Late in the football season, it can get quite cold for teams in the northern parts of the country. Any Michigan State University football fan knows those last few games of the season can be brutal, watching your favorite team gut it out in sub-zero temperatures and sometimes even snowfall.

But, Spartan fans won’t have to worry about that for at least one game, because for the second time in three seasons, the Michigan State football season will close out its regular season with a matchup at Ford Field, the Detroit venue announced on Wednesday, March 5.

Michigan State at Ford Field

Ford Field, of course, is where the Detroit Lions play. It’s exciting for the students and their fans to be at the same venue as the Lions.

“Playing at Ford Field is an exciting opportunity for Spartan football,” MSU Vice President and Director of Athletics Alan Haller said in a statement about the just-announced game. “The 2023 game proved that this can be a successful and enjoyable venture.”

Haller added, “I heard from fans, donors, students, and media, all of whom universally raved about their experience at Ford Field. We witnessed what the Detroit Lions experience every game, that Ford Field can be a tremendous home field advantage. Our student-athletes dream of playing in the NFL and to have the opportunity to play in that stadium is a thrill for them as well.”

Michigan State season ticket holders will receive priority order of tickets, and a special section will be set aside for just Michigan State students.

MHSAA Games That Weekend

Given this news, the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) will have to move state championship games, which usually take place Thanksgiving weekend. But, Haller makes it sound like the state championships will still happen that weekend.

“We are very thankful for Ford Field and the Detroit Lions, and all their work to host this game,” Haller said. “Beyond that, we’re grateful for our ongoing partnership with the MHSAA and their accommodations in shifting their weekend schedule. Together, we’re able to provide a great four-day weekend of football in a terrific setting.”

The Lions are excited, too.

“We are excited to welcome Michigan State Football back into Ford Field for another Spartan season finale,” Detroit Lions President and CEO, Rod Wood, said in a statement. “Thanksgiving and football have been a staple in Detroit for the past 91 years and this year will be a true celebration of the game at every level.”

Wood added, “It is an honor to connect all levels of the game by kicking off the weekend with the Lions and featuring the Big Ten and MHSAA State Championships throughout an amazing four days of football.”