New Michigan State Football Coach Has a Son Who Plays at Iowa

Michigan State will introduce its new head football coach at a press conference this afternoon. But the new coach needs no introduction to football fans, especially in Big Ten Country.

Michigan State Hires Former Northwestern Coach

In a news release, Michigan State has announced that it has hired former Northwestern football coach Pat Fitzgerald to be the next head football coach for the Spartans. In 17 seasons with the Wildcats, Fitzgerald led Northwestern to 10 bowl games, a pair of appearances in the Big Ten Championship game, and 110 wins overall.

Why Was Fitzgerald Fired from Northwestern?

Fitzgerald was fired at Northwestern after a hazing scandal rocked the football program. ESPN reports that Fitzgerald was initially suspended in 2023 after allegations of hazing within the football program were confirmed. He was fired several days later. It was later determined that Fitzgerald and other staff members did not know about the hazing. Fitzgerald sued Northwestern for wrongful termination, and the two sides settled earlier this year.

New Spartan Coach Has a Son Who Plays at Iowa

This could make the Michigan State versus Iowa game a little more interesting! Ryan Fitzgerald is a quarterback for the Iowa football team, and is the son of new Michigan State coach Pat Fitzgerald! Here is hoping that the Spartans are on Iowa's schedule in 2026!