EAST LANSING — If Jay Johnson has a wild hair, it isn’t readily apparent. The Michigan State football offensive coordinator sports a conservative buzz cut that matches his neutral personality. At first glance, Johnson appears professorial, thoughtful and deliberate. He looks nothing like a Vegas gambler who shoves all his chips in the middle of the table during a fit of irrational exuberance.
But there is more than meets the eye. The 52-year-old play-caller won’t hesitate to take a shot downfield, go for it on fourth down and dial up a pass in a situation when running the ball is the typical choice.