Rich Rodriguez…

…On Injuries / Housekeeping stuff / Depth Chart…

• RR: “No matter who your QB is, you worry about him staying healthy.”
• RR on Denard: “He’ll be a little limited [Monday]. Just because he’s been running so much. You want him 100% on Saturday.”
• Rodriguez on not kicking a FG in 3 games: “Oh yeah, you kidding me. Nice for me. I’d rather score touchdowns.”
• On Troy Woolfolk – still has a big cast but is getting in the weight room to lift his upper body
• Troy should be back 100% next year
• On Stonum not busting a kick return “haven’t even came close to breaking one like we’re going to have to…
• Darryl has the ability, it just hasn’t happened yet for whatever reason
• On Denard’s potential – “We saw it when we recruited him”. Didn’t understand the offense last year as a freshman.
• Brandon Herron is good to go for MSU
• Optimistic that Mike Shaw will be able to go against MSU
• Greg Banks, calf issue, limited today, “should be fine”
• Fitz Toussaint is day to day
• Taylor Lewan is listed as the starter
• At spur both Thomas Gordon and Carvin Johnson are listed
• At wideout – Junior Hemingway is also listed.

…On the Defense

• “it’s not like the guys aren’t trying.
• Rodriguez deflects talk of defense by saying “we’re 5-0″ said it’s like winning $10K and complaining about paying half taxes on it — take $
• Rodriguez: “There’s some moments on defense where we’ve gotten a little bit better.” And other moments where they haven’t.
• RR- offense can make in game adjustments easier than defense at this point
• RR on defense- we’re not a deep team, we need more 3 and outs
• Mike Martin has been the most consistent defensive guy
• Experience takes time – and numbers were way down last year from a depth standpoint. Scheme-wise they can do some different things, but don’t want to confuse and expose the young guys.
• Cam Gordon and Jonas Mouton played aggressive and tackled well

…On MSU

• On the importance of the game “It’s no less important for us than it is for them.”
• RR on being favored: “might be a home field thing.”
• RR: “The more you win, the more’s at stake.”
• Rodriguez says all games are big, “but this one is bigger.”
• RR on MSU: “We have to execute. They’re not going to give you stuff easy.”
• Rodriguez thinks revenge factor isn’t important in MSU game. What happened last year doesn’t matter once you’re in the game.
• RR on UM-MSU — they’re all big, but this one’s bigger. It’s a huge game for both.
• RR : “I think Cousins is an oustanding player. Their team is playing at a high level”
• MSU D best he’s played this year: “The most experienced, for sure.”
• On MSU defense: We’ve got no chance if we don’t execute well offensively.
• On kicking away from Keshawn Martin: “That would help.”
• On the rivalry and being 5-0 – adds national interest. More is at stake.
• RR speaks to the importance of going game by game as coaches and players, easier for the fans to put so much importance on one game weeks in advance
• On expecting a shootout – “it’s going to be very intense”
• On the O-line – they can play even better, but they’ve been very consistent and have played smart – stuck to their assignments
• On MSU running game – they have a big line, big tight ends, interchangeable backs. The variety and balance presents a challenge

Steve Schilling…

• On what rivalry means – “it’s our state championship – it’s a big week for us”
• Knows the fan base wants a win bad and the players want to win just as bad
• Anytime Denard breaks through the line – they know he’s gone
• MSU is always a physical game – guys always bring their best. Not concerned about Denard because he’s tough. Denard knows how important this week is and he’ll be ready to go.
• MSU / UM is a bigger rivalry than Washington / Wash State (Schilling is from Washington if you didn’t know)
• On Denard being banged up – “He’s not going to let it show even if he is hurt. He’s a good leader out there.”
• Very confident in the offense’s ability to succeed if for some reason Denard isn’t in there
• Against Indiana – “were going 3 and out or 3 and touchdown”
• All the seniors understand the importance of the game – won’t have to do much talking to show the young guys how important the game is
• Patrick Omameh has been playing really well and so has Taylor Lewan – especially stepping in as a freshman

Obi Ezeh…

• Admits that the defense has issues
• Usually the keys to victory include stopping the run and winning the third down battles
• Remembers Chris Perry getting 50+ carries when he himself was a running back in high school
• Feels more important in a game like this when stopping MSU’s running attack will be key
• It’s not fun hearing from MSU people – being an in-state kid and all
• Feels that Michigan’s best performances are in front of them – so it’s nice to be 5-0.
• On the D improving week by week – “I feel that we have, as a team and individually”
• Hopes the crowd is “really rockin’” on Saturday.

