Batt stated, and repeated, his belief that Michigan State has one of the top-10 athletic departments in the nation. Although the Big Ten is a premier revenue generator, climbing back near the top in football of a now 18-team league that spans coast-to-coast isn’t an easy task.

New athletic director J Batt plans to take a broad overview of Michigan State's sports program when he arrives, but football will be his top priority.

Michigan State's new athletic director J Batt promises the Spartans will thrive in NIL, and especially in football. “It's imperative we support all our sports,” Batt said. “But do not be confused. Every athletic department competing at the highest level must be successful in football.