Michigan

Spartan Nation Exclusive: Michigan State’s Mel Tucker talks summer conditioning, Payton Thorne and the OL/DL trenches

Published

3 years ago

May 19, 2022

Spartan Nation Exclusive: Michigan State’s Mel Tucker talks summer conditioning, Payton Thorne and the OL/DL trenches

In an unique Spartan Nation interview, senior contributor Jonathan Schopp bumped into head soccer coach Mel Tucker at Michigan State’s annual “Atlanta Spartans” alumni golf outing.

Tucker, who was the defensive coordinator on the College of Georgia from 2016 to 2018, was joyful to be again in a state that he has made a precedence on the recruiting path for the Spartans.

“I really like Georgia. We had a very good time right here once I was at UGA, and Kirby’s actually received this system happening right here,” Tucker stated. “The followers are nice, the alumni are nice – we’ve received loads of Spartans down right here within the Atlanta space.”

Michigan State is ready to start its summer season conditioning program on Might 31, and Tucker is worked up to construct the muse of his 2022 squad with the work they put in over these subsequent couple months.

“Our workforce is constructed within the weight room, and our gamers know that,” Tucker stated. “Energy and conditioning is the muse of all the pieces we do. We wish to have the ability to play tougher for longer. We want to have the ability to give relentless effort and excessive effort always, and in order that comes with our energy and conditioning.”

Since Tucker’s takeover in February of 2020, the Spartans have ingrained the ‘Preserve Chopping’ mantra into their program. There was no higher instance of that mantra coming to fruition than when Michigan State overcame a 16-point, third-quarter deficit to beat Michigan at Spartan Stadium final season, 37-33, in an all-time basic.

“We’re going to be sturdy within the fourth quarter. That’s what our complete program is all about, and it begins within the trenches,” Tucker stated. “You’re going to see an enormous distinction, I consider, within the dimension, the energy and the facility of our offensive line and our defensive position. That’s the place it begins. That’s the place we will actually take advantage of distinction.”

Michigan State had depth points and harm considerations at offensive line throughout spring apply in April, however on the time Tucker stated he anticipated his veteran O-lineman who needed to miss time this spring resulting from harm to be again for summer season conditioning.

Depth and harm considerations at offensive line are warranted, however Michigan State has the fitting place coach to get essentially the most out of what they’ve on the place in OL coach Chris Kapilovic.

Talking to the gang on the alumni golf outing, Tucker stated that Kapilovic shut down curiosity from Georgia and USC to stay the offensive line coach at Michigan State. The truth that Kapilovic might have been coveted by two of the most important manufacturers in faculty soccer speaks to his aptness to get the job executed this 12 months in East Lansing.

Halfway by way of the month of Might, recruiting season is in full swing across the nation, and that is no completely different for Tucker and his employees. The subject of recruiting made headlines this week as Alabama’s Nick Saban and Texas A&M’s Jimbo Fisher traded barbs and accusations over utilizing Title, Picture and Likeness techniques on the path.

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Tucker didn’t delve particularly into that change between Saban and Fisher, however stated Michigan State will proceed to adapt to the current adjustments in faculty soccer and put this system in the perfect place to compete in recruiting.

“I feel issues will begin to cool down,” Tucker stated. “We simply should take it sooner or later at a time, work our course of. There’s loads of new in faculty soccer proper now, however we’re capable of adapt and modify and simply take it sooner or later at a time.”

The subject then turned to Michigan State’s returning signal-caller, quarterback Payton Thorne, who had a record-setting season in his first season because the starter for the Spartans.

“He’s a coach’s child. He loves soccer,” Tucker stated of Thorne. “He’s very mature for his age, he’s very targeted, he doesn’t get too excessive, doesn’t get too low.”

Thorne threw for a school-record 27 passing touchdowns in 2021, and likewise had the third-highest passing yards in a single season by a Michigan State quarterback with 3,240 yards threw the air. Solely former Spartans Jeff Smoker (3,395) and Kirk Cousins (3,316) have thrown for extra in a single 12 months.

“He’s hyper-competitive,” Tucker stated. “However he is aware of find out how to hold the primary factor, the primary factor – do your job, and belief that your teammates are going to do theirs. And that’s sort of how he goes about his enterprise.”

