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Monday Press Conference: Iowa Post / Pre Bye Week and Penn State

Mike P. — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 12:12:32 +0000

Just RR today – no players…

Rich Rodriguez…

RR: Molk and Martin should be fine, taking the week off
Denard shoulder still sore. His throwing shoulder is the injured one. He’ll practice this week.
Michigan off Monday and Tuesday. Practice Wed Thurs Fri
RR: Focus will be fundamentals especially with the younger guys. Will do some work on Penn State
Michigan assistant coaches recruiting Monday and Tuesday on the road.
RR: The break will be especially valuable for the young guys.
RR: Return units have not been good. Got guys who can be good returners, not giving them much of a chance.
RR on Iowa blocked FG: “We didn’t do a good job talking with our field goal unit on the same issue.”
RR said he’d use a scholarship on a kicker. “We’re looking all over the country.”
RR: Thought Kenny Demens did pretty well, Carvin Johnson played well. Adam Patterson also played well.
RR- “Demens has played well enough so that Obi will have to beat him out in practice.”
RR: Denard may be trying to press instead of letting the game come to him, results in a lot of unforced TO’s.
RR- “As poorly as we played, we were in it at the end…”
RR: If he wasn’t so involved in offense and special teams planning, maybe would be more involved with D. But only so many hrs in the day.
RR – “Vince Lombardi could come too, and that’s not going to fix some of the problems we have on defense.”
RR: Taylor Lewan was “A ltitle jumpy,” possibly because he was going against an All-American.
RR- Focus for this week, “What can we fix right now?”
RR thinks Denard has some type of sprain in his shoulder/rotator cuff.
RR- Denard was hurt by a player falling him, not from the tackle.
RR said he thinks Denard’s injury is a sprain. Not as serious as Tate’s shoulder injury last year.
RR on Denard: “if we had a game he probably could play Saturday”
RR: freshmen are going to have “freshmen moments.” try to limit them.
RR: Tate’s not one to get nervous, and he competed and understands the offense pretty well. Stonum, Hemingway helped.
Rodriguez on Toussaint: “I’m optimistic he could practice this week.”
Mike Martin – didn’t feel real great during warm ups but wanted to give it a go. Will all be good for Penn State.
On Odoms – surgery went well, unsure about recovery process. Will try to get him back by the end of the year.
On D being blamed for the last two losses – not all their fault. Turnovers and special teams have hurt Michigan as well.
It’s disappointing, not discouraging. Expects team to bounce back.
Guys on defense need to do a better job of getting off blocks.
Comparing Pat White to Denard is relatively accurate – more so than comparing him to Woody Dantzler (sp?)
RR reminding everyone of Denard’s youth – only started 7 games
RR asked about his performance as Michigan head coach – first 2 years extremely disappointing. He’s not discouraged because he knows what goes on in the program every day. Sometimes things happen that are not in your control
On defensive performance and recruiting – definitely has an effect. Every year you work to fill your gaps.
Lots of positive energy around the team – despite past two weeks
RR: “If nothing else, we’re fun to watch. At least we should be. Sometimes I wish it wasn’t as fun.”
On next Saturday – RR will watch film with the coaches. Loves having an open date. Will watch opponents play as well.
JT Floyd has done a nice job of taking on some leadership – but has been a challenge.
RR: “this is a close team, there is no finger pointing or anything like that”
On playing ‘bama in 2012 – RR mentions he and Dave Brandon weighed some options and thought about personnel – Denard being a senior, etc. Also, the game will be great for recruiting.
No QB controversy – Denard is the starter.

Michigan Injury Report

Mike P. — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 04:15:58 +0000

Not a bad injury report at all. Sucks seeing Martavious go down – he is a key contributor and can make a big play when his number is called. Also, it sounds like Fitz Touusaint may return after the upcoming bye week for the Penn State game.

OUT (0% chance of playing)

S Mike Williams, head
WR Martavious Odoms, foot
RB Fitgerald Toussaint, shoulder

OUT (out for entire season)

S, Jared Van Slyke, clavicle
CB Troy Woolfolk, leg
LB Mike Jones, leg

Michigan’s 2010 Win Predictions

Mike P. — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:23:05 +0000

Updated to reflect input from just over 200. If you haven’t – hit up the right sidebar and throw down what games you think Michigan can win starting in 8 days.

Not long ago I threw up a little poll on the right sidebar – asking readers and Michigan fans to simply pick what games Michigan will win in this upcoming 2010 season. After a small sample size, I’ve posted the results below. Some obvious results – just about every person feels Michigan will beat UMass and Bowling Green, while few feel Michigan will beat Ohio State. Not to my surprise, but Michigan fans are rather optimistic about this upcoming season. Check ‘em out below – and if you haven’t already – let’s get your input over on the right!

And again, let’s not let this link fall too far under the fold. Enjoy. Was going to pull down this link as it’s quite old news – but what the hell we’ll leave it.

