Michigan State Football: 5 questions Spartans must answer in 2018

3. How will Harlon Barnett’s departure affect the defense?

Last week, Michigan State co-defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach Harlon Barnett departed to take the defensive coordinator position at Florida State.

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While you can’t blame the long-time Mark Dantonio assistant for jumping at the opportunity for more money and a bigger role, replacing him will not be easy.

Co-defensive coordinator Mike Tressel is expected to take over as the sole DC, but Barnett’s impact on the Spartans’ defensive backs was profound. He doesn’t deserve all of the credit, but he was instrumental in the development of the slew of ex-MSU defensive backs who are currently playing in the NFL.

Michigan State’s pass defense bounced back last season under Barnett, but could his departure hinder the development of this unit?

While this seems unlikely given the talent level in this group and Dantonio’s own defensive expertise, you can never be sure how the loss of an assistant affects his unit. Hiring the right replacement for Barnett will be important if MSU hopes to solidify the return of the “No Fly Zone” in the 2018 season.