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CFB analysts reveal picks for who should replace Mel Tucker as Michigan State HC

Rolando Rosa

By Rolando Rosa

Published:

Michigan State is currently playing under interim head coach Harlon Barnett in the wake of Mel Tucker being fired with cause for his alleged sexual harassment against Brenda Tracy.

The Spartans are 2-3 on the season with a 3-game losing streak as Barnett is still seeking his first victory as a head coach heading into Week 6 at Rutgers.

The CBS Sports college football crew weighed in on their picks for who should take over at Michigan State to replace Tucker and they came up with a diverse list.

Aaron Taylor is going with Oregon State’s Jonathan Smith and explains it could be the best personal decision for him.

“Because of the style, the physical nature of the offensive line, running the football,” Taylor said. “It fits the Big Ten and let’s be honest the Pac-12 with all the questions there, he built that program but they may not have a home. He would in the Big Ten.”

Rick Neuheisel has his eyes at Duke’s Mike Elko as a worthy candidate.

“If you can promise him the resources that may not be available to him, given that you’re in the Power 2 and not in a league that’s stuck in a TV deal through 2036, it might resonate with him,” Neuheisel said.

Meanwhile, Brian Jones is going into the NFL with his selection.

“You’re always talking about the professionalization of college football. So, I’m going to go to the professional ranks,” Jones said. “A guy that played at Utah. Was offensive coordinator at Utah. Is now the OC and quarterbacks coach for the Philadelphia Eagles. That’s Brian Johnson.”

Finally, Randy Cross believes Washington State’s Jake Dickert could be the man for the job.

“I’m going with a defensive guy that’s got a little offense to him, especially this year,” Cross said. “I think he would make a great match in the Big Ten and he is from the Midwest.”

Rolando Rosa

Rolando Rosa brings his experience covering college football to Saturday Tradition. Follow him on Twitter @RolandoRosa3.