Spartan Speak: Recent Episodes
Lansing State Journal
On the latest Spartan Speak podcast, Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch discuss MSU's football team and the beginning of the Pat Fitzgerald era as fall camp begins. Plus, a look at the Spartans' men's basketball team coming out of the summer.
Chris and Graham analyze what they've seen from MSU's basketball team at the Moneyball Pro-Am, taking a look at each player, before digging into the mess at MSU with the departures of President Kevin Guskiewicz and AD J Batt.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari discuss why Jeremy Fears Jr. is returning to the Michigan State men's basketball team, what it means for the Spartans, and take a look at the rest of the roster. Plus, the mess with MSU's administration and how it could impact athletics, and a look at the latest with MSU's football program.
Graham and Chris preview Michigan State men's basketball game against Connecticut in the Sweet 16 in Washington, D.C., and, peeking behind the curtain, discuss the advantages the Spartans have this time of year, given how they handle their business during the season. Plus, MSU hockey begins NCAA tournament play, and what's next for MSU women's basketball.
Graham Couch and Chris Solari look at the Spartans' NCAA tournament opener Thursday against North Dakota State, as well as MSU's chances of making a deep run.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari take a look at the state of Michigan State's men's basketball team as the Spartans begin postseason play in the Big Ten tournament.
Graham Couch and Chris Solari discuss the Spartans' recent performances and look at the keys and what's at stake in Sunday's MSU-Michigan rematch in Ann Arbor. Plus, the MSU women's basketball team slips up and MSU hockey wins another banner.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press sportswriter Chris Solari discuss the MSU men's basketball team's place in the Big Ten, whether the race is over, and where the Spartans are headed. Plus, a couple big games for the MSU women's basketball team.
In a Detroit Free Press and Lansing State Journal collaboration, the "Hail Yes!" and "Spartan Speak" podcasts join to preview Michigan vs. Michigan State. Freep's assistant sports editor Andrew Birkle, U-M sports reporter Tony Garcia, MSU sports writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch answered listener questions live.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari discuss Michigan State's 15-2 men's basketball team, what's gotten the Spartans to this place, which players have propelled them, which could do more and what the rest of the season looks like as they head out west to face Washington and Oregon. Plus, a look at MSU football's staff and work in the transfer portal.
The Michigan State football program has a new leader: former Northwestern coach Pat Fitzgerald. Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari discuss the firing of Jonathan Smith and what they think of the hiring of Fitzgerald as the Spartans' football coach. Plus, MSU basketball is rolling, with a huge week ahead.
Graham Couch of the Lansing State Journal and Chris Solari of the Detroit Free Press discuss Michigan State football's loss to Iowa on Saturday.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari discuss Michigan State basketball's win over Kentucky in the Champions Classic and what it means for the Spartans' team and season. Then a conversation on MSU football, both heading into the Iowa game and the impact of the NCAA sanctions.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari discuss the probation handed down to the Michigan State football program by the NCAA for violations under Mel Tucker. From every angle possible, including the Connor Stalions/CMU game and compared to what penalties Michigan received.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari discuss Michigan State basketball's win over Colgate, the game ahead against Arkansas, new recruit Jasiah Jervis, MSU hockey's showdown with Gavin McKenna and Penn State, and MSU football's controversial loss to Minnesota.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari discuss MSU's football team and program heading into the Minnesota game and whether this team has a chance to break its five-game losing streak. Then, a discussion on what we saw from MSU's men's basketball team in its exhibition against UConn.
The boys from the Spartan Speak podcast, Graham Couch and Chris Solari, joined Andrew Birkle and Tony Garcia of the Detroit Free Press and their University of Michigan athletics podcast, 'Hail Yes!' to preview this weekend's Michigan State-Michigan football game.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari discuss the angst surrounding Jonathan Smith and Michigan State football's matchup with Michigan. Plus, a little hoops.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari spend an hour discussing the state of Michigan State's football program, how things got here with Jonathan Smith, and what lies ahead.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari discuss Michigan State football's mess of a showing at Nebraska and the latest biggest game of the Jonathan Smith era, Saturday against UCLA.
On this week's podcast. Lansing State Journal reporter Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari preview the Michigan State-Nebraska football game and look at how the Spartans can win. Plus, we discuss new MSU hoops recruit Julius Avent at the end.
On this week's podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari talk about the state of Michigan State's football team coming out of the USC loss and the schedule ahead. Plus, a first look at this MSU basketball team as practice begins.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari look at the Michigan State football team's chances at USC, the importance of the game, and, beyond winning, what might be considered a successful trip.
On this week's Spartan Speak, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari take a look at where things stand with Michigan State's football team after the win over Boston College, heading into Saturday's game against Youngstown State. Plus, the USC start time and some Spartan basketball schedule talk.
On this week's episode, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari dig into Michigan State's win over Western Michigan and look ahead to the Boston College game - what we're looking for from Aidan Chiles, the defense and more.
The Michigan State football team kicks off its season Friday night against Western Michigan, as the Spartans begin Year 2 under Jonathan Smith.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari preview MSU's opener against the Broncos - what they think might happen, what's important for the Spartans to accomplish, and things they're curious to see unfold. Plus, they'll make predictions for the game.
The Michigan State football season is near, which means it's time for the Spartan Speak podcast to break down the position groups.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari take a spin through each position, getting into strengths and concerns as the Spartans head into their Week 1 game vs. Western Michigan.
On the latest episode of the Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari dig into the MSU football storylines at fall camp, including what they think they know about this team, without having seen them play. Plus, a spin through the football schedule and a look at MSU's men's basketball team coming out of the summer.
In the two weeks following Michigan State basketball's loss to Auburn in the Elite Eight, the Spartans have already seen a shift in the team. Jase Richardson declared for the NBA draft, Tre Holloman transferred to NC State and Kaleb Glenn has transferred in from Florida Atlantic.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari dig into all things Spartan basketball - including what Tom Izzo and his staff can do in the transfer portal.
Plus, spring football, hockey and gymnastics.
On this week's podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari preview the Michigan State basketball team's Sweet 16 game against Chris Beard and Ole Miss.
On this week's podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari look at the state of the Michigan State men's basketball team and the Spartans' NCAA tournament draw.
Plus, a look at the MSU women's basketball team's early NCAA tournament draw.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari spend more than an hour talking about Michigan State basketball on this week's Spartan Speak podcast.
Discussion topics:
- Exactly how good is MSU
- "The Shove" - Skirmish at the end of the Michigan game
- All-Big Ten teams
- Big Ten tournament preview
The Michigan State basketball team has responded in a big way over the past few days, defeating Illinois on the road Saturday and earning a top-15 home win over Purdue on Tuesday night.
Up next? No. 12 Michigan.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari discuss MSU's win over Purdue as the Spartans regain their football. Then, they preview Friday's showdown with the Wolverines, the biggest game between the two rivals since MSU swept U-M in three contests in 2018-19.
Michigan State men's basketball has lost 3 of 4 games after starting the season 18-2. The Spartans are more than capable of turning things around, but they must do so against a brutal schedule.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari discuss the latest with Spartan basketball and how they must rebound Saturday night against Illinois.
The Michigan State men's basketball team is rolling. After a big win over Illinois on Sunday, the team was ranked No. 8 in this week's USA TODAY coaches poll.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari talk about the Spartans' win over the Illini, the Big Ten title prospects for this MSU team and look ahead to Saturday's game against Rutgers in New York. Plus, a preview of MSU hockey ahead of its series against Minnesota and MSU football's transfer portal haul.
Graham Couch and Chris Solari discuss the latest with Michigan State's men's basketball team as the Spartans prepare to re-enter Big Ten play. Plus, MSU football recruiting, hockey and women's hoops.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari discuss the Michigan State men's basketball team's game vs. Kansas and preview Saturday's football game vs. Illinois.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari dig into this weekend's Michigan State-Michigan football game and the current dynamics between the two schools.
The boys are back from Northern Michigan after the men's basketball team made the visit up north last weekend and delivered another episode of Spartan Speak!
But before that, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari begin the podcast discussing Michigan State's football game with Iowa on Saturday. Then, they move on to the Spartans' game at Northern Michigan and Tom Izzo's homecoming visit to his alma mater.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari chat about Michigan State's frustrating game against Ohio State and what can be learned from the performance against the Buckeyes. Then the guys look ahead to the brutal matchup with Oregon on a short week and whether or not the Spartans can get their signature moment.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari have a spirited discussion on the Michigan State football program, coming off Saturday's loss to Boston College and heading into this weekend's upcoming game vs. Ohio State.
Plus, the state of MSU basketball heading into Tom Izzo's 30th season and how MSU hockey is back among the best.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari dive into last week's football game at Maryland and how it changed the possibilities for Michigan State's football season. Then they look ahead to what the Spartans can get out of their matchup with Prairie View A&M.
