{
  "id": 4678212,
  "title": "MSU head coach Pat Fitzgerald previews Toledo, talks excitement for season to begin",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/31/msu-head-coach-pat-fitzgerald-previews-toledo-talks-excitement-for",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-31T17:03:53.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/msu-head-coach-pat-fitzgerald-170353751.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Michigan State football is set to commence its 2026 season with a home game against Toledo on Friday night. Pat Fitzgerald, the new head coach, led the team in a pregame press conference to preview the non-conference matchup. Fitzgerald emphasized the excitement surrounding game week and the enthusiasm that comes with Michigan State home games. He also highlighted the buzz in the air as students return to campus.\n\nRegarding injuries, Fitzgerald refrained from providing any updates, stating he would only share details upon the release of the availability report a few hours before kickoff. He expressed confidence that most players will be able to participate, but emphasized that earning playing time is a process that requires effort from the team.\n\nFitzgerald praised Toledo, acknowledging it will be a challenging non-conference game for Michigan State. He mentioned that roles and positions are still being determined throughout practice, indicating that not all starting or key reserve spots have been finalized. The coach did not shy away from the pressure associated with his role, instead viewing it as an \"unbelievable opportunity.\"\n\nAs for future scheduling, Fitzgerald stated that he needs to discuss potential changes with new athletic director Dan Bartholomae. The game between Michigan State and Toledo is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET on Friday, airing on FS1. Spartans Wire will provide pregame, in-game, and postgame coverage of the matchup.",
  "summary": "See what Michigan State head coach Pat Fitzgerald had to say about the Spartans' season-opening matchup against Toledo on Friday",
  "key_points": [
    "Michigan State begins 2026 season with Toledo on Friday night",
    "Coach Pat Fitzgerald previews non-conference matchup",
    "Excitement and buzz surround Michigan State home game"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}