Michigan State is adding another intriguing name to its quarterback room - and this one comes with a twist. Peyton Babbitt, a standout from Orchard View High School in Muskegon, has flipped his commitment from Division II Saginaw Valley State to join the Spartans as a preferred walk-on.
It’s a significant move for both the player and the program. Just days after Michigan State extended the offer, Babbitt made the jump, trading in a secure spot at SVSU for a shot at competing in the Big Ten. That’s not a small leap - it’s a bet on himself, and it’s the kind of decision that speaks volumes about his confidence and drive.
Babbitt’s high school résumé turned heads across the region. He had offers from other respected Division II programs like Tiffin and Grand Valley State, but his heart was clearly set on the green and white.
“Every kid who plays football has their 'big' program where they want to go and will die for, and it just happened to be MSU was that school for me,” Babbitt said in an interview. “Now I have an opportunity to play there. It’s insane to think about.”
That kind of passion matters. Preferred walk-ons don’t always get the spotlight, but they often bring a chip on their shoulder and a work ethic that can push a quarterback room to another level. Babbitt’s decision to walk away from a scholarship opportunity to chase his dream at Michigan State shows he’s ready to grind.
He’ll be joining forces with another in-state talent in incoming freshman Kayd Coffman, giving the Spartans two promising Michigan high school quarterbacks in the same class. While neither is expected to start right away, their presence adds depth and long-term potential to a position that always demands competition.
For Michigan State, this is a low-risk, high-upside addition. For Babbitt, it’s a chance to prove he belongs on one of college football’s biggest stages. The road ahead won’t be easy - walk-ons rarely have it that way - but if his high school career is any indication, Babbitt’s not afraid of the challenge.