The Michigan State football team got off to a rousing start in the Jonathan Smith era, beating Florida Atlantic last Friday. It was also the first game for highly-touted QB Aidan Chiles.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari share their thoughts on the Spartans' win and look ahead to Saturday's Big Ten conference game against Maryland.
They end the podcast with a discussion on the MSU basketball team's overseas trip to Spain.
Apologies for being away so long (the last podcast was on April 22), but the Spartan Speak podcast is back with a vengeance!
With the Moneyball Pro-Am kicking into high gear, Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari discuss MSU's basketball roster, newcomers and returners, and changing dynamics after Tuesday's Moneyball Pro-Am.
Then they talked about the upcoming Big Ten football media days.
The Michigan State football team held its spring game on Saturday. And most of the eyes were on new Spartan QB Aidan Chiles, who didn't disappoint by delivering a couple of 'wow' plays.
On the latest "Spartan Speak" podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari react to MSU football's spring game – what we learned QB through defense and what it all means.
With the Michigan State hockey and basketball seasons over, it's now time for an end-of-season recap for both teams on this week's Spartan Speak podcast.
We start with hockey. Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and LSJ hockey writer Nate Bott dive into the team and program – their performance at the NCAA regionals, the season that was and where the program is headed.
Then Graham and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari dig in on MSU's basketball program and what's ahead.
And, lastly, some MSU spring football talk.
The Michigan State men's basketball team's regular season ended with a loss to Indiana on Sunday, leaving the Spartans with an 18-13 overall record and 10-10 in the conference, making them the 8-seed for this week's Big Ten tournament.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari dive into this MSU team entering the postseason – whether it has got a run in them and our predictions for the Spartans at the Big Ten tournament.
Things were looking up for the Michigan State men's basketball team after a three-game winning streak, but that came to a screeching halt Tuesday night in a 78-71 home loss to Iowa.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari dove into the Spartans' loss to the Hawkeyes, what went wrong, the center position, and where this team goes from here.
Then Graham is joined by Nathaniel Bott for a discussion on MSU hockey as the Spartans near a Big Ten title.
It didn't quite have the importance of years past, but the Michigan State basketball team handled its business in the second half in beating Michigan on Tuesday. Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari dive into the Spartans' win on this Spartan Speak, along with the state of the program heading into February.
Plus, a look at Spartan hockey playing for a Big Ten championship as the postseason nears and MSU football, which announced a date for its spring game.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari dive in on MSU basketball – what's going well, what isn't, the possibility the Spartans could go on a run over the next few weeks and Steven Izzo's shot heard around Spartan land. Plus, a little football talk at the end.
On a holiday edition of the Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari discuss the latest with the Michigan State basketball team, which is surging after winning three straight games against #6 Baylor, Oakland and Stony Brook.
Then, a conversation about MSU football coach Jonathan Smith's first signing day and the happenings around the football program.
The Michigan State men's basketball team continues to be plagued with questions after the Spartans' home loss to Wisconsin to open Big Ten play on Tuesday. On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari do a deep dive on the team – the level of concern, the problems and what can be fixed.
Then, a conversation on MSU's quarterback situation, Aidan Chiles and beyond.
There's a new football coach at Michigan State, with the Spartans announcing the hire of Oregon State's Jonathan Smith. On this week's Spartan Speak, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari discuss how it happened, what they think of Smith and the fit and the challenges with the roster right now.
Then, they talk MSU hoops – on the point guard situation with A.J. Hoggard and Xavier Booker's role on this team.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari dig into the Michigan State men's basketball's recent performance and preview a measuring stick game against a daunting and unbeaten Arizona team on Thanksgiving Day.
Then, they discuss MSU football's showing at Indiana — Maliq Carr, Katin Houser, etc. — before breaking down the Spartans' finale against Penn State at Ford Field and talking about the coaching search, Harlon Barnett's performance, and the drama that could be just ahead.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari react to the Michigan State men's basketball team's loss to James Madison - why it happened, which concerns are real and which aren't - and then preview MSU's football game at Ohio State.
On this week's Spartan Speak, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari begin by discussing Michigan State football's QB situation and Saturday's game against Nebraska.
Then, they get to the seedier side of things and dig into the insanity at Michigan with Connor Stalions and increasing evidence of cheating, before talking MSU hoops after the Tennessee scrimmage and heading into Monday's opener.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari analyze Michigan State basketball's exhibition win over Hillsdale, including what stood out from MSU's freshman and several other players.
Then they dig into the Michigan football sign-stealing scandal and what it might mean for the Spartans' rivals, before previewing and predicting MSU's football game at Minnesota.
It's Michigan Week, people! But this year has a different feel, as the Wolverines are playing like they're on top of the world, while Michigan State has lost its head coach and the quality of play has been severely lacking this year.
But with this rivalry comes weird results. And on this week's Spartan Speak, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari preview Saturday's game, whether the Spartans have a chance and what it would take to pull an upset. Plus, a little coaching search talk and then the impact of Jaxon Kohler's injury on MSU's basketball team.
The Spartan Speak podcast returns after a two-week layoff! Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free beat writer Chris Solari have plenty to cover as the Michigan State football team is coming off a bye week in preparation for Saturday's game against Rutgers.
This week's topics include the ongoing coaching search to replace Mel Tucker, the appeal of and the problem with Urban Meyer, the school's NIL collective in turmoil with the disbandment of SD4L, and a preview and prediction for the Rutgers game.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari discuss the State of the Spartans football program, in the wake of Mel Tucker's sexual harassment lawsuit and this week's announcement that Michigan State intends to fire Tucker with cause.
Graham and Chris discuss where things stand with the program now, including fan support, coaching search, players potentially leaving due to transfer, QB situation and even a discussion that fans might already be on to basketball season in mid-September.
The news surrounding Mel Tucker's suspension due to a sexual harassment complaint is ever-evolving, but for Friday's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal sports columnist and Detroit Free Press beat write Chris Solari keep everything completely on the field.
Episode topics include previewing Saturday's showdown with Washington and QB Michael Penix, who has owned the Spartans; the debut of interim head coach Harlon Barnett and whether or not he can make the job his permanently; and the return of Mark Dantonio to the sideline.
The Michigan State football team beat Richmond on Saturday to improve to 2-0, but that's on the backburner now as an investigative story from USA TODAY's Kenny Jacoby that coach Mel Tucker was being investigated in a Title IX sexual harassment case was published early Sunday morning.
And shortly after the publication of that story, Tucker was suspended by the school without pay amid the investigation with perhaps a final resolution coming in the week of Oct. 5, when there's a formal hearing.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari deliver their reaction to the news and the fallout of the suspension on this week's Spartan Speak podcast. They delve into the school's decision to suspend him, what it means to the program, thoughts on Teresa Woodruff and Alan Haller's Sunday press conference that left more questions than answers, how it impacts the players and their initial thoughts on Harlon Barnett stepping in as the interim head coach.
The Michigan State football team kicked off its 2023 season last week with a win over Central Michigan, with one half (the second) much better than the other.
With FCS squad Richmond coming to Spartan Stadium this weekend, MSU will have a chance to improve on some of the potential they showed in the second half last Friday. Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari evaluate the Spartans' individual performances and preview Saturday's game vs. Richmond.
They also discuss Keon Coleman's big night for Florida State vs. LSU and make predictions for MSU-Richmond.
It's been a bit of a different preseason for Michigan State football. There hasn't officially been any indication as to who the Spartans' starting quarterback will be, and in a press conference this week, coach Mel Tucker didn't specifically mention a single player on the roster by name. Is it a weird coincidence or a planned strategy for Week 1 preparation?
Lucky for you, the listener, there's no stopping Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari from talking to their heart's content as they go over all the key storylines heading into Friday's season opener against Central Michigan. Plus, a little basketball talk at the end.
We're only a mere eight days away from Michigan State football's season-opening game against Central Michigan. And since the last podcast, some developments have occurred. On this week's episode, Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari take a look at the Spartans' depth chart and break the roster down position by position.
Who will be MSU's starting quarterback? Can certain defensive players look good against Big Ten competition? What about the kicking game? They'll break it all down for you here.
Quite frankly, we've been gone way too long. Almost three months, in fact. But that changes today as Michigan State football's fall camp begins Thursday. Fall is near, and that means that Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari emerged from hiding and will return on a near-weekly basis.
This week, Graham and Chris thoroughly discuss each MSU position group:
- Who emerges as the starting QB, Noah Kim or Katin Houser (or Sam Leavitt?)
- Still trying to fill Kenneth Walker's shoes at running back
- Questions abound with the WRs
- And much, much more
Michigan State football news was hot and heavy on Sunday, as the Spartan football lost three starters to the transfer portal: First, it was two-year starting QB Payton Thorne; then, expected No. 1 receiver Keon Coleman left; and last, CB Charles Brantley announced he was leaving.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari react to the news and discuss the state of MSU's program following the departures.