Lastly, the dialog turned to particular groups. Michigan State misplaced long-time kicker Matt Coughlin to commencement this offseason, however the particular groups unit obtained a pleasant increase when second workforce All-Huge Ten punter Bryce Baringer introduced he would return to East Lansing for a sixth 12 months.

“I anticipate us to be strong,” Tucker stated. “Play area place soccer within the kick recreation and create explosive performs, be bodily and rating factors when we’ve got the chance. So, I be ok with our kicking recreation.”

Tucker and Michigan State are chomping on the bit to get again on the sector and show that the 11-2 file in 2021 was no fluke. The Spartans have grander aspirations in 2022 — Tucker and his gamers have made no qualms about their expectations to compete for championships — however that begins with the work the gamers put within the weight room beginning on the finish of Might.

“We now have a really sturdy energy and conditioning program in the summertime,” Tucker stated. “Gamers will run and so they’ll raise with our energy and conditioning coaches, and we’ll get slightly work with them within the classroom and on the sector as a training employees. We’re simply going to put a very sturdy basis going into fall camp, so our guys might be able to go.”

Twitter: @mlounsberry_SI

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Michigan

Michigan’s mission vs. Hilltoppers: Finish 2024 without a bad loss

Published

7 hours ago

December 28, 2024

Press Room

Michigan’s mission vs. Hilltoppers: Finish 2024 without a bad loss

Michigan closes out the nonconference portion of its schedule with a chance to do something it hasn’t done the past few years: Avoid a bad loss to end the year.

Michigan hosts Western Kentucky on Sunday (8 p.m. ET, BTN). The Wolverines are 9-3 overall, with each defeat coming by one possession against a high-major opponent. They’ve had no problems in the other games.

That wasn’t the case in recent seasons. Michigan lost to McNeese State in its final game of 2023 and to Central Michigan in the last game of 2022. Michigan fell to a middling UCF team, albeit on the road, to close out 2021.

Three times over the last two seasons, the Wolverines essentially paid an opponent to come to Crisler Center and beat them (McNeese, Central Michigan, and Long Beach State). The Hilltoppers will collect $85,000 for their appearance on Sunday. Michigan will try to make sure that’s all they leave with.

Michigan last played on Sunday, using hot shooting to demolish Purdue Fort Wayne 89-58. Michigan shot 63 percent from the field and made 10 3s. For the fourth time this season, at least five Wolverines reached double figures. Tre Donaldson led the way with 16 points.

Michigan coach Dusty May said he is “relatively happy” with his team’s record to date, despite the tough losses. Teams that are playing their best in December typically aren’t still playing in late March. May is seeking — and seeing — steady improvement.

The Wolverines fell out of the AP Top-25 this week but entered Saturday at No. 24 in the NET and No. 22 in the kenpom rankings. When they resume Big Ten play next week in Los Angeles, they’ll do so as the betting favorite to win the league.

That won’t change so long as they don’t overlook Western Kentucky, which will make the trip from Bowling Green. The Hilltoppers (119 in the NET, 110 at kenpom) are also 9-3, though they have just one top-100 win (Lipscomb at home). They play a fast, isolation-heavy offense. As a 15 seed in last year’s NCAA Tournament, they led Marquette by seven at halftime before losing. It earned Steve Lutz, who’d been there just one season, the job at Oklahoma State (replacing Mike Boynton Jr., now a Michigan assistant). Hank Plona, Lutz’s top assistant and a former junior college head coach, took over. Western Kentucky was picked second in the Conference USA preseason poll.

Don McHenry, a 6-foot-2 shooting guard, is averaging 18.5 points per game. He’s scored at least 28, while making four 3s, in each of the past three games. The most recent performance was last Saturday, so both teams may have to shake off some holiday rust.

That’s been an issue for Michigan in recent years, a pre-New Year’s sign of the struggles to come. This squad, in May’s first year on the job, looks different. Before the Wolverines enter the big, bad Big Ten for good, they’ll look to handle business and end 2024 strong.

BETTING: Check out our guide to the best Michigan sportsbooks, where our team of sports betting experts has reviewed the experience, payout speed, parlay options and quality of odds for multiple sportsbooks.

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Are restaurants open on New Year’s Day in Michigan? Where to find a meal on the holiday

Published

15 hours ago

December 28, 2024

Press Room

Are restaurants open on New Year’s Day in Michigan? Where to find a meal on the holiday

The new year is nearly upon us, and if you’re looking for dining options to ring in 2025, Michigan will offer plenty of choices.

