Full Breakdown
Michigan State Spartans Hire Devon Spalding as Running Backs Coach
12/30/2025, 12:56:22 PM
Key Appointment in Coaching Staff
Michigan State University is set to hire Devon Spalding as its new running backs coach, following his tenure at the University of Wisconsin. Spalding, who has spent the last three seasons coaching at Wisconsin, is expected to join the Spartans under head coach Pat Fitzgerald. His appointment comes as part of Fitzgerald's efforts to revamp the coaching staff after a disappointing 4-8 season for Michigan State.
Background and Experience
Devon Spalding, a Michigan native, began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at the University of Cincinnati in 2019 under head coach Luke Fickell. He then served as the running backs coach at Youngstown State from 2020 to 2022, where he developed notable talent, including NFL running back Jaleel McLaughlin, who earned MVFC Offensive Player of the Year honors in 2022. At Wisconsin, Spalding played a crucial role in the development of running backs Braelon Allen and Tawee Walker. Allen achieved All-Big Ten honors in his final season, while Walker recorded 864 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in 2024.
Impact on Michigan State's Program
Spalding's hiring is part of a broader strategy by Fitzgerald to enhance the Spartans' performance and recruiting capabilities. The coaching staff is also expected to include Alabama's Nick Sheridan as the offensive coordinator and Iowa's LeVar Woods as the special teams coordinator. Fitzgerald aims to address the running back position, which is a priority as the NCAA transfer portal opens on January 2, 2026. The Spartans are looking to retain current players like Brandon Tullis and Jace Clarizio, who redshirted due to injury.
Official Statements & Responses
Sources confirmed Spalding's hiring, emphasizing his successful track record in developing running backs. Fitzgerald's commitment to building a competitive team is evident as he assembles a staff capable of revitalizing the Spartans' program.
Criticism & Opposition
While the hiring of Spalding has been generally well-received, some analysts question whether the changes will be sufficient to turn around a program that has struggled in recent seasons. Critics argue that more substantial changes may be necessary to improve the team's overall performance.
What's Next
As Michigan State prepares for the upcoming season, the focus will be on integrating Spalding into the coaching staff and leveraging the transfer portal to strengthen the running back position. The Spartans aim to improve their record and competitiveness in the Big Ten Conference.