They end the podcast discussing Jayden Reed, Bryce Baringer and Ameer Speed being selected in the NFL draft.
Michigan State held its spring football game on Saturday. Although it was mostly a glorified practice, there was plenty for Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari to see.
They discuss the QB competition between Payton Thorne, Noah Kim and Katin Houser and other highlights from Spartan Stadium.
They also delve into basketball, with Tyson Walker and Malik Hall announcing their return for next season. And finally, they discuss what matters more: Moneyball or spring football.
The boys are back from NYC following Michigan State's NCAA tournament loss to Kansas State in the Sweet 16. Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari reflect on the Spartans' loss and whether it was a missed opportunity, and then project what next year's roster will look like.
In the final part of the podcast, they discuss spring football, Keon Coleman, the upcoming QB battle and more.
The Lansing State Journal's Graham Couch and the Detroit Free Press' Chris Solari and Shawn Windsor break down Michigan State's Sweet 16 overtime defeat to Kansas State, in what was an instant classic.
There's a reason the "January, February, Izzo" saying exists, and the Michigan State basketball team is advancing to its 15th Sweet 16 under Tom Izzo, upsetting 2-seed Marquette 69-60 on Sunday.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari break down the MSU win piece-by-piece, preview the Kansas State game and discuss the Big Ten's performance in the NCAA tournament.
It was a busy past two days in Michigan State athletics, and we're here to cover it all for you: The Spartans are set to play USC in the NCAA Tournament, spring football practice begins, and women's basketball coach Suzy Merchant is stepping down after 16 seasons.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch is joined by beat writer Brian Calloway at the beginning of the podcast to discuss Merchant's departure. Then, Graham and Detroit Free Press MSU beat writer Chris Solari break down the Spartans' tournament opener against USC (and potential second-round game against Marquette) and discuss MSU's quarterback situation.
On this week's Spartan Speak, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari preview this week's Big Ten tournament, discussing which schools need wins the most and predict who will win the tournament.
Then, moving on to football, they discuss the decommitment of 4-star WR Nick Marsh, discuss recruiting on the whole before moving on to Brandon Jordan's decision to leave the MSU coaching staff for a job with the Seattle Seahawks.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari get caught up on the Michigan State basketball's last two games against Iowa and Nebraska, look ahead to this weekend's senior day contest against Ohio State, how the Spartans can still get the double bye in the Big Ten tournament, and what seed they could receive in the NCAA tournament.
It has been a difficult week, to put it lightly, following the shooting at Michigan State on Feb. 13 that left three students dead and five wounded. In the background of that horrific event, Saturday's Michigan State-Michigan basketball game was played in Ann Arbor which saw both communities come together in this moment.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari discuss the game in the context of everything surrounding it. They also look ahead to the Indiana game and potential schedule changes.
On this week's podcast, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari discuss the Spartans' win over Maryland on Tuesday, the struggles of Malik Hall and the three-man center rotation of Mady Sissoko, Jaxon Kohler and Carson Cooper, and Sunday's game against Ohio State.
In the midst of a condensed schedule, the podcast returns following Michigan State's loss at Indiana on Sunday. Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari discuss the Spartans' 82-69 loss to the Hoosiers, including:
- MSU's inability to contain Trayce Jackson-Davis
- Mady Sissoko and Pierre Brooks' struggles
- The handling of AJ Hoggard's foul situation
Plus, a discussion on the rotation, or lack thereof, and how some of next year's freshmen might fit in.
After a month off, Spartan Speak returns! Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari have plenty to discuss with the MSU men's basketball season in full swing.
They discuss Keon Coleman's decision to play basketball this year, Malik Hall's return after missing games due to a foot injury, and deep dive on MSU football's recruiting class and transfer portal signees.
After traveling to State College and Portland, respectively, Chris and Graham are back for the latest episode of Spartan Speak.
They discuss the Michigan State football team's loss to Penn State, likely a season-ender with a 5-7 record, the basketball team's performance at the PK85 tournament in Portland against Alabama, Oregon and Portland, and the latest news from the tunnel fight at the end of the MSU-Michigan game back in late October.
Things are looking up for the Michigan State basketball team after the Spartans beat Kentucky in double overtime, thanks in large part to Malik Hall's dunks at the end of regulation and the first overtime. But the biggest revelation has been the emergence of third-year player Mady Sissoko, who's becoming a force in the paint.
Graham and Chris also preview Friday night's basketball game against Villanova, before moving on to the Spartan football team. It is one game away from bowl eligibility after last week's win over Rutgers and they can get it with a win Saturday over Indiana.
Wednesday was National Signing Day for college basketball, and all four of Michigan State's commits - Xavier Booker, Jeremy Fears, Coen Carr and Gehrig Normand - sent in their letters of intent, meaning coach Tom Izzo has secured the nation's No. 3 recruiting class for 2023, according to 247Sports.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari discuss the Spartans' excellent haul and discuss Monday's season-opening win over Northern Arizona.
They also discuss MSU football's home game Saturday against Rutgers and the latest in the MSU-Michigan tunnel skirmish from two weeks ago.
There was a game played Saturday night, but nobody's talking about that. Instead, the post-game altercations that occurred in the Michigan Stadium tunnel after the game have taken center stage. Eight Spartans have been suspended - and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch are here to discuss it all.
Plus, we preview Saturday's game vs. Illinois and the men's basketball team's exhibition opener against Grand Valley.
There's no mistaking it. The Michigan Wolverines are flying high with a 7-0 record and a No. 4 national ranking. Michigan State is 3-4 and recently ended a four-game losing streak with an overtime win over Wisconsin.
But this in-state rivalry has produced some great games over the year, especially the last 14 years, with the Spartans owning a 10-4 advantage in that stretch, including a number of wins where they were the Vegas underdog.
Can MSU pull it off again and derail the Wolverines' dreams of a national title? Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch, Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and host Phil Friend preview Saturday's game.
With the Spartans on a bye week, Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch brought out their red pens this week to grade the Michigan State football team offense, defense, special teams and coaching.
Along with host Phil Friend, they also discuss Saturday's win over Wisconsin with a sprinkling of comments on MSU's game against Michigan on Oct. 29.
The Michigan State football team's losing streak reached four after getting blown out by Ohio State on Saturday. The Spartans' issues continue to pile up, as Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch, Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and host Phil Friend discuss the issues with the defense, offensive line and recruiting, along with QB Payton Thorne's comments earlier this week.
There isn't much to grab on to the last three games if you're a Michigan State fan, as the Spartans prepare to host No. 3 Ohio State on Saturday afternoon.
Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari, Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and host Phil Friend preview Saturday's game - trying to find spots where the Spartans can feel optimistic, discuss Jayden Reed's season, make game predictions and also talk a little hoops at the end.
The Michigan State football team is at a crossroads once again after getting thumped at home by Minnesota. Now, all of the sudden, Saturday's opponent, Maryland - which is coming off a near-upset of Michigan - is an 8.5-point favorite. How did MSU get to that point?
Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch try to answer talk, discussing Mel Tucker's tendencies in recruiting and the transfer portal, before breaking down Saturday's Maryland game and making predictions.
After an offseason of heightened expectations, the Michigan State football team couldn't get through the nonconference slate unscathed after losing at Washington last weekend.
Now, the Spartans face a veteran Minnesota team that has the potential to completely upend MSU's season. Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch dissect the state of the Spartans: the offensive line, defensive secondary, running game, pass game, coaching and more.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch discuss the performance of Michigan State QB Payton Thorne, who has had a bit of a rollercoaster performance in the Spartans' first two games this season.
Then, they preview Saturday night's Washington game and answer listener questions.
We've got an actual, live college football game to reach to on this week's Spartan Speak! Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch discuss Michigan State's win over Western Michigan that proved a bit costly, as two key defenders went down with injuries.
Plus, we talk about Jacoby Windmon, the offensive line, the wideouts, Mel Tucker calling out (maybe) MSU's nutritional team, and we preview Saturday's game vs. Akron.
Michigan State football's season opener is Friday night against Western Michigan. Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch get you caught up on what to expect in the game, discuss the newest details in Tom Izzo's contract extension and then we do over/unders and predictions for the 2022 college football season.
Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch catch you up on the latest news in Michigan State sports.
This week's topics:
- Football and basketball recruiting
- 6 MSU football observations (Keon Coleman and special teams among the topics)
- Listener questions
The Spartan Speak podcast has returned from its annual sabbatical, and just in time, as the Michigan State football team is well into preseason practice and the season opener against Western Michigan is right around the corner.
