This weekend was a perfect encapsulation of a tough year for the Michigan State football program and the University. From a blowout rivalry loss at home, to video board controversies, and behind the scenes turmoil in the Board of Trustees, it was another bad weekend for MSU.
On Monday, acting coach Harlon Barnett took to the podium to recap the weekend and preview this weekend’s Minnesota game. You can find his most notable quotes below.
Barnett on the Film
MSU coach Harlon Barnett: "We watched the film. It wasn't very nice." Says Spartans have moved on from U-M blowout loss to Minnesota.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 23, 2023
Barnett on the younger players
Barnett says "the moment might have been big" for some of MSU's younger players against Michigan. "It's all a part of the experience. They're getting better."
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 23, 2023
Barnett on Houser
Barnett says Katin Houser took a step back from how he played against Rutgers. "He's still our guy." Says there will still be opportunities for freshman Sam Leavitt, but reiterates Houser will remain the starting QB.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 23, 2023
Barnett on Michigan going for TD on final drive
Barnett said he told his coaches on the headset that Michigan was going to try and score on the final drive of the game. "I'm not surprised. Not surprised at all." Says he'll remember that and "everything about that game."
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 23, 2023
Barnett on Simeon Barrow
Barnett says DT Simeon Barrow "may be gone. I think he may jump in personally" to the transfer portal. "I wish him nothing but the best."
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 23, 2023
Barnett on losing streak
Barnett says it feels a little like MSU's 2016 seven-game losing streak right now.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 23, 2023
Barnett on Jalen Berger injury
Barnett says he believes RB Jalen Berger is done for the season with an injury.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 23, 2023
Barnett on Spencer Brown, Nick Samac
Barnett says it was a lesson for Spencer Brown and Nick Samac in not losing their cool out of frustration, between Brown's flagrant foul/ejection and Samac's two-finger salute to the crowd. Says he's discussed with the team the need to keep their cool.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 23, 2023
Barnett on defensive tackle rotation with Barrow news
Barnett on DT depth with Barrow potentially leaving, points to Harmon/Sami/Hansen, says Ken Talley can slide inside as well. "They'll go in there and grind and fight and do whatever to help us succeed."
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 23, 2023
