Jonathan Smith is in place as Michigan State's next head coach, and much of his staff is coming with him.
Offensive coordinator Brian Lindgren, running backs coach Keith Bhonapha, offensive line coach Jim Michalzik, running backs coach Keith Bhonapha, tight ends coach Brian Wozniak and defensive backs coach Blue Adams will join Smith on the journey from Corvallis to East Lansing, according to Jake Hedberg of Beaver Blitz.
Defensive coordinator Trent Bray was mentioned over the weekend as another assistant likely to join Smith in East Lansing, so his exclusion from the list is likely an indication he's in the running to succeed Smith as Oregon State's head coach.
Additionally, longtime assistant Harlon Barnett indicated Saturday he will remain as part of Smith's staff in an as-yet-undefined role. The former Spartan safety has been on staff for 15 of the last 17 seasons.
Harlon Barnett says he’s staying at MSU on Jonathan Smith’s staff, unless a head coaching opportunity presents itself. He doesn’t know yet what his new role will be.
— Graham Couch (@Graham_Couch) November 25, 2023
Smart move by Smith, keeping the guy who did a lot to keep MSU’s team together and has deep Ohio recruiting ties.
That makes six of the 10 on-field slots filled before Smith's introductory press conference.
As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest.
Sources have confirmed to BeaverBlitz that OC Brian Lindgren, RB coach Keith Bhonapha, TE coach Brian Wozniak, OL coach Jim Michalczik and DB coach Blue Adams will follow Jonathan Smith to MSU @AngieMachado1 @BeaverBlitz
— Jake Hedberg (@HedbergJake) November 26, 2023