Michigan State University Athletics
Saban Announces Offensive Staff Moves
6/21/1999 12:00:00 AM | Football
February 8, 1999
EAST LANSING, Mich. - Michigan State head football coach Nick Saban announced two offensive staff moves Monday, with associate head coach Charlie Baggett resigning to become wide receivers coach for the NFL's Green Bay Packers and offensive coordinator Gary Tranquill leaving to accept the same position at the University of Virginia.
"Both Charlie Baggett and Gary Tranquill will be missed," Saban said. "Charlie and Gary did a good job here at Michigan State and I hate to see them go, but I understand their reasons for leaving. They both have unique opportunities. They're quality coaches, but most importantly, quality individuals."
Baggett recently completed his 14th season as a member of the Michigan State coaching staff, the last four years as wide receivers coach under Saban. During his second stint with the Spartans, he helped produce two current NFL receivers, in Tennessee's Derrick Mason and Carolina's Muhsin Muhammad. Last year, Baggett helped develop second-team All-Big Ten wide out Plaxico Burress, who caught a Spartan single-season record 65 passes for 1,013 yards and a record-tying eight touchdowns.
During his 10-year tenure under George Perles at Michigan State from 1983-92, Baggett coached receivers and running backs.
"It is with mixed emotions that I leave Michigan State University," Baggett said. "For my personal goals and professional aspirations, Green Bay is an excellent opportunity. I think Nick Saban has this program in great shape and is ready to take it to the next level. I know that we have recruited some outstanding kids and this year's class is no exception.
"As a former Spartan player and alum, I will always have a fond place in my heart for Michigan State, and I'll be this program's biggest supporter."
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| Gary Tranquill will return to Virginia as offensive coordinator. |
Last year as quarterbacks coach, Tranquill tutored Bill Burke, who threw for a school-record 2,595 yards.
"It was a difficult choice to leave Michigan State," Tranquill said. "My family situation played a major role in my decision to return to Virginia. This move enables me to be closer to my children and grandchildren and that's really important. And when the time comes for me to retire, Virginia is the ideal part of the country for my family and me.
"I honestly leave Michigan State with mixed feelings. I respect this University and its football program. Nick Saban has done a terrific job in building a solid foundation. This program is ready to move onward and upward and in many ways, I'm sorry that I won't be a part of the good things that are going to come.
"This marks the third time that I've worked for George Welsh, so I know what I'm getting myself into. I look forward to going back to Virginia and doing the best possible job that I can."
