Michigan State's football program finds itself conspicuously absent from the most recent "way-too-early" bowl projections released by CBS Sports. This absence suggests an expectation of a sub-.500 record for the fifth consecutive season, according to reporting from Spartans Wire.
The lack of inclusion in these early forecasts indicates a perceived inability for the Spartans to achieve the requisite six wins for bowl eligibility. This repeated omission paints a consistent picture of the team's projected performance.
Shifting Projections and Past Droughts
Earlier projections from CBS Sports, specifically from Brad Crawford, had placed Michigan State in the GameAbove Sports Bowl in Detroit. However, more recent updates, particularly from October 2025, indicate a revised outlook. This latest projection cements the Spartans' position outside of postseason consideration. Notably, Michigan State is highlighted as the only Big Ten team to have missed bowl games in each of the last three years. A fourth consecutive miss would represent the team's longest drought in over four decades. The team's record at that point stood at 3-3 overall, with an 0-3 standing in conference play, underscoring the challenges leading to this projection.
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A Look Ahead and A Glance Back
While these are "way-too-early" projections, they reflect current sentiment and performance trends. Other publications, like On3, have also released early rankings, with CBS Sports placing Michigan at No. 9 and Oklahoma at No. 10 in their "way-too-early" Top 25 for the 2026 season. These rankings, while not directly about Michigan State, contextualize the broader college football landscape.
Previous projections had varied. By late September 2025, CBS Sports had Michigan State pegged for the Rate Bowl in Phoenix, set to face Baylor. These earlier, more optimistic forecasts offered a stark contrast to the current exclusion. The over/under win total for Michigan State was previously set at 5.5, suggesting a potential for improvement that has evidently not materialized in the eyes of these projection makers.
Background of Projection Discourse
The discourse around Michigan State's bowl prospects has been ongoing, with multiple outlets tracking the ebb and flow of these predictions. These "way-too-early" projections, while speculative, serve as a barometer for team performance and public perception within the college football ecosystem. They often rely on returning talent, coaching stability, and perceived schedule difficulty. The frequent mentions of Brad Crawford from CBS Sports highlight his role in shaping these early outlooks.
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