Michigan State to Open 2027 Season Against Central Michigan

Michigan State and Central Michigan will renew their football rivalry next season, marking the first meeting between the two programs since the Connor Stalions sign-stealing scandal.

To refresh our memory, Stalions was accused of wearing Central Michigan attire and standing on the sidelines during a game in Mount Pleasant while allegedly recording signals as part of Michigan's sign-stealing operation. The investigation became one of the biggest controversies in college football, with allegations that Stalions had been sent to Central Michigan to steal signs during a game against the Spartans.

At one point, Michigan State reportedly considered whether it would continue playing Michigan amid the allegations. Since then, the Spartans and Chippewas have not faced each other. However, a report released today indicates that the two programs will meet to open the 2027 season.

The game is scheduled for Aug. 28, 2027, giving Michigan State an in-state opponent to kick off its next campaign.

The scheduling change comes as the college football calendar adjusts to the expanded 24-team College Football Playoff format, with the season set to begin earlier than usual. The Spartans and Chippewas will meet on the final weekend of August to get the new season underway.

Central Michigan is one of three nonconference opponents on Michigan State's schedule for next season. The Spartans are also set to face Duquesne and Notre Dame.

Michigan State renewed its rivalry with Notre Dame this season, traveling to South Bend and falling 27-10. The Fighting Irish are scheduled to visit Spartan Stadium in 2027, giving the Spartans a chance to respond on their home field.

The exact order of those remaining nonconference games has yet to be established here, but the Central Michigan matchup is expected to open the season.

With Michigan State currently riding a five-game losing streak, it is understandable that attention is already turning toward next season. The Spartans still have work to do this year, but the 2027 opener gives fans another date to look forward to on the schedule.

Michigan State and Central Michigan have faced each other 12 times since 1991, with the Spartans holding a 9-3 advantage in the series.

Central Michigan won the first two meetings between the programs before Michigan State took control of the rivalry. The Chippewas also pulled off an upset in 2009, but the Spartans have won the other nine matchups.

Michigan State has won the last five meetings, including the most recent matchup in 2023, when the Spartans defeated Central Michigan 31-7.

The next chapter in the series is scheduled for Aug. 28, 2027, when Michigan State and Central Michigan meet to kick off the football season for both programs. Beyond the in-state rivalry, the matchup will also mark the return of a series that has been absent since the sign-stealing controversy brought the two programs into the same national spotlight.