Notre Dame CB Chance Tucker Dialed In On Details

Notre Dame cornerback Chance Tucker arrived last summer as the Fighting Irish desperately needed cornerback depth. 

The 5-foot-11, 187-pounder didn't see the field last fall, but Tucker went to work as he saw what it took to get on the field at this level.

"You always want to come in and play, but if not, you have to keep your head up, keep working, and keep that confidence," stated Tucker. "Just realize it's the same as high school ball—just a little bit faster." 

While the fall was a learning experience for Tucker, the spring served as a chance to make an impression on the coaching staff. It started with Tucker's work with Matt Balis and taking care of the details away from the field. 

"In the spring, getting in the weight room, meeting with the coaches and asking them what I could do to get better," Tucker explained. "Anything. Nutrition. I was able to make a big jump and just ready to keep going."

The hard work paid off for the California native as he's started to flash and has put himself in a position to compete for playing time in 2022. 

"He's just consistent, comes to work each day as well," said Notre Dame cornerbacks coach Mike Mickens. "Doesn't talk much, but he's always in the right spot. He understands you have to keep doing the little things and that's what he does. He works extra at it. Just wants to be great." 

Tucker has had several positive role models in his life and one is a familiar name to the recruiting crowd. 

"A safety that went to 'SC by the name of Marvel Tell," Tucker said of his fellow Crespi High School alum. "Definitely looked up to him. As a freshman in high school, I came in as a safety. He went to the league and transitioned to corner the same year I transitioned to corner. I've always looked up to him." 

Seeing the Tell transition to a different position from across the country gave Tucker the confidence he could have success on the perimeter of the defense. 

If he could do it, I could do it," stated Tucker. "Believe in yourself. Always open to try new things, new positions." 

The move to cornerback worked out well for Tucker and now he's starting to get comfortable at Notre Dame, including in Al Golden's new defense. 

"It's only been a year so far," explained Tucker. "I wouldn't say I feel like a veteran, but definitely more comfortable for sure. Most definitely (ready). That's what I want. As a little kid, this is what I wanted, now I'm here." 

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