As the Michigan State Spartans prepare for one of their biggest games of the season, Tom Izzo leaned into the heart of what makes the rivalry with the Michigan Wolverines so enduring — emotion, history, and, above all, respect. 3 Michigan, Izzo was candid about the rivalry’s intensity, acknowledging both the hostility and the mutual admiration that has evolved over time. Tom Izzo spoke on Michigan State's rivalry matchup with Michigan. @wilxTV pic.twitter.com/pqpRbx1I3v — Owen Oszust (@Owen_Oszust) January 29, 2026The comments came as Michigan State enters the matchup riding a seven-game winning streak, including a gritty overtime escape 79-88 against the Rutgers Scarlet Knight. Last season, Michigan State swept the series, punctuated by a dominant Senior Day win.