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What Mel Tucker said after Michigan State’s massive upset of archrival Michigan
By Paul Harvey
Published:
Paul Bunyan is headed back to East Lansing!
Few people, including the staunchest Spartan fans, could have envisioned what happened Saturday in Ann Arbor. After starting the season with an ugly and brutal loss to Rutgers, Michigan State entered Week 2 as huge underdogs to in-state rival Michigan.
All Mel Tucker and the Spartans did was flip the script with a strong defensive showing and much more disciplined offensive attack. Quarterback Rocky Lombardi and freshman receiver Ricky White were the driving force behind the 27-24 win.
After the game, Tucker touched on everything the victory, including his accomplishment of becoming just the second MSU coach to beat Michigan in his debut against the Wolverines:
Tucker: “We’ve known all along we have some receivers who can make plays.”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 31, 2020
Tucker on difference in a week: “Ball security was huge.” Said they needed to play physically. “We believe in what we’re doing. This is just the beginning for us.”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 31, 2020
Tucker: "Our players fought hard and they earned it today."
— Matt Charboneau (@mattcharboneau) October 31, 2020
Mel Tucker on zoom: “i just thought they were ready to play a physical, four-quarter, 60 minute game.” Says cant wait to take Bunyan Trophy back to EL. “Michigan State fans, this one’s for you.”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 31, 2020
Tucker on joining Saban in beating UM in first meeting at MSU: “Just to be mentioned in the same breath with coach Saban, it’s humbling for me.” Says more about players and staff. “This game means so much to so many people.” Added he’s known Saban since he was 18.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 31, 2020
Tucker: "Obviously we have some guys here who can make plays."
— Matt Charboneau (@mattcharboneau) October 31, 2020
Tucker: "They were ready to play … we're just proud to bring that Paul Bunyan Trophy back to East Lansing where it belongs."
— Matt Charboneau (@mattcharboneau) October 31, 2020
Tucker on emotions: “I’m really just excited and happy for our team” and everyone else involved. “It’s not about one person.”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 31, 2020
Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.