Injury-hit Michigan State football went for boost with 4th QB of 2026
4-star recruit Kayd Coffman started strong, connecting on his first four passes and throwing a 14-yard swing pass to Kenneth Williams for a TD.
Michigan State football faced a significant challenge after their loss to No. 10 UCLA on Saturday, Oct. 24. Quarterback Alessio Milivojevic, who had started the previous 11 games, was ruled out due to injury. With Milivojevic out, Michigan State turned to Kayd Coffman, a true freshman out of Kentwood, for his first career start as a college quarterback.
Coffman, who had only started 11 snaps in the game against Wisconsin earlier in the week, demonstrated promise right from the beginning. He connected on his first four passes and even scored a touchdown on MSU's second drive. However, the Spartans' afternoon quickly unraveled as UCLA's pressure increased. Coffman struggled, completing only four of his ten passes for 42 yards and taking three sacks.
His miscommunication with tight end Brennan Paracheck led to an interception, which UCLA safety Donavyn Pellot returned 67 yards for a touchdown. Despite his performance, Fitzgerald praised Coffman's work ethic and determination. The Spartans' offensive line also faced criticism for not providing a clean pocket for Coffman, something they hoped to improve for his next game.
Michigan State did not field either quarterback after the loss, with Milivojevic helping to mentor the younger quarterbacks on the sideline.
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