MSU Homecoming 2026: What Fans Need to Know Before Saturday’s Game

If you're planning to be anywhere near East Lansing this Saturday, you might want to give yourself a little extra time.

Between the usual traffic, ongoing road construction, and thousands of Michigan State football fans, getting around could be interesting.

MSU has its first Homecoming game under coach Pat Fitzgerald this Saturday in East Lansing. (Duane Burleson, Getty Images)

It's Homecoming weekend at MSU, and the Spartans welcome Illinois to Spartan Stadium on Saturday, October 10.

MSU Hosts Illinois for Homecoming

Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m., and both teams could really use a win.

Michigan State and Illinois enter Saturday's game with identical 2-3 records, including 0-2 starts in Big Ten play.

The Spartans are coming off an ugly 31-3 loss to Wisconsin. Illinois didn't fare much better last weekend, losing to Purdue 24-17.

Former MSU Quarterback Returns With Illinois

Here's an interesting twist.

Illinois quarterback Katin Houser used to play for Michigan State. He actually started seven games for the Spartans back in 2023.

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Now he's coming back to East Lansing wearing the other team's uniform.

That ought to be interesting.

Parking and Tailgating at Spartan Stadium

If you're heading to the game, here's what you need to know.

Parking lots open at 7 a.m. Saturday, so tailgaters can get started bright and early.

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General public parking is $40. You can also park at Lot 89 or the MSU Pavilion for $20 and catch a free shuttle to campus.

A couple other reminders: Spartan Stadium is cashless, and only approved clear bags or small clutches are permitted.

How to Watch or Listen to MSU's Homecoming Game

Saturday's game will air on FS1.

Or, if you'd rather listen, you can catch George Blaha and the Spartan Radio Network right here in Lansing on 94.9 MMQ, with pregame coverage beginning at noon.

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You can find additional parking information, stadium policies and game-day updates on MSU's official gameday website.

And whether you're heading to the stadium or just trying to get across East Lansing Saturday, pack a little patience.

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