"Michigan State Football Coach Mel Tucker Suspended Amid Sexual Harassment Investigation"

Michigan State University football coach Mel Tucker has been suspended without pay amid an ongoing investigation into a reported accusation of sexual harassment. The investigation, which began in December, was prompted by a report submitted in July. Tucker is alleged to have made sexual comments and masturbated during a phone call with Brenda Tracy, an advocate and rape survivor. Tucker characterized their relationship as "mutually consensual and intimate." The university has faced scrutiny over its handling of sexual abuse allegations in the past. During Tucker's suspension, secondary coach Harlon Barnett will serve as acting head coach, and former head coach Mark Dantonio will become an associate head coach.