Michigan State Football: 3 reasons MSU fits Mel Tucker better than LSU

2 of 3

Michigan State head coach Mel Tucker talks to offensive lineman Spencer Brown (58) at a timeout against Youngstown State during the second half at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing on Saturday, Sept. 11, 2021. /

2. Tucker has proven he can win at Michigan State

When coaches leave for greener pastures, it’s likely for one of two reasons (or both): they either want more money and can’t turn down the contract or they believe it’s easier to win elsewhere.

You could make the argument that it’s easier to win at LSU, but you still have to compete with Alabama, Texas A&M, Georgia, Auburn, Florida, and other top programs and Nick Saban isn’t retiring any time soon. Plus, Tucker has proven he can win at Michigan State as he’s 7-0 in year two without all of his guys on the roster — he’s working with Mark Dantonio’s guys and transfer portal players.

As for the money, this isn’t 1999 anymore. When LSU came and stole Saban from Michigan State, the Spartans didn’t have the money to keep him. That’s not the case anymore as the Spartans have a couple of billionaire donors who won’t be shy in forking out some cash to keep Tucker and match whatever LSU may offer. So money won’t be an issue.

A matched contract and the already clear ability to win at Michigan State should be enough to show Tucker that East Lansing is a better fit.

Home/Spartans Football