Jordan Kovacs…

• On taking defensive criticism personally – “Definitely, every defensive player takes it personal”
• Young guys gain confidence every week
• Kirk Cousins is a great QB and will present the D’s biggest challenge so far to date
• The run D is going to be tested. All MSU’s running backs are big and good
• On losing the last 2 years – “the past is the past and we are ready to move forward”
• On moving JT Floyd around – thought it worked for the most part

Roy Roundtree…

• Shaw is good and is ready to play this week against MSU
• Players don’t really recognize stats during the game
• Happy to see Junior Hemingway succeed
• This week will be a different level of intensity
• Once Denard got his throwing down during the Spring – he would stay extra and work with the receivers. He always wants to get better
• On MSU – “we know what’s at stake it’s two schools from Michigan”
• This week is all about preparation – can kill two birds with one stone in beating State and becoming bowl eligible
• Roy says he still gets nervous for each game, but is very confident for each play that he is out there
• He’s always gotten nervous – just needs to get the first play out of the way
• “Shoelace is just too fast – Coach Rod tells him to just run straight”
• Tate and Devin showed a lot of poise during that BGSU game and the team has confidence in them stepping up if Denard goes down
• Denard is extremely humble and just wants to get better each week
• Denard is the leader of the offense. He’s always saying “let’s go let’s go” during practice. He’s the same way during the games

Denard Robinson (steps to the podium with a ridiculously huge grin on his face)…

• Feels good – just got done lifting
• This year things are a little different on campus for him – everybody notices him
• Stays away from all the stats – doesn’t care
• On his durability – every Big Ten game is going to be like MSU. Has been working out and doing everything possible to take care of his body
• This is a big time game this week against MSU
• At the end of games like IU and ND – he just stays calm and tries not to do too much
• Nobody has sent him shoelaces or anything. People call him “lace” “shoelace” “Denard”
• On last year when Tate was making the come back against MSU – Denard felt like he was right there with him (similar to his comment about Tate coming back against ND last year)
• On MSU’s Greg Jones – he’s a great, physical player that can hit, but as a QB you have to read the whole D not just one player
• On ways he can get better – says he made some bad reads and overthrew some guys
• On the O line – they have performed every Saturday. Gives thanks to them, God and the coaches all the time

Mike Martin…

• Always grew up loving Michigan – never liked the color green
• Tough losing the last two years – but will get prepared to play their best on Saturday
• Getting to a bowl game is a goal of the teams – along with winning the Big Ten
• MSU has a good offense – has already watched a little bit of film
• Loves the fact that MSU is undefeated – wants MSU’s best shot and wouldn’t want it any other way
• 3 Questions – Who’s best O-linemen he’s faced?…says Molk initially. Then says Penn State’s center. Does he make facial expressions to intimidate?…does without knowing – has seen some still shots of himself. What’s the difference between O and D lines?…D line likes to hit more than the O line.
• On the importance of creating turnovers – it’s a big emphasis that coach Robinson talks about a lot. Practice strip drills often
• There’s more talking in a game like this between teams – it’s very personal. Guys know each other…
• The team always reminds themselves of their goal of winning a championship, while also taking it one game at a time
• It feels good to watch other defenses have to deal with chasing around Denard
• Denard is doing a great job and is a great leader. Has always been a hard worker and is real coachable

Will update as more comes through…

Rich Rodriguez…

• On injuries. Roy Roundtree is doubtful with internal bruises. Carvin Johnson very doubtful with sprained MCL
• Roundtree internal bruising/bleeding doubtful for ND. Carvin Johnson sprained knee “very” doubtful
• junior hemingway still unclear
• On compliments: “It’s like poison. It’s good, as long as you don’t swallow it.”
• On NotreDame defense: “I think they’d be pretty satisfied with the way their defense played last week.”
• Rodriguez doesn’t seem concerned about Denard hype after the game. Says Denard is a humble guy, will remind him to stay hungry.
• Thomas Gordon and Floyd SImmons will replace Carvin Johnson if he’s out
• On secondary, now missing Woolfolk and C. Johnson: “We’re kind of hanging on in the secondary a little bit.”
• Doesn’t know Kelly well but “I’m sure we’ve watched each other on film over the years.”
• Rodriguez, smiling: Think you’d be surprised if Denard doesn’t start? … He’s earned the start.
• “I’m concerned with all our players, every one of our players all the time. What you do on the field and off the field.”
• “I don’t blame guys for being disappointed if they don’t play.”
• On Tate: says he understands players being dissapointed not playing. Clearly not suggesting Tate going anywhere
• On if he talked with Tate since Saturday: “Why? Is there a reason to?”
• Said kicking competition will be ongoing.
• “We have three really good quarterbacks, I think, who are just going to get better.”
• Jared Van Slyke is out for the year.
• Rodriguez just joked it always seems to rain when he goes to Notre Dame
• “It’s a team game. It’s all about the team.”

