Messaging from new Michigan State football staff has Spartan fans fired up

From day one of his hiring Pat Fitzgerald brought some intensity and enthusiasm to Michigan State football. That hasn't dwindled even as the first team meetings of 2026 have begun for a completely revamped football team, looking to get it right this time.

Fitzgerald showcased his happiness about being the head man in East Lansing throughout the first several weeks on the job whether it was in his introductory press conference, or during a Michigan State basketball game.

That same enthusiasm was present in the first video from the Spartans’ first team meeting on Jan. 11.

"Right now, we are in a storm," Fitzgerald said. "This is a rebirth, not a rebuild."

Fitzgerald’s efforts to get Michigan State back in contention are certainly noticeable, as was his work getting 25-plus new additions via the transfer portal with a 'bat-signal' Spartan head post for every drop. Everytime he posted, Spartan fans were excited.

That's certainly something that has lacked for the better part of the last five years. As Coach Fitz put it, it’s a rebirth, and this feels like rejuvenation for everyone involved.

If that wasn't enough, new linebackers coach and co-defensive coordinator, and former Spartan standout Max Bullough could be seen in a video posted to the Michigan State football social media pages speaking to the team. He was passionate as a player and looks just as passionate as a coach, and he certainly showed the ‘Spartan Pride’ that he has tattooed on his arms.

"We don't take a back seat to anybody," Bullough said. " We have to be willing to give ourselves to Michigan State."

Hearing that makes me want to run through a brick wall. I'm sure everyone in Spartan Nation would agree.

This is exactly what this program has needed, and whether the wins come or not in 2026 and beyond, the leadership and messaging coming from the coaches has to have the fans fired up. It certainly has me pumped.