Michigan State football vs Nebraska picks: Who opens B1G play with win?

Pat Fitzgerald's Michigan State football team has not won a Big Ten game since beating Northwestern in 2022, a gap of 1,491 days. Despite this, Fitzgerald faces his first Big Ten game as Spartans head coach on Saturday, September 26, against Nebraska. Nebraska's last season opener win against Michigan State occurred during Scott Frost's coaching tenure when they defeated the Spartans 28-22 in Dublin, Ireland.

Fitzgerald's Spartans recently lost to Notre Dame 27-10, which was a significant morale boost. Sports writers from The Detroit Free Press have offered their predictions for the Spartan's first Big Ten game win. Carlos Monarrez believes Nebraska may be the better team but notes Fitzgerald's potential impact. Rainer Sabin is skeptical about Nebraska's long-term potential but sees MSU as the stronger team.

Jeff Seidel anticipates a close game but leans towards an MSU victory. Chris Solari highlights Michigan State's discipline and improved downfield passing game, projecting a 27-21 win for the Spartans. Shawn Windsor acknowledges the Spartans' strong start but still predicts a victory for Nebraska.