a “very well-coordinated pressure package,” but both teams might be forced to rely on freshmen quarterbacks.
MSU starting quarterback Alessio Milivojevic missed the UCLA game and was listed as questionable this week, while backup Cam Fancher remains out. Freshman Kayd Coffman started against UCLA, where his inexperience showed in hesitations and inaccuracies. A rookie-run offense will need to prioritize passing against Michigan’s “shutdown secondary,” Fitzgerald said. If Coffman is called into starter, he will face fellow freshman quarterback Tommy Carr, who Michigan recently transitioned to starter. Fitzgerald told 760 WJR’s ‘JR Morning that Carr’s performance was “just outstanding against Rutgers” last week.
PODCAST:
Nov. 4, 2026 ~ Jamie Edmonds, Chris Renwick, and Steve Courtney are joined by MSU Head Football Coach Pat Fitzgerald to preview this weekend’s game.
(CONTINUED) Fitzgerald said the bye week was a chance for recovery, but injuries suffered against UCLA added to an already lengthy unavailable list. Michigan State’s defense has adapted to several injury-related lineup changes throughout the season and faces another this week. Defensive lineman Ben Roberts was injured against UCLA, while captain linebacker Jordan Hall and tight end Jayden Savoury were ruled out. The return of linebackers Brady Pretzlaff and Caleb Wheatland provides experienced reinforcements. supplies veteran strength to the line.
Saturday’s matchup features two programs led by first-year head coaches whose rosters have been tested by injuries throughout the season. With contributors continuing to move into larger roles, depth will be tested when Michigan State and Michigan meet Saturday at 7:30p.m. in Ann Arbor.