The Detroit Free Press's Chris Solari and the Lansing State Journal's Ryan Black take you through the latest in Spartan news. Topics:
- Tom Izzo contract extension
- MSU basketball recruiting lands Coen Carr, Xavier Booker, Gehrig Normand
- 6 MSU football preseason tidbits
- MSU football recruiting
- Listener questions - including 6 hot takes
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari are two of the few people in the world who have already seen the new Magic Johnson documentary, "They Call Me Magic," which airs on Apple+ this weekend.
We spend the first 14 minutes talking about that before discussing Julius Marble's decision to enter the transfer portal and Joey Hauser opting to return for one more season.
We then shift to football, with RB Donovan Eaglin and CB Antoine Booth entering the portal, and then a discussion on the spring game.
It's a listener question episode of Spartan Speak this week! Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari answer your questions ahead of the Michigan State football team's spring game on Saturday.
The latest Michigan State news is basketball heavy, as longtime assistant basketball coach Dwayne Stephens is leaving the program to become the head coach last Western Michigan. And last week, freshman Max Christie declared for the NBA draft. Will he change his mind and return to campus? Plus, spring football talk.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sportswriters Graham Couch and Phil Friend discuss the Spartans' second-round loss to Duke in the NCAA tournament, while also looking ahead to next season's squad.
They also talk about Foster Loyer and MSU's win over Davidson, the Big Ten's disappointing performance and more.
After a decent run in the Big Ten tournament that saw the Michigan State basketball team beat Maryland and Wisconsin before losing a competitive game to Purdue in the semifinals, the Spartans drew a 7-seed in the NCAA tournament, and oh, boy, there are storylines galore.
MSU drew 10-seed Davidson in the first round, and its leading scorer is former Spartan Foster Loyer. And if MSU wins that game, longtime nemesis Duke likely awaits in the second round in Mike Krzyzewski's final season with the Blue Devils.
Then, Chris, Graham and Phil make their Final Four and national title predictions before ending the podcast with a little football talk.
If you're from Greater Lansing or a Michigan State alum, the new HBO show "Winning Time" has something for everybody. The series debuted on Sunday night and Graham, Chris and Phil give three thumbs up as we open the podcast with a discussion about the show.
We then move on to previewing the Big Ten tournament, debating which teams are in the bubble, discussing the seven-seed Spartans' opener against 10-seed Maryland, predicting who will win the tourney, and then predicting who wins the MSU game.
Things are trending downward for the Michigan State basketball team, which lost at home to Illinois on Saturday and was throttled on the road Tuesday by Iowa. The schedule doesn't get any easier as the Spartans play Purdue, Michigan and Ohio State - two of them ranked in the top 25 - in the next seven days.
Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sportswriters Graham Couch and Phil Friend try to get to the bottom of the tailspin, while also gauging where MSU stands with an NCAA tournament bid. Plus, predictions for the Purdue and Michigan games.
Tuesday was, perhaps, an inopportune time for the Michigan State basketball team to blow a 14-point lead against Penn State - a team below them in the Big Ten Conference standings.
The Spartans' loss to the Nittany Lions opened up a whole new set of questions for Tom Izzo's squad, including a look back at the Spartans' recruiting effort in recent years. We then look ahead to Saturday's game against Illinois and Tuesday against Iowa.
The Michigan State men's basketball team has hit its annual Big Ten swoon, as the 17th-ranked Spartans have lost their last two games, getting blown out Saturday at Rutgers then falling at home Tuesday to Wisconsin.
Graham Couch, Chris Solari and Phil Friend sort through the carnage of those two games, select what changes could (and should) be made to the lineup and preview upcoming games against Indiana and Penn State.
They round out the show with the latest football news, including the commitment of 3-star QB Bo Edmundson and Marco Coleman's hire as the defensive line coach.
On this week's Spartan Speak podcast, host Phil Friend, Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari break down the Spartans' last two games, beating Michigan on Saturday and Maryland on Tuesday. Then we preview Saturday's game against Rutgers before talking about signing day, two four-star commits and incoming transfer running back Jarek Broussard.
We saw the duality of the Michigan State basketball program in its past two games - a romp over No. 8 Wisconsin and a dispiriting performance against No. 23 Illinois, although the Spartans nearly won the game.
So the question is, which MSU team will show up Saturday afternoon at Breslin Center for its game against Michigan? Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sportswriters Graham Couch and Phil Friend try to get to the bottom of that question.
The Michigan State men's basketball team is coming off a 64-62 loss to Northwestern. And the timing couldn't be worse as the Spartans hit the road for ranked opponents Wisconsin on Friday and Illinois on Tuesday.
Lansing State Journal reporters Graham Couch and Phil Friend, and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari, discuss the state of the Spartans, those upcoming games, and make their predictions for those contests.
Then they move to football, where freshman Ma'a Gaoteote has entered the transfer portal and Georgia DB Ameer Speed is transferring in.
Was Michigan State's last-second win over Minnesota on Wednesday night a sign of a top-10 team showing some mettle? Or a sign that the Spartans may not be as good as their 14-2 record indicates?
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch, sportswriter Phil Friend and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari dissect the game to kick off the podcast. Then, we move on to discuss: The cancellation of last Saturday's Michigan game MSU basketball 4-star PG commit Jeremy Fears MSU football 4-star WR commit Germie Bernard The return of Jayden Reed MSU 2022 football schedule
Lansing State Journal sportswriters Graham Couch and Phil Friend, along with Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari, have plenty to say following Michigan State's Peach Bowl win over Pitt. That includes roster changes in the days after, as WR Jalen Nailor and OL Kevin Jarvis declare for the NFL draft, Jayden Reed's future, how the team now belongs to Payton Thorne, and when/if Keon Coleman and Maliq Carr will join the basketball team.
That's followed by a discussion on the MSU hoops team, which beat Northwestern on Sunday and had upcoming games against Nebraska and Michigan.
Lansing State Journal reporters Graham Couch and Phil Friend, along with Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari, tackle the Omicron variant head-on as COVID has already altered bowl season and some facets of Michigan State's Peach Bowl game against Pittsburgh.
The trio also discusses Kenneth Walker and Kenny Pickett's decision to skip the bowl game, the 2022 recruiting class and then shift to basketball to break down the Spartans' nonconference success and Tyson Walker's integral role as the point guard.
How did Kenneth Walker III go from leading Heisman contender to not even being a finalist for the award in one month's time? The Lansing State Journal's Graham Couch and Phil Friend, along with Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari, are among the befuddled about Walker's omission and break down everything around then.
That's followed by a discussion about MSU football's Peach Bowl opponent, Pitt, and which players have entered the transfer portal. We end the podcast discussing Spartan basketball and its upcoming Big Ten games against Minnesota and Penn State.
Lansing State Journal sportswriters Graham Couch and Phil Friend, along with Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari, discuss Michigan State football's 30-27 win over Penn State on Saturday, what it means to win 10 games, look at which bowl game the Spartans will play in and Mel Tucker's 10-year, $95 million extension is now official.
We spend most of the podcast talking about MSU basketball following its Wednesday night win over Louisville in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge. We give flowers to Tyson Walker, AJ Hoggard, Malik Hall, Marcus Bingham Jr. and Jaden Akins, but have a lengthy discussion about Joey Hauser's continued struggles.
We end the show with our College Football Playoff predictions.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari break down Michigan State's 30-27 win over Penn State on Sunday.
On this week's podcast, Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and the Lansing State Journal's Graham Couch and Phil Friend just watched the Michigan State basketball team beat Loyola Chicago on a last-minute alley-opp at the Battle 4 Atlantis opener.
Then, we preview Saturday's regular-season finale in football, when the Spartans take on Penn State with a chance for win No. 10 and a New Year's Six bowl bid - followed by predictions.
The Lansing State Journal's Graham Couch and the Detroit Free Press' Chris Solari and Shawn Windsor break down Michigan State's 56-7 loss to Ohio State on Saturday.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari have been busy this week, thanks in large part to the news that Chris broke regarding Mel Tucker's 10-year, $95 million contract extension.
After that, they preview Saturday's top-10 showdown against Ohio State and then talk a little hoops at the end.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari break down Michigan State's 40-21 win over Maryland on Saturday, with a peek ahead to next weekend's game against No. 4 Ohio State.
The Michigan State football team did not successfully avoid the trap game last weekend in losing to Purdue, 40-29, knocking the Spartans from No. 3 in the College Football Playoff to No. 7.
The Lansing State Journal's Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press' Chris Solari discuss the fallout from the loss and where it puts the Spartans heading into Saturday's game vs. Maryland.
Later, they discuss the basketball team's loss to Kansas in the Champions Classic and make their picks for MSU-Maryland game.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press columnist Shawn Windsor break down Michigan State's 40-29 loss to Purdue on Saturday in West Lafayette.
The initial College Football Playoff rankings were released Tuesday, and Michigan State is No. 3, behind Georgia and Alabama.
