If you’re scrambling to find what channel is the Michigan State University football game on, you’ve probably realized that "scrambling" is the unofficial theme of modern sports broadcasting. It’s no longer as simple as turning to ABC and calling it a day. In the 2025–26 season, catching the Spartans feels like a scavenger hunt across four different networks and a couple of streaming apps.
Here is the quick answer for today, January 17, 2026: There is no Michigan State football game today. The Spartans' season wrapped up on November 29, 2025, with a 38–28 win over Maryland at Ford Field. Because the team finished 4–8 (1–8 in Big Ten play) under Jonathan Smith, they did not qualify for a bowl game this January.
However, if you saw "Michigan State" on the ticker and got excited, you’re likely looking for the MSU Men’s Basketball game against the Washington Huskies. That game tips off today at 6 p.m. ET on the Big Ten Network (BTN).
Where the Spartans Landed on Your TV Dial This Year
Looking back at the season, or planning for next year, requires a literal map of the media landscape. Gone are the days of a single contract. The Big Ten’s massive media deal means the Spartans are split between FOX, CBS, NBC, and the Big Ten Network.
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Honestly, it’s a lot to keep track of.
If it’s a "Big Noon Kickoff" game, you’re looking at FOX. If it’s a primetime marquee matchup—like the Michigan rivalry game—it usually lands on NBC or Peacock. This past October, the Spartans vs. Wolverines clash was a night game on NBC, which honestly looked great under the lights even if the 31–20 loss didn't feel great for the East Lansing faithful.
The Rise of the "Peacock Exclusive"
You probably noticed a few games missing from your cable package entirely this year. That’s because the Big Ten moved several games to Peacock.
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For example, the October 18 game against Indiana was only available on the streaming app. This isn't just a Michigan State thing; it’s the new reality for the whole conference. If you don't have a login for Peacock, you're basically locked out of about 10–15% of the season.
Predicting the 2026 Schedule and Broadcasts
While the 2025 season is in the books, the 2026 schedule is already taking shape. If you’re trying to figure out what channel is the Michigan State University football game on for the upcoming 2026 season, here are the dates you need to circle:
- September 5, 2026: vs. Toledo (Likely BTN or FS1)
- September 12, 2026: vs. Eastern Michigan (Likely BTN)
- September 19, 2026: at Notre Dame (This is a huge one—almost certainly NBC)
The Notre Dame game is the crown jewel of the 2026 non-conference slate. Since it's in South Bend, NBC has the rights. That's a traditional broadcast, so you can probably get it with a simple antenna.
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Why the Channel Changes Last Minute
Ever wonder why you can't find the channel for a game three weeks away? It’s because of the "selection windows."
Networks like FOX and CBS usually wait until 6 or 12 days before kickoff to "claim" a game. They want the matchups with the most playoff implications or the best storylines. If MSU is on a winning streak, they move to the "Big Three" networks. If they’re struggling, they usually slide to the Big Ten Network or FS1.
Streaming Options for Cord-Cutters
If you've ditched cable, finding what channel is the Michigan State University football game on gets slightly more technical but often cheaper.
- YouTube TV / Hulu + Live TV: These are the safest bets because they carry the Big Ten Network, FS1, and your local FOX/CBS/NBC affiliates.
- FuboTV: Great for sports, though sometimes pricier.
- Sling TV: You have to be careful here. You’ll need the "Blue" package for FS1, but you might miss out on local channels depending on your zip code.
- The Fox Sports App: If the game is on FOX or FS1, you can often stream it here using your provider login.
Actionable Steps for the Spartan Fan
Don't wait until 15 minutes before kickoff to realize you don't have the right app.
- Download the MSU Spartans App: It’s the most reliable way to see real-time updates on kickoff times and TV assignments as they are announced.
- Check the "B1G+" Schedule: If you’re looking for smaller sports or spring games, they often live on B1G+, which is a separate subscription from the Big Ten Network.
- Verify your Peacock Subscription: At least two games a year will likely be exclusive to this platform for the foreseeable future.
- Update your Calendar: Set alerts for the 2026 opener against Toledo on September 5.
While the football pads are put away for the winter, the basketball team is currently in the heat of Big Ten play. Check the Big Ten Network today for the Spartans' trip to Seattle to take on the Huskies.