Kevin Koger…

• Denard made correct reads
• “Good to go out and show people what we are capable of”
• Mentions the noise and tall grass at Notre Dame from his freshman year.
• The passes in the first quarter from Denard forced the defense to be honest and respect the pass.
• Denard is a lot stronger than last year, took a lot of hits Saturday
• On downfield blocking: “all comes down to effort, we gotta give more effort on the outside to spring big plays…”
• With so many big play guys, sustaining blocks downfield is key
• Can definitely notice the difference regarding a louder Big House.

Mike Shaw…

• Always hard on himself after games and looking to improve…
• Coaches look for stability and consistency from the backs, no fumbles
• Roy Roundtree was “thrilled” watching the hit that knocked him out. He likes that type of playing.
• “I am a student athlete”…”had to put my nose in the dirt and make sure I took care of school before anything else…”
• “UConn wasn’t ready for a guy back there with 4.3 speed”
• On Denard: “sept 4 was denards show I had no problem being supporting cast”
• On Notre Dame: “freshman year…rowdy crowd”
• Oline making big strides and are only getting better.

Obi Ezeh…

• Fumble recovery reminded him last year’s at MSU…said he got smacked in the face right after the recovery
• “Jonas played awesome…wreaking a lot habit.”
• Last year: “use that as motivation for this year…I just want to win.”
• It all starts with the Dline – Mike Martin double teamed for almost the whole game
• Were ready for the uptempo offense that UConn was running at times
• On Notre Dame: “Big game on a big stage…want to make a statement”

Ryan Van Bergen…

• Played well but can continue to get better…
• No sacks on Saturday, but were facing a 5 or 6 blockers
• On secondary: “With experience, will really improve their play…”
• “Denard is accurate as a passer and defenses will struggle with his ability to run and pass throughout the season…”
• Has gained 20-25 lbs and all D linemen are in even better shape than last year. Appreciate and credit the strength staff
• Obi is extremely resilient and his leadership has always been there
• Having a lot of fun at D end…game slows down a bit when you are 2 feet from a guy as opposed to 2 inches

Below are some notes from Rich Rod’s Sunday morning presser:

• As some have speculated, Freshman RB Austin White is no longer on the team anymore. He was one of the guys that didn’t have his wings.

Coach Rodriguez

• The defense didn’t tackle well and Mike Martin has been the most consistent defensive player during camp.
• Vincent Smith is going full bore and he was generally happy with QB play yesterday.
• If RR chooses to use multiple quarterbacks, it’ll be “more by feel” than anything scripted. He will limit snaps of the quarterbacks more by mid-week.
• A smaller scrimmage on Wednesday RR will hope to have the projected two-deep and travel roster settled.
• On Troy Woolfolk – Hasn’t had surgery yet and it’s certainly a very, very tough injury.
• RR on the defense – “It’s not a true 3-3-5.” Criag Roh is now closer to 240-245 and was 225 or so last year.
• Freshman RB Stephen Hopkins will likely play and not redshirt out of the need for a big back in the lineup. More on the backs, RR says it’s going to be running back by committee. Says it’s hard to get them all in the mix and get them reps – but they all will see some time against UCONN.
• On the scrimmage – it was good, liked the QB’s, receivers but mentions some turnover problems.
• RR says Brandon Graham is a once in a lifetime kind of player. Not one guy can replace him on the team.
• Jibreel Black, freshman DE, will definitely play.
• RR on Ezeh – “he’s responded to the challenge.”
• RR says the team’s attitude is one of it’s biggest strengths.
• RR asked once again about the pressure of succeeding this season and says it’s the same every year, but there’s an obvious sense of urgency because of the last two years.
• On kicking – much more comfortable than a few weeks ago and Hagerup is a real talent at Punter.
• Marvin Robinson, Cullen Christian, Courtney Avery, Terrence Talbott, Carvin Johnson, and Ray Vinopal all have a chance to play this year.
• Most guys have their best season as seniors – if that is the case this year then RR feels Michigan will be ok on defense.

