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Mel Tucker addresses preparations for first rivalry trip to a fan-packed Big House
By Kate Norum
Published:
Mel Tucker might be in his third season with the Spartans, but he’s just now preparing for his first trip to the Big House with fans in attendance.
B1G in-state rivals Michigan State and Michigan will face off against each other in Week 9’s matchup in the Big House.
This will be the first time that Tucker will head to Michigan Stadium with a full crowd. The last meeting in the Big House did not allow fans due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
So, it’s fair to say that Tucker is ready for this game to get rolling.
During Tucker’s Monday afternoon presser, he added that he is ready for the crowd to pack in Michigan Stadium on Saturday, “that’s what big-time college football is about. It’s not for everyone. This is what we love to do.”
Tucker on playing at a packed Michigan Stadium (2020 didn’t have fans there): “That’s what big-time college football is about. It’s not for everyone. This is what we love to do.” Says it is why players come to MSU, for games like this.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 24, 2022
Tucker said the crowd is one of the reasons why the players choose MSU. Adding in that the environment has an effect on the team, especially in huge games like this week’s Michigan-Michigan State game.
Tucker upset the Wolverines 27-24 during the 2020 meeting behind a big performance from then-MSU quarterback Rocky Lombardi. However, circumstances will be very different this time around.
This game will kick off Saturday in Ann Arbor at 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC.
Kate Norum covers college football for Saturday Tradition. She graduated from Kennesaw State University with a B.S. in journalism and has always been passionate about sports. Follow Kate on Twitter @katenorum