A winless conference streak looms as Michigan State hosts Penn State. Both teams battle for pride, momentum, and a crucial Big Ten victory.
Someone has to win.
The Spartans’ next matchup is set: Michigan State will host Penn State on November 15 at 3:30 p.m. in East Lansing.
As wild as it sounds, one of these two teams will finally have to win a conference game.
Michigan State will send Alessio Milivojevic out for his second career start after the heartbreaking overtime loss to Minnesota. Following that defeat, the Spartans enjoy their second bye week of the season before returning to action against the Nittany Lions.
This week should be all about digging deep and reviewing film. Technically, Michigan State is still clinging to bowl contention after starting the year 3–0, needing three more wins to qualify. But with #20 Iowa looming after Penn State, that door could soon close.
For now, though, there’s still a glimmer of hope — and pride — to play for. Michigan State hasn’t looked this lost in conference play in years. It’s tough to watch a program that, a decade ago, was among college football’s elite and even in the playoff mix. Since Mark Dantonio’s departure, legal troubles and coaching instability have left the Spartans in freefall.
Michigan State enters the bye week 3–6 overall and 0–6 in the Big Ten, riding a six-game losing streak. Penn State, meanwhile, is in a similar spot — losers of five straight heading into a matchup with second-ranked Indiana. Assuming that trend continues, both teams could arrive in East Lansing desperate to avoid the humiliation of a winless conference slate.
The 3:30 kickoff sets the stage for a classic November afternoon in East Lansing — crisp air, fading sunlight, and the last autumn leaves swirling in the breeze. As daylight fades, so too will excuses.
Both teams will be fighting not just for the Land Grant Trophy, but for something bigger: pride, momentum, and one long-overdue Big Ten win.
One program already fired its coach this season; the other’s might be coaching for his job. It won’t be a championship game — but don’t tell either team that.