Rivalry update: MSU dismisses Jonathan Smith, brings on new coach

Rivalry Update: Michigan State Parts Ways with Jonathan Smith, Appoints New Coach

Michigan football may have fallen short of its own expectations this season, missing victories over Ohio State, a Big Ten Championship, and a spot in the College Football Playoff. Despite these setbacks, the Wolverines did secure a win against Michigan State.

The Spartans have struggled following Mel Tucker's standout 2021 season, and their competitiveness has declined significantly. In the second year under head coach Jonathan Smith, MSU managed only one Big Ten victory this week, a win over Maryland at a sparsely attended Ford Field in Detroit.

After just two seasons, Michigan State is moving on from Smith, signaling a fresh start for the program in East Lansing. ESPN's Pete Thamel reports that Smith, who went 1-8 in the Big Ten this year and compiled a 9-15 overall record in two seasons, is set to be owed $33 million upon his departure.

Despite showing some improvement toward the end of the season, MSU still faces the challenge of hiring a head coach while other programs like Penn State and Ole Miss are also searching for new leadership. Florida, Arkansas, and LSU recently filled their head coaching vacancies.

During his tenure, Smith went 0-2 against Michigan and struggled in recruiting. The Spartans have the resources of a Big Ten program, but attracting a high-profile coach to East Lansing could be challenging.

According to Chris Solari of the Detroit Free Press, former Northwestern coach Pat Fitzgerald has been chosen to lead Michigan States football program.

Source: @ChrisSolari

Author: Sophia Brooks