Win Predictions According to 118 Readers
[Updated: 201 votes]

By Wins	Votes	%	By #
Massachussetts	199	99%	1
Bowling Green	199	99%	1
Illinois	191	95%	3
@ Indiana	187	93%	4
UCONN	180	90%	5
Michigan State	168	84%	6
@ Purdue	168	83%	7
@ Notre Dame	134	67%	8
Iowa	69	34%	9
Wisconsin	64	32%	10
@ Penn State	50	25%	11
@ Ohio State	32	16%	12

Schedule	Votes	%	By #
UCONN	180	90%	5
@ Notre Dame	134	67%	8
Massachussetts	199	99%	1
Bowling Green	199	99%	1
@ Indiana	187	93%	4
Michigan State	168	84%	6
Iowa	69	34%	9
@ Penn State	50	25%	11
Illinois	191	95%	3
@ Purdue	168	84%	7
Wisconsin	64	32%	10
@ Ohio State	32	16%	12

Michigan’s 2010 Season: If it’s a Dream…

Mike P. — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 14:08:25 +0000

This is the second post of a little series of three – examining Michigan’s 2010 nightmare, dream and probable season outcomes.

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!

Michigan’s 2010 Season: If it’s a Nightmare…

Mike P. — Sat, 07 Aug 2010 20:47:03 +0000

This is the first post of a little series of three – examining Michigan’s 2010 nightmare, dream and probable season outcomes.

With a clean slate in both the win and loss column – August tends to distribute rather overwhelming optimism and pessimism among fan bases across the country. Hence, I delve into the depths of the mere possibility of an absolutely terrible 2010 season for Michigan. If all goes wrong and the team can’t seem to pull it together. If there appears to be little offensive and defensive improvement, the losses will begin to pile up quicker than a Denard scamper.

The Nightmare Begins…

Connecticut.
This game has been talked about all summer as a very difficult opener for Michigan. Facing a confident team that has experienced success in each of their last three seasons. The Nightmare starts with Michigan struggling all day to move the ball consistently and the all too familiar upside down turnover ratio going against the Wolverines. Michigan winds up keeping it close but struggles all day and loses a close one. The fan base is uneasy after a not so stellar outing in the opener and the season begins at 0-1. Nightmare Record: 0-1

@ Notre Dame.
Notre Dame opens their season against a Purdue team that could very well beat them, so both teams could be heading into their second game feeling a hair desparate for a big win. I think this season’s game in South Bend will be a typical rivalry game – neck and neck with a few WTF type turnovers from each team. Should Notre Dame beat Michigan, Brian Kelly catches Michigan off guard with some play calls that Michigan simply isn’t prepared for. Michigan, again loses a close game for the second time over two September Saturdays. Nightmare Record: 0-2

Massechussetts.
Well, the 0-2 Michigan squad gets a breather at home against a team that even Michigan’s 2008 team led by Nick Sheridan would have eased by. Nothing feels better about the season even with a royal beatdown of Umass. Michigan wins by at least three touchdowns and the Michigan faithful limp on to another week of practice. Nightmare Record: 1-2.

Bowling Green.
The thought and fear of another loss to a MAC team is there, and let’s not beat around the shrubbery, it’s a frightening thought. Michigan looks less then steller and gives up way too many yards to Bowling Green’s offense. Fortunately, Bowling Green can’t handle either Tate or Denard as they split time (as we all know will happen regardless of who starts any particular game) and put enough points up on the board to make the win look respectable on the ticker. Nightmare Record: 2-2.

@ Indiana.
Last year’s win against the Hoosiers was one of those games that pretty much sucked to watch. At that point, Michigan’s defense hadn’t truly been exposed and the team showed it’s first real signs of the meltdown that would come as the season pushed on. Michigan will walk into Bloomington hoping to add another notch to the win column, however, Indiana has different thoughts in mind. The Indiana offense again abuses Michigan’s defense and a couple costly Michigan turnovers gets Indiana enough on the board to stave off a late Michigan rally led by Forcier. Nightmare Record: 2-3.

Michigan State.
At this point, Michigan fans are ready to throw Rodriguez to the streets as the preseason optimism lingers in fans minds and all wonder if it’s possible to get this thing turned around. Afterall, it’s still early October with a lot of season left to be played. Michigan puts together a solid performance for the first time this season and takes full advantage of a couple early Michigan State blunders. Michigan gets its hopes back up after their best game of the season. Nightmare Record: 3-3.

Iowa.
Iowa enters the Big House on a roll with an unblemished record and a top ten ranking. This game will be much like last years, where Michigan competes but is never really out front and never really looks as though they are better than Iowa. While it’s a good game, Iowa’s defense proves to be too much for Michigan to ever establish anything positive on the ground – Iowa’s offense does enough to get 20+ points on the board by chewing up yardage and the clock with a solid ground game. Nightmare Record: 3-4.

@ Penn State.
Michigan comes into the game with a proclaimed renewed focus after a solid week of practice. Much like many of the games in 2009, Michigan can move the ball and the offense looks great at times, but as the game progresses Penn State seems to be the more dominant team. Michigan does not produce any big plays and it’s inexperienced kicking game misses a couple key field goals. Michigan leaves Happy Valley quite discouraged as it seems like this was just another one that slipped away in the latter stages of the game. Nightmare Record: 3-5.