Notes from Other Coaches

• Dews on Woolfolk – “we can’t sit around and feel sorry for ourselves because nobody else will”.
• Fred Jackson had great things to say about Stephen Hopkins, “very good football player” “great feet” can play FB or TB. Goes on to say “before he’s done here, he’ll be another Chris Perry. But I don’t know if Chris was ever 230lbs”
• Greg Robinson has high praises for Jonas Mouton and his progress.
• Coach Rod Smith – Forcier was probably most suited, coached, worked before coming to Michigan. More mechanic work for Denard, Gardner.
• Coach Rod Smith – Didn’t bring Devin Gardner here to redshirt — to compete for the (QB) job and the biggest thing he is pushing with Denard is his decision-making.
• Coach Rod Smith – Doesn’t want QB’s looking over their shoulders, but wants them to feel the heat. Says it doesn’t matter if one guy, two guys or three get the job done. Doesn’t think you need to have only one QB for team chemistry. Gardner may be the most athletic of the three QB’s.

Slight Scrimmage Video
Countdown to Kickoff’s video today covers yesterday’s scrimmage. You catch some glimpses but the field-level camera angle never lets you see too much.

And again, let’s not let this link fall too far under the fold. Enjoy.

Win Predictions According to 118 Readers
[Updated: 160 votes]

she does what she wants

EDIT: Figured I’d add this to the top of the page – you’ll enjoy this link of the now known Melanie Collins.

Holy damn man it’s been one hell of a wild second week for Michigan fans and players at fall camp. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a message board meltdown quite like the couple that have so damningly went down this week. First, it’s the rumor and story that Troy Woolfolk is very hurt and went straight from the practice field to the hospital to be treated for a leg injury. FARFIGNOOTIN!! Or, something like that. But, damn that is one guy that Michigan probably couldn’t afford to lose. It’s not the end of the world, or end of the season as most message board frequenters seemed to place it. But, in the end it just leaves you shaking your head. Damn.

Perspective Be Good Man!
So, what’s done is done and it appears as though Michigan is not going to be taking the field with any player of proven caliber in the secondary. This could (umm, will) be a big problem on the field, but for what it’s worth, it’s probably a good idea to take what little positive you can out of the situation. Troy is one of those guys that will step his game up in times of adversity. He’ll be a great teammate and more like a coach on the sideline, at practice and in the locker room. You have to feel for the guy – apparently he was in the greatest shape of his career and was amped up to embark on a great senior season. Luckily for Michigan and for Troy, he didn’t redshirt his freshman year. So he will be able to snag a medical redshirt – assuming he is out for the entire season – and come back strong next year.

Message boards definitely got out of control upon word of Troy’s injury. It’s actually quite hilarious, but man you have to maintain some type of perspective to some degree. Troy is one guy – and one guy doesn’t make or break your team. While his absence will no doubt be felt, rest assured this 2010 team is one that nobody has ever seen take the field before. Michigan will field an offense that may be stronger than any other Michigan offense in a decade – with maybe the 2006 offense being an exception – Henne, Hart, Manningham, Long, etc. So yeah it sucks, and if you frequent MGoBlog, it apparently warranted a relentless amount of dong punches and crys of WHHYYYY?!?! to the Angry Hating Gods of Michigan Football. Nevertheless, my expectations for the 2010 Michigan football season do not change because Troy Woolfolk will have to sit out with his leg injury.

Little side note – I don’t believe they’ve announced what type of surgery or rehabilitation Troy will have to undergo to get back to full speed. It could be out there – but all indications from the Michigan twitterers and mgobloggers of the world is that of nothing so far.

Message Board Meltdown – Take II
So, and it’s well documented by now, smokin’ hot Melanie Collins tweeted the following at approximately 7 or 8ET lastnight.

Very reliable source telling me Tate Forcier requested a transfer from #Michigan this AM. NOT yet confirmed, will update as I know more.

I’m driving as I see the post over at Mgoblog about Tate possibly transferring. Let’s just say that it probably wasn’t too safe to be driving around me at that time – I was apparently more interested in the rumor than I was with preserving my own life. Fortunately, it wasn’t too long after that where Mike Forcier indirectly told the world that the rumor had no merit to it and he wouldn’t endorse the idea of Tate transferring.

The Days of Old.
I have to admit that, while I’ve always been a huge Michigan fan, I’m much more in tune and into the daily media binge while the team is at camp and preparing for the season. I think it’s that way for all fans – as great blogs have only been around for a handful of years. I can remember hearing about Drew Henson’s broken foot on ESPN. Or, in 2004 when Chad Henne and Mike Hart were two guys nobody really even knew about before the season got underway. I must say, I do enjoy seeing the press conferences with Coach Rodriguez and the players – and the snippets of practice that we get from the Countdown to Kickoff videos – but let’s face it – it’s stressful as hell! The days of old were when you found out your two-deep depth chart the week of the game and went to identify who was who during the pregame warm ups of the home opener no longer exist. Nowadays, more notably in 2009 and 2010, NO NEWS IS DAMN WELCOMED IF YOU ASK ME!

