MSU Football Grades: Special Teams Shine in Spartans' 30-20 Win Over Toledo

Michigan State opened its 2026 season with a 30-20 victory over Toledo, and while the offense and defense showed flashes, it was the special teams unit that stole the show. The Spartans' kicking game, led by fifth-year senior transfer Liam Boyd, proved decisive in a game that was closer than the final score suggests.

Offense: Solid Start, Room to Grow

The Spartans' offense earned a grade of 5 out of 10. Michigan State jumped out to a 10-0 lead behind two impressive scoring drives that featured a balanced attack and a physical running game. Running back Cam Edwards looked like a legitimate playmaker, and the offensive line showed strength in run blocking. Quarterback Alessio Milivojevic was efficient, completing key throws that demonstrated real arm talent.

However, the third quarter was less inspiring. The Spartans stalled in the red zone on multiple occasions, settling for field goals instead of touchdowns. Despite those missed opportunities, Michigan State controlled the game with 26 first downs and over 43 minutes of possession. Milivojevic and receiver Rodney Bullard developed a strong connection late, and several receivers showed they can contribute this season.

Defense: Big Plays Mar an Otherwise Strong Effort

The defense also received a 5. Toledo managed just 10 first downs and converted only 1 of 9 third- and fourth-down attempts. The Spartans recorded two sacks, six tackles for loss, and an athletic interception by Kenny Soares. Late in the game, the defense made critical stops, including a short-yardage tackle by Devin Vaught and a forced missed field goal when Toledo threatened.

But two long scoring plays, a 60-yard pass and a 71-yard run, were costly busts that kept Toledo in the game. Those mistakes could be decisive against tougher opponents.

Special Teams: The Difference Makers

Special teams earned a 9, the highest grade of the night. Liam Boyd was the star, connecting on field goals from 32, 42, 48, 35, and 51 yards, with the final kick sealing the win. The 48- and 51-yard makes were career bests. His only miss, a 54-yard attempt, was blocked.

Punter Rhys Dakin, a transfer from Iowa, averaged 44 yards on his lone punt, pinning Toledo at their own 8-yard line. The return game also impressed, with Chrishon McCray gaining 30 yards on three punt returns and Kenneth Williams returning a kickoff 47 yards to set up another Boyd field goal.

Coaching: Strong Decisions, One Concern

Head coach Pat Fitzgerald and his staff received a 7. Offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan called a solid game, including a well-executed two-minute drill before halftime and a vote of confidence in McCray after a fumble. Defensive coordinator Joe Rossi's blitz schemes paid off with a sack, and special teams coach LeVar Woods had a strong debut.

Fitzgerald's decision to go for it on 4th-and-1 from the Toledo 5-yard line early in the fourth quarter, while trailing 20-19, was bold and paid off with a touchdown pass. The only real concern was the drop in intensity coming out of halftime, but the team's response after falling behind showed mental toughness.

Bottom Line: A Promising Start with Clear Concerns

Aside from two defensive breakdowns, this was Michigan State's best season opener since the 2021 win over Northwestern. There is plenty to correct, but also plenty to build on. The top end of the roster looks capable, but depth remains a concern. If key players stay healthy, this team could surprise people.

For Iowa fans, the performance of Rhys Dakin, a former Iowa punter, adds a local connection to this story. His ability to flip field position will be valuable for the Spartans this season.

What Does This Mean for Iowa?

While this is a Michigan State story, it highlights the broader Big Ten landscape that Iowa will compete against this fall. The Spartans' special teams dominance and defensive vulnerabilities are worth noting for Hawkeye fans as they assess conference rivals.

Michigan State's next test will come against tougher competition, and how they address those defensive lapses will determine their ceiling. For now, Spartan fans have reason for cautious optimism.