There was a lot of debate and concern over Michigan State’s offense in 2012. Play-calling was a big part of it, but also the ability to execute. Dan Roushar’s head was being called for from many of the more vocal Spartan fanatics. Basically, they got their wish. Roushar is off to the New Orleans Saints as a running backs coach.
So, where do we go from here?
Promote from within – I like that Coach Dantonio promotes from within as it shows loyalty and confidence in his staff and it’s a component of his “build a program” approach. Two years ago when Don Treadwell (whom I thought was excellent) left to take the Head Coach spot at Miami (Ohio), Roushar was promoted to the OC spot. This time, speculation is that either Dave Warner (QB Coach) or Brad Salem (Running Backs Coach/Recruiting Coordinator) will get the nod. I like that these guys are known entities and they know the system, the players, Coach D., the University, the B1G, etc. But is this also a recipe for more of the same when it seemed clear that MSU could use some fresh thinking on offense?
Hire from outside – Does State need to change with the times? I don’t know. I’ve heard rumblings about bringing in an OC from the NFL, but wouldn’t that be more of the same in terms of a pro-style offense? Should the Spartans snatch an OC or even a Head Coach from a lesser-division who has put together a killer offense like maybe Toledo or Boise State. I would like to see some more variety. I would like for MSU to be harder to defend against. Frankly, we must have more production or we’re dead in B1G water. Maybe some fresh blood is exactly what we need?
Whichever way Coach Dantonio goes, he’s got to move pretty quickly. Spring practice is right around the corner and it would be a huge mistake not to have an OC in place by then.
I bet an announcement is made in the next week… just my gut.
Go Green!