Smoke at the Peak of your Buzz.
You know, when you are finishing up your tailgate and/or heading towards the stadium – because the smoking ban goes into effect this year and you can no longer smoke anywhere in the stadium. WSJ Article.

CNNSI Article on Michigan football.

Quickly – On JT Turner…
I’ve gotta say – while a lot of fans felt as though JT Turner’s departure was that of grave significance to an already inexperienced secondary – I’m telling you right now it has virtually no impact on this year’s team. There’s a reason that the highly touted, #1 player to come out of Ohio in his recruiting class, didn’t see the field last season when Michigan’s secondary needed help badly. And they needed help in the worst way. It’s simply a case of a highly touted recruit not living up to the hype that was created amidst the duration of his recruiting phase. Here’s a decent article from Michael Spath at Rivals – who points out that the media and general fan perception of the player attrition during the Rich Rodriguez era has been largely blown out of the water. Snippet:

Since Rodriguez was named U-M’s head coach in December 2007 a total of 16 Wolverines to have set foot on this campus are no longer with the team – again either forcibly removed or having chosen to leave on their own accord. Of those 16, which include high-profile names such as quarterback Ryan Mallett, offensive guard Justin Boren, tailback Sam McGuffie and, most recently, Turner, only three count as Rodriguez recruits. The rest were originally offered scholarships by former coach Lloyd Carr for fits in his schemes.

And goes to say…

What does this all mean? Well, it should take ammunition out of the hands of those loading up on even more criticism of Michigan’s current boss. Certainly, his 2+ seasons at U-M should not go unscathed but be sure to know the facts before you start firing misinformed cannon balls. And in this instance, any such claims that he’s running off players or cannot keep players happy are misguided.

Friday’s Full Pads – See it if you must…
Pics from today’s practice.

Earning Your Wings? …
I haven’t really gotten the full scoop on this, but apparently some players have to “earn their wings”. You can see Tate in this picture on the right has an all blue helmet – no wings yet. Could be something interesting developing here…Click the picture if you want to see it larger. EDIT: 30 seconds of research yields indications that Tate’s helmet had wings all week – and the fact that he doesn’t today means absolutely nada. Neat.

From the Big Ten Crew…
This is from BTNBrentsBLogs Twitter page.

• Dave Brandon was at practice to observe this morning
• Devin Gardner can’t put a pass in the wrong place here early on. Rapid fire drill, he’s on the money with everything
• Vladimir Emilien just made a bone-crushing hit on a 1-on-1 drill. The entire defense celebrated the hit
• Gardner definitely looks like he could get snaps. He’s very impressive, but Denard has improved as a passer quite a bit
• One thing’s for sure Michigan coaches are very intense and vocal
• Denard Robinson looks like a completely different passer. Add the threat of pass to his running ability, and Michigan could give d’s fits
• Roundtree on how he’d define success this year: “Everybody playing for eachother.”
• Mike Martin on difference between this year’s defense: “I think we’re a lot closer.”

Michigan’s 2010 squad is a unique product and nobody really knows what to expect out of this team and this coaching staff. This isn’t 2008 or 2009, right, it’s the 2010 season. You’re best off taking the little good from both previous seasons and moving on to something that will most definitely be better and more fun to watch. Hence, some renewed optimism is in order and serious hope that Michigan fields a team that fills up the win column a hair more aggressively than the previous two seasons. Massive turnarounds do happen – and it could happen with the Wolverines in this 2010 season. Should this be a massive turnaround, a complete out of this world dream season, here is how I see it playing out.

The Dream Begins…

Connecticut.
I see Michigan coming out in fine fashion as a riled up crowd enjoys the dedication game of the newly renovated Big House. Similar to last season’s opener, Michigan looks sharp in all phases of the game and it takes Connecticut a while to get anything generated on offense. My guess is that Tate takes the field as the starter and Denard is on the field in some capacity. After Michigan gets a couple scores on the board it only takes RR a couple series to put Denard behind center. It’s a glorious day at Michigan Stadium and a massive sigh of relief is felt from the Michigan fan base as a whole. Dream Record: 1-0.

@ Notre Dame.
I’ll go out on a limb and say ND picks up an opening win against Purdue. So both teams are fired up and ready to start the season 2-0. This is a close game and still has those WTF strange turnovers from both teams. Michigan goes through a second and third quarter lull that allows Notre Dame to get up by about a field goal. In the fourth quarter Michigan’s experience on the offensive line proves to be the difference in the game as Michigan keeps the ball on the ground for a couple late scores to seal the deal. Michigan ‘escapes’ with a huge win in South Bend to get the season started on a very high note. Dream Record: 2-0.

