NEVER CLAIMED PERFECTION: Michigan State Spartans’ Jonathan Smith Vows to Clean Up Mistakes, Calls on Fans to Stand Behind Him as They Set to Open Season Against Hungry Broncos
EAST LANSING, Mich. — As Michigan State prepares to kick off the 2025 season against the Western Michigan Broncos on Friday night, head coach Jonathan Smith is keeping his message clear: there’s work to do, but he’s not backing down.
“I’ve never claimed perfection,” Smith said during his weekly press conference on Monday. “We’ve made mistakes, and it’s on me to make sure we clean them up. But I believe in this group, and I believe in where we’re going.”
It’s been an offseason filled with transition and expectation for the Spartans, who are looking to turn the page under Smith’s leadership. Following a disappointing 2024 campaign and a number of key roster changes, the pressure is on to show progress early — especially with a tough Big Ten schedule looming just weeks away.
But Smith isn’t ducking the spotlight. Instead, he’s embracing accountability and calling on the Spartan faithful to stand behind the program.
“We need our fans,” Smith said. “We need them loud, proud, and with us — especially early in the season. This is a group that’s putting in the work, day in and day out. They deserve your energy.”
Friday’s matchup against Western Michigan isn’t one Michigan State can afford to overlook. The Broncos come in with a revamped offense and a chip on their shoulder, eager to pull off an upset against a Power Five opponent.
“They’re a tough, gritty team,” Smith said of WMU. “We’re expecting a battle. We have to come out sharp, fast, and disciplined — because they will.”
Several young players are expected to see significant action for MSU, and Smith acknowledged that with youth comes growing pains. Still, he remains confident in the foundation being laid.
“There are going to be moments where we learn the hard way,” he said. “But I’d rather have growing pains now than regret later. This team’s identity is forming — and it’s forming around toughness, accountability, and resilience.”
As kickoff approaches, one thing is clear: Jonathan Smith isn’t promising perfection. But he is promising progress — and he’s hoping the Spartan fanbase will be along for the ride.
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