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Sports

FOOTBALL

Defensive coordinator Joe Rossi brings intensity to MSU sidelines

With Michigan State football on a five game losing streak, it's searching for changes and answers. In the Spartans 31-20 loss to Michigan, it may have found a change that will lead to answers: defensive coordinator Joe Rossi moving from the coaches booth to the sideline. Against Minnesota this Saturday, Rossi will remain on the MSU sidelines to ignite intensity and know-how in his Spartan defense.

FOOTBALL

Controversial offside call defines 118th MSU–Michigan matchup

A late, controversial offsides call proved pivotal in Michigan’s 31–20 victory over Michigan State, negating a potential fumble recovery and swinging momentum in the Wolverines’ favor. The ruling not only shifted the scoreboard but also sidelined Spartans’ defensive captain Jordan Hall for the remainder of the quarter. MSU’s struggles with penalties compounded the impact, highlighting self-inflicted mistakes that kept the Spartans from capitalizing on key opportunities. For fans, the loss deepened the rivalry’s drama and left lingering “what-ifs” about what might have been.

FOOTBALL

Passion fuels MSU football’s fight against No. 25 Michigan

Michigan State football seeks to return the Paul Bunyan Trophy back to East Lansing this Saturday against its more fierce rival in the Michigan Wolverines. To ensure the Spartans hold passion for a passionate game, MSU head coach Jonathan Smith has brought ex-players and alumni into the facility to speak to his team in attempts to spread knowledge and history of what this game means, while also supplying resources and tips on what to expect. 

FOOTBALL

MSU football looks to be unforgettable against Michigan

Michigan State looks to snap a near four-year drought against Michigan when the rivals meet Saturday night at Spartan Stadium. With head coach Jonathan Smith seeking his first ranked win and alumni stressing the rivalry’s importance, the Spartans hope to deliver an “unforgettable” performance and bring Paul Bunyan back to East Lansing.

FOOTBALL

Stretches of unanswered points characterize the Jonathan Smith era of MSU football

Under Jonathan Smith, Michigan State is supposed to be rebuilding — but the losses have become alarmingly familiar. Over the past two seasons, the Spartans have repeatedly started strong before unraveling in waves of unanswered points, turning competitive moments into blowouts. From ranked opponents like Ohio State and Oregon to unranked foes such as UCLA and Rutgers, the pattern has been the same: defensive lapses, fading urgency, and an offense that eventually disappears. As MSU continues its search for identity in year two, the question isn’t whether it can win — it’s whether it can compete.