EAST LANSING, MI – June 28, 2025 – In a significant display of loyalty and commitment to the nascent era of Michigan State football, Assistant Head Coach, Co-Special Teams Coordinator, and Running Backs Coach Keith Bhonapha has reportedly turned down a staggering $12 million offer from the Penn State Nittany Lions. Bhonapha’s decision to remain in East Lansing sends a powerful message about the belief within the Spartans’ program under Head Coach Jonathan Smith, particularly as Michigan State looks to re-establish itself in the Big Ten Conference.
The colossal eight-figure offer from Happy Valley underscores Penn State’s aggressive pursuit of elite coaching talent, especially given their consistent contention for Big Ten titles and College Football Playoff berths. The Nittany Lions finished the 2024 season with an impressive 13-3 overall record, securing a bowl victory. Despite their success, Penn State evidently sought to enhance their coaching staff, particularly in key areas like running back development and special teams, where Bhonapha boasts a stellar reputation. The magnitude of the offer suggests a strong desire to solidify these critical positions with a proven commodity.
Keith Bhonapha, 45, is a highly respected figure in college football coaching circles with over two decades of experience. He officially joined Jonathan Smith’s Michigan State staff in December 2023, following Smith from Oregon State. His extensive resume includes significant stints at Boise State (where he was Running Backs coach and later Associate Head Coach, and also Director of Football Operations), Washington (Running Backs coach and Recruiting Coordinator, and Special Teams Coordinator in 2021), and Hawaii (his alma mater, where he began as a graduate assistant working with defensive backs and special teams).
Bhonapha’s coaching philosophy is built on fundamental technique, disciplined execution, and a keen eye for talent development. His track record with running backs is particularly impressive, having coached numerous 1,000-yard rushers and NFL Draft picks, including Doug Martin (1st round), Jay Ajayi, and Myles Gaskin. At Oregon State in 2023, he mentored Damien Martinez, a Doak Walker Award semifinalist. His expertise extends to special teams, a phase of the game where attention to detail can significantly impact outcomes. He previously oversaw special teams units at Boise State and Washington, making him well-versed in coordinating all aspects of that critical unit.
For the Michigan State Spartans, Bhonapha’s decision to forgo such a lucrative offer is a tremendous victory and a testament to the culture and vision being cultivated by Coach Jonathan Smith. The Spartans are in a rebuilding phase, having finished the 2024 season with a 5-7 record. Retaining a coach of Bhonapha’s caliber, with his multifaceted responsibilities as Assistant Head Coach, Co-Special Teams Coordinator, and Running Backs Coach, provides invaluable stability and an experienced hand as they navigate the challenging Big Ten landscape. His presence ensures continuity in player development and strategic planning for two vital units.
“Keith Bhonapha is an indispensable part of our program, and we are thrilled that he has chosen to remain a Spartan,” stated Head Coach Jonathan Smith. “His commitment speaks volumes about what we are building here in East Lansing. Keith’s expertise in developing running backs and his vision for our special teams are crucial to our success. As Assistant Head Coach, his leadership extends across our entire team, and we are fortunate to have him.”
Bhonapha’s deep ties with Coach Smith, having worked together at Boise State, Washington, and Oregon State before coming to Michigan State, likely played a significant role in his decision. This long-standing professional relationship underscores a shared coaching philosophy and a mutual trust that goes beyond financial incentives. Bhonapha is not just a coach on Smith’s staff; he is a trusted confidant and a key architect in the long-term plan for the Spartans.
The implications of this rejection are notable for Penn State. While the Nittany Lions are an established national contender, missing out on a target of Bhonapha’s profile suggests they may need to explore other avenues to enhance their staff or escalate their offers even further in a fiercely competitive market for top assistants. It also highlights the growing challenge of attracting and retaining talent, even for highly successful programs, when faced with personal and professional commitments to existing teams.
For Michigan State, Bhonapha’s commitment reinforces the belief that the program is on the right track under Coach Smith. It demonstrates that despite recent struggles, the foundation for future success is being laid, and key personnel are bought into the vision. Fans will undoubtedly rally behind this display of dedication, seeing it as a positive indicator of the team’s upward trajectory.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Michigan State to see how Bhonapha’s continued influence translates onto the field. His leadership in the running backs room, his strategic input on special teams, and his overall role as Assistant Head Coach will be critical as the Spartans aim to climb the Big Ten standings and compete for national recognition. This decision is more than just a coach staying put; it’s a testament to loyalty and a significant morale boost for a program on the rise.