Massachusetts.
Michigan is feeling good after hurdling two tough opponents. The starters take off the first half of the first quarter before putting a number on UMass. Michigan’s starters are able to hit the sideline after the first couple possessions of the third quarter. Michigan wins in a blowout. Dream Record: 3-0.

Bowling Green.
The fear of the let down. No longer can Michigan ever overlook an opponent, especially a MAC team like Bowling Green. Bowling Green keeps it close for most of the game and loses any hope with some costly turnovers after a well-played first half. More of Tate and Denard splitting snaps with Denard doing his best to get the starting gig as it’s not settled after three games. More and more it appears as though RR will game plan and play either Tate or Denard in spots dependent upon the opponent. At any rate, the squad gives the fans plenty to cheer about on a great Saturday. Dream Record: 4-0.

@ Indiana.
Even in a dream season scenario, I still think Michigan has it’s problems with Indiana. Much like last season, Indiana’s offense has more firepower than most realize. Indiana is able to move the ball and put points on the board. Tate gets most of the snaps and Michigan is able to squeak out a nail biter – and once again, the Indiana fan base feels like their game against Michigan slipped right through their fingertips. Dream Record: 5-0.

Michigan State.
Dream season or not, Michigan State is not beating Michigan three years in a row with two coming in the Big House. It just ain’t happening. State talks a big game in the week leading up to the contest and it backfires on them. Michigan comes out fired up and lays the wood to MSU in a big way. Tate and Denard both shine as Michigan State’s offense struggles to get into any type of rhythm all day. The dream season continues. Dream Record: 6-0.

Iowa.
At this point, Michigan has garnished some national media attention for snagging their sixth win and a guaranteed bowl birth. They are ranked right around the 10 to 15 range – and a win against an established Iowa squad is sure to put Michigan in the top ten. Unfortunately, Iowa’s defense and ground game prove to be too much for Michigan to overcome. Michigan’s first loss comes on their home turf against the Hawkeyes in similar fashion to what went down a year ago at night in Iowa’s place. Dream Record: 6-1.

@ Penn State.
After suffering through the first setback of the season, this is where it’s clear that this is a different Michigan team than we’ve seen in the Rich Rodriguez era. Laying down and dying after a tough loss has been all too common over the last couple years. Not this season. This is a different team, a more experienced team, and a deeper more talented team. Michigan goes into Happy Valley as an underdog and shocks the Nittany Lion crowd in a great night game atmosphere. My guess is that Michigan puts up nearly 30 points and holds Penn State’s pedestrian offense to under 200 yards – a breakthrough game for the young Michigan D. Dream Record: 7-1.

Illinois.
With Michigan coming off its most influential win of the RR era – a rowdy Big House crowd cheers on a solid performance from Denard. Illinois puts up a great fight as there aren’t many Big Ten games anymore that aren’t flat out dogfights. This is another game the plays into the trend of Michigan pulling way in the latter stages of the second half via a defense that creates timely turnovers and an offensive line that proves it’s worth as games wear on. Michigan gets a big home win and shows that they remain focused and aren’t ready to give in to any type of letdown. Dream Record: 8-1.

@ Purdue.
Damn that Ross Ade Stadium. I don’t have great memories of Michigan playing at that place, but I do often remember Shazor the Razor’s vicious hit in the waning minutes as Purdue looked poised to at least get into field goal range and wipe away Michigan’s 16-14 lead. Michigan’s offense sets the tone in this game with a balanced attack that allows some of Michigan’s receivers to get into the action. Jeremy Gallon has a breakout performance and shows that he is a quality punt returner in this one. Michigan notches another victory as RR gets another rare Big Ten road win. Dream Record: 9-1.

Wisconsin.
For once, I think Wisconsin will live up to the hype they are receiving during the preseason. Usually, Wisky seems to beat up on their weak non-conference foes, snag a top ten ranking and then falter throughout conference play. This is a team that Michigan will struggle with because of their size and strength up front. While it will feel like one of those games that Michigan should win – and will most likely be favored in – Wisconsin escapes with a narrow victory. A disappointment absolutely, but it’s only loss #2 and the Wolverines will have a huge game the following week against the Buckeyes. Dream Record: 9-2.

@ Ohio State.
So Ohio State comes into this game with somewhat of a disappointing season as they’ve dropped a game to Miami and another unexpected Big Ten game. Michigan comes off a disappointing loss to Wisconsin, but spirits are high as they’ve had a great season. Michigan’s offense uses every inch of the field and really spreads out the Buckeye defense. In similar fashion to a year ago, the offense moves the ball well and plays a turnover free game – allowing them to put points on the board and pick up some early momentum. Pryor has a great game himself but loses a fumble in the fourth quarter that allows Michigan to get that last score they need to go up nine – a difference that Ohio State is unable to overcome. The win makes it a great, unbelievable turnaround season for the Wolverines and positions them for a BCS bowl at large bid (damn Wisconsin wins the Big Ten title). Dream Record: 10-2.

