Jonathan Smith was announced as the new Michigan State head coach on Saturday. Shortly after the announcement, he shared a written statement on social media about his time with his alma mater Oregon State, where he had coached since 2018.
Smith played quarterback for the Beavers from 1998-2001 and worked on the team staff as a graduate assistant from 2002-03. He worked a few different jobs before he returned to Corvallis in 2018, this time as the Beavers head coach. When news of his departure broke, he thanked his players and staff but most emphasized the university community.
“When I first arrived as a freshman college student, I had no idea the opportunities and relationships this community would provide for me and my family,” Smith wrote. “The collective impact you have made makes it impossible for me to thank everyone individually, but I am forever grateful.”
Smith led the Oregon State program for six seasons, compiling a 34-35 overall record. His resume is really built around the past two seasons when led the Beavers into the top 15 of the College Football Playoff both years and compiled an 18-7 record over the past two seasons.