GOOD NEWS?: Michigan State football BENEFITS from College Football Playoff expansion

By Spartans IllustratedOctober 16, 2026

College football enters a new era as the 24-team playoff becomes reality—will this reshape the sport’s landscape for programs like Michigan State? Matt Sheehan explores how the expanded format might revive Spartan hopes, enhance donor appeal, and fuel recruiting, while also questioning if easier playoff access truly benefits schools stuck in the middle tier. Do more playoff spots mean more excitement, or just more blowouts for teams outside the elite?

Recent Videos

SHORT-HANDED: Can Michigan State football STUN Northwestern?; Jazz Patterson set for ANOTHER big run

Injury-riddled Michigan State Spartans eye a potential upset as they take on a ranked Northwestern Wildcats squad boasting one of the nation’s top offenses. With Aidan Chiles excelling for Northwestern and Jazz Patterson emerging as MSU’s unexpected rushing force, can the Spartans’ depleted defense hold up? Matt Sheehan spotlights key absences—MSU’s top four cornerbacks and three linebackers are out—while analyzing Jazz Patterson’s ability to exploit Northwestern’s shaky run defense.

SHORT-HANDED: Can Michigan State football STUN Northwestern?; Jazz Patterson set for ANOTHER big run

BIG 10 SQUAD: The Big 10 is in SHAMBLES | What's up with Michigan State?

Big Ten College Football Playoff chances take a hit as Oregon Ducks falter—are only Ohio State and Indiana still truly in contention? Hosts break down the impact of Oregon’s disappointing season, discussing how losses from heavyweights like Michigan, Washington, and Penn State threaten the conference’s national relevance and reduce opportunities for playoff berths across the league.

GOOD NEWS?: Michigan State football BENEFITS from College Football Playoff expansion