The Michigan State Spartans got off to a truly awful start against Ohio State on Saturday, and it was open season on head coach Mel Tucker as a result.
The Spartans fell behind 21-0 in the first quarter at the Horseshoe in what was billed as a huge showdown that could decide the Big Ten East title. It also came on the heels of reports indicating Tucker is poised to sign a huge contract to remain at Michigan State and fend off interest from other schools.
Ohio State surged to a 21-0 lead, posting over 200 yards of total offense in one quarter. In light of the reports about Tucker’s new contract, plenty of people had jokes.
Michigan State's $95 million offer to Mel Tucker after today…pic.twitter.com/wsufpuejOh
— Action Network (@ActionNetworkHQ) November 20, 2021
Ohio State is going to score one point for every $1 million in Mel Tucker’s contract today. pic.twitter.com/wmDFnTiWCW
— Carter Karels (@CarterKarels) November 20, 2021
Mel Tucker at halftime. pic.twitter.com/GWMTH81eBE
— Bryan Fischer (@BryanDFischer) November 20, 2021
If Mel Tucker is worth $95 million, how much is Ryan Day worth?
— Matt Connolly (@MattConnolly___) November 20, 2021
Mel, my brotha, you gotta sign that thing at halftime
— Richard🇬🇾Johnson (@RJ_cfb) November 20, 2021
Despite the jokes, Tucker isn’t suddenly a bad coach because of a bad performance against a great team. However, the timing of Michigan State laying an egg isn’t exactly ideal.
Maybe Tucker can take some lessons on dealing with adversity from a member of Ohio State’s coaching staff.
Photo: Sep 3, 2021; Evanston, Illinois, USA; Michigan State Spartans head coach Mel Tucker walks on the field during warmups before the game against the Northwestern Wildcats at Ryan Field. Mandatory Credit: Jon Durr-USA TODAY Sports
