Michigan State Football: 3 takeaways from massive win over No. 6 Michigan

2. Mel Tucker has this team believing in big goals

Down 30-14, it seemed like everyone in the crowd had given up hope. The Spartans looked defeated and out-played in the third quarter and Spartan Stadium was a library.

Mel Tucker was calm on the sideline and instilled confidence in his team. He told reporters after the game that he was telling his team that they were still in it. Sure, it’s what a coach is supposed to say, but his players really buy into what he’s saying.

Without Jalen Nailor and the offense struggling to move the ball through the air, it felt like the game was over. But Tucker’s words resonated with his guys.

Michigan State came out after Michigan made it 30-14 and scored a touchdown and added a two-point conversion. Then they scored again and converted another two-point conversion to tie the game up.

The momentum had shifted and everyone was feeling it.

And it all started with Tucker and the team believing in him and his words of encouragement. They’ve bought in and this is a perfect example of why they’re 8-0. They were told that big things were in store in 2021 and he has delivered.

Michigan State is in firm control of its playoff and Big Ten title destiny and it’s all because of Tucker.

Give this man a raise.