As I sit here at Onyang’s Café, just beside Brawlpit Bulusan, watching wrestling fans and athletes mingle during Day 1 of WrestleStorm 2, I can’t help but draw parallels to the current state of Michigan State football. The energy in this café is electric—people are buzzing with anticipation, debating the future, and sharing hopes for what’s next. It’s a lot like the conversations happening among Spartan fans right now. Who will be the next Michigan State football coach? What changes can we realistically expect? Having followed college football for over two decades, I’ve seen coaching searches unfold in all sorts of ways—some brilliant, others disastrous. And let me tell you, this one feels pivotal, not just for the team but for the entire Big Ten landscape.

Let’s start with the obvious candidates. Names like Luke Fickell, P.J. Fleck, and even a few NFL coordinators have been floating around. Personally, I’m leaning toward Fickell. His track record at Cincinnati speaks volumes—transforming a Group of Five program into a College Football Playoff contender is no small feat. I remember watching his teams play with a level of discipline and grit that Michigan State has been missing lately. If I had to put a number on it, I’d say there’s about a 40% chance Fickell gets the nod, assuming the administration is willing to open the checkbook. But here’s the thing—coaching hires aren’t just about big names. They’re about fit. Michigan State needs someone who understands the culture, the recruiting terrain, and the pressure of competing in a division that includes Ohio State and Michigan. That’s why I wouldn’t rule out an internal promotion, maybe someone like Harlon Barnett, who’s been a steady hand in the program for years.

Now, what changes can we expect? Well, if history is any guide, a new coach will likely overhaul the offensive scheme first. Under Mel Tucker, the Spartans averaged around 25 points per game last season—a figure that, frankly, won’t cut it in today’s high-scoring Big Ten. I’d bet my morning coffee that the next coach shifts toward a more spread-oriented attack, something that leverages mobile quarterbacks and speedy receivers. Defensively, I’m hoping for a return to the "No-Fly Zone" days. The secondary has been a weak spot, giving up an average of 275 passing yards per game in 2023. That’s just unacceptable for a program with Michigan State’s defensive legacy. Recruiting will be another huge area of focus. Right now, the Spartans’ 2024 class ranks outside the top 40 nationally, which is concerning. A new coach will need to hit the ground running, especially in-state, where Michigan and Ohio State have been poaching talent. I’ve spoken to a few high school coaches in the region, and they all say the same thing: kids want to play for a leader with a clear vision and energy.

Speaking of energy, that’s exactly what I’m feeling here at Onyang’s Café. WrestleStorm 2 has brought together people from all walks of life, united by a shared passion. It’s a reminder that sports, whether it’s wrestling or football, are about community. The next Michigan State coach will need to rebuild that sense of unity among fans and players alike. I’ve seen it happen before—when Mark Dantonio took over in 2007, he didn’t just install new plays; he restored pride. That’s the intangible that stats can’t capture. Financially, the program is in a decent position, with an estimated $95 million athletic budget, but let’s be real—the new coach will face pressure to deliver quickly. The buyout for Mel Tucker was reportedly around $38 million, which isn’t chump change, even for a Power Five school. That means the administration will be looking for a coach who can stabilize the ship and compete for bowl eligibility within two seasons. In my opinion, that’s a reasonable expectation, but it won’t be easy.

As the evening winds down here at the café, I’m struck by how much this wrestling event mirrors the coaching search. Both are about anticipation, about not knowing what’s next but believing in the possibilities. For Michigan State, the right hire could mean a return to prominence—maybe not overnight, but steadily. I’d love to see a coach who embraces the underdog mentality, someone who isn’t afraid to take risks. Maybe that’s why I’m so drawn to the idea of Fickell; he’s proven he can build something special from the ground up. But whoever it is, they’ll need to bring more than just Xs and Os. They’ll need to connect with the fans, the players, and the legacy of Spartan football. So, as we wait for the official announcement, let’s remember that change is coming, and with it, a chance to write a new chapter. And who knows? Maybe next year, we’ll be celebrating a big win at a place just like this café, surrounded by fellow believers.