Michigan vs. Michigan State battle for Paul Bunyan Trophy on Nov. 7

Michigan vs. Michigan State battle for Paul Bunyan Trophy on Nov. 7

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Michigan faces Michigan State on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. ET from Ann Arbor in a battle for the Paul Bunyan Trophy. The game will be streamed on Peacock and Michigan is favored by 13.5 points, with an over/under of 39.5. The weather is expected to be 44 degrees and partly cloudy.

Offensive Struggles Define Rivalry

Both the Wolverines and Spartans are dealing with significant offensive struggles this season under new head coaches. Michigan is ranked 119th in yards per game and 106th in points per game, while Michigan State is 129th and 112th in those categories, respectively. The Wolverines have a 5-3 record, reaching bowl eligibility, while the Spartans are 2-6 and one of two winless teams in the Big Ten conference, with their only wins coming against Toledo and Eastern Michigan.

Spartans Face Critical Injuries

Michigan State is facing a critical injury situation, particularly at quarterback. Starting quarterback Alessio Milivojevic missed last week’s game against UCLA, and backup Cam Fancher is also injured, forcing true freshman Kayd Coffman into action. Coffman went 4-for-10 with a touchdown and an interception against UCLA. Milivojevic is expected to be sidelined again for this matchup. The Spartans are also dealing with three injuries in the running back room and several in the secondary.

A Preview Of Michigan State Vs Michigan : The 2026 Battle For Paul Bunyan

Coaching Approaches and Historical Trends

Michigan State head coach Pat Fitzgerald has placed a strong emphasis on the rivalry, calling it a week that our players, our staff but all of our fans, our alums, our former players circle. Michigan head coach Kyle Whittingham has downplayed the rivalry, and it was reported he sounded as if he heard about the tunnel fight for the first time earlier this week. Historically, offensive struggles may dictate the outcome, as in 49 of the last 56 matchups, the team with more rushing yards has won the Paul Bunyan Trophy.

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