Jonathan Smith, Head Coach - Michigan State

Inside the Headset with the AFCA

On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset presented by CoachComm, we are featuring Michigan State Head Coach, Jonathan Smith’s General Session talk from the 2023 AFCA Convention. In this conversation, Coach Smith reflects on those who have impacted him throughout his football journey, discusses how he recruits his players and his staff, and talks about the ever-changing nature of college football.

Follow Coach Smith and Michigan State Football on social media here:

@Coach_Smith & @MSU_Football

Show Notes:

1:04 Introduction

1:57 Pivotal moments in successful seasons

3:52 Playing physical football

5:10 Uniqueness of individual football programs and conferences

8:55 What was the first thing you did when you got the head coach job at Oregon State?

10:15 Maintaining relationships while trying to our-recruit your current roster

11:19 Beauty of college football

11:38 Coaching at your alma mater

13:59 Watching players grow and develop over time

14:35 Unique cultures in a team

17:07 People that influenced you in your football journey

23:10 Experience at first AFCA convention and how to get the most out of the convention

30:21 Advice for those transitioning from playing to coaching

31:17 How do you go about putting a staff together?

34:31 Challenges facing college football coaches today

41:30 Conclusion