Marquette, MI – December 3rd, 2025 – Johnathon Smith’s tenure in East Lansing has officially come to an end. Michigan State University announced Sunday that Smith had been relieved of his duties following a disappointing 4–8 season. Ironically, the news came just one day after Smith secured his first Big Ten victory, a 38–28 win over Maryland. His final official record, however, drops to 4–15 after the NCAA vacated his 2024 wins due to the use of ineligible players, a ruling that ultimately overshadowed any late-season progress.
MSU moved quickly in its search for new leadership. Within an hour of Smith’s dismissal becoming public, reports surfaced that the Spartans were targeting former Northwestern head coach, Pat Fitzgerald. Those reports were confirmed when Fitzgerald signed his contract Tuesday, officially taking the reins of the program. The timing is notable, as Fitzgerald celebrates his 51st birthday today.
Fitzgerald brings extensive Big Ten experience to East Lansing. Over 17 seasons at Northwestern, he compiled a 110–101 record, guiding the Wildcats to multiple 10-win seasons, 10 bowl victories, and appearances in the Big Ten Championship Game in both 2018 and 2020. His tenure ended in 2022 amid a high-profile hazing scandal within the program, but his on-field accomplishments remain among the most impressive in Northwestern history.
For Michigan State’s roster, Smith’s firing triggers a 15-day transfer portal window, which opens five days after a coaching change is officially finalized. The Spartans have seen players take advantage of this including star WR, Nick Marsh, and starting running back, Makhi Frazier.
With a fresh start at head coach, and substantial roster decisions ahead, Michigan State enters yet another pivotal offseason. Time will tell if Fitzgerald’s experience and stability can chart a new direction for Spartan football.
