Local columnist predicts Spartans to reach bowl game this season

A respected columnist from Michigan predicts the Spartans will secure a bowl game in their first season under new head coach Pat Fitzgerald. Just one week away from the beginning of the regular season, the Spartans' opener is scheduled for September 4 against Toledo. Graham Couch, the Lansing State Journal columnist, has released his predictions for the upcoming season, which includes a narrow victory over Toledo in the season opener.

However, despite the prediction of a closer game, Couch believes Michigan State will achieve bowl eligibility for the first time in five years this season. In his game-by-game predictions, Couch forecasts Michigan State to conclude the season with a 6-6 record and a triumph over LSU in the Music City Bowl, ultimately achieving a 7-6 season.

The Spartans needed to defeat Rutgers during the season finale to earn a bowl bid - something they failed to accomplish in 2021. Like Couch, this reporter also predicted the Spartans to finish the regular season with a 6-6 record but has a different bowl destination for Michigan State. Michigan State last reached a bowl game in 2021 when they went 11-2 and won the Peach Bowl against Pitt.

Check out the full game-by-game predictions from Couch for the Spartans this season [here](https://t.co/4VIDBHbyta). For ongoing coverage of Michigan State news, notes, and opinion, contact Graham Couch on X (formerly Twitter) or follow Robert Bondy on X @ RobertBondy5. This article originally appeared on Spartans Wire.