Michigan State hires Jonathan Smith as next coach

Michigan State hired Jonathan Smith as its next head coach, the school announced Saturday.

The sought-after bench boss spent the last six seasons in charge of Oregon State.

After going 9-22 across his first three campaigns at his alma mater, Smith turned the Beavers around over the last three seasons, winning 25 total games.

The 44-year-old also earned a bowl victory and led the school to its first 10-win campaign since 2006 last year. Oregon State finished the regular season with an 8-4 record after losing to Oregon on Friday.

Smith said on X, formerly known as Twitter, that he was "forever grateful" for his time with the Beavers and will "cherish the memories and friendships."

Michigan State has been searching for a new head coach since firing Mel Tucker in September following an investigation into alleged sexual misconduct. Harlon Barnett has served as the team's interim coach for the last 10 games.

"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," said Alan Haller, Michigan State's vice president and director of intercollegiate athletics.

"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."

The Spartans dropped to 4-8 after Friday's shutout loss to Penn State.

Oregon State athletic director Scott Barnes said Wednesday that his top priority was retaining Smith, who was under contract with the program through 2029 before joining Michigan State. He previously acted as a quarterbacks coach during stints at Idaho, Montana, and Boise State.

Smith's departure coincides with uncertainty regarding the Pac-12's future. Oregon State and Washington State are the lone remaining teams in the conference in 2024 following a mass exodus.