Locked On Spartans - Daily Podcast On Michigan State Spartans Football & Basketball

Michigan State football finally made its decision with Jonathan Smith, who is out after two years in East Lansing. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Omaha Steaks Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale. And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout. Aura Frames For a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting https://AuraFrames.com to get $35 off Aura’s best-selling Carver Mat frames - named #1 by Wirecutter - by using promo code COLLEGE at ch...

Michigan State football got a win against Maryland at Ford Field that included solid quarterback play, an incredible Alante Brown kickoff return, and more. But what does that mean for Jonathan Smith and Co. moving forward? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Omaha Steaks Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale. And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout. Aura Frames For a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting https://AuraFrames.com to get $35 off...

Michigan State Spartans surge into the national spotlight after dismantling North Carolina, led by Jeremy Fears Jr.’s breakout performance. Could Tom Izzo’s squad be the next top-10 powerhouse? Jaxon Kohler and Carson Cooper shine as returning stalwarts, proving that trust in player development pays off. Defensive grit and rebounding dominance stifle UNC’s offense on the world’s slipperiest court, raising questions about how high this team can climb. Matt Sheehan breaks down key player growth, the impact of recruiting updates, and Michigan State football’s challenges heading into their matchup with Maryland at Ford Field. The episode co...

Big Ten playoff chaos looms as Michigan, Ohio State, Oregon, and Washington battle for a potential four-team bid. Which powerhouse will emerge, and could the Big Ten really send a record number of squads to the College Football Playoff?

Spencer McLaughlin leads the debate with Roman Tomashoff, Jacob Goins, Chris Gordy, and Craig Shemon breaking down CFP scenarios, playoff committee rankings, and must-watch rivalry games—including the high-stakes matchups of Ohio State vs Michigan and Oregon vs Washington. Analysis focuses on defensive improvements, quarterback showdowns, and how upsets by Wisconsin and others have reshaped the playoff picture. He...

Michigan State Spartans surge past East Carolina Pirates with lockdown defense and breakout bench performances, setting the stage for a high-stakes clash against North Carolina. Can Tom Izzo’s squad keep up their hot shooting and contend with the Tar Heels’ formidable frontcourt length? Matt Sheehan celebrates Divine Ugochukwu’s star turn, Jackson Kohler’s perfect night from deep, and Jeremy Fears’ elite playmaking, igniting hope for a deeper tournament run. Key topics include MSU’s defensive intensity, three-point shooting resurgence, and strategic insights for beating North Carolina’s towering lineup. Brian Smith also fields mailbag questions on football player retenti...

Michigan State and North Carolina reignite their hoops rivalry with both squads aiming to prove they belong among college basketball’s elite. Can Jeremy Fears, the nation’s leading assist man, unlock the Spartans’ offense against the Tar Heels’ imposing length and top-ranked field goal defense led by freshman sensation Caleb Wilson? Matt Sheehan and Isaac Schade break down why this high-stakes Thanksgiving showdown could decide more than just bragging rights.

Key insights include Michigan State’s physical identity under Tom Izzo, the impact of transfer additions for North Carolina, and which team is better equipped to withstand...

Michigan State Spartans fans left reeling as Jonathan Smith’s coaching future remains a mystery. With recruiting losses mounting and key decisions from MSU leadership shrouded in silence, can Smith weather the storm or is a dramatic change on the horizon? Matt Sheehan and Stephen Brooks unravel the confusing saga, spotlighting uncertainty around Smith’s return, the impact on recruiting, and growing fan frustration driving the conversation.

The discussion intensifies as Smith’s coaching staff faces mounting pressure ahead of signing day, with financial backing and roster construction raising new questions. Are MSU’s struggles in the Big Ten...

Michigan State football did what it does best -- blow a lead with a myriad of errors. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Omaha Steaks Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale. And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout. Wayfair Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to https://Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday sale for up to 70% off. Sale ends December 7th. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by G...

