Back in September, Michigan State University fired football coach Mel Tucker amid a sexual harassment investigation.
It looks like that was just the tip of the iceberg.
The team found its new head coach after they hired Jonathan Smith from Oregon State. Michigan State confirmed the news in an official announcement on Saturday afternoon.
“Jonathan has a proven track record of success, building the Oregon State program from the ground up by implementing a plan resulting in sustained historic success for the Beavers. He’s been a part of championship staffs, coached in the College Football Playoff, and understands what’s required to be successful at the highest level, learning from some of the game’s most successful coaches,” MSU athletic director Alan Haller said in a statement.
Just hours before that, it would also be revealed that the current coaching staff would be fired, which was clearly a move for the new coach to bring in his own people.
“Multiple sources confirm MSU football’s current coaching staff has been relieved of its duties by athletic director Alan Haller,” Spartans insider Chris Solari said. “Sounds like more info could be coming later today regarding the search for a new head coach.
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The 2022 Pac-12 Coach of the Year, Smith will replace Harlon Barnett, who had been serving as the head coach on an interim basis since September. Smith has developed a reputation for being an offensive-minded coach who’s able to identify and develop talent as well as able to bring players in who fit his system.
Smith took over an Oregon State team that went 1-11 in 2017 and helped revitalize over the past six seasons.
Michigan State finished off its disappointing season with a 42-0 blowout loss at home to the Penn State Nittany Lions. The Spartans won 11 games, including the Peach Bowl, only two seasons ago before going a combined 9-15 over the past two seasons.
