Michigan State vs Wisconsin head-to-head: position-by-position star ratings, experience, and composite grades on CFB Matchup. They meet Week 5, Saturday, October 3, 2026.
The Breakdown
Wisconsin 65 to Michigan State 62 — Colton Joseph's 4★ arm over veteran-built Michigan State's 3★ Milivojevic.
When Michigan State has the ball: Cam Edwards' 3★ carries hit Wisconsin's 3.7★ linebackers, a unit averaging just 2 years.
When Wisconsin has the ball: Abu Sama III's 4★ runs at Michigan State's 3.3★ linebackers; the 3.4★ O-line faces an even 3.3★ D-line.
Swing factor: Colton Joseph, a 4★ transfer with three years, outclasses Alessio Milivojevic's 3★ and two.
X-factor: Wisconsin hosts on an October Saturday in Week 5; Michigan State must survive the road crowd.