Michigan State hires Jonathan Smith away from Oregon State, hoping he turns around another program

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Michigan State has made a significant coaching move by securing the services of Jonathan Smith, who was previously at Oregon State, in the hopes of revitalizing their football program. This decision comes after a period of instability during Mel Tucker’s tenure as head coach.

Jonathan Smith, at the age of 44, served as the head coach at Oregon State for six seasons, where he achieved a respectable record of 34 wins and 35 losses. Notably, his team achieved an 8-4 record in the most recent season, marking the first time in over a decade that the program had secured at least eight wins in consecutive seasons. His ability to rebuild and sustain success did not go unnoticed.

Michigan State’s Athletic Director, Alan Haller, expressed confidence in Smith’s ability, citing his proven track record of transforming Oregon State’s football program into a competitive force. Smith himself, a former quarterback who led the Beavers to the 2001 Fiesta Bowl, returned to Oregon State as head coach in late 2017 when the team was struggling at 1-11.

Smith’s social media statement reflected his gratitude for the community and opportunities that Oregon State provided to him and his family. His coaching journey includes stints as a quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator at Washington, Boise State, Montana, and Idaho, with his coaching career beginning as a graduate assistant at Oregon State in 2002.

In terms of contractual details, Smith had six years remaining on his contract, valued at $31.2 million through 2029, with a $3 million buyout clause.

Smith inherits a Michigan State team that faced significant challenges in recent seasons, particularly against highly ranked opponents. Nevertheless, the program has a history of competitiveness, with notable successes under previous coaches like Mark Dantonio and Nick Saban.

Notably, Tucker’s departure from Michigan State was due to his suspension and subsequent termination after acknowledging inappropriate conduct with a vendor who was engaged to educate his team about preventing sexual abuse and misconduct. Harlon Barnett served as the interim coach during this period, but the team struggled with a 2-8 record.

Looking ahead, Smith faces the task of turning around Michigan State’s football program, with the added challenge of the Big Ten expanding to include formidable opponents in the upcoming season. The Spartans’ recent losses against highly ranked teams underscore the need for improvement.

In conclusion, Michigan State has brought in Jonathan Smith, an experienced coach with a track record of rebuilding and sustaining success, to lead their football program. Smith’s tenure at Oregon State and his coaching background make him a notable addition to the college football coaching landscape, and his ability to develop quarterbacks and maximize player potential is seen as essential for Michigan State’s resurgence in the competitive world of college football.

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More about Michigan State Football Revival

• Jonathan Smith’s Coaching Career on ESPN
• Michigan State Football Program on MSU Athletics
• Mel Tucker’s Departure on Sports Illustrated
• Big Ten Conference Expansion on CBS Sports
• Jonathan Smith’s Coaching Style on OregonLive