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Michigan State's Mel Tucker plucks big talent out of hometown in Michael Gravely Jr.

Michigan State Spartans football coach Mel Tucker speaks to the media on Monday, Feb. 24, 2020, in East Lansing. Detroit Free Press

Michigan State football coach Mel Tucker and safety Michael Gravely Jr. share a connection that encompasses more than a new head coach and a key piece of his team’s future.

What binds them immeasurably is they were both born in Cleveland, albeit roughly 30 years apart.

Relationships formed by Tucker as a recruiter throughout his coaching career often bring him back to his hometown in search of fresh talent.

And it was a well-established friendship with Glenville High School coach Ted Ginn Sr.