Michigan State Trying To Avoid $80M Buyout Amid Mel Tucker Scandal

Michigan State has suspended head football coach Mel Tucker after allegations of sexual harassment — putting nearly $100 million dollars in limbo.

MSU interim president Teresa Woodruff said the school will wait until a Title IX investigation is concluded before taking further steps — which in all likelihood will result in Tucker’s firing. The Spartans will reportedly seek to dismiss Tucker with cause so as not be on the hook for a massive buyout fee. 

In 2021, Tucker signed a fully guaranteed 10-year, $95 million contract extension after an impressive first two years in charge of the team. Tucker currently has about $80 million left on the massive deal, which was set to run until 2032. 

When negotiating with Tucker, MSU had to secure the necessary funding from influential alumni like Mat Ishbia, who now owns the Phoenix Suns.

It’s unclear when the Title IX investigation will conclude or what next steps Tucker could take to claim some or all of the money remaining on his contract.

Bad News For Big Ten

Tucker’s situation at MSU is the most recent unfortunate circumstance for Big Ten schools this year.

Northwestern fired head football coach Pat Fitzgerald amid a hazing scandal, Iowa State is dealing with a sports betting scandal among some of its players, and anonymous former players accused Minnesota head football coach P.J. Fleck of creating a toxic culture.