Illinois.
With the season looking a lot like 2009, Michigan’s chances of getting to a bowl game seem to be less and less likely as the losses pile up. A Juice-less Illinois team strolls into Michigan Stadium hoping to get a big win as Illinois is having a terrible season. Michigan plays up to par as they did against Michigan State earlier in the season and gets another solid, turnover-free performance out of all three units. Michigan still is hopeful to get to a bowl game and finish the season on a high note. Nightmare Record: 4-5.

@ Purdue.
What the hell is it about Ross Ade Stadium – because over the years Michigan has really struggled to come out of there with wins. Just this week, the Big Ten Network was playing the 2000 game, where a Drew Henson / David Terrell / Anthony Thomas led offense blew a 28-10 lead against the Drew Brees led Boilermakers. Much of the same to be expected here, a high scoring affair that leaves Michigan with a sour taste and rotten bus ride back to Ann Arbor. Some Purdue player is sure to have a career defining game. Michigan goes down. Nightmare Record: 4-6.

Wisconsin.
Wisconsin comes in not living up to the preseason top fifteen type expectations everybody set in August. That being said, Wisconsin takes advantage of some sloppy quarterback play from Michigan as a frustrated Rodriguez shuffles both Denard and Tate in and out of the game – hoping one of them will perform. Michigan loses a stinker and a low scoring game on a dreary November day. Bowl hopes again – dashed. Nightmare Record: 4-7.

@ University of Ohio State.
Well, once again Michigan is faced with a “well if we beat Ohio State down in Columbus it will almost make up for everything that went wrong all season.” As nice as that sounds – it ain’t happening. Ohio State is too solid in all three phases of the game and the game is almost a direct repeat of 2009. Michigan moves the ball, but doesn’t have enough firepower to look like the better team on the field or the scoreboard. Nightmare Record: 4-8.

The Odds of the Nightmare Happening?

There is about a 8% chance the season plays out this way. While I won’t totally discount it, and using history as a guide, Michigan should at the very least be on par with last season and most likely show marked improvement. BUT, you never know, as we thought the seasons and product on the field were mere impossibilities before the 2008 and 2009 seasons actually happened.

Worry not my friends. ANYTHING can happen – but I don’t foresee the Nightmare becoming part of our reality in the near future.

Michigan’s Story of 2009 – Chapter 6

Mike P. — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 12:59:05 +0000

Each week Michigan fans seem to learn a little more about their 2009 squad. 4-0 at home and 0-2 on the road. Both road games came down to the wire and Michigan found themselves with the ball and a chance to win. Michigan isn’t many plays away from being 6-0. Now, playing the hypothetical game is fun but it goes both ways, you have to say that Michigan isn’t many plays away from being 2-4. The team is 2-2 in games that have came down to the final offensive possession. There is no doubt that this team brings an exciting brand of football. Simple plays that Forcier and Denard can make with their feet were impossible to even dream of last year. There are drastic improvements on both sides of the ball. Yes, oh yes, the defense has struggled at times. 3rd longs are a nightmare and long drives have killed even the possibility of Michigan gaining momentum at times. But, the defense has held strong in important times and is pretty darn good in the red zone. The offense shows signs of domination on certain drives, then looks weak on others.

So there have been 6 games so far – 6 chapters. Each game can be described in one word – Western Michigan – Relief; Notre Dame – Glory; Eastern Michigan – Reminder; Indiana – Escape; Michigan State – Agony; Iowa – Drop. Let’s just start from the beginning.

Denard Robinson / Det. News

Chapter 1: The Relief
A media-driven beat down of the Michigan program was in full swing before any game was even played. Free Press subscriptions were victims of fire, burn and newly found hatred. Rich Rodriguez basically got peed on when you consider the allegations and add the real estate lawsuit that went down that week. Then it came – all hail gameday! Michigan comes out and dominates what is supposed to be a decent MAC opponent in Western Michigan. Tate Forcier’s first touchdown pass was all that any Michigan fan needed to see in that entire game. Michigan had a quarterback and that meant – Michigan had a competent offense that would be able to either stay on the field or put points on the board. What a relief. WHAT A RELIEF for the Michigan program to start the season 1-0.

Chapter 2: The Glory
The media’s love affair with Notre Dame was all geared up to officially launch after a victory in the Big House. Na, nope, don’t think so and not so fast Jimmah! Michigan came out and made a statement and if you were there or even if you watched it from your living room – the day ended in pure glory. The little freshman with a huge heart and level of poise – brings Michigan one of its most memorable wins in recent history, most definitely in the Rich Rodriguez era with only the Florida bowl victory coming close if considering the past few years. The glory poured in for an entire week. Every sports writer in the country wanted some Rich Rodriguez and Tate Forcier tiempo. “Michigan’s back” was the general feeling across the nation that Saturday night and throughout the ensuing week. The GLORY of that day may last