Pat fitzgerald is poised to become the next head football coach at Michigan State University, multiple reports indicate. The move comes swiftly after fitzgerald expressed his desire to return to coaching following the resolution of litigation stemming from his departure from northwestern University.
This appointment marks a meaningful shift for both Fitzgerald and Michigan State. The Spartans recently dismissed Jonathan Smith after two seasons, during wich he compiled a 9-15 overall record and a 4-14 mark within the Big Ten Conference. Fitzgerald, who coached at northwestern for seventeen seasons, brings a career record of 110-101 to East Lansing. His tenure at Northwestern ended in July 2023 amid allegations of hazing within the football program.
Northwestern’s investigation, as part of a settlement with Fitzgerald, acknowledged “inappropriate conduct” occurred within the football program. However, the university stated evidence did not demonstrate any player reported hazing to Fitzgerald, nor that he condoned or directed it.
Michigan State has not participated in a bowl game since the conclusion of the 2021 season, and the program is seeking a turnaround under new leadership.Fitzgerald’s arrival signals an attempt to revitalize the Spartans’ football program and restore a competitive presence in the Big Ten.
