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Michigan State confirms hiring of former Spartan star to Jonathan Smith’s staff

Paul Harvey

By Paul Harvey

Published:

Michigan State added another key piece of Jonathan Smith’s staff on Wednesday. That piece comes from a former Spartan star who has been a key piece of Dan Lanning’s Oregon staff.

The hiring comes in the form of Demetrice Martin, a 4-year letterwinner for the Spartans during his playing days in East Lansing. He will coach cornerbacks for Smith’s Michigan State staff after producing one of the best secondaries in the Pac-12.

In his career as a player, Martin secured 10 interceptions, including 7 during the 1994 season for the Spartans. That number is still tied for 5th in a single season in Michigan State history.

As a coach, Martin has stops throughout the Pac-12 at USC, Washington, UCLA, Arizona, Colorado and Oregon. While in Eugene, Martin also held the role of passing game coordinator in addition to coaching cornerbacks.

Jonathan Smith’s coaching staff

With the addition of Martin, Jonathan Smith’s MSU staff has taken shape. Defensively, Joe Rossi comes over from Minnesota to coordinate the unit while also coaching linebackers. Rossi is a key piece, particularly for his Midwest ties.

The rest of the defense includes Blue Adams (secondary), Legi Suiaunoa (defensive line) and Chad Wilt (rush ends) who will also serve as co-special teams coordinator.

Offensively, Brian Lindgren will serve as the coordinator and quarterbacks coach for the unit. Jim Michalczik will coach the offensive line and serve as run game coordinator while Keith Bhonapha is the assistant head coach in addition to coaching running backs. Courtney Hawkins was retained as wide receivers coach, and Brian Wozniak will coach tight ends in addition to coordinating recruiting.

True to expectations, Smith’s staff does include a heavy dose of his core Oregon State assistants. However, he has rounded out the group with some key pieces from around the country, including a few with strong Michigan State ties.

Rebuilding the Spartans is still no easy task, but Smith’s initial staff looks solid on paper.

Paul Harvey

Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.