Michigan State hired Pat Fitzgerald as its new head coach within the last few weeks, bringing the former Northwestern coach back to college football to rebuild the program.
Former Ohio State receiver Joey Galloway believes the Spartans made the right choice.
“I think two of the Big Ten teams made terrific coaching hires,” Galloway said on the “Nonstop” podcast with Kirk Herbstreit. “I think Penn State made a terrific coaching hire. Just right when everybody was starting to laugh. Like, oh my gosh. They screwed this thing up. They blew it. It’s terrible. Then, they get Matt Campbell. I mean, that is a great hire for them. Pat Fitzgerald is a great hire for Michigan State.”
Galloway didn’t explain why he thinks Fitzgerald fits Michigan State. But the new coach has big plans for East Lansing.
“This is a program with a deep and storied tradition, a passionate fan base, and a commitment to excellence that extends far beyond the football field,” Fitzgerald said in a statement Dec. 1. “What excited me most about this opportunity was the vision for what Michigan State can be for years to come. We will restore tradition, and I’m eager to earn the trust of our players, alumni, and fans while competing at the highest level.”
The Spartans face immediate challenges rebuilding their roster.
Quarterback Aidan Chiles plans to enter the transfer portal according to reports Monday.
Fitzgerald has time to address roster needs before next season. The Spartans could position themselves to compete in the Big Ten quickly with the right moves.
The program’s turnaround begins now.
