Michigan State University (MSU) is set to elevate special teams analyst Joe Begnal to the position of assistant special teams coordinator for the 2025 football season.
This strategic move underscores the Spartans’ commitment to enhancing their special teams performance by leveraging Begnal’s extensive experience and expertise.
Professional Trajectory
Before joining MSU in 2024, Begnal amassed a diverse coaching portfolio across multiple institutions:
Memphis: Served as the special teams quality control coach, focusing on refining the special teams unit’s efficiency.
Colorado State: Held the role of special teams quality control coach, contributing to the development of special teams strategies.
Idaho: Worked in a similar capacity, emphasizing the importance of special teams in game situations.
University of New Haven: Coached wide receivers for three seasons, honing offensive skills and strategies.
Lincoln University: Assumed the role of defensive coordinator, overseeing the defensive unit’s performance and tactics.
This diverse background has equipped Begnal with a comprehensive understanding of both offensive and defensive facets of football, making him a versatile asset to MSU’s coaching staff.
Role at Michigan State
In his initial year with the Spartans, Begnal primarily collaborated with the team’s specialists, including kickers, punters, and long snappers. His hands-on approach during practice sessions was instrumental in enhancing the precision and reliability of MSU’s special teams unit.
The decision to promote Begnal reflects the coaching staff’s confidence in his ability to further elevate the special teams’ performance. In his new role, he will work closely with co-special teams coordinators Keith Bhonapha and Chad Wilt, both of whom bring a wealth of experience to the program.
Co-Special Teams Coordinators
Keith Bhonapha: Serving as the assistant head coach and running backs coach, Bhonapha also shares responsibilities as co-special teams coordinator. His multifaceted role underscores his versatility and deep understanding of the game’s various aspects.
Chad Wilt: Joining MSU in 2024, Wilt holds the positions of co-special teams coordinator and defensive ends coach. His extensive coaching background includes stints at Indiana University and the University of Minnesota, where he developed a reputation for strengthening defensive units.
Strategic Implications
The promotion of Begnal is part of a broader strategy by MSU to bolster its coaching staff through internal advancements. This approach fosters continuity and ensures that coaches with a proven track record within the program are entrusted with greater responsibilities.
By enhancing the special teams coaching unit, MSU aims to improve critical aspects of the game, such as field position, scoring opportunities, and overall game management. Special teams play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of closely contested matches, and the Spartans are positioning themselves to capitalize on this facet of the game.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season approaches, the Spartans are poised to benefit from the enriched expertise within their coaching ranks. The collaboration between Begnal, Bhonapha, and Wilt is expected to yield innovative strategies and a cohesive approach to special teams play.
This internal promotion not only rewards Begnal’s contributions but also signals MSU’s commitment to developing and retaining coaching talent. The Spartans’ focus on strengthening their special teams unit reflects a comprehensive approach to achieving success in the upcoming season.