Michigan State Spartans’ football future remains shrouded in uncertainty as fans search for answers—will head coach Jonathan Smith get a vote of confidence, or is a surprise coaching change brewing in East Lansing? Expert analysis weighs the silence from MSU’s athletic director, speculation about a Smith return to Oregon State, and the impact of NCAA sanctions on the program’s trajectory. Are home ties and off-field drama fueling behind-the-scenes moves? Matt Sheehan and Jeffrey the Greek dissect the dynamics of Big Ten votes of confidence, debate potential replacements like Pat Fitzgerald and Pat Narduzzi, and spotlight financial backing...

Michigan State Spartans face a potential doomsday scenario as questions swirl around Jonathan Smith’s future and the program’s direction. Amid NCAA sanctions and a struggling Big Ten campaign, controversy erupts over whether Michigan State will stick with Smith or search for a new leader. Recruiting setbacks, lack of NIL momentum, and transfer portal concerns threaten to derail rebuilding efforts—can the Spartans administration find a bold solution? Brian Smith and Matt Sheehan tackle hot-button issues like MSU’s wavering commitment, fan apathy vs. outrage, and the looming risk of losing key talents like Nick Marsh. The debate heats up...

Big Ten College Football Playoff chaos looms as Oregon Ducks face USC Trojans in a game that could determine whether three, four, or even five conference teams make the expanded playoff. Can the Trojans pull off the upset in Eugene and crash the party?

The panel breaks down Oregon's defensive dominance against USC's explosive passing attack, Michigan Wolverines' controversial playoff path despite their struggles, and Penn State Nittany Lions' momentum under interim coach Terry Smith against Nebraska Cornhuskers. Wisconsin Badgers' offensive woes take center stage as they host Bret Bielema's Illinois Fighting Illini, while transfer portal drama...

Michigan State Spartans fans confront tough questions as bowl hopes vanish for a fourth consecutive year, while Iowa Hawkeyes gear up for Senior Day with a postseason spot already secured. Matt Sheehan and Trent Condon break down the latest college football storylines, from Jonathan Smith’s uncertain coaching future in East Lansing and Alessio Milavojovic’s development at quarterback, to Iowa’s surprising lack of pass rush and the emotional impact of Senior Day at Kinnick Stadium. Can Michigan State find a spark as heavy underdogs, or will Iowa’s defense dominate a struggling Spartans offense? Shifting to basketball, both pro...

Michigan State basketball, once again, has a SQUAD under Tom Izzo. From the defensive performance to the great individual games by Jeremy Fears, Jaxon Kohler, Kur Teng and more, we break it down with Dave Klein. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL...

The Locked On Network gets you ready for the Champions Classic with the preview of Michigan State vs. Kentucky to kick things off. Will Kentucky's early injury issues give Tom Izzo and the Spartans a path to a needed Champions Classic win? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start...

Tom Izzo lands Michigan State Spartans the nation’s top 2026 basketball recruiting class, but can his relentless energy at age 70 push MSU back to the Final Four? Matt Sheehan spotlights Izzo’s blend of old-school relationship-building and new NIL-era tactics, breaking down how blue-chip signings like five-star center Ethan Taylor could reset the Spartans’ roster and their Big Ten ambitions. Get the inside scoop on up-and-coming players Jasiah Jervis, Carlos Medlock, and Julius Avent, and what this loaded class means for the future of Michigan State basketball. Special guest Tyler I Am joins to preview the highly anticipated Champions Classi...

Michigan State Spartans spiral as another double-digit home loss—this time to Penn State and an interim head coach—raises big questions about Jonathon Smith’s future and the dire state of Spartan football. Can fans find hope after a lifeless offense, a battered Alessio Milivojevic, and yet another painfully dominant showing by the opposition? Matt Sheehan unpacks the frustration, growing apathy, and if Smith’s “give it another year” mantra holds any weight. Key topics include Michigan State’s crumbling offensive line, Nick Marsh’s underwhelming season, and the lack of player development under the current regime. Matt Sheehan also tac...

