The pressure is mounting in East Lansing. After a turbulent start to the Jonathan Smith era, Michigan State football fans and boosters are beginning to wonder: if the program decides to move in another direction, who could be next to lead the Spartans back to national relevance? Here are ten potential candidates who could emerge if Michigan State makes a change.
1. Mike Elko (Texas A&M)
If Elko ever becomes available, Michigan State would be wise to pounce. Known for his defensive brilliance and culture-building mentality, Elko turned Duke into a disciplined, tough-minded team. His Midwest roots and experience in power conferences make him an ideal fit for the Spartans’ blue-collar identity.
2. PJ Fleck (Minnesota)
“Row the Boat” might set sail for East Lansing if things sour in Minneapolis. Fleck has proven he can build programs with energy and recruiting flair, traits Michigan State desperately needs. His Big Ten experience and motivational style could inject much-needed life into Spartan football.
3. Chris Klieman (Kansas State)
Klieman has quietly become one of the best developers of talent in college football. With a national championship pedigree from his North Dakota State days, he has proven he can win with less. Michigan State’s defensive tradition would align perfectly with Klieman’s no-nonsense, physical approach.
4. Lance Leipold (Kansas)
Leipold’s name appears on nearly every coaching shortlist for a reason. His track record of turning around programs—from Buffalo to Kansas—is nothing short of remarkable. A steady, detail-oriented leader, Leipold could bring instant stability and discipline to the Spartans.
5. Sean Lewis (Colorado Offensive Coordinator)
A rising star, Lewis’s offensive mind and energy have caught national attention. Once head coach at Kent State, he’s familiar with recruiting in the Midwest. His up-tempo offensive style could modernize Michigan State’s attack and excite a fan base craving fireworks.
6. Harlon Barnett (Michigan State Assistant/Former Interim Coach)
A familiar face, Barnett knows the program and its standards. Though his interim tenure in 2023 was rocky, his loyalty, recruiting connections, and defensive expertise could earn him another look—especially if the administration prefers continuity.
7. Jason Candle (Toledo)
Candle is one of the most consistent mid-major coaches in America. His Rockets teams play disciplined, balanced football, and he’s proven capable of developing NFL-caliber talent. Moving from Toledo to East Lansing would be a logical next step up the coaching ladder.
8. Mike Hart (Michigan RB Coach)
Though this might sound controversial, Hart’s leadership qualities and recruiting chops are undeniable. A former Wolverine, hiring him would shock the college football world—but it would also inject serious energy into in-state recruiting battles.
9. Jim Leonhard (Illinois Defensive Analyst)
The former Wisconsin defensive coordinator remains one of the most respected defensive minds in college football. Leonhard’s ability to craft elite defenses with limited talent fits Michigan State’s DNA perfectly. His Big Ten familiarity makes him a natural candidate.
10. Urban Meyer (TV Analyst, Former Ohio State Coach)
While unlikely, Meyer’s name always surfaces when major Big Ten jobs open. His championship pedigree, recruiting power, and instant credibility could bring Michigan State back into national contention—if the school is willing to take that gamble.
As Michigan State looks ahead, the next coaching decision could define its decade. Whether they go for an up-and-comer or a proven winner, one thing is certain: the Spartan fan base expects a return to toughness, pride, and Big Ten prominence.
