Pat Fitzgerald demands increased practice effort from Michigan State players

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 9, 2026, 12:20 AM

Last updated Sep 9, 2026

Pat Fitzgerald demands increased practice effort from Michigan State players
Summary

Michigan State head coach Pat Fitzgerald challenged his roster to improve performance during practice ahead of Saturday's game against Eastern Michigan. Fitzgerald emphasized that playing time is earned through merit and hard work rather than past status, noting a need for greater consistency in drills. The team is coming off a 30-20 opening victory against Toledo that highlighted several execution errors, particularly on special teams. Fitzgerald expressed frustration with the physical intensity and attention to detail displayed by his special teams units during that win. Michigan State prepares to face former quarterback Noah Kim, who now leads the Eastern Michigan offense. The Spartans are scheduled to host the Eagles at 3:30 p.m. ET this Saturday.

Source Links
By the Numbers
  • Pat Fitzgerald seeks improved practice intensity following a 30-20 win over Toledo.
  • Special teams execution remains a primary concern for the coaching staff.
  • Eastern Michigan arrives at Spartan Stadium with four former Michigan State players.
  • Noah Kim will start at quarterback for Eastern Michigan this Saturday.
  • Michigan State hosts Eastern Michigan at 3:30 p.m. ET.
Latest Updates
  • 12:20 AMYahoo SportsPat Fitzgerald Tells Spartans Playing Time Starts in Practice
What they're saying
"

Pat Fitzgerald told Michigan State that playing time is earned in practice, not on Saturdays. #GoGreen

Related Teams & Leagues

Sources

External links

Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.

Related Stories

Last 14 days