Sports
Colorado's Mel Tucker Hired As New Michigan State Coach
Tucker's six-year contract with the Spartans is worth approximately $30 million.
MICHIGAN — CU Buffs' Mel Tucker has been hired as the head football coach at Michigan State.
Tucker's six-year contract with the Spartans, which was formally approved by the university's board late Wednesday afternoon, is worth approximately $30 million.
"It brings me great pleasure to welcome Mel Tucker to the Spartan family as the 25th head coach in Michigan State football history," athletic director Bill Beekman said in a statement released by the school. "Mel brings a championship pedigree, NFL experience, connections to our region, success on the recruiting trail and head coaching experience to our program.
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It happened just a few days after he announced his commitment to the Buffs on Twitter. The abrupt career change is drawing criticism from players and fans.
"Can't believe this.. crazy how promises can just be thrown away for some money," CU running back Joe Davis tweeted.
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On Saturday, Tucker said in a tweet that he is "flattered" to be considered for the Michigan State job, but that he is "committed to @CUBuffsFootball for #TheBuild of [the] program, its great athletes, coaches & supporters."
Tucker began his coaching career at Michigan State as a graduate assistant for Nick Saban in 1997, ESPN reported.
Patch reporter Amber Fisher contributed to this report.
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