Meet Jonathan Charles Smith, a dynamic figure in American college football, currently steering the ship as the head coach at Michigan State University.
In this blog post, we will be discussing his formative years on the field and his coaching journey marked by milestones. Smith’s story weaves a narrative of passion, resilience, and triumph. We will also take a look at his family.
Let’s begin without wasting much time.
Born on January 18, 1979, Jonathan Charles Smith is making waves in American college football.
Before leading the Spartans, Smith carved his coaching path at Oregon State University for six seasons.
This wasn’t just a coaching stint; it was a journey back to his roots, bringing a unique touch to the game.
But before the coaching board, Smith had a different role – a four-year starter at quarterback for the Beavers.
Guided by the experienced hands of Mike Riley and Dennis Erickson, his playing days became the foundation for the strategic coaching approach he brings today.
Jonathan Smith
Title – Head Coach
Team – Michigan State
Born – January 18, 1979 (age 45)Pasadena, California, U.S.
1998–2001 – Oregon State
Position – Quarterback
2002–2003 – Oregon State (GA)
2004–2009 – Idaho (QB)
2010–2011 – Montana (OC/QB)
2012–2013 – Boise State (QB)
2014–2017 – Washington (OC/QB)
2018–2023 – Oregon State
2024–present – Michigan State
Overall – 34–35
Bowls – 1–1
Awards
Co-Pac-12 Coach of the Year (2022)
Fiesta Bowl MVP (2001)
Jonathan Smith’s Early Years
Hailing from Pasadena, California, Jonathan Smith’s journey began at Glendora High School, where he graduated in 1997.
His trajectory led him north to Oregon State, where he initially joined as a walk-on under the guidance of head coach Mike Riley.
Smith’s impact was felt on the field, becoming a four-year starting quarterback for the Beavers. His tenure, starting in 1998 and extending through his senior year in 2001, was marked by a standout performance.
In 2000, under the coaching of Dennis Erickson, Smith steered the Beavers to their most remarkable season in school history.
The team achieved an 11–1 record, a school record for wins, clinched their first conference title in 36 years, and concluded the season ranked fourth in the nation.
Noteworthy is Smith’s role in the Fiesta Bowl, where he earned the MVP title, leading a team that included future NFL stars Chad Johnson and T. J. Houshmandzadeh.
Jonathan Smith’s Coaching Journey
Early Coaching Roles
Kicking off his coaching career, Smith served as a graduate assistant at his alma mater in 2002 and 2003 under Erickson and Riley.
He then took on the role of quarterbacks coach at the University of Idaho for six seasons, working under the guidance of Nick Holt, Erickson, and Robb Akey.
This stint was followed by a two-season tenure as the offensive coordinator at the University of Montana.
Smith continued to hone his coaching skills, serving as the quarterbacks coach at Boise State University under Chris Petersen before joining him at the University of Washington for four seasons.
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Return to Oregon State
The turning point in Smith’s coaching journey came when he was named the head coach at Oregon State on November 29, 2017.
Stepping into this role during a challenging period after Gary Andersen’s departure, Smith led the Beavers through a transformative period.
Despite a challenging start, the team saw significant improvement under his guidance, culminating in a historic ten-win season in 2022, including a convincing victory over Florida in the Las Vegas Bowl.
Contract Milestones
Smith’s impact wasn’t just on the field; his coaching prowess was reflected in his contracts. Starting with a five-year deal in 2017, Smith’s success triggered extensions and pay increases.
After a breakthrough winning season in 2021, he secured a contract extension through 2027, with a substantial salary boost.
Following the remarkable 2022 season, including a triumph over rival Oregon, Smith signed a new six-year deal with a further increase, solidifying his place among the top earners in the Pac-12.
New Beginnings at Michigan State
On November 25, 2023, Smith officially took the helm as the head coach of Michigan State.
Stepping into this role after Mel Tucker’s departure, Smith carries his wealth of coaching experience into a new chapter, poised to leave his mark on Spartan football.
Jonathan Smith’s Family
As Jonathan Smith steps into the role of head coach for the Michigan Spartans, there’s curiosity about his personal life.
Smith is happily married to Candice Huddle, and their journey together began with a wedding in 2002.
The couple has three children: Robert, Bella, and Charles. Beyond the football field, Smith’s family adds another layer to the narrative, reflecting a balance of coaching excellence and a fulfilling personal life.