Michigan State Spartans rocked by NCAA punishments—was Mel Tucker's $80 million buyout the real story? Matt Sheehan takes listeners inside the aftermath, questioning MSU's lack of resistance, the impact on current head coach Jonathan Smith’s future, and the implications for recruiting. Did internal fallout pave the way for stricter penalties and vacated wins, or is this just another chapter in college football’s chaotic business? Tom Izzo sounds the alarm despite a dominant 79-60 basketball win over San Jose State, warning that the team’s “fat and sassy” play could spell disaster against powerhouse Kentucky. Sheehan dissects Jaxon Kohler’s bre...

Big Ten playoff hopes hang in the balance as conference chaos continues. How many teams will crash the College Football Playoff party?

Ten Big Ten podcast hosts break down the latest rankings and deliver predictions for Week 12's crucial matchups. The discussion covers Iowa's historic struggles on the West Coast ahead of their USC showdown, Michigan State's defensive collapse against Penn State, and Wisconsin's upset victory over Washington that featured their punter as the leading passer. Ohio State's dominance stands in stark contrast to Indiana's nail-biting wins, while Michigan prepares for a sloppy Wrigley Field battle against...

Michigan State Spartans face NCAA sanctions, vacating three losing seasons after recruiting violations under Mel Tucker. Does this punishment unfairly target a new coaching regime just as the program looks to rebuild? Matt Sheehan breaks down the impact of probation, recruiting visit restrictions, and budget cuts on the Spartans’ football future. With Saeed Khalif, Brandon Jordan, and Tucker named as culprits, questions arise about the NCAA’s consistency and whether Michigan State got a raw deal compared to rivals like Michigan.

On the hardwood, Michigan State basketball’s promising freshmen are raising expectations and providing a glimpse into a...

Michigan State and Penn State face off as both programs hunt for their first Big Ten football win—can the Land Grant Trophy light a spark in their lost seasons? The looming coaching carousel takes center stage, with speculation swirling around Jonathan Smith’s future in East Lansing and whether James Franklin’s recruiting prowess could reignite the Spartans. Which program will land the next game-changing head coach, and how will crowded job openings like LSU, Auburn, and Florida shift the power balance across the conference? Matt Sheehan and his guest break down quarterback battles, defensive woes, and bowl eligib...

Michigan State Spartans face mounting pressure after another winless stretch, sparking debate about Jonathan Smith’s future as head coach. Can the Spartans rebound, or is a coaching change imminent? Matt Sheehan and Chris Vannini break down MSU’s financial hurdles, from buyout complications to NIL funding, and question whether star donors like Magic Johnson can help turn things around. Key topics include recent quarterback developments, the impact of transfer portal trends, and comparisons to Big Ten rivals like Minnesota, Purdue, and Wisconsin. Chris Vannini offers insights on MSU’s job ranking within the conference, the critical role of Haller...

Tom Izzo did what Tom Izzo does best in November, which is win at Breslin Center. Cam Ward, Jordan Scott showed out as freshmen as Jeremy Fears, Jaxon Kohler and Coen Carr also added their expertise in the gritty win over John Calipari's Razorbacks. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! DoorDash With DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18. SupplyHouse Join the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perk...

Michigan State Spartans take on Arkansas Razorbacks in a high-stakes Top 25 basketball showdown as Jeremy Fears faces off against Darius Acuff and Meleek Thomas, two of Arkansas' freshman phenoms. Can Tom Izzo’s experience overcome John Calipari's talented newcomers and Arkansas' towering frontcourt, including Nick Pringle and Trevon Brazile? Is the Spartans' physicality and relentless rebounding enough to offset their concerns with three-point shooting against Arkansas’ defensive vulnerabilities from the perimeter? Matt Sheehan and John Nabors break down key individual matchups, X-factors like Trey Fort and Billy Richmond, and the impact of coaching philosophies in this early-season statement game. The...