That's what happens when you win an unbeaten, top-10 showdown like the Spartans did in beating Michigan on Saturday. Now comes the hard part, sustaining the success and not getting caught in a potential "trap game" vs. Purdue.
Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and the Lansing State Journal's Graham Couch and Phil Friend discuss all that and more on this week's episode.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari break down Michigan State's 37-33 win over Michigan on Saturday in East Lansing, as the Spartans won the battle of top-10, unbeaten teams.
It's a four-man podcast this week as a trio of Lansing State Journal writers - Graham Couch, Nate Atkins and Phil Friend - along with Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari prepare for the insanity of Saturday's game in East Lansing between seventh-ranked Michigan State and sixth-ranked Michigan.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press sportswriters Chris Solari and Shawn Windsor discuss Michigan State's 20-15 win over Indiana on Saturday.
This week, host Phil Friend is joined by Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sports storyteller Nate Atkins as they discuss: A brief look ahead at Michigan Coaches' weird obsession with everything being a state secret What Indiana brings to the table Kenneth Walker's Heisman chances Evaluating Payton Thorne's season Predictions for Saturday's game
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari discuss the Spartans' 31-13 win over Rutgers on Saturday to move to 6-0.
The Michigan State football is 5-0, ranked 11th in the coaches poll and has two legitimate Heisman Trophy candidates in Kenneth Walker and Jayden Reed.
The Spartans are living a lush life these days. Awaiting the Spartans on Saturday is Rutgers, which beat MSU last year and forced seven turnovers in the process.
Host Phil Friend is joined by Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and State Journal sports storyteller Nate Atkins as they discuss the Spartans' hot start, rising expectations (College Football Playoff?) and preview Saturday's game against Rutgers.
Lansing State Journal sports reporters Graham Couch and Nate Atkins recap Michigan State's 48-31 win over Western Kentucky on Saturday night.
Host Phil Friend is joined by State Journal columnist Graham Couch and sports storyteller Nate Atkins as we discuss: Commitment of 4-star ATH Dillon Tatum MSU's offensive woes vs. Nebraska MSU's strong defensive performance vs. the Cornhuskers How the Spartans match up with Western Kentucky Reactions to first MSU basketball practice Predictions
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari deliver their instant reaction to Michigan State football's 23-20 overtime win Saturday night in Spartan Stadium.
Michigan State football is ranked 21st after beating No. 24 Miami last weekend, and the 3-0 Spartans aim to make it 4-0 with Nebraska coming to town Saturday night. Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch have plenty to say about both games in this week's podcast: How MSU beat Miami, including dietician Amber Rinestine Nebraska's offense vs. MSU's defense Payton Thorne and MSU offense's progress Connor Heyward's transition to tight end Nebraska's defense "The Woodshed" MSU basketball lands commitment from Jaxon Kohler Predictions for MSU-Nebraska
The Michigan State football team has looked pretty good in its first two games, defeating Northwestern and Youngstown State. But the Spartans have a tough test Saturday against Miami. Can they go on the road for a noon start and beat the Hurricanes and star QB D'Eriq King in the Florida heat? Or are there shades of last year's Iowa game, where the Hawkeyes routed MSU after an 0-2 start and the Spartans were coming off an impressive win over Michigan?
Host Phil Friend is joined this week by fellow Lansing State Journal sportswriters Graham Couch and Nate Atkins.
Michigan State led wire-to-wire in a dominant 42-14 victory over Youngstown State on Saturday. Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch break down the Spartans' win from Spartan Stadium.
The noise around Michigan State football is nothing but positive after the Spartans handled Northwestern in its season opener. Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch get into all that and more in Thursday's episode.
This week's topics: An air of positivity for the Spartans Kenneth Walker MSU linebackers Quavaris Crouch, Cal Haladay MSU's offensive line Payton Thorne Youngstown State preview Transfer portal MSU football, men's basketball benefit from NIL deal Predictions
We're three days out from Michigan State football's home opener against Northwestern, and Mel Tucker still hasn't officially named the starting quarterback. But the QBs of the Spartan Speak podcast, Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch, are here to get you ready for MSU's season opener.
This week's topics: MSU has its new AD: Alan Haller Anthony Russo or Payton Thorne at QB? Northwestern preview/analysis Predictions
For the first time since late April, Spartan Speak makes its return! Not only that, we'll be in your podcast feed weekly, if not twice a week during the football season.
Host Phil Friend is joined by the Jimmy Page and Robert Plant of the podcast - Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch - as we get back into the swing of the college sports season.
This week's topics: Emoni Bates commits to Memphis Michigan State's unexpected and untimely AD search continues Who will start at quarterback and running back for the Spartans?
The Greater Lansing Food Championship, hosted by Lansing State Journal sportswriter Phil Friend, will be an annual food tournament determining the best of what Greater Lansing has to offer when it comes to food. In 2020, we did the best restaurant, won by Soup Spoon. In 2021, we’ll pick the best menu item to be found in Lansing’s restaurants via a 32-item knockout tournament. Phil will be joined by different State Journal staffers in each podcast to pick which food advances to the next round until there can only be one. The podcast is just part of the package, as we’ll have articles and videos, too, which can be found at lsj.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Lansing State Journal sportswriters Phil Friend and Nate Atkins break down Michigan State's 2021 recruiting class: the three scholarship players - Max Christie, Jaden Akins and Pierre Brooks - and walk-on Keon Coleman, who will be in East Lansing on a football scholarship.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari are in the football mood, as Michigan State has seen EIGHT players enter the transfer portal (and one player commit to MSU) since Saturday's spring game.
Graham and Chris discuss the player exits and what it means for the program. Then, they delve into the spring game, the QB battle between Payton Thorne, Anthony Russo and the rest of the depth chart. We end with NFL draft talk, and where Shakur Brown, Naquan Jones and Antjuan Simmons might get drafted.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari have a lot to get off their chest in the month since our last recording.
The MSU basketball team has seen six players depart since the loss to UCLA in the NCAA tournament, with Foster Loyer, Thomas Kithier, Rocket Watts and Jack Hoiberg departing via the transfer portal, Aaron Henry declaring for the NBA draft and Joshua Langford deciding to forego his final year of eligibility to retire from basketball.
We then preview Saturday's spring football game, with what to watch for when it comes to the quarterbacks and depth chart as the Spartans will conduct more of a practice than a game.
Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch convene shortly after Michigan State's overtime loss to UCLA in the NCAA Tournament First Four game to discuss what went wrong for the Spartans inside Mackey Arena on Thursday night.
Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch are both a little befuddled as to how Michigan State ended up in a First Four game instead of, say, Syracuse. But the Spartans are in the tournament and start their journey Thursday night.
We'll talk about the selection committee's decision to put MSU in the play-in game, preview Thursday's game against UCLA, and make our predictions for both that game and the Final Four.
Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch have plenty to talk about after Michigan State's win over No. 2 Michigan in the regular-season finale.
With the Spartans firmly in the NCAA tournament, we look ahead to the Big Ten tournament, previewing Thursday's game vs. Maryland while also predicting who will lift the trophy in Indianapolis.
We also discuss what seed MSU should expect when the NCAA tournament starts next week.
Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch react to Michigan State's decisive 69-50 loss to Michigan on Thursday night by figuring out what scenarios would land the Spartans in the NCAA tournament.
They also discuss the Rocket Watts situation - he sat out most of the second half after not making a hustle play that sparked the Wolverines - and predict Sunday's rematch with Michigan.
Last week's Spartan Speak podcast was spent largely talking about Michigan State basketball's future, after it looked like the Spartans weren't going to make the NCAA tournament following a loss to Purdue.
But in the last week, MSU has come to life with wins over Indiana and No. 4 Illinois and are back on the bubble. On this week's podcast, Chris Solari of the Detroit Free Press and Graham Couch of the Lansing State Journal discuss how the Spartans have turned their season around, preview the final five games of the season and whether or not they make the NCAA tournament.
Then, LSJ sports storyteller Nate Atkins grinds the tape and offers his analysis of MSU 3-star football and basketball recruit Keon Coleman, plus discussion of incoming football transfers Ben VanSumeren and Chester Kimbrough.
Detroit Free Press sportswriter Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch have a lot to get off their chest as the Michigan State men's basketball team sits 4-9 in the Big Ten after losses to Iowa and Purdue and seem very unlikely to play in the NCAA tournament for the first time in more than 20 seasons.
Chris and Graham discuss the Spartans' problems, what's up with the rotations and how they can finish the season before looking to next season, including Enoch Boakye's decommitment, Emoni Bates, Max Christie, Jaden Akins, Pierre Brooks, "the brand" and what MSU's team might look like next season.
Lansing State Journal reporters Nate Atkins and Phil Friend react to Wednesday's recruiting news, with Rayshaun Benny flipping from Michigan State to Michigan and the Spartans getting a commitment and signature from Keon Coleman.