Most restaurant chains will remain open for the New Year’s holiday, including some 24/7 dining options.

Here’s what to know.

When is New Year’s Eve?

New Year’s Eve is Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024. New Year’s Day is Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025.

Will Applebee’s be open on New Year’s?

Yes, but Applebee’s New Year’s hours may vary by location. Check online or call ahead for your nearest Michigan restaurant.

Will Biggby be open on New Year’s?

Some Biggby locations will be open on New Year’s. Check online for your nearest Michigan Biggby.

Will Big Boy be open on New Year’s?

Some Big Boy locations will be open for New Year’s. Check online or call ahead for hours at your nearest Michigan restaurant.

Will Bob Evans be open on New Year’s?

Bob Evans restaurants’ New Year’s hours may vary by location. Call ahead or check online for your nearest Michigan restaurant before visiting.

Will Buffalo Wild Wings be open on New Year’s?

Many Buffalo Wild Wings will be open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, the company said. Hours will vary by location, so check online with your nearest Michigan Buffalo Wild Wings.

Will Burger King be open on New Year’s?

Burger King’s New Year’s hours may vary by location. Check online with your nearest Michigan restaurant before visiting.

Will Carrabba’s be open on New Year’s?

Carrabba’s locations’ New Year’s hours may vary. Check online or call ahead for hours at your nearest Michigan restaurant.

Will Chick-fil-A be open on New Year’s?

Yes, Chick-fil-A locations will be open on New Year’s, according to the company. Hours may vary by location, so check online with your nearest Michigan location.

Will Chili’s be open on New Year’s?

Yes, Chili’s restaurants are open on New Year’s. Hours may vary by location, so check online for your nearest Michigan Chili’s.

Will Cracker Barrel be open on New Year’s?

Yes, Cracker Barrel locations are open on New Year’s. Check online for hours at your nearest Michigan location.

Will Denny’s be open on New Year’s?

Yes, Denny’s restaurants will be open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day 24/7.

Will Domino’s be open on New Year’s?

Domino’s Pizza locations’ hours may vary on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Check online for your nearest Michigan Domino’s.

Will Dunkin’ be open on New Year’s?

Dunkin’ outlets’ hours may vary by location on New Year’s, so check the Dunkin’ store locator or the Dunkin’ Rewards app for your nearest Michigan location.

Will Hungry Howie’s be open on New Year’s?

Hungry Howie’s restaurants New Year’s hours may vary by location. Visit the Hungry Howie’s website to check with your nearest Michigan location.

Will IHOP be open on New Year’s?

IHOP hours may vary by location. Check online with your nearest Michigan location before visiting.

Will Jet’s be open on New Year’s?

Jet’s Pizza’s hours may vary by location. Check the Jet’s website for your nearest Michigan location.

Will Jimmy John’s be open on New Year’s?

Jimmy John’s hours may vary by location. Check online for hours at your nearest Michigan restaurant.

Will Leo’s Coney Island be open on New Year’s?

Leo’s Coney Island’s New Year’s hours may vary by location. Check online or call ahead with your nearest Michigan location before visiting.

Will Little Caesars be open on New Year’s?

Most Little Caesars locations will be open for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, the company said. Check online with your nearest Michigan Little Caesars for specific hours.

Will McDonald’s be open on New Year’s?

Most McDonald’s sites will be open on New Year’s, the hours may vary by location, the company said. You can check the store locator for hours at your nearest Michigan restaurant.

Will Olga’s Kitchen be open on New Year’s?

Olga’s Kitchen restaurants’ New Year’s hours may vary by location. Check online for your nearest Michigan restaurant.

Will Olive Garden be open on New Year’s?

Olive Garden’s New Year’s hours may vary by location. Check online with your nearest Michigan restaurant for hours.

Will Panda Express be open on New Year’s?

Panda Express’ New Year’s hours may vary by location. Check online or call ahead for your nearest Michigan restaurant.

Will Panera be open on New Year’s?

Panera Bread’s New Year’s hours may vary by location. Check online or call ahead for your nearest Michigan cafe.

Will Papa Johns be open on New Year’s?

Papa Johns Pizza’s New Year’s hours may vary by location. Call ahead or check online for hours at your nearest Michigan Papa Johns.

