While the wait has been longer than expected, Michigan State football returns this weekend. It appeared that there would be no Big Ten football this season, after the conference postponed the season in early August. However, after a month of pressure and outcry by players, parents, coaches, and fans the Big Ten reversed their decision.

This season is the beginning of a new era for spartan football with the hiring of new head coach Mel Tucker. Expectations are low for Michigan State this season due to the scrambled offseason caused by the Covid pandemic. Michigan State will also have to replace plenty of talent on both sides of the ball after the departure of Brian Lewerke, Joe Bachie, Kenny Willekes, Raequan Williams, Josiah Scott, and Cody White. With the first game just days away Mel Tucker still hasn’t named the starting quarterback. The three players in contention are Jr. Rocky Lombardi, So. Theo Day, and Fr. Payton Thorne. Lombardi is the front runner being the only one of the three in contention to have started a game, but his numbers haven’t been impressive and many wonder if coach Tucker will go with a younger option.

A reasonable goal for Michigan State would be for them to make a bowl game this season, however the NCAA ruled that every team is eligible for a bowl game regardless of record, so a 2-6 season could still send the spartans bowling. The spartans have a tough schedule this year as they take on three ranked opponents including #20 Michigan on the road Halloween day, #6 Ohio State at home on December 5th, and #9 Penn State on the road on December 12th to finish the regular season. The spartans were lucky enough to open the season against Rutgers at home who haven’t won a Big Ten game in two seasons. They also face Northwestern who finished last in the Big Ten West last year on November 28th.

While it’s not the opening weekend we expected for spartan football, the new head coach and young team should make Michigan State a fun team to watch this season.

Full Michigan State schedule:

10/24 vs Rutgers

10/31 @ #20 Michigan*

11/7    @ Iowa

11/14  vs Indiana*

11/21 @ Maryland

11/28 vs Northwestern

12/5 vs #6 Ohio State

12/12 vs #9 Penn State*

12/17 vs TBD^

* Notes a rivalry game

^ Will play Big Ten West opponent who finishes in the same position in standings ex: 1v1, 2v2, etc.