Defensive coordinator Harlon Barnett is leaving Michigan State for the same position at Florida State.

Barnett is leaving his alma mater after 11 seasons as an assistant for the Spartans' defense. He has been a member of Mark Dantonio's coaching staff since 2004, when Dantonio was hired at Cincinnati. Barnett's new job was first reported by Bruce Feldman.

Harlon Barnett is leaving his post as defensive coordinator at Michigan State for the same position at Florida State. AP Photo/Brandon Wade

"We recognized the value of Harlon and all of our coaches, and the administration has stepped up with a significant financial commitment to our entire staff," Dantonio said in a statement. "I also understand individually that sometimes coaches are ready for new challenges and opportunities. We wish Harlon and his family all the best as he continues his coaching career."

Barnett took over as co-defensive coordinator at Michigan State in 2015. This fall he helped turn a starting lineup filled with underclassmen into a unit ranked No. 7 in total defense at the FBS level, allowing 297.6 yards per game. Barnett coached defensive backs along with his coordinator responsibilities. He has helped coach a secondary that has often ranked among the nation's best during his tenure in East Lansing.

Barnett was part of a core group of Dantonio assistants that had been with him for the entirety of the head coach's time at Michigan State.