A key Northwestern defender is considered doubtful to play this week against the Spartans.

Northwestern starting safety Robert Fitzgerald has been downgraded to doubtful and appears unlikely to play this week against Michigan State. Fitzgerald was initially considered questionable in the first availability report released on Wednesday but later downgraded to doubtful in Thursday's update.

Fitzgerald is considered one of the key defenders on an impressive Wildcats defense this year. He has recorded 21 tackles and two interceptions so far this season through five games.

Fitzgerald has not been officially ruled out for Saturday's matchup against the Spartans. But his status will certainly be something we monitor over the next few days.

Kickoff for Michigan State-Northwestern is scheduled for 12 p.m. ET on Saturday. The game will be streamed on Peacock.