This stat proves Michigan State football needs to make defensive coaching changes

Michigan State's defensive coordinator Joe Rossi watches during warmups before the football game against Western Michigan on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025, in East Lansing. | Nick King/Lansing State Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn ImagesEveryone and their brother knows that changes need to be made within Michigan State football.

If Jonathan Smith is able to survive the 2025 season by getting Michigan State a win over Michigan and a bowl berth, he’s going to have to make some changes to his staff.

Does his offense need a fresh look? Probably. Brian Lindgren hasn’t done a remarkable job in his two years in East Lansing, and some feel that he’s holding the offense back. The defense, however, has…