Michigan State AD Alan Haller releases statement on Jonathan Smith hire

Michigan State has officially announced the hiring of Jonathan Smith as the program’s 26th head coach.

Formerly the head coach of Oregon State, Smith was named co-2022 Pac-12 Coach of the Year, leading the Beavers to be ranked as high as No. 11 in the College Football Playoff Rankings this season. In three seasons, Smith led Oregon State to a 25-13 record, not to mention he also has experience coaching in the College Football Playoff during his time as Washington’s offensive coordinator in 2016.

Michigan State athletic director Alan Haller released a statement, welcoming Smith to East Lansing while praising him for the resume he has built and his excitement for what is to come.

Full statement from AD Alan Haller

“Today is an exciting day for Michigan State as we welcome Jonathan Smith, wife Candice, and children Robert, Bella and Charles to our Spartan family,” said MSU Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Alan Haller. “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.

“On the field, his teams are tough and physical, yet innovative. This year, Oregon State has controlled the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball, ranking among the nation’s leaders in both rushing offense and rushing defense. He’s shown not only the ability to recruit talented student-athletes who fit his system, but also to develop and maximize players once they’re in the program. At his core, he’s a quarterbacks coach, and throughout his career he’s been instrumental in the development of young quarterbacks, which is essential in today’s college football landscape.

“Beyond the football field, the Smith family will be an excellent addition to the entire Michigan State University community. Jonathan and Candice are excited to be invested community members and realize that Spartan football is just one part of the University’s larger mission.

“With the Tom Izzo Football Building nearing completion, demonstrating our commitment to providing championship resources, and with the support of our passionate and loyal fan base, this is certainly an exciting time to begin a new era of Spartan Football. Jonathan has a great appreciation for the rich history and tradition of our program, and is committed to doing what’s required to compete for championships at the Big Ten and national level.”