EAST LANSING -- Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio insisted he was proud of his players for their efforts in each contest, even though it led to a 7-6 season.

The Spartans' head coach was the first to take blame and pledge he would do everything in his power to ensure improvement for the upcoming season.

Michigan State finished with a school-record sixth-straight bowl appearance and second straight bowl win, but the offense will look for a lift from its new, yet-to-be-named offensive coordinator.

Dantonio's first move was to adjust the coaching staff, as former defensive line coach Ted Gill was not retained, and Ron Burton was hired away from Air Force to fill the opening.

On Saturday, offensive coordinator Dan Roushar announced he was leaving the Spartans for the running backs coach position with the New Orleans Saints.

This, after there had been whispers throughout the second half of the season that Dantonio would make a change at offensive coordinator.

So now what?

The team is in the midst of offseason conditioning, with Dantonio prowling the indoor facility keep close tabs on his players' efforts and progress.

Dantonio has not said anything publicly about candidates he's considering, but the ultra-loyal coach will consider current staff members Dave Warner and Brad Salem for the OC vacancy before going outside of the team.