Michigan State's top target is Jonathan Smith

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Michigan State, in the marketplace to replace Mel Tucker since Tucker was fired in September for bringing “public disrespect, contempt and ridicule” upon the university, has Oregon State head coach Jonathan Smith as their top target to take over the Spartans program.

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“Barring something unforeseen, he is the target,” a source told FootballScoop midweek.

Added another, “Jonathan Smith is the focus. They’ve talked to a lot of guys, but he is who they want.”

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Numerous sources told FootballScoop that while Smith is the frontrunner, Michigan State officials also have talked to, among others, Duke’s Mike Elko, Toledo’s Jason Candle, North Carolina State’s Dave Doeren and Pittsburgh’s Pat Narduzzi, the former well-regarded Spartans defensive coordinator. Interim head coach Harlon Barnett has been evaluated and is a candidate as well.

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In light of Michigan State (and other programs) doing diligence on Oregon State head coach Jonathan Smith, Oregon State AD Scott Barnes has now issued a statement.

Issued today following news that Michigan State has Smith atop their list, Barnes' statement reads as follows:

Coach Smith and I have had ongoing conversations for more than a month regarding his future at Oregon State and our path forward for football specifically and our athletic department generally. He has embraced our short and long term plans. My No. 1 priority is providing him with a new contract and guaranteed compensation that will help continue the success of the football program that has benefitted Oregon State University and Beavers' Athletics. Coach Smith and I have also discussed our commitment to extending assistant coaches' contracts and increasing the salary pool for his staff to retain the continuity of what they have all built together for Beaver Nation."

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