Michigan State prepares for 2026 season opener under coach Pat Fitzgerald

Michigan State opens its 2026 football season Friday against Toledo at home. This marks the start of the tenure for head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who takes over a program that has not appeared in a bowl game since 2021. The team enters the campaign following four consecutive difficult seasons and has overhauled its roster with 50 new additions. Projections for the season highlight the potential for the Spartans to secure a bowl berth, with analysts pointing to a favorable early conference schedule. Offensively, transfer running back Cam Edwards is expected to lead the ground game, while defensive improvements under a new staff are projected to increase total turnover production. The team aims to establish a new foundation as it transitions into the opening week of play.

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