From the "I'm sick of reading stories like this" file:
Michigan State senior cornerback Chris L. Rucker was charged early Sunday morning for operating while intoxicated.
According to a ticket released by East Lansing police, Rucker was stopped at 2:19 a.m. on the 300 block of Grove Street in a 2002 Oldsmobile and had a blood-alcohol level of .10.
For those wondering, the 300 block of Grove Street is the short block immediately north of Albert, where the 7-11 and parking ramp are.
Rucker's alcohol level was .02 above the legal limit, so he, like Korie Lucious, probably would have been in the clear had he waited another half-hour or so before getting behind the wheel. Sadly, that's not what happened. For a first time offender, this would seem to merit a one-game suspension. However, Rucker was involved in the Rather Hall incident last year, so it remains to be seen whether an additional repeat offender punishment will be tacked on. Rucker is still indefinitely suspended, as far as we know, and his arraignment is scheduled for (or before - Ed.) October 20.
On the coaches' conference call this morning, Mark Dantonio reiterated that freshman Darqueze Dennard will be starting in place of Rucker on Saturday against Illinois. Dennard impressed during preseason practice, but has played little so far this season. The onus will certainly be on Johnny Adams, Marcus Hyde, and Trenton Robinson to step up in Rucker's absence.