East Lansing, Michigan – Michigan State University announced on Monday that Pat Fitzgerald will serve as the Spartans’ head football coach for the 2026 season. Fitzgerald, who was dismissed from Northwestern four years ago amid a hazing investigation, reached a settlement with the school after it concluded there was no evidence he condoned or directed any hazing.
Why the hire matters locally
The Spartans finished the 2025 campaign with a 4‑8 record, marking the fifth consecutive losing season. Michigan State hopes Fitzgerald, the program’s third head coach since 2023, can reverse that trend and restore confidence among local fans and alumni.
Coaching background
Fitzgerald spent 13 seasons as Northwestern’s defensive coordinator before being promoted to head coach in 2012. He led the Wildcats to a Rose Bowl appearance in 2013 and earned a reputation for disciplined, hard‑nosed football. After his departure from Northwestern, he filed a lawsuit that was settled out of court, allowing him to pursue the Michigan State opportunity.
Player roster and transfers
Michigan State returns several key contributors. Running back Cam Edwards, who rushed for 1,240 yards and 15 touchdowns at UConn last season, joins former teammate left tackle Ben Murawski, also a UConn transfer. Linebacker Jordan Hall, an honorable‑mention All‑Big Ten selection in 2025, returns for his fourth year and will anchor a deep linebacking corps coached by former Spartan and Notre Dame assistant Max Bullough.
Wide receiver Chrishon McCray leads the receiving unit after posting 330 yards on 24 catches with three touchdowns last season. The Spartans also added transfers Fredrick Moore (Michigan) and KK Smith (Notre Dame) to compete for playing time.
Defensive outlook
Defensively, the Spartans struggled last year, recording fewer than two sacks per game and ranking 86th nationally in that category. Defensive tackle Ben Roberts returns as the most experienced interior lineman, having logged 11 tackles in six starts. Illinois transfer Eli Coenen joins the front line and is expected to provide additional pass‑rush depth.
Schedule highlights
Michigan State’s 2026 schedule features several marquee matchups: a road game at No. 4 Notre Dame on September 19, a home contest against No. 16 Michigan on November 7, a trip to No. 17 Washington on September 14, and a showdown with No. 2 Oregon on November 20.
Community impact
The hiring of Fitzgerald is being closely watched by East Lansing residents and Spartan supporters, who see a successful turnaround as a boost to local morale and university pride. The program also contributes significantly to the regional economy through game‑day revenue, employment, and related business activity.
Looking ahead
With a blend of experienced returnees, promising transfers, and a coach known for building disciplined teams, Michigan State aims to break its recent losing streak and compete for a winning record in 2026. Fans and local businesses alike are hopeful that Fitzgerald’s tenure will bring renewed energy to Spartan football.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
