As I sit here at Onyang’s Café, just beside Brawlpit Bulusan, watching wrestling fans and athletes mingle during Day 1 of WrestleStorm 2, I can’t help but draw parallels to the high-stakes drama unfolding in Michigan State’s football program. The search for the next head coach in 2024 feels a lot like the anticipation before a major wrestling match—everyone’s speculating, rumors are flying, and the energy is palpable. Having followed college football coaching carousels for over a decade, I’ve seen how these decisions can reshape a program’s identity. And right now, Michigan State stands at a crossroads, with a decision that could either restore its former glory or plunge it deeper into uncertainty.

Let’s start by looking at the current landscape. Michigan State’s football program has been through the wringer lately, finishing the 2023 season with a disappointing 5-7 record, missing a bowl game for the second time in three years. That’s not the standard Spartans fans expect, and it’s clear a change is needed. From my perspective, the ideal candidate needs to blend recruiting prowess with a modern offensive mindset—something that’s been lacking. Names like Pat Narduzzi from Pitt or even a rising star like Iowa State’s Matt Campbell keep popping up in discussions. Narduzzi, in particular, has deep ties to Michigan State, having served as defensive coordinator under Mark Dantonio from 2007 to 2014. His defensive acumen is undeniable, but I worry whether his offensive philosophy can keep up in today’s high-scoring Big Ten. On the other hand, Campbell has turned around programs with limited resources, but his lack of Big Ten experience might be a gamble. Personally, I lean toward someone with proven Power Five success, but I’ll admit I’m biased toward coaches who emphasize player development over flashy recruiting.

Now, let’s talk about the financial side, because let’s face it—money talks. Michigan State’s athletic department reportedly has a budget of around $140 million, and they’re likely prepared to offer a contract in the ballpark of $5-6 million annually for the right coach. That’s a significant investment, and it puts them in the running for top-tier candidates. But here’s where my experience kicks in: I’ve seen schools overspend on big names only to see mediocre results. Take, for instance, the Mel Tucker era—a $95 million contract that started with promise but fizzled out. In my view, the Spartans should prioritize cultural fit over star power. Someone who understands the Midwest recruiting landscape and can build relationships in states like Ohio and Michigan is crucial. I’d love to see them target a coach like Lance Leipold from Kansas, who’s turned a struggling program into a competitive force. His track record speaks for itself, and his emphasis on fundamentals aligns with what made Michigan State great under Dantonio.

As I chat with fellow fans here at Onyang’s Café, the diversity of opinions is striking. Some are clamoring for a splashy hire, maybe even an NFL coordinator, while others prefer a steady hand from the collegiate ranks. It reminds me of how wrestling fans debate the merits of different styles—some prefer technical mastery, others raw power. In football terms, that translates to offensive innovators versus defensive stalwarts. From where I stand, Michigan State’s defense has been solid, ranking in the top 40 nationally in points allowed last season, but the offense was abysmal, averaging just 21 points per game. That’s why I’m inclined toward a coach who can revitalize the offense without sacrificing defensive integrity. Names like Dan Mullen come to mind—he’s available, has SEC experience, and knows how to develop quarterbacks. Sure, he’s had his ups and downs, but his offensive schemes could inject much-needed life into the Spartans.

Another angle to consider is the transfer portal and NIL deals, which have completely changed the coaching game. In 2023 alone, over 1,500 FBS players entered the transfer portal, and programs that adapt quickly are reaping the benefits. Michigan State needs a coach who can navigate this new landscape, leveraging NIL collectives to attract and retain talent. Based on what I’ve observed, coaches who embrace these changes, like Jonathan Smith at Oregon State, tend to outperform expectations. Smith might be a dark horse candidate for Michigan State—he’s built a resilient program with limited resources, and his player-centric approach could resonate in East Lansing. I’ll be honest, though: I’m skeptical of retreads or coaches who’ve failed elsewhere. The Spartans can’t afford another misstep, not with rivals like Michigan and Ohio State dominating the conference.

Wrapping this up, the decision on Michigan State’s next coach will define the program for years to come. It’s not just about X’s and O’s; it’s about finding a leader who can unite the fanbase, adapt to modern challenges, and restore that gritty Spartan identity. Sitting here at Onyang’s Café, surrounded by the passion of WrestleStorm 2, I’m reminded that great transitions—whether in sports or entertainment—require vision and timing. My bet? Michigan State goes with a proven winner from the Group of Five or a Power Five coordinator ready for a step up. But whatever they do, they need to act decisively. The longer this drags on, the more recruiting suffers and the harder the rebuild becomes. Here’s hoping the Spartans make a choice that brings back the excitement we all crave.