Michigan State football 2026 game-by-game predictions: Northwestern

As Michigan State football prepares for the upcoming season, fans and analysts alike are eager to make predictions about the team's performance. One of the most anticipated matchups on the Spartans' 2026 schedule is against Northwestern. Pat Fitzgerald, the newly appointed head coach, will lead the Spartans in this game, which will take place on October 17, 2026, at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing, Michigan.

The Spartans are coming off a strong win over Illinois and are projected to have a 4-2 overall record, including a 2-1 record in the Big Ten. Meanwhile, Northwestern is projected to have a 3-2 overall record, with a loss to Indiana and Penn State. The Wildcats will be coming off a win against Ball State and will be looking to add a Big Ten win to their record.

Chip Kelly, Northwestern's head coach, is set to pair up with two-time Spartans QB Aidan Chiles, who will be playing against his old program. Chiles struggled with inconsistency during his time at Michigan State and transferred to Northwestern this offseason. With high expectations, Chiles' return to Spartan Stadium could lead to more success for Northwestern.

However, Fitzgerald's Spartans are expected to pull off a victory with a high-scoring, back-and-forth game.