Michigan State’s coaching search is already one of the biggest stories in the Big Ten. Jonathan Smith’s tenure is slipping fast after another flat season, and fan pressure is rising by the week. If the Spartans move on, the hire needs to fix recruiting, modernize the offense, and restore toughness.
With what could be one of top jobs in college football about to open up, these are the most realistic candidates and where they stand with the current odds.
Next MSU Coach Odds
| Coach | Current / Most Recent Role | Odds | Implied Probability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jason Candle | Toledo HC | +300 | 25% |
| Joe Rossi | Michigan State DC | +500 | 16.7% |
| Jon Sumrall | Tulane HC | +650 | 13.3% |
| Alex Golesh | USF HC | +700 | 12.5% |
| Jedd Fisch | Washington HC | +1000 | 9.1% |
| Brian Hartline | Ohio State OC | +1000 | 9.1% |
| Ryan Grubb | Alabama OC | +1000 | 9.1% |
| James Franklin | Former Penn State HC | +1400 | 6.7% |
| P. J. Fleck | Minnesota HC | +2000 | 4.8% |
| Pat Narduzzi | Pitt HC | +2200 | 4.3% |
| Jeff Traylor | UTSA HC | +2500 | 3.8% |
| Brian Kelly | Former LSU HC | +2500 | 3.8% |
| Lane Kiffin | Ole Miss HC | +3300 | 2.9% |
| Jamey Chadwell | Liberty HC | +3300 | 2.9% |
| Sean Lewis | San Diego State HC | +5000 | 2% |
| Will Stein | Oregon OC | +6000 | 1.6% |
| Bob Chesney | James Madison HC | +10000 | 1% |
*Odds are for entertainment purposes only
Jason Candle Favorite to be Next MSU Coach
Where he is now: Head coach, Toledo.
- What he’s achieved: Multiple MAC titles and double-digit win seasons. Known for consistent QB development and top-tier MAC offense.
- Why he fits MSU: Midwest ties, proven roster builder, affordable, and an offense suited for Big Ten weather games.
- Recruiting angle: Deep Ohio connections that MSU has struggled to maintain.
- Risk: First Power-conference job; depends on staff quality.
Could Joe Rossi Take Over From Jonathan Smith at Michigan State?
Where he is now: Defensive coordinator, Michigan State.
- What he’s achieved: Built one of the nation’s most disciplined defenses at Minnesota before joining MSU in 2024. Top-25 efficiency rankings, strong tackling fundamentals, and limiting explosive plays.
- Why he fits MSU: Brings internal continuity and locker-room stability. Already respected by players and staff, with a defensive identity that matches the Big Ten’s physical profile.
- Recruiting angle: Midwest defensive ties run deep after nearly a decade in the region. Known for developing three-star prospects into NFL-caliber defenders.
- Risk: Limited head-coaching experience and a defensive background in a league trending toward offensive innovation.
Jon Sumrall Among Top Contenders for MSU Job
Where he is now: Head coach, Tulane
- What he’s achieved: Back-to-back strong seasons at Troy with physical defense. Stepped into Tulane and kept standard high. Clear culture builder.
- Why he fits MSU: Emphasizes toughness and run defense, ideal for Big Ten play.
- Recruiting angle: Smart evaluator who’s worked the portal well.
- Risk: Limited Midwest network; would need staff with regional ties.
Alex Golesh in the Mix to be Next MSU Coach
Where he is now: Head coach, USF (former Tennessee OC).
- What he’s achieved: Pulled USF from one win to bowl contention in two seasons; rebuilt offense with high tempo and space concepts.
- Why he fits MSU: Offensive creativity, portal savvy, analytical approach.
- Recruiting angle: Deep Florida roots; could complement Midwest reach with southern speed.
- Risk: Limited head-coach sample size; defense must improve.
Brian Hartline Emerges as MSU Swing Hire
Where he is now: Offensive coordinator and WRs coach, Ohio State.
- What he’s achieved: Recruited and developed elite wideouts like Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Marvin Harrison Jr. Helped power one of the nation’s most efficient passing attacks.
- Why he fits MSU: Immediate credibility, offensive upgrade, and major recruiting pull.
- Recruiting angle: Dominates Ohio and national WR markets; could flip that talent pipeline to East Lansing.
- Risk: No head-coaching experience; would need experienced coordinators beside him.
James Franklin Could Be a Big-Name MSU Option
Where he is now: Former Penn State head coach.
- What he’s achieved: Big Ten champion (2016), multiple New Year’s Six appearances, consistent top-15 recruiting classes.
- Why he fits MSU: Experienced Big Ten operator who knows every inch of the recruiting map.
- Recruiting angle: National profile and strong staff connections.
- Risk: High cost and political baggage; would need donor alignment.
