“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

Michigan State football QB Aidan Chiles learned all about the Michigan rivalry last year. Saturday will be Wolverines freshman Bryce Underwood's turn.

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).

Michigan defensive end Josaiah Stewart (0) holds the Paul Bunyan Trophy back into the tunnel after 24-17 win over Michigan State at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024. / Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images