East Lansing, Michigan, September 30, 2025
News Summary
The Michigan State Spartans are gearing up to face their long-standing rivals, the Michigan Wolverines, for the Paul Bunyan Trophy. This critical matchup comes amid injury challenges for the Spartans, including the loss of key linebacker Brady Pretzlaff for the season. With past performances against the Wolverines not in their favor, the Spartans aim to break the trend. The rivalry is intensified this year by the Big Ten’s new Rivalry Series, contributing to the urgency of the game as both teams seek a crucial victory.
East Lansing, Michigan – The Michigan State Spartans are set to face their long-time rivals, the Michigan Wolverines, in a highly anticipated matchup for the Paul Bunyan Trophy on November 1, 2025. This game, part of a fierce rivalry dating back more than a century, carries significant weight for both teams and their fan bases.
This contest is crucial, especially as the Spartans are currently navigating a series of injury challenges. Notably, they have lost second-string Mike linebacker Brady Pretzlaff for the rest of the 2025 season due to undisclosed injuries, which adds to their already depleting defensive lineup. The Spartans have previously struggled against the Wolverines in their last three encounters, the most recent being a 24-17 defeat.
In past seasons, Michigan State has demonstrated moments of brilliance, highlighted by a memorable 37-33 victory over Michigan during the 2021 campaign. However, the loss of key players like Luka Vincic and Alante Brown, alongside Pretzlaff, has put additional pressure on the Spartans’ defensive capabilities as they prepare for this vital matchup.
The rivalry between the Spartans and Wolverines is among the most intense in college football, characterized by passionate fans and closely contested games. The significance of this year’s face-off is further amplified by its inclusion in the Big Ten’s newly established “Rivalry Series,” which designates critical games across both football and basketball within the conference.
This innovative Rivalry Series aims to ignite excitement and enthusiasm surrounding traditional rivalries, expanding its reach into men’s and women’s basketball later in the season. Alongside the battle for the Paul Bunyan Trophy, Michigan State will also look to reclaim the Old Brass Spittoon against Indiana, a trophy they currently lead in the all-time series (50-19-2), despite having suffered a 47-10 defeat to Indiana last season.
In more context, the competitive nature of the Big Ten conference enhances the stakes for all teams involved. However, some matchups, such as Oregon against Penn State, break the mold of traditional rivalries established in the conference, leading to some surprise pairings.
As the Spartans gear up for this crucial playoff-like atmosphere against Michigan, their fans remain hopeful of reversing the recent trend of losses while also overcoming the numerous obstacles injury challenges present.
Injury Overview
- Brady Pretzlaff (Mike linebacker) – Out for season
- Luka Vincic – Injured
- Alante Brown – Injured
Recent Record Against Michigan
- Last three games: Losses
- Most recent game: 24-17 loss
- 2021 game: 37-33 victory
Importance of the Rivalry Series
The Rivalry Series is designed to enhance viewership and engagement among fans, reinforcing the passionate traditions of collegiate sports while introducing some unusual matchups.
Conclusion
The upcoming match against the Wolverines is critical for Michigan State not just in terms of rivalry standings but also for building momentum heading into the conclusion of the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Michigan State Spartans face the Michigan Wolverines?
The Michigan State Spartans will compete against the Michigan Wolverines in the 2025 week 9 game, known as the Battle For The Paul Bunyan Trophy.
What injury challenges is Michigan State facing?
MSU is currently facing heavy injury challenges within their lineup, particularly in their linebacker position. Brady Pretzlaff, a second-string Mike linebacker, has been ruled out for the rest of the 2025 season due to undisclosed injuries, further depleting their defensive roster.
What is the significance of the Paul Bunyan Trophy?
The Battle For The Paul Bunyan Trophy is considered one of the most intense rivalries in college football, with a longstanding history between the two teams.
Key Features of the Matchup
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Teams | Michigan State Spartans vs. Michigan Wolverines |
| Date | November 1, 2025 |
| Injuries | Brady Pretzlaff (Out), Luka Vincic (Injury), Alante Brown (Injury) |
| Recent Record Against Michigan | Last three games: Losses, Most recent: 24-17 defeat |
| 2021 Game Result | 37-33 victory for MSU |
| Rivalry Series Participation | Part of Big Ten’s Rivalry Series |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Michigan State Women’s Soccer Claims 4-0 Victory Over USC
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MSU Establishes Permanent Memorial for Shooting Victims
Michigan State Spartans Gear Up for USC Trojans Showdown
Michigan State University Secures Victory Amidst Injury Concerns
Michigan High School Football Week 3 Roundup
Additional Resources
- Spartan Avenue
- Eleven Warriors
- MLive
- New York Times
- Sports Illustrated
- Wikipedia: Michigan State Spartans football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football
- Google Search: Michigan State Football
- Google Scholar: Michigan State Football
- Google News: Michigan State Football Rivalry
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
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