Michigan State Football’s head coach, Mark Dantonio, has stepped down as of Tuesday afternoon. The move ends a 13-year run in which Dantonio became the Spartans’ winningest coach in program history, posting a final record of 114-57.
Now 63-years-old, he arrived at MSU in 2007. Mark succeeded John L. Smith, and proceeded to lead the Spartans to three Big Ten championships, six bowl wins and an appearance in the 2015 College Football Playoff.
Dantonio had not met with the media since the December 27th Pinstripe Bowl win over Wake Forest. As of January 15th, he was owed a $4.3 million longevity bonus by the university, per ESPN.
Dantonio released this statement following the announcement:
“Today marks one of the most difficult decisions that I have ever made here at Michigan State. I would first like to thank our fans, alumni, and our administration; both past and present staff and especially our current and past players and coaches for all their support, hard work and dedication over these past 13 years. You have truly helped make my dreams come true.
“Every February since 2007, I have reset this program in preparation for the next year’s challenges. After much reflection and discussion with my family, I feel that it is now time for change as we enter into a new decade of Michigan State Football.
“I have told our players on many occasions that ‘Michigan State is bigger than any one person. Someday there will be someone else here talking to you from this podium.’ That day has come.
“There have been so many amazing life moments in the last 13 years. When I reflect, I think of our Big Ten Championship games, our Big Ten Championships, the big games, the playoffs, the bowl wins, the moments, the milestones, the graduates, the NFL opportunities and finally, and perhaps most importantly, the relationships made.
“This job has always been a 24/7, 365 day-a-year position. There is no down time and it is filled with the demands and challenges of managing games, players, coaches, recruits, donors, staff, media, an enthusiastic fan base and competition at the very highest level. I will miss it all but feel the sacrifices that I have made away from my family must now become my priority at this time in my life.
“My plan is to stay on within the university and athletic department in a role involving special projects, especially transitioning our players, both current and incoming, to their next challenges.
“It has truly been an honor and a privilege to serve as the head football coach at Michigan State University. I will forever be a Spartan.”
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