Finally, Harlon Barnett has his first win as head coach of the Michigan State football team following a 20 to 17 win over Nebraska on senior day.
Now, Barnett will look to prepare his Spartans for one of the toughest games of their season, as MSU heads to Columbus this Saturday to face Ohio State.
On Monday, Harlon Barnett spoke to the media about the Nebraska game, Ohio State, and more. You can find the most impactful eight quotes from that press conference below.
MSU interim HC Harlon Barnett opens his press conference: "Obviously, we come in on a different note this week" after snapping 6-game losing streak.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 6, 2023
Barnett says "we're still working through it" whether Sam Leavitt plans to shut it down and redshirt after playing in his fourth game Saturday.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 6, 2023
Barnett: "Winning does a lot. It heals a lot of wounds and pain."
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 6, 2023
Barnett said he told the team today MSU needs to "keep the positive energy going" after beating Nebraska.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 6, 2023
Barnett "great attention to deatils" – especially limiting the penalties, unlike its top-10 blowout losses to Washington and Michigan ("Ann Arbor," he called it) – is a major key to trying to pull off an upset this week. "They're not lacking for talent," he says of No. 3 Ohio St.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 6, 2023
Barnett on the Connor Stalions/U-M situation: "I'm thinking like most people hopefully in this room are thinking." Leave it at that.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 6, 2023
Barnett says TE Maliq Carr will return this week. WR Tre Mosley likely will remain out.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 6, 2023
Barnett said he gave Scottie Hazelton a choice to stay on field or go upstairs a few weeks ago. Told him to go to the box for Minnesota game. "I think it's been good. … I know he sees everything. Nobody knows the defense better than him."
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 6, 2023