“It’s a very important, meaningful game so that creates a huge opportunity for us, especially kind of where we’re at with things,” coach Jonathan Smith said on Monday. “This season hasn’t gone our way, all those things, I think it comes at a good time to galvanize this group and have a great week of work getting ready for Saturday.”

Oct 18, 2025; Bloomington, Indiana, USA; Indiana Hoosiers defensive back Amare Ferrell (1) breaks up a pass intended for Michigan State Spartans linebacker Isaac Smith (13) during the second half at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images / Robert Goddin-Imagn Images

Heading into the battle for Paul Bunyan against No. 25 Michigan (5-2, 3-1 Big Ten), Smith now better recognizes the meaning of this game not only for fans, but also for the school. Kickoff is 7:30 p.m. Saturday at Spartan Stadium (NBC).

The article argues that if a decision to fire Smith has been made, it should happen before the rivalry game against Michigan. The author predicts Smith will not be fired on Sunday and will coach against Michigan next week.

This article was originally published on www.si.com/college/michiganstate as A Bold Take on Jonathan Smith and Michigan State. Michigan State football is in a bad place, and head coach Jonathan Smith has not helped turn things around as quickly as many expected him to.