Michigan State defeats Toledo in Pat Fitzgerald coaching debut

Michigan State opened its 2026 season with a 30-20 victory over Toledo. The game marked the debut of head coach Pat Fitzgerald, though the Spartans faced challenges after trailing early in the fourth quarter. The defense surrendered 20 points and 273 total yards, but Pro Football Focus highlighted the unit for securing stops during critical moments in the second half. Edge Anelu Lafaele led the defensive performance with a 79.4 grade from the analytics firm, while transfer players Kenny Soares Jr., Keahnist Thompson, and Devin Vaught also featured among the top five graded defenders. Jordan Hall rounded out the group as the team's defensive leader. The victory moves the Spartans to 1-0 on the young season.

• 5:03 PMYahoo Sports — Michigan State's top five defenders in win over Toledo, per PFF