Then, they discuss the five transfer players Mel Tucker has brought into the program - QB Anthony Russo, RBs Kenneth Walker and Harold Joyner, OL Jarrett Horst and DE Drew Jordan.
That's followed by a discussion on the 2021 class as a whole, which under-the-radar players they like, position analysis and their favorite players.
The Michigan State men's basketball team has been on a break - two weeks now - due to COVID-19 issues. And it'll be another week before the Spartans play again.
But the podcast doesn't take a break, as Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chirs Solari talk about the layoff, what the Big Ten schedule might look like going forward, assess if the Spartans' resume is good enough for the NCAA tournament and then talk a little gambling to end the podcast, as legal online betting begins Friday in Michigan.
With the MSU men's basketball team four days removed from a stunning loss to Purdue and two days out from a road game against No. 8 Iowa, now's the time to evaluate where exactly the program this season. Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch discuss what's gone well and what's gone poorly as MSU currently sits 8-4 overall, and 2-4 in the Big Ten.
Can the Spartans make a run in the Big Ten? Will they even make the NCAA tournament?
Plus, they talk about Alabama's national title win over Ohio State, and where exactly MSU and the rest of the nation fall in the pecking order of college football.
The last time Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari recorded, MSU was 0-3 in the Big Ten. But things have changed - the Spartans upended Nebraska on Saturday and then topped No. 14 Rutgers on Tuesday.
They break it all down, including discussions on Aaron Henry, AJ Hoggard, Rocket Watts and the post players, followed by a preview of Friday's Purdue game.
Then we end the podcast discussing Tre'Von Morgan's decision to leave MSU football and enter the transfer portal.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari are back in your ears after witnessing the Spartan basketball team's worst performance in quite some time in Monday's loss to Minnesota.
They're here to break down what went wrong and potential solutions. Then, they switch to football and discuss the incoming transfer of Duke defensive end Drew Jordan and QB Rocky Lombardi's departure to Northern Illinois (40:40).
The Michigan State football team saw an alarming amount of roster turnover the past four days, and Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari are here to break it all down.
This week's topics: MSU football player departures/arrivals, including starting QB Rocky Lombardi MSU decides not to play in bowl game Men's hoops gets upset by Northwestern on Sunday - an aberration or a sign of trouble? Wisconsin preview and prediction Film breakdown of transfer QB Anthony Russo and 4-star LB Ma'a Gaoteote with Nate Atkins Big Ten bowl picks
A lot has happened within the Michigan State football program since we last convened: players leaving the program, declaring for the draft and, of course, national signing day for college football.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari are here to break it all down.
Topics: QB Anthony Russo transfers in from Temple 4-star Ma'a Gaoteote flips from USC to MSU Breakdown of 2021 class, including what happens with the commits who did not sign: Rayshaun Benny, Audric Estime and Geno VanDeMark Shakur Brown and Naquan Jones declare for NFL draft Chris Jackson no longer with the team Payton Thorne named starting QB Predictions for MSU football vs. Maryland and hoops vs. Northwestern
Then, Phil Friend is joined by Nate Atkins for a deep dive on MSU's QB recruit in the 2021 class, Hampton Fay, including clips of Nate's interview with the Texan.
On this week's podcast, host Phil Friend is joined by Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch, Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari and LSJ sports storyteller Nate Atkins.
This week's topics: MSU's basketball game with Virginia postponed (0:28) Big Ten adjusts 7-game rule to put Ohio State in championship game (12:45) Preview hoops game vs. Oakland on Sunday (28:28) Who starts at QB: Rocky Lombardi or Payton Thorne (32:40) Predictions for weekend games (42:08) Discussion with Nate Atkins on the three position groups MSU needs to shore up to compete with the Ohio States of the world (46:40) Nate and Phil make their Big Ten picks (1:10:28)
The Michigan State basketball team showed that perhaps its No. 12 preseason ranking and fourth-place Big Ten prediction might be a little off after the Spartans rolled into Durham and beat No. 6 Duke on Tuesday night. Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari discuss the fall out from that win (1:51), move on to MSU football's game Saturday against Ohio State, which is in some limbo due to a COVID-19 outbreak in Columbus (30:42) and make their predictions for each MSU game this weekend (47:04). Host Phil Friend is then joined by the LSJ's Nate Atkins to break down how MSU's run game was so successful against Northwestern and how to carry that over to Ohio State (53:39) and then make their B1G picks (1:13 36).
Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch wrap up a big day for Michigan State, recapping the football team's 29-20 upset of No. 13 Northwestern and the 12th-ranked basketball team's 80-70 win over Notre Dame.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari gear up for a busy month of simultaneous Spartan football and basketball action, with Tom Izzo's squad starting its season Wednesday against Eastern Michigan.
We give a position-by-position breakdown of the team, including discussion on Rocket Watts/Foster Loyer/Joshua Langford, the "5" position, Joey Hauser and Aaron Henry, along with this week's upcoming games against EMU and Notre Dame.
Then, we move on to the football team, which faces a very tough task Saturday against No. 13 Northwestern, and no sign of who might start at quarterback for the Spartans.
Then we make our picks for this week's contests.
We've got a power-packed podcast this week with Detroit Free Press beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sportswriters Graham Couch, Nate Atkins and Phil Friend.
In the first part with Graham and Chris, discussion topics include: MSU football's game vs. Maryland is canceled due to COVID-19 outbreak for the Terrapins MSU basketball's nonconference and Big Ten slate, including a Christmas Day game against Wisconsin Xavier Tillman and Cassius Winston are selected in the NBA draft Rocky Lombardi or Payton Thorne at quarterback
In the second part, Nate and Phil: Break down Thorne's performance against Indiana after coming on for Lombardi Target potential QBs in the transfer portal Make their Big Ten picks
Lansing State Journal sportswriter Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Graham Couch deliver the postmortem following the Spartans' 24-0 loss to Indiana on Saturday.
Lansing State Journal sportswriters Nate Atkins and Phil Friend break down how Iowa won last week's game in the trenches vs. Michigan State. And then they move on to the upcoming Indiana game and how MSU's offense can attack IU, and how the Spartans can slow down the Hoosiers' high-flying offense. Indiana QB Michael Penix had his breakout game last year vs. MSU. Can the Spartans prevent a similar level of play this year? And they end with their Big Ten picks.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari avoided a tongue-lashing from Mel Tucker following the Spartans' loss to Iowa, so they're here to provide their insight on: Tom Izzo diagnosed with COVID-19 Basketball National Signing Day is Wednesday MSU football lands four commits between Sunday and Tuesday What the hell happened vs. Iowa Indiana preview and predictions
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari break down the Spartans' 49-7 loss to Iowa in Iowa City on Saturday afternoon.
Lansing State Journal sports reporters Nate Atkins and Phil Friend offered a few ideas on how Michigan State could beat Michigan last week. We'll talk about that and whether we were right on those.
We then move on to the upcoming Iowa game and analyze what Northwestern saw in running 60 times vs. the Hawkeyes, and what we can expect from Iowa's offense and quarterback Spencer Petras.
We end with our Big Ten picks.
More than 72 hours have passed since Michigan State's win over Michigan to claim the Paul Bunyan Trophy, but Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari still have plenty to say about the Spartans' stunning performance. After 50-plus minutes of that, we preview Saturday's game vs. Iowa and make predictions.
The Lansing State Journal's Nate Atkins and Phil Friend head to the film room to dissect what they saw in Michigan State and Michigan's Week 1 contests.
We start with a look at how disruptive the Wolverines' defense was vs. Minnesota, and the concerns MSU's offense should have in generating yards and points. But we do come up with a few solutions!
Then we discuss how MSU's 4-2-5 defense looked vs. Rutgers and what it'll need to do to slow down's Michigan offense and QB Joe Milton, which put up plenty of yards and points vs. a Golden Gophers team that had big expectations this year.
And then, it's on to the Big Ten picks.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch, Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari and LSJ sportswriter Phil Friend get you ready for Saturday's Michigan game, for better or worse.
First, we discuss Mel Tucker's press conference and his comments referring to Michigan as 'the school up the road,' then take a look back at the Rutgers game, and then preview this weekend's game at Michigan, which looked very good in beating Minnesota last week.
We'll be bringing you a second podcast each week throughout college football season where we break down what Michigan State and its future (and sometimes past) opponents are scheming on both sides of the ball.
Lansing State Journal sports storyteller Nate Atkins and sports reporter Phil Friend will be your guides, and this week they take a look at: MSU offensive Jay Johnson's offense and what he ran at previous stops Rutgers' defense under new defensive coordinator Robb Smith (influenced by coach Greg Schiano MSU DC Scottie Hazelton's preferred defense What to expect from new Rutgers OC Sean Gleeson Big Ten game-by-game picks
There are no weeks off for the Spartan Speak squad going forward, as the Michigan State football team opens its season (finally!) on Saturday against Rutgers. This week, Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch preview the game, the season ahead and make some bold predictions.
