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New Michigan State DL coach Marco Coleman speaks at spring practice presser
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Michigan State’s new DL coach Marco Coleman spoke at a spring practice press conference on Thursday. He is very excited to work with the team.
Before joining the Spartans, it was reported in February that he would be leaving Georgia Tech for East Lansing. Coleman was with the Yellowjackets as their DE/LB coach. He was also a former player that lead the Yellowjackets in sacks.
Michigan State’s defense had the 14th-most sacks last season with 38 under their previous DL coach Ron Burton. The Spartans also allowed the 18th-fewest rushing yards per game with 117.9 in 2021. However, one of the things that Coleman talked about with urgency was not getting complacent with all of the team’s returning starters and depth at DT.
One of Coleman’s favorite players to coach so far has been DE Jeff Pietrowski, and that he values his experience at the position since he believes that the team lacks that at his position. He is also impressed with Florida transfer DE Khris Bogle as well.
Lastly, Coleman discussed his coaching philosophy and other players on the D-line.
Here’s what the new MSU D-line coach had to say:
New MSU DL coach Marco Coleman at the podium. Says “it’s a good opportunity with where the program is with coach Tucker” to leave his alma mater, Georgia Tech. “And also a little more responsibility” with the whole DL.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) March 24, 2022
Coleman says “fighting complacency” will be the biggest thing for returning starting DT Jacob Slade and Simeon Barrow to continue to progress. Feels the depth at that position with Hunt, Mallory and Hansen makes it the strength of the defense. “The team will go as those guys go.”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) March 24, 2022
Coleman says DE Jeff Pietrowski “is probably my favorite player” coming back. Feels that area “is where we lack some experience” with graduation losses of Panasiuk, Beesley and Drew Jordan. Feels Florida transfer Khris Bogle like others need more reps to improve.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) March 24, 2022
Coleman says Bogle “is doing well” and working hard. Adds that he plans to give some LBs opportunities at DE this spring.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) March 24, 2022
Coleman says DE Itayvion Brown is still battling some nagging and lingering issues from his injuries in the fall but is in the mix for playing time. Sounds like DE will be much like RB, with competition going deep into camp and season for roles.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) March 24, 2022
MSU DL coach Marco Coleman: “Fundamentals and technique outdo talent every day.”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) March 24, 2022
Grant Bricker covers the B1G for Saturday Tradition. His previous stops include the Williamson Homepage and Nashville Post.