Last week, it was announced that long-time Michigan State head coach Mark Dantonio would be stepping down. This week, former Alabama assistant coach Mel Tucker announced that he would be Dantonio’s replacement.
BREAKING: #CU coach Mel Tucker has agreed in principle to become the new head coach at #MichiganState, per sources. After Tucker turned down initial interest, MSU power brokers came back repeatedly to Tucker’s reps w/ an offer that was impossible to ignore https://t.co/qjOH0qKirQ
— Bruce Feldman (@BruceFeldmanCFB) February 12, 2020
While many consider it a home run hire for the Spartans, Tucker’s departure from Colorado has created a lot of controversy and discussion, mostly because the decision came days after tweeting this out:
While I am flattered to be considered for the HC job @MSU_football, I am committed to @CUBuffsFootball for #TheBuild of our program, its great athletes, coaches & supporters. #UnfinishedBusiness #GoBuffs
We are #Relentless #Culture #TheBuild
— Mel Tucker (@Coach_mtucker) February 8, 2020
It’s understandable for Colorado fans to be frustrated, but at the time of the above tweet, Michigan State hadn’t offered to double his salary while also meeting a lot of other appealing demands. In other words, the job became too much to refuse.
Alabama head coach Nick Saban, who Tucker worked for during the Crimson Tide’s 2015 national championship season, made a statement on Michigan State’s decision:
Nick Saban statement on MSU hiring Mel Tucker: pic.twitter.com/nfulJ34BYX
— Mike Sullivan (@MikeSullivan) February 12, 2020
Outside of Tucker, Alabama fans should also be wondering about the status of former Tide defensive lineman Antonio Alfano.
The former five-star prospect announced his decision to transfer to Colorado back in early November, mostly because he wanted to play under Tucker.
Now, it looks like that won’t be an option for Alfano.
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