This week's topics: No starting QB named and Mel Tucker press conference reaction (3:27) Depth chart breakdown, position by position (18:39) MSU/Big Ten predictions and over-unders (48:08)
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari catch their breath after a whirlwind Wednesday that saw the Big Ten Conference reverse course and reinstate football for the fall 2020 season.
Graham and Chris get you caught up on everything you need to know about the Big Ten's decision and what's coming in the next two months. And then, they answer your Twitter questions related to Michigan State football.
The Big Ten football season may not be happening this fall, but Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari are still playing a full fall schedule as they waste no time on the podcast analyzing all the latest college football and Big Ten news in a big picture sense (0:36)
Other topics: Mel Tucker lands his first 4-star recruit in New Jersey OL Geno VanDeMark (40:08) MSU football's social media team leans heavily into the name/image/likeness possibilities (43:59) Twitter Questions (52:37)
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari have plenty to say about what happened in the Big Ten Conference this week, starting from Sunday's #WeWantToPlay campaign, to the coaches' push to save the fall season, to the league officially canceling fall sports on Tuesday and so much more.
The pair also discuss Xavier Tillman's decision to head to the NBA, why Aaron Henry is staying at MSU, and how the Spartans landed another big-time recruit in Jaden Akins. And finally, we end the show with Twitter questions.
Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch were just as stunned as everybody else when Emoni Bates - widely considered the best basketball prodigy since LeBron James - committed to Michigan State on Monday.
Chris and Graham share their reactions to the news and also answer your Twitter questions.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari discuss the latest in Spartan news. But before that, we address the George Floyd killing, the nationwide protests and the Black Lives Matter movement that's sweeping through the United States and the world (5:30).
From there, they discuss the return of MSU athletes to campus, which is scheduled to take place Monday (18:55), whether or not the college football season will take place as scheduled (2), t4:00he announcement of Central Michigan to future football schedules (31:48), Xavier Tillman, Aaron Henry and the NBA draft (38:32) and 2021 recruiting target Max Christie (43:24).
With so much Michigan State-related breaking news this week, this was the time for Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari to reconvene for a new podcast episode.
This week's topics: NCAA Division I Council votes to allow football, men's basketball and women's basketball to resume voluntary workouts on June 1. Joshua Langford has expressed to Tom Izzo his desire to return to the MSU basketball team after missing the last year and a half with an injury NBA draft talk Curtis Blackwell lawsuit NFL Draft/UFA roundup with MSU players Football recruiting update Cassius Winston and Pierre Brooks talk
It's been more than a month since we last convened, so Detroit Free Press sportswriter Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch have plenty to catch up on.
This week's topics: Mel Tucker, MSU football land 6 commits: Tyson Watson, Derrick Harmon, Davion Primm, Ethan Boyd, Gabe Nealy and Antoine Booth NFL draft prospects of Kenny Willekes, Joe Bachie, Raequan Williams, Josiah Scott and Brian Lewerke MSU basketball's chances of landing basketball recruits Karim Mane and Pierre Brooks Twitter questions
The Spartan Speak podcast practiced social distancing for this week's show, as Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari do their best to avoid coronavirus.
This week's topics: Coronavirus, coronavirus, coronavirus: How it's affecting our lives, the world, the sports world and, later, Michigan State sports and NCAA spring athletes If There Was A 2020 NCAA Tournament: Using the bracket made by ESPN's Joe Lunardi, Phil joins the discussion and we all pick our hypothetical Final Four teams and national champion. Trivia Time! In what most closely resembles a Sporcle quiz, Phil tests out Graham and Chris's knowledge on two MSU basketball-related questions.
On this week's Spartan Speak, Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari get ready for the college basketball postseason. Whether they'll be reporting from tournament locations or from home waits to be seen.
This week's topics:
MSU wins share of Big Ten title with win over Ohio State, plus Chris Holtmann's comments about Spartan players kissing midcourt during the game
A spirited discussion on how the coronavirus is going to affect the Big Ten, NCAA tournaments and how fans can/will cope with teams potentially playing in front of empty stadiums
A breakdown of the All-Big Ten picks, and Graham defends his decision not to put Cassius Winston on the second team in his USA TODAY picks
Graham and Chris make their picks for every Big Ten tournament game, and select a champion
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari spent the past week at Maryland and Penn State, witnessing a pair of crucial wins for the Spartans basketball team.
This week's topics:
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The importance of the wins over Maryland and Penn State
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How the Big Ten regular season and tournaments are shaping up
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Picking the best moments from each of MSU's seniors: Cassius Winston, Kyle Ahrens, Joshua Langford and Conner George
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Scottie Hazelton hired as MSU football's defensive coordinator
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Prediction for Sunday's game vs. Ohio State
Michigan State's comeback win over No. 17 Iowa on Tuesday night wasn't a dream. That actually happened, and could be a turning point in the Spartans' season. That's just one of the items Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari discuss on this week's podcast.
The full list of topics include: -MSU's win over Iowa - Saturday's game vs. Maryland - Predicting the final Big Ten standings - Projecting NCAA Tournament seeds for B1G teams - Mel Tucker's new assistant coaches - Mel Tucker's press conference - Predictions for Maryland game
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari try and catch their breath after a whirlwind two weeks that saw Mark Dantonio resign as the Spartans' football coach and the hiring of Mel Tucker.
This week, Graham and Chris:
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discuss the hiring of Ron Burton, Mike Tressel and Chris Kapilovic as assistant coaches, along with the reported hiring of Jay Johnson as offensive coordinator
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Predict what will happen within the next month or so for the football program
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Break down the basketball team's 67-60 loss to Maryland on Saturday
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Preview and make predictions for Thursday's game at Nebraska
There are no waffling flakes when it comes to the Spartan Speak podcast with Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari and Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch.
It's been a busy week in Spartan world, as MSU officially announced its new football coach with the hiring of Mel Tucker, in which news broke in the middle of the night Wednesday morning following the Illinois game.
This week, Graham and Chris:
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Discuss everything that's happened this week, from Wednesday morning to Thursday afternoon's release of the contract details
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Break down the hoops team's Tuesday night win over Illinois and preview Saturday night's Maryland game.
Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari, along with Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and sportswriter Phil Friend, break away from the normal Spartan basketball coverage to tackle Tuesday's stunning news that football coach Mark Dantonio is retiring.
Topics include:
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Reaction to Dantonio's announcement on Twitter (Starting at 3:13)
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His legacy
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The press conference and the halftime speech
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Potential replacements
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How Dantonio's announcement affected the beginning of the second signing period
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We also find some time to talk about men's basketball team's losses to Wisconsin and Penn State, and preview Saturday's game against Michigan (39:57).
Each week, Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari react to the biggest news in Spartans sports.
This week's hodgepodge of news includes:
Cassius Winston breaks Mateen Cleaves' Big Ten assist record in MSU's win over Wisconsin (2:06)
4-star PG Jalen Terry, who decommited from MSU in the fall, comments on his reasons for doing so (9:28)
Details on Tom Izzo's latest contract, which was signed before the Final Four last year (17:56)
Rutgers makes the AP Top 25, plus one voter omits MSU from his poll (20:43)
Preview of Indiana and Minnesota games (26:08)
MSU football's strength of schedule for 2020 (29:19)
Twitter Questions (32:52)
Predictions for IU and Minnesota games (42:46)
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari, along with host Phil Friend, discuss the latest in Spartan news.
This week's topics:
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MSU basketball's loss to Purdue, Kyle Ahrens injury, what's wrong with Aaron Henry, Wisconsin preview (3:30)
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MSU football: Mark Dantonio's $4.3 million retention bonus, staff chances, Cody White declares for the NFL draft, LaDarius Jefferson transfers to Western Michigan and George Perles' legacy (29:44)
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Twitter questions (50:10)
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Wisconsin predictions (55:45)
The Spartan Speak podcast is back from the holiday break and ready to wreck some fools ... not unlike what the Michigan State men's basketball team did to Michigan on Sunday afternoon in an 86-69 win at Breslin Center for the fourth straight win over the Wolverines.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch, sports reporter Phil Friend and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari's discussion topics include:
MSU's win over Michigan (2:37)
A look at the Big Ten picture (20:54)
Recapping our picks in the Big Ten bowl games (31:28)
MSU football notes, including Josiah Scott, Ed Warinner, Wake Forest QB Jamie Newman and Mark Dantonio leaving his coaching staff intact for 2020 (35:31)
Twitter questions (46:21)
Predictions for Thursday's Minnesota game (56:13)
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and sportswriter Phil Friend pick out the highlights and newsworthy items from Michigan State's 27-21 victory over Wake Forest on Friday evening in the Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium.
