The Michigan State Spartans could be getting a new coach with a breath of fresh air and a proven track record of consistency in the Big Ten.
Despite being out of the sport for the last two seasons, a reinvigorated Pat Fitzgerald reportedly wants to make headway in the league next year. Similar to potentially replacing former Penn State-turned-Virginia Tech coach James Franklin, Fitzgerald is reportedly exploring a possible opening in East Lansing should the Spartans opt to cut ties with Smith.
That's according to CBS Sports' Chris Hummer, John Talty and Matt Zenitz, who jointly weighed in about the coaching carousels around the nation.
"If Michigan State were to open this cycle -- which many industry sources consider increasingly likely even with a hefty buyout for Jonathan Smith -- Fitzgerald would be a name that would make sense as a candidate," the trio wrote.
Smith has been under scrutiny for much of his brief, yet unmistakable tenure in East Lansing. The Spartans have yet to secure any wins of major significance, even to consider a program turnaround, much less buy into the Spartan culture.
The season is over, even with two games still remaining. The Spartans aren't. Going anywhere fast and still haven't won a league game yet. If things continue. To digress, a chance will have to be made.
If Fitzgerald is that change, it will be a long-awaited fresh start with a likely uneasy rebuild to come.
Only time will tell.