Will Pizza Hut be open on New Year’s?

Most Pizza Hut locations will be open for regular hours on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, the company said. You can check online for hours at your nearest Michigan Pizza Hut.

Will QDOBA be open on New Year’s?

QDOBA restaurants will be open for normal store hours on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, the company said. Check online with your nearest Michigan restaurant for specific hours.

Will Red Lobster be open on New Year’s?

Red Lobster restaurants’ New Year’s hours may vary by location. Check online or call ahead for hours at your nearest Michigan restaurant.

Will Red Robin be open on New Year’s?

Yes, Red Robin burger restaurants will be open on New Year’s. You can visit the Red Robin website to check hours at your nearest Michigan restaurant.

Will Starbucks be open on New Year’s?

Starbucks Coffee’s New Year’s hours may vary by location. Check the Starbucks store locator or Starbucks app to check hours for your nearest Michigan location.

Will Subway be open on New Year’s?

Subway restaurants’ New Year’s hours may vary by location. Check online for your nearest Michigan location.

Will Taco Bell be open on New Year’s?

Taco Bell locations are open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. New Year’s Eve hours may vary by location, so check online with your nearest Michigan restaurant.

Will Texas Roadhouse be open on New Year’s?

Texas Roadhouse locations will be open on New Year’s, the company said. Locations will be open for normal hours or expanded hours, varying by location. Check online for your nearest Michigan restaurant.

Will Tim Hortons be open on New Year’s?

Tim Hortons locations’ New Year’s hours will vary by location, the company said. Check online for your nearest Michigan Tim Hortons.

Will Wendy’s be open on New Year’s?

Many Wendy’s locations will be open on New Year’s. Hours may vary by location, so check online for hours at your nearest Michigan Wendy’s.

Contact Jenna Prestininzi: jprestininzi@freepress.com.

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Mega Millions numbers for Friday, Dec. 27, 2024

Published

23 hours ago

December 28, 2024

Press Room

Mega Millions numbers for Friday, Dec. 27, 2024

Mega Millions winning numbers are in for the Friday, Dec. 27 drawing with a jackpot that reached an estimated $1.15 billion ($516.1 million cash option).

The winning numbers for Friday’s Mega Millions drawing are: 3, 7, 37, 49 and 55. The Mega Ball is 6. The Megaplier is 3x.

Check back to see if anyone won the Mega Millions jackpot.

The next Mega Millions drawing is Tuesday, Dec. 31. Drawings are held at 11 p.m. every Tuesday and Friday. The jackpot will be at least $800 million ($401.8 million cash option).

How late can you buy a Mega Millions ticket?

In Michigan, in-store and online ticket sales are available until 10:45 p.m. on the night of the draw.

Mega Millions costs $2 to play.

What’s the Megaplier?

The Megaplier feature increases non-jackpot prizes by two, three, four or five times. It costs an extra $1 per play. The Megaplier is drawn on Tuesday and Friday before the Mega Millions drawing. The pool includes 15 balls. Five are marked with 2X, six with 3X, three with 4X and one with 5X.

What are the Mega Millions prizes?

Match 5 White Balls + Mega Ball: Jackpot
Match 5 White Balls: $1 million
Match 4 White Balls + Mega Ball: $10,000
Match 4 White Balls: $500
Match 3 White Balls + Mega Ball: $200
Match 3 White Balls: $10
Match 2 White Balls + Mega Ball: $10
Match 1 White Ball + Mega Ball: $4
Match Mega Ball: $2

What are the odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot?

The odds of matching the five white balls and Mega Ball to win the Mega Millions jackpot are 1 in 302,575,350.

How do I find the Mega Millions winning numbers?

You can watch Mega Millions drawing on YouTube. The winning numbers are also posted to the Mega Millions website and on the Michigan Lottery website.

What happens if I win the jackpot?

A jackpot winner has the option of taking an annuity or cash payment.

The annuity is paid out as one immediate payment followed by 29 annual payments, according to the Mega Millions website. Each payment is 5% bigger than the previous one.

“This helps protect winners’ lifestyle and purchasing power in periods of inflation,” according to the Mega Millions website.

The cash option is a one-time, lump-sum payment that is equal to all the cash in the Mega Millions jackpot prize pool.

If two or more people win the jackpot in the same drawing, the money is shared equally among all winning tickets.

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