Michigan State Football Placed on 3-Year Probation for Recruiting Scandal

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Michigan State University's football program has been handed a three-year probation and fined $30,000 plus 1.5% of the team's budget by the NCAA. The penalties stem from recruiting violations committed by former staff members under ex-coach Mel Tucker, including improper inducements, communication, and unofficial visit expenses. As a result of the NCAA's findings, Michigan State has vacated its wins from the 2022 to 2024 seasons. The university has also been restricted from recruiting for three years. In a joint statement, Michigan State President Kevin M. Guskiewicz and athletic director Alan Haller acknowledged the violations, stating that the university pursued a negotiated resolution to minimize the impact on current players and staff. The NCAA investigation was sparked by allegations of misconduct during Tucker's tenure, which ended in 2022. Tucker was fired after an internal investigation found that he had failed to provide adequate reasons for not being terminated for cause. Current coach Jonathan Smith will lead the team on Saturday against Penn State, despite the program's struggles, which include a 3-6 overall record and a 0-6 mark in the Big Ten.