Topics include:
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Brian Lewerke's performance
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Wide receiver youth movement
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Mark Dantonio's future
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And more!
MERRY CHRISTMAS SPARTAN SPEAK FAM! Your eyes and ears are not deceiving you as we have delivered into your stocking a Christmas Day edition of the podcast!
This week, Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari, Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and LSJ sportswriter Phil Friend get you ready for the Spartan football team's bowl game against Wake Forest in the Pinstripe Bowl.
This week's topics: - Christmas icebreakers - MSU basketball announces that Joshua Langford will not return this season, and potentially ever - Pinstripe Bowl preview - Picking the winners of the Big Ten bowl game - Talking Michigan State hockey with the LSJ's Nate Bott
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch, sports reporter Phil Friend and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari are in the holiday spirit this week as Christmas nears. Even with the holiday break coming, there's no such thing as a break in sports reporting - or podcasts.
This week's topics:
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Has MSU basketball taken a step forward since losing to Duke? (6:52)
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MSU football national signing day preview (21:15)
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The 6 players from the 2020 class that excites us the most (28:39)
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6 Christmas gifts for MSU Athletics, courtesy of Chris and Graham (42:04)
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Twitter questions (52:24)
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Northwestern predictions (56:35)
On this week's podcast, Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch, sportswriter Phil Friend and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari put away their leis from Maui and try to dissect the latest difficult stretch in Spartan sports.
This week's topics:
- MSU basketball's loss to Duke, have we made expectations too high this season, what's wrong with Aaron Henry, Foster Loyer and Rocket Watts (3:06)
- Big Ten hoops might be way better than initially advertised, with Maryland (3), Michigan (4) and Ohio State (6) all ranked in the top 10 in this week's USA TODAY coaches poll (31:23)
- MSU-Maryland football post-game discussion (39:10)
- What bowl game do you want MSU to play in (48:12)
- Reviewing our preseason predictions (51:33)
- Twitter Questions (58:21)
- Predictions for which four teams will make the College Football Playoff (1:03:08)
It's official - the Spartans are going bowling after beating Maryland, 19-16, to earn their sixth win of the season Saturday. The Lansing State Journal's Graham Couch and Phil Friend get out their bowling ball and gloves to break down Michigan State's victory.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch, Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari and podcast producer Phil Friend are ready to say "Aloha" to Michigan and "Aloha" to Hawaii in advance of next week's Maui Invitational. But first, there's some Spartan football news to get to.
This week's topics:
- Mark Dantonio says he'll be MSU's football coach in 2020. Should he be?
- Leftovers from MSU's loss to Michigan on Saturday
- What happens Saturday vs. Rutgers
- Cassius Winston's post-game speech to fans following Charleston Southern game
- Maui Invitational preview
- Rutgers predictions
The Lansing State Journal's Graham Couch and Phil Friend deliver their instant reaction to Michigan State's 44-10 blowout loss to Michigan in Ann Arbor, with Graham calling in from Michigan Stadium.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch, Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari and LSJ sportswriter Phil Friend are ready to see their Twitter mentions dissolve into a cesspool of hate with the Michigan State-Michigan football game on the schedule for Saturday.
This week's topics:
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Did Brian Lewerke suffer a concussion in Saturday's game vs. Illinois? (1:29)
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MSU/U-M football talk (12:22)
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MSU great Charles Rogers dies at 38 after lengthy illness (28:52)
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Cassius Winston played with a heavy heart vs. Binghamton on Sunday, a day after his younger brother Zachary died (35:27)
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Seton Hall preview (45:09)
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Twitter questions (48:27)
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Predictions for Michigan and Seton Hall game (50:04)
It's a trio of Lansing State Journal reporters as Phil Friend, Graham Couch and Nate Atkins pick through the rubble once again as Michigan State blew a 28-3 lead and lost to Illinois, 37-34.
Lansing State Journal sports reporter Phil Friend, sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari gather in the Friend Zone to spend an hour talking Graham's foot injury he suffered in New York City. OK, that's only for like a minute.
This week's topics include:
- War Drill: MSU linebacker Joe Bachie is suspended by the Big Ten after testing positive for a banned substance; Michigan legislature introduces bill that would allow student-athletes to receive lucrative endorsement deals; and MSU football lands a 2020 QB (2:34)
- The Spartan basketball team's loss to Kentucky. We run a four-point play with our main takeaways from the loss (15:22)
- The football team is coming off a bye heading into Saturday's game, and Graham and Chris go four downs with what they're looking for in this game (26:32).
- Twitter questions (38:54)
- Predictions for the Illinois game (47:05)
Lansing State Journal digital sports reporter -- and podcast producer -- Phil Friend wrestles host duties away this week (and perhaps permanently) as sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari fully enter the Friend Zone to talk the latest in Spartan sports.
This week's breakdown:
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WAR Drill. Topics include Draymond Green, Emoni Bates and name, image and licensing rights (2:39)
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MSU basketball season preview, which includes 1) a breakdown of Tuesday's exhibition game vs. Albion; 2) a snake draft of MSU's basketball roster between the three of us; 3) season over-unders; and 4), previewing next week's Kentucky game (25:35)
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A four-days-later breakdown of the Spartan football team's loss to Penn State, and, which has been a recurring theme in recent weeks, what went wrong and how can the team be fixed (55:47)
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Twitter questions (1:13:57)
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How well do we know our Spotify listeners? (1:21:20)
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Kentucky predictions (1:25:56)
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch, sports storyteller Nate Atkins and podcast producer Phil Friend attempt to find out what meat is left on the bone after the Michigan State football team was dominated for a third consecutive game, this time by No. 6 Penn State, 28-7.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari were not as Spartan basketball's "secret" scrimmage vs. Gonzaga last weekend so they could record this week's podcast.
We go heavy into the news that Joshua Langford will be out until at least January after re-injuring this, then talk Joey Hauser waiver saga and takeaways from what's been reported about the Gonzaga scrimmage.
On the football side, we discuss what MSU can take away from Penn State's win over Michigan, Cam Chambers and Noah Davis entering the transfer portal, depth chart talk, Dantonio presser and finally, our predictions for Saturday.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Graham Couch didn't see any jumping around from Spartan players or fans after the football team was dealt a 38-0 road loss to Wisconsin on Saturday afternoon.
Your fearless podcast hosts debate the fallout from that loss, with discussion on Mark Dantonio's future, what the program will look like in 2020 and Weston Bridges entering the transfer portal.
From there, they move on to basketball, including 2020 G Jalen Terry's decision to decommit, Joey Hauser's future and other things of note from media day.
That's followed by Twitter questions from the listeners.
Lansing State Journal sports columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari haven't put their names in the transfer portal yet, so they're here to deliver their latest takes on Spartan sports.
This week, Graham and Chris discuss:
La'Darius Jefferson's decision to enter the transfer portal and leave MSU
The State of the Michigan State Football Program
How the Spartans can slow down Wisconsin's Jonathan Taylor
Matt Coghlin's kicking issues
MSU basketball lands commitment from 4-star guard A.J. Hoggard
Twitter questions
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari are back from Big Ten Basketball Media Days. They've had little sleep and are stressed, but they'd never let down their loyal listeners.
This week's topics include:
- Previewing Saturday's big game against Ohio State
- RB Connor Heyward entering the transfer portal
- Cassius Winston's hamstring injury
- Joshua Langford
- Name, image and license rights in the Big Ten world
- Twitter questions
- MSU-Ohio State predictions
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and podcast producer Phil Friend tackle Michigan State's 40-31 win over Indiana on Saturday night, including Brian Lewerke's performance, Darrell Stewart's huge day, a potentially suspect pass defense and IU QB Michael Penix.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari successfully avoided pink eye this week to bring the latest Spartan Speak podcast.
This week's topics:
Michigan State's crowded backfield (2:18)
Joe Bachie's Herculean performance (15:45)
Brandon Bouyer-Randle transfer portal speculation (19:58)
Northwestern recap (22:18)
Indiana preview (26:07)
Mark Dantonio - Curtis Blackwell saga (31:50)
Michigan State basketball talk, including Joshua Langford (37:52)
Twitter questions (47:26)
Predictions for MSU-Indiana (53:59)
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press Michigan State beat writer Chris Solari have had a few days to process the Spartans' loss to Arizona State.
This week, they'll discuss a few curious coaching decision by Mark Dantonio and his staff, including those last two drives, personnel decisions and more. They'll also chime in on OL Kevin Jarvis being out for six weeks, preview Saturday's Northwestern game and make some predictions.
Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and podcast producer Phil Friend - along with a jump-in from Freep columnist Shawn Windsor - try to figure out where things went wrong Michigan State after the Spartans lost to Arizona State, 10-7, on Saturday night.