Michigan State commit on Mel Tucker's recruiting class: We're 'committed, but worried'
The Michigan State Spartans' football program faces an uncertain future due to the ongoing investigation into a sexual harassment complaint against head coach Mel Tucker.
For class of 2024 student-athletes committed to the program, it's a difficult spot in which they find themselves.
Mt. Pleasant (Michigan) four-star offensive lineman Andrew Dennis indicated that much of the class is in contact with one another, and right now they understand they face an uncertain future.
“Everyone is similar to me right now - committed, but worried," he said.
Michigan State has suspended head coach Mel Tucker without pay in the middle of a sexual harassment complaint.
The complaint was filed by Brenda Tracy, a rape survivor who travels the country educating student-athletes about sexual assault. Tracy traveled to Michigan State to speak on three different occasions. During those trips she worked closely with the Michigan State football program and was praised by Tucker for her work.
Tracy alleges that during a phone call on April 28, 2022 Tucker made sexual comments and committed a sexual act.
Shortly thereafter, she filed a complaint to the university’s Title IX office.
That allegation, and the subsequent investigation, were reported publicly for the first time Saturday night by USA Today.
On Sunday, Tucker was suspended without pay, pending a hearing scheduled to begin October 5.
He is challenging Tracy's version of events.
With Tucker’s future in doubt, recruits are left in limbo regarding the future of the Michigan State football program.
Dennis, who declined to comment on the Tucker situation, said the recruiting process forces athletes to mature quickly.
Modern recruits are forced to weigh a variety of issues - educational offerings, stability of an athletic program, the coaching staff, NIL, etc. - and must understand that the people selling them on their university could leave at any time.
Dennis, the nation's No. 9 interior offensive lineman, said that process, while rewarding, can also be daunting.
“It takes a level of maturity," he said. "You have to be advanced for your age, and that’s not committing, that’s the recruiting aspect as a whole. It’s a blessing, but you have to be prepared for it. I’m blessed to have a great support system around me.”
Until the Tucker situation is resolved, Michigan State commits are forced to consider yet another complicated factor in their recruiting process.
