Michigan State football fans, mark your calendars for 2026: will the Spartans finally end their four-year bowl drought? According to a recent post-spring prediction from national writer Brett McMurphy of On3, the outlook isn't promising—at least for now.

McMurphy released his updated bowl projections this week, and unfortunately for Spartan Nation, Michigan State didn't make the cut. The Spartans currently hold the longest active bowl drought in the Big Ten, last appearing in the postseason in 2021 when they capped an 11-2 season with a thrilling Peach Bowl victory over Pitt. That feels like a distant memory after a challenging four-year stretch.

Coming off a 4-8 season in 2025, Michigan State is undergoing a complete transformation under new head coach Pat Fitzgerald and his revamped coaching staff. With a roster overhaul and fresh leadership, there's reason for cautious optimism—but national expectations remain low. McMurphy's projections only reinforce that sentiment, as the Spartans are once again left out of the bowl picture.

Here's where things get interesting: while the national pundits aren't buying in just yet, there's a case to be made for a turnaround. With Fitzgerald's track record of building disciplined, competitive teams, reaching the six-win mark for bowl eligibility isn't out of the question. It's a tough climb, but the pieces are starting to come together in East Lansing.

For die-hard fans, this is a season to watch closely. Whether you're stocking up on new Spartans gear for game day or just hoping to see that bowl streak snap, the 2026 campaign promises plenty of drama. Stay tuned—this story is far from over.