Joe Begnal Promoted to Assistant Special Teams Coordinator

News Summary

Joe Begnal has been promoted to Assistant Special Teams Coordinator for Michigan State football. This change comes as the Spartans aim to improve their special teams performance in the upcoming season. With his extensive coaching experience, Begnal is set to lead the revitalization of this crucial unit. Additionally, Michigan State has welcomed new long snapper recruits and is looking to enhance its overall team capabilities. Fans can expect an action-packed season filled with fresh talent and strategic improvements.

Exciting Changes in East Lansing: Joe Begnal Set to Step Up!

East Lansing, fun-seeking football fans! Something is happening in the world of Michigan State football that fans may want to pay close attention to. Joe Begnal, who has been grinding away as a special teams analyst since January, is now getting a shiny promotion to assistant special teams coordinator. This move comes as part of the Spartans’ mission to turn around their special teams performance, which has been less than stellar in recent seasons.

Joe Begnal’s Journey to the Top

Before joining the Michigan State family, Begnal brought his expertise to several different schools as the special teams quality control coach. This includes time at Memphis, Colorado State, and Idaho. Those stints have equipped him with the know-how and skills to tackle the challenges at Michigan State.

But that’s not all! Joe also has some experience coaching wide receivers at New Haven for three seasons and once took on the role of defensive coordinator at Lincoln University. With such a colorful background, it’s no surprise that he made his way to a more prominent position within Michigan State’s coaching staff!

Fresh Faces Joining Special Teams

In addition to Begnal’s promotion, the Michigan State Spartans have been busy securing some new talent for their special teams. They’ve recently welcomed two long snapper commitments through the transfer portal, with the additions of Kaden Schickel from James Madison and Jack Wentz from Lenoir-Rhyne. These players are expected to bring some much-needed strength and skill to the team.

One to Watch: Jack Wills

Also on the horizon is Jack Wills, a rising star! The Spartans offered him a preferred walk-on spot, and he’s no ordinary recruit. Hailing from Hudsonville, Michigan, Wills is the No. 2 long snapper in the 2025 class according to Kornblue Kicking, and he takes the crown as the No. 1 long snapper in Michigan. With interest coming from big names like Ohio State and Notre Dame, it seems the word is out on his talent.

In the world of long snapping, which doesn’t always attract scholarship offers, Wills’ skills are shining through, as shown by the attention he’s garnered from several Power Five programs.

Changes afoot for a Stronger Special Teams Unit

The Spartans are looking for some significant improvements with their special teams. In the recent spring practices, Schickel emerged victorious in securing the primary long snapping job. This is a crucial position, especially with Drew Wilson transferring out of the program.

Leading this revamp of the special teams unit are co-special teams coordinators Keith Bhonapha and Chad Wilt. Their expertise and plans to fix the previous issues are what Michigan State needs to rise back to the top.

The Future Looks Bright!

As the team gears up for the upcoming season, fans can feel the excitement in the air. With Begnal stepping up in his new role and the fresh talent coming aboard, it’s clear that Michigan State football is on a mission. The aim is not just improvement, but a full revival of the special teams to elevate the entire team’s performance. So, fellow fans, keep your eyes peeled and get ready for an action-packed season!