Michigan State Hires Pat Fitzgerald Following Jonathan Smith’s Firing

Michigan State announced the dismissal of Jonathan Smith as head football coach after just two seasons, during which the Spartans posted a 9-15 record. The program had also been navigating recent NCAA sanctions stemming from violations between October 2021 and March 2023.

Smith’s departure was widely anticipated after the team struggled to find consistent success on the field. Despite his efforts, the combination of a sub-.500 record and the ongoing compliance issues made the decision to move in a new direction inevitable.

Almost immediately, speculation emerged regarding potential successors, with Pat Fitzgerald, the former Northwestern head coach, quickly surfacing as a leading candidate. Fitzgerald had been dismissed by Northwestern in 2022 following a hazing scandal.

By Sunday, Michigan State confirmed Fitzgerald as Smith’s replacement, ending the coaching search swiftly and signaling the program’s desire for a proven leader capable of stabilizing the Spartans.

1. Jonathan Smith’s Tenure at Michigan State

Jonathan Smith’s time in East Lansing lasted only two seasons, during which he compiled a 9-15 overall record. The team showed flashes of competitiveness but struggled to maintain consistency in the Big Ten, ultimately falling short of program expectations. Smith’s tenure coincided with a challenging period for the Spartans, including NCAA sanctions linked to past violations that impacted recruiting and program operations. These off-field issues added complexity to his rebuilding efforts. The Spartans’ administration determined that a change was necessary to reset the program and prepare for long-term success in a highly competitive conference. Smith’s dismissal reflects the high standards and expectations of Michigan State football. Moving forward, the team will need to adapt quickly to new leadership while addressing both competitive and compliance challenges within the program.

2. Pat Fitzgerald Emerges as Leading Candidate

Pat Fitzgerald, the longtime Northwestern head coach, quickly became a leading candidate to replace Smith. Fitzgerald led Northwestern from 2006 to 2022, becoming the program’s longest-tenured coach and compiling a career record of 110-101. He also achieved recognition as the Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year in 2020 and guided the Wildcats to a 5-5 record in bowl games. His extensive experience in the Big Ten made him a natural fit for Michigan State’s goals of stability and competitiveness. After his dismissal from Northwestern, Fitzgerald served as a volunteer assistant at Loyola Academy, maintaining ties to the sport while preparing for his next opportunity. His involvement at Michigan State represents a chance to rebuild his coaching legacy at the collegiate level. Fitzgerald’s reputation for program-building, leadership, and experience in the conference aligns with Michigan State’s desire for a steady, proven hand to guide the Spartans forward.

3. Fitzgerald’s New Chapter at Michigan State

Fitzgerald will now embark on what many view as a “redemption tour” in East Lansing, taking over a program in need of both competitive and cultural rejuvenation. His experience navigating high-level college football pressures will be critical in rebuilding the Spartans. He inherits a roster impacted by sanctions and recent instability, meaning his initial focus will be on establishing culture, recruiting, and long-term program development. Michigan State fans will be watching closely as he implements his vision. The hiring also comes after Fitzgerald settled a wrongful termination lawsuit with Northwestern, allowing him to transition into this new role with a clean slate. His focus will be on immediate team improvement while preparing the program for sustainable success. With Fitzgerald in place, Michigan State signals its commitment to returning to Big Ten competitiveness and restoring confidence in both players and supporters. The expectation is that his leadership will stabilize the program and elevate it in the conference standings.