The Odds of The Dream Happening?

After the last two seasons, it’s hard to imagine Michigan firing off a ten win season and beating Ohio State on the road in late November. BUT, you know you never know. Stranger things have happened. You can bet that at this time next season – the forecasts for this team will be sky high with all the experience on D and at the skill positions. Perhaps it comes a year earlier than expected? My my wouldn’t that be nice.

I’d give this about a 12% chance of happening. And that 12% is a number that came from an intense, highly analytical mathematical breakdown. Worry not my friends, it’s a whole new season and Michigan hasn’t lost a game yet!

Connecticut received enough votes to fall 33rd with Notre Dame coming directly after at 34th.

We all love the rankings when our team is in part of the party. Unfortunately, Michigan has been ranked sparingly over the past couple seasons. Last year, Michigan popped into the top 25 after beating Notre Dame and going 4-0 – and we all know how that played out. Michigan will need to win it’s first five games in order to show up in the rankings in 2010. Should they beat Connecticut, Notre Dame and win at Indiana – they will have a perfect record going into two tough home games against Michigan State and Iowa.

Lastly, I have to be honest. I could give a shit that West Virginia has trouble with the NCAA now and everyone wants to point the finger at Rodriguez again. How about the University of Michigan and their football team start practice next week, get the meeting with the NCAA committee out of the way on August 13th, and go win some football games. As we’ve seen in the past – winning cures all – and it will in 2010.
]]> http://mgofootball.com/2010/08/06/usa-today-pre-season-poll/feed/ 0 http://mgofootball.com/2010/02/25/espn-dudes-backing-michigan-in-ncaa-case/ http://mgofootball.com/2010/02/25/espn-dudes-backing-michigan-in-ncaa-case/#comments Thu, 25 Feb 2010 14:15:53 +0000 Mike P. http://mgofootball.com/?p=1428 Scott Van Pelt of ESPN talking about receiving a text message from a University of Texas coach about Michigan’s NCAA violations. Saying that at least 90% of teams would be guilty of these same violations – and there wouldn’t even be enough teams to fill all of the BCS bowl slots. Also saying that everybody is speeding, but the Go Blue car is the one that got pulled over and none of this would ever have happened if Michigan goes 10-2 in RR’s first year in Ann Arbor.

Click here for audio.

I don’t know about you, or wait, yeah I do – you and I both are ready to see Michigan take the field against UCONN.

I’m cool. Real cool. It’s all good. Seriously.
A fury of circumstances has turned me against writing anything for about an entire week. Most of all, I just needed a mental break from thinking about this football program and how this once promising season turned to dog poo. It sucks to be on the bottom of the Big 11. It sucks even worse to lose to rivals again. But it’s cool, really. This is something many elite programs have experienced, because they all go through transitions and most take time. Faster would be nicer, but it will happen.

Thoughts on the Ohio State game
I watched this game at a bar near Dayton, OH and I can tell you that I was one of two Michigan fans out of at least 100 people, and they were worried as Michigan found ways to move the ball. Unfortunately, Forcier found ways to make me drink more beer and not really threaten the OSU lead as the game was winding down. Also, most OSU fans were on my side relative to the hideousness of those throwback uniforms.

Tate had several nice plays throughout this game. The offense played relatively well throughout, and Vincent Smith showed signs of what a starter next year should look like. Roy Roundtree again showed that he deserves to be a starter next year along with Tay Odoms and Darryl Stonum. It was disappointing to see Brandon Minor unable to play in his final home game. Carlos Brown, or not Carlos Brown, na – still can’t break a damn tackle. Brandon Graham = freak, unreal dude. I hope BG is a top draft pick and becomes the next Lamarr Woodley.

About the whole fire Rich Rod thing.
At this point, we can all say that Rich Rodriguez has underachieved after two years as Michigan’s head coach. You cannot be pleased with the alleged NCAA allegations either. You can also scrape the news off of the Detroit Free Press, national media, Michael Wilbon, you name it; and think that Michigan needs to cut their losses with RR and bring in the next Michigan Man.

Or, you could take emotion out of it, spend the time to understand the dynamics of this roster in it’s current state, remember how bad you wanted a change after 2007, continue to remember how bad you wanted a change after 2007, and realize that year 2 was an improvement over year 1. Not a huge improvement, but 5 > 3. The offense improved by leaps and bounds, and somehow was the #1 scoring offense in the Big 11. Any team should be able to win a ball game scoring 36, see Purdue.

