Reports: Mel Tucker a candidate for Georgia State head coaching job

Athens, Ga - Reports are swirling from numerous outlets today that University of Georgia defensive coordinator Mel Tucker is a candidate for the head coach opening down the road at Georgia State University.

GSU fired Trent Miles after the Panthers started the 2016 season a dismal 2-8.

Tucker is finishing his first season with the Bulldogs in Athens, coming over with head coach Kirby Smart from Alabama after UGA fired Mark Richt this time last year. Prior to his role as defensive backs coach at Alabama, he held several stints in the NFL, most notably the Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, and the Cleveland Browns.

GSU would have to be willing to drastically increase its head coaching salary if it were to lure Tucker from Athens. Prior to his firing last month, Miles was making $463,500 as Panthers head coach. Tucker is currently making $850,000 as defensive coordinator at UGA.

The job at GSU could be more appealing with an overhaul coming to the football program, among other athletics. The school will begin construction on Turner Field, the now former home of the Atlanta Braves for the last 20 years, converting the 46,000 seat baseball stadium into a 22,000 seat football stadium. The team currently plays in the Georgia Dome, usually in front of only a few thousand. Many believe the new stadium will be much more appealing to recruits and fans alike.