Big Ten Football History Over the Last Decade Began with Michigan State

Michigan State started the last decade with the title and they look to start the next one with it as well
Michigan State's associate head coach Mark Dantonio, right, talks with Washington head coach Kalen DeBoer after the Spartans loss on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing.
Michigan State's associate head coach Mark Dantonio, right, talks with Washington head coach Kalen DeBoer after the Spartans loss on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing. / Nick King/Lansing State Journal / USA

In the last decade the Big Ten conference saw a diverse array of football champions, each season bringing its own narrative of triumph and determination. Beginning in 2013, the Michigan State Spartans under coach Mark Dantonio captured the title, marking the start of a decade filled with competitive prowess and strategic coaching across the conference.

Over the subsequent years, teams like Ohio State, Penn State, Michigan, and Wisconsin took turns atop the standings, showcasing the depth and talent present within the Big Ten. Ohio State, in particular, emerged as a dominant force, claiming multiple championships under the guidance of Urban Meyer and later Ryan Day. Their consistency and ability to recruit top-tier talent solidified their status as perennial contenders.

In 2023, however, the narrative shifts to Jonathan Smith and his Michigan State Spartans. Smith, known for his strategic insight and ability to develop young talent, took over the coaching reins with a clear vision: to restore Michigan State to its former glory and reclaim the Big Ten title.

Smith, a former quarterback himself, brings a wealth of experience both as a player and a coach. His tenure at Michigan State began with a focus on building a solid team culture, emphasizing discipline, hard work, and a commitment to excellence on and off the field. Under his leadership, the Spartans have steadily improved, with each season showing incremental progress in their performance and rankings.

For Smith, 2023 represents a pivotal moment. With a roster of talented players and a coaching staff dedicated to maximizing their potential, he believes this could be the year Michigan State returns to the top of the Big Ten standings. His approach combines innovative play-calling with a keen understanding of opponent strategies to exploit weaknesses and capitalize on opportunities throughout the season.

The path to the Big Ten title won't be easy, as perennial contenders like Ohio State and Michigan remain formidable opponents. However, Smith's confidence in his team's abilities and his strategic approach to game planning instill a sense of optimism among Spartan fans. With each game, Michigan State edges closer to its ultimate goal, drawing on the lessons of past champions while forging its legacy under Smith's guidance.

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