The Ohio State Buckeyes, Indiana Hoosiers and Oregon Ducks are all representing the Big Ten well in the first edition of the College Football Playoff rankings. What do the rankings say about the state of the conference? Then, a Week 11 preview covering the biggest games set to take place this weekend.

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Michigan State Spartans fans are demanding answers as frustration mounts over Jonathan Smith’s future. Is it time for Michigan State to move on from their embattled head coach, or does the massive buyout force another year of stagnation? Brian Smith and Matt Sheehan expose just how low morale has sunk on campus, with secondary struggles, an anemic offensive line, and fan apathy reaching new highs. Recruiting woes, transfer portal fears, and a bleak Big Ten schedule only add to the chaos. The episode features sharp analysis of potential losses like Nick Marsh and Jordan Hall, bold predictions about up...

Michigan State Spartans football faces a crossroads as Jonathan Smith's $32 million buyout looms large after six straight losses. Can the Spartans afford to make a change, or is a third year becoming inevitable? The discussion breaks down the financial realities of Big Ten programs, NIL funding challenges that plague the football program despite outspending successful teams like Indiana, and a recruiting class that's dropped from 27th to 35th nationally. Corey Robinson from SpartanTailgate.com analyzes Nick Marsh's transfer portal potential, Aidan Childs' uncertain future after being benched, and the stark contrast with Michigan State Spartans basketball's recruiting surge. Tom...

Michigan State Spartans basketball lands a game-changer. Jasiah Jervis, the nation's #2 shooting guard and #35 overall prospect in the 2026 class, commits to Tom Izzo's program. At 70 years old, Izzo continues building what could become an all-time recruiting class. The breakdown covers Jervis's three-level scoring ability, defensive prowess with a 6'8" wingspan, and why he's the perfect fit for Michigan State's system. The Spartans now hold a top-5 national recruiting class for 2026, leading the Big Ten. Analysis includes projected roster construction for the 2026-27 season, with detailed position breakdowns featuring Jeremy Fears, Jordan Scott and incoming freshman Carlos Medlock. Two major...

Michigan State Spartans backup quarterback Alessio Milivojevic delivered a stunning first career start against Minnesota, completing 20 of 28 passes for over 300 yards while absorbing 12 hits and pressure on 55% of his dropbacks. Despite the loss extending the Spartans' Big Ten losing streak to six games, Milivojevic's composure under fire has ignited debate about Michigan State football's quarterback situation and coaching decisions. The mailbag tackles whether the Spartans can salvage their season with winnable games remaining against Penn State, Iowa, and Maryland. Head coach Jonathan Smith's future becomes the central question as Michigan State sits winless in conference play. The discussion examines...

Michigan State football is in its second bye week and the feeling it...unusual. The Spartans are sitting at six straight losses and Jonathan Smith looks to be around for another game (or three). How do we feel about this? Plus, Michigan State basketball pulls away in the second half for an opening night win under Tom Izzo. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! DoorDash With DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms appl...

Michigan State football fought well on the shoulders of Alessio Milivojevic, but they got in their own way in regulation before the officials stole the show in overtime. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! DoorDash With DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18. SupplyHouse Join the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up f...

Michigan State Spartans football faces Minnesota as 3.5-point underdogs, but sharp bettors are hammering MSU despite the team's five-game losing streak. The critical matchup pits Minnesota's struggling pass offense against Michigan State's vulnerable pass defense—two weaknesses colliding in a game that could determine Jonathan Smith's future in East Lansing. Justin Guard from the Gopher Radio Network breaks down Minnesota's Jekyll-and-Hyde season, the devastating impact of star running back Darius Taylor's injury, and why PJ Fleck's name surfaces in coaching rumors every single year. The discussion covers Drake Lindsedy's quarterback development, Minnesota's first-round defensive talent, and the cultural sustainability Fl...