I see a coach that is resilient and not beaten down. As RR tells the media, they don’t know what goes on in that locker room, film room, weight room, etc. RR and his staff have created an environment where the players are very close to one another and believe in the system put in place. I’ve been pleased with RR’s demeanor in post-game press conferences, he sticks to his guns and doesn’t let ill-placed questions get the best of him. He often speaks of the bigger picture, the process, that he and his staff put their heart and soul in to – and it’s happening, just not as fast as an irrational fan wants it to.

Will Michigan be a better team in 2010?
Yes. Thank you for asking.

Why will Michigan be better offensively?
A starting quarterback is coming back, yay! And it’s a guy that is actually competent at times, yay! Tate should improve with an entire offseason to pick up where he left off after the Ohio State game. In general, Tate finished the season strong starting with the Purdue game. He will improve as he spends time adding some padding to that frame and slowing the game down in his head. Let’s just hope he’s got the work ethic to make all of that happen.

QB’s aside, the majority of the offense is back – and the unit should once again improve with another year under its belt. The year 1 to year 2 jump is always big, but so is the year 2 to 3 jump.

5 offensive players with 2010 expectations.

1. Vincent Smith
   Played lights out against Wisconsin and Ohio State, and shows the ability to break tackles and make something out of nothing. Oh yea, he can catch too.
2. Roy Roundtree
   Played lights out since the Purdue game. He’s got sure hands and great acceleration – although his breakaway speed could be improved, see Illinois game.
3. Denard Robinson / Tate Forcier
   Tate will start. Denard will play QB and find his way into other formations as a back or receiver, a la Percy Harvin. I know RR is keeping him at QB, but he’ll see time on field in other ways. Tate is a natural, it seems as though he needs to mature a bit and stay more focused during games. A lot will be expected from Tate.
4. Darryl Stonum
   Stonum really created a name for himself returning kicks this year, so that will naturally be the talk on his behalf leading into the season. Michigan needs a deep threat, and Stonum needs to be that guy. Would like to see him get a little more established as a key part of the offense.
5. David Molk
   Many believe this was Michigan’s most impactful injury of 2009, and it may have been. Once Molk was out, Michigan was out. Regardless, his rehab will be a major story and Michigan will need him back in the starting line up.

Why will Michigan be better defensively?
Greg Robinson will be here. That means this defense doesn’t have to start over with a new defensive coordinator, first time this has happened in four years. This defense was not good, and simply having some consistency from a coaching standpoint gives the case for improvement credibility. Brandon Graham is gone, and was nothing short of amazing in his senior season. He was a game-changing beast, it’s too bad that he wasn’t complimented by a couple more playmakers in the back seven. The general feel is that Donovan Warren will stick his foot in the NFL pool and decide that it’s a little too cold to jump in. Losing only Stevie Brown and BG puts nine guys back in 2010, so the simple default of improvement from experience sets in here. Woolfolk and Warren should lock down the corners if GROB finds two safeties that can play at an average to above average level of play.

5 defensive players with 2010 expectations.

1. Justin Turner
   The 5 star from Ohio redshirted last year after much speculation that he would get his shot to prove himself on gameday
2. Craig Roh
   Roh has a hell of a motor and only stands to get a lot better. He’s played relatively well and was very undersized as a true freshman. Combine his experience with an entire offseason of bulking up and Roh should have a huge impact in 2010.
3. Brandon Smith
   All Brandon’s that play at Michigan are good right? Let’s hope some of Brandon Graham’s dominance rubbed off on Brandon Smith. He’s always played well on special teams and saw some time in the final two games in the defensive backfield. He’ll get his opportunity to be a starter and make an impact, whether it’s at safety or the quick position Stevie Brown was playing.
4. Will Campbell
   Will got some decent experience as a true freshman, while he didn’t always play well, he should anchor that D-line in 2010 along with Mike Martin, Ryan Van Bergen, and Roh.
5. Donovan Warren
   I hesitated to include DW in this list, but he could stand to have an absolute breakthrough season if he comes back. His play was solid at best as the season progressed. If he comes back, he’ll be the spokesperson for the defense.

What do I do now?
Watch Michigan basketball have a decent season, hopefully better than last year. Watch Michigan’s hockey team recover from a rough start. Assume that the Michigan football program can stay out of the negative headline category this offseason. Let time do its thing. Then as next fall approaches, get psyched about a team that should give Michigan a winning season and a bowl game. It’s fun being optimistic, because that means we’re talking 8 or 9 wins for this team next season.