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Former Michigan State football players have a favorite candidate for next head coach

As Michigan State football's coaching search drags on, a familiar name has emerged.

Among former Michigan State football players, Harlon Barnett, is getting endorsed for next head coach, specifically among defensive players who played under him.

Barnett, 53, has spent the past two seasons as Florida State's defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach.

He has deep ties to Michigan State, working as an assistant for 11 seasons (2007-17). He served as assistant head coach and co-defensive coordinator from 2015-17.

He was a four-year letterwinner at MSU (1986-89) as a defensive back, and was named a captain and All-American as a senior.