Michigan State announces role for Mark Dantonio, other staff changes
Michigan State officially announced details for its coaching staff on Friday afternoon.
Mark Dantonio will be on staff with the Spartans as an advisor to interim head coach Harlon Barnett. However, Dantonio will not be one of Michigan State’s designated 10 on-field assistant coaches.
“Mark Dantonio is an excellent football coach and it’s been great having him back in the building this week,” Barnett said in a release. “Coach D brings the calming presence, the wisdom, and the knowledge of being a head coach. He is a tremendous resource for our staff and players and is willing to help with all aspects of the operation.”
Instead, the final assistant coaching role will belong to TJ Hollowell, who previously served as a defensive analyst at Michigan State.
As the 10th assistant, Hollowell will be able to go on the road as a recruiter for the program.
“In terms of the coaching staff, after evaluating our immediate needs this week, we felt that it was best served for Coach D to help in an advisory role and for TJ Hollowell to be our 10th on-field assistant coach,” Barnett said in a release. “TJ has knowledge of our defensive schemes and personnel having been on staff for four seasons, which provides the most seamless transition for our program. As the 10th on-field assistant, TJ can go on the road recruiting, and has done so for our program previously. I’m confident in our coaching staff and I appreciate all of the hard work everyone is putting in with our players and program.”
Michigan State will host Washington at 5 p.m. ET on Saturday afternoon.