(Getty Images)Aaron Patrick LenyearSun, November 30, 2025 at 9:32 PM UTC·1 min readPat Fitzgerald makes stunning return to the Big Ten originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Michigan State is making headlines, and turning plenty of heads, by hiring former Northwestern head coach Pat Fitzgerald. After nearly three years away from the sidelines, Fitzgerald is set to return to Big Ten football, stepping into a role that demands immediate stability, toughness, and long-term vision.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementFitzgerald brings a unique résumé back to the conference. During his 17 seasons at Northwestern, he posted a 110–101 record and guided the Wildcats to 10 bowl games, going 5–5 in those appearances. For a program historically accustomed to uphill battles, Fitz’s tenure was nothing short of transformational. He took Northwestern to heights few thought possible, delivering consistency, cultural identity, and occasional national relevance.
But his exit was messy and unforgettable. In 2022, Northwestern stumbled to a 1–11 record, and months later Fitzgerald was fired following hazing allegations within the program. The saga ended in August 2025 when Fitzgerald settled a $130 million wrongful termination lawsuit against the university. With that chapter closed, he now turns the page in East Lansing.
This hire is bold, controversial, and undeniably fascinating. Michigan State is betting on experience, toughness, and a proven Big Ten identity, attributes Fitzgerald embodies. The Spartans want to reclaim their place among the conference’s elite, and they believe Fitzgerald can engineer a gritty rebuild similar to what he accomplished at Northwestern.
Whether this move becomes a masterstroke or a misstep will unfold quickly. But one thing is certain: Pat Fitzgerald is back, and the Big Ten just got a lot more interesting.
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