Michigan State’s Keith Bhonapha Turns Down $12 Million Penn State Offer, Chooses Loyalty Over Payday
In an era of college football defined by high-dollar deals and fast-changing allegiances, Michigan State running backs coach and Co-Special Teams Coordinator Keith Bhonapha has made a bold statement — one rooted in loyalty, culture, and mission.
Bhonapha recently stunned the college football world by turning down a jaw-dropping $12 million offer from Big Ten rival Penn State, a program with deep pockets and a rich football tradition. Despite the immense financial incentive and the prestige that would have come with joining one of the sport’s powerhouses, Bhonapha made it clear that some things are more important than money.
In a brief but powerful statement released by Spartans Athletics, Bhonapha explained his decision:
“The Spartans isn’t just a job — it’s a mission. The culture we’ve built here, the people, the players — this is where I want to be. The rivalry means everything, and I’d rather be on the right side of it.”