Though this weekend is not as hectic as it could have a few weeks ago, on paper, there is still plenty to break down ahead of the Big 10's Week 10. The Ohio State Buckeyes will host the Penn State Nittany Lions. The Indiana Hoosiers are traveling to the DMV to take on the Maryland Terrapins. Our predictions for those games and more on the Big 10 Squad.

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Michigan State Spartans football faces a crisis as a five-game losing streak puts head coach Jonathan Smith's future in serious doubt. Can the Spartans afford his $33 million buyout, and who could replace him? Brian Smith and Matt Sheehan break down potential coaching candidates including James Franklin and Brian Kelly, examining their recruiting prowess and fit with the program. The discussion covers alarming player buy-in concerns following the UCLA homecoming collapse, roster deficiencies across both sides of the ball, and why star receiver Nick Marsh may enter the transfer portal. With only one transfer window this year and multiple major...

Michigan State Spartans football faces a critical crossroads as head coach Jonathan Smith's five-game losing streak raises serious questions about his future. With a staggering $30-33 million buyout looming, can the Spartans afford to make a change, and what would it take for Smith to save his job?

The discussion breaks down Smith's three-step survival plan, including potential offensive coordinator changes and the need to start backup QB Alessio Milivojevic over struggling starter Aidan Chiles. Key topics include the program's complete lack of improvement since 2022, Smith's concerning absence of sideline emotion and leadership, and the crowded coaching...

Michigan State football is in a free fall yet again. We pick up the pieces after their loss to Michigan, debating if there is any redeeming quality about any of this and more. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Peloton Let yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com. DoorDash With DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period thro...

MSU football, once again, loses to Michigan. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Peloton Let yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com. DoorDash With DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18. Mazda It’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehi...

Michigan State Spartans face uphill battle against Michigan Wolverines. Can the underdog Spartans pull off a stunning upset in this high-stakes rivalry matchup? Statistical analysis reveals Michigan's dominance, but Chase Glasser of Spartans Illustrated argues the Wolverines may be vulnerable. The discussion explores Michigan's potential weaknesses, including offensive line injuries and a freshman quarterback. Opportunities for Michigan State to exploit these gaps take center stage, with strategies to keep the game close against a favored opponent. Will Michigan State's defense frustrate the Wolverines' offense? Can the Spartans' quarterback make game-changing plays? Tune in for expert predictions and insider perspectives...

Is the nation underrating the Big 10's championship potential? Plus, game picks for the biggest matchups for Week 9. Can the Indiana Hoosiers fend off the red-hot UCLA Bruins? The Northwestern Wildcats are visiting the Nebraska Cornhuskers. The Washington Huskies are hosting the Illinois Fighting Illini.

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Michigan vs. Michigan State: Can Spartans pull off an upset? Rivalry tensions rise as struggling MSU faces undefeated UM.

Host Matt Sheehan and guest analyst Chris Castellani break down the upcoming clash between these Big Ten foes. They analyze Michigan State's recent struggles, Michigan's impressive yet imperfect season, and the potential impact of freshman QB Bryce Underwood. The discussion covers UM's offensive line concerns, defensive strengths, and how MSU might exploit vulnerabilities.

Will Michigan continue their dominant run, or can Michigan State shock their in-state rivals? Tune in for expert predictions, key player analysis, and...

Michigan State's football future hangs in the balance. Can Jonathan Smith save his job with a win against rival Michigan? The upcoming clash with the Wolverines takes center stage as experts analyze Smith's precarious position and MSU's chances for an upset. Graham breaks down the Spartans' offensive strategy, highlighting key players who could make a difference. The conversation shifts to basketball, previewing MSU's exhibition game and potential roster shakeups. Don't miss the insider perspective on Michigan State's path forward, including a look at rising coaching candidates who could reshape the program's future. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Quo...