[3] From there, Harley moved on to his next opportunity as a graduate assistant for the Michigan State Spartans, working for head coach Mark Dantonio.
In 2012, Harley worked closely with offensive staff and special teams, a successful year that saw Le’Veon Bell rush for 1,793 yards.
Harley helped coach the linebackers for a Spartans team that went 13–1, won the 2014 Rose Bowl, and ranked 2nd nationally in yards per game allowed (252.2).
Harley's continuously improved defensive squads helped turn the Red Wolves fortunes around, leading to a Bowl Game appearance in 2023 after a 5-year hiatus.
[5] Harley played safety for the Ohio State Buckeyes from 2001 through 2005, earning three letters, as well as being a member of the 2002 National Championship team.