Sydney Padgett/Spartans Illustrated
From difficult conversations to an All-Big Ten ceiling, Eli Coenen embodies Joe Rossi’s development process
Joe Rossi talks about the mental and physical side of defensive player progression duirng the off-season and in-season.
By Michael Leek
Eli Coenen was not progressing the way Michigan State’s coaches expected during preseason camp.
Defensive coordinator Joe Rossi did not conceal that from him. He and the Spartans’ defensive staff held what Rossi described as “heart-to-heart, honest conversations” with the young defensive lineman.
Coenen’s response changed the direction of his season.
