Gregory Shamus/Getty Images
Minnesota’s Joe Rossi is reportedly trading in his maroon and gold for green and white.
According to Pete Thamel of ESPN, Golden Gophers defensive coordinator Joe Rossi is expected to become the next DC at Michigan State.
Rossi was first named interim defensive coordinator by P.J. Fleck back in 2018 and immediately turned Minnesota’s defense around. Since then, Rossi has been regarded as “one of the best kept secrets in college football” and a name on many program’s lists of candidates.
Sources: Minnesota defensive coordinator Joe Rossi is expected to become the next defensive coordinator at Michigan State.
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) December 10, 2023
Fans reacted to the news on Sunday.
“Keep an eye on Gaylord high 3-star LB Brady Pretzlaff. Minnesota commit who visited MSU over the weekend,” tweeted Chris Solari.
Keep an eye on Gaylord high 3-star LB Brady Pretzlaff. Minnesota commit who visited MSU over the weekend. https://t.co/0YJXKAmzUW
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) December 10, 2023
“PJ Fleck,” Brad Powers replied.
PJ Fleck https://t.co/EHUoaKe226 pic.twitter.com/9Ndm8M6Mhe
— Brad Powers (@BradPowers7) December 10, 2023
“Would obviously be a big loss for the Gophers,” said Chris Long. “Figured Rossi might leave for a HC job, but the draw of staying in the P5 – and likely more money – pried him away. In terms of program status right now? Gophers and Spartans seem pretty level… so… interesting move.”
Would obviously be a big loss for the #Gophers.
Figured Rossi might leave for a HC job, but the draw of staying in the P5 – and likely more money – pried him away.
In terms of program status right now? Gophers and Spartans seem pretty level… so… interesting move. https://t.co/kxYWeRlAD1
— Chris Long (@ChrisLongKSTP) December 10, 2023
“B1G get for the Spartans. Michigan State making serious moves in the short time Jonathan Smith has been head coaching in East Lansing. Although the Gophers took a step back on defense in 2023, Rossi is one of the best in the game when he has the right pieces.”
B1G get for the Spartans. Michigan State making serious moves in the short time Jonathan Smith has been head coaching in East Lansing. Although the Gophers took a step back on defense in 2023, Rossi is one of the best in the game when he has the right pieces. https://t.co/iLh0j3JQmg
— Ted Leroux (@BigTenTed) December 10, 2023
A tough loss for Minnesota’s staff.