Backdoor Cover’s college football model projects Michigan State to finish 4-8 in 2026, with 3.5 expected wins. That’s down 1.3 wins from our preseason number.
Our statistical model projects Michigan State to finish 4-8 in 2026, with 3.5 expected wins. The model gives Michigan State a 0% chance to win the Big Ten outright.
Model called 1 of 1 of Michigan State’s games right so far this season.
Played games show the result and whether the model called it (✓/✗). Upcoming games show win probability.
| Week | Opponent | Result / win prob |
|---|---|---|
| Wk 1 | vs Toledo | Won 30–20 ✓ |
| Wk 2 | vs Eastern Michigan | 88% |
| Wk 3 | @ Notre Dame | 1% |
| Wk 4 | vs Nebraska | 17% |
| Wk 5 | @ Wisconsin | 47% |
| Wk 6 | vs Illinois | 26% |
| Wk 7 | vs Northwestern | 19% |
| Wk 8 | @ UCLA | 10% |
| Wk 10 | @ Michigan | 5% |
| Wk 11 | vs Washington | 21% |
| Wk 12 | vs Oregon | 14% |
| Wk 13 | @ Rutgers | 29% |
Everything above is the free model. Michigan State has a 0% shot at the Big Ten title game in the model. Subscribers get the full picture — and the picks we actually bet.
New members’ first week is 99¢ — and the first losing week’s on us. 2026 picks verified on Juice Reel.
Projections are model output for informational and entertainment purposes only. Not betting advice. You must be 21 or older, or the legal age where you are. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
© 2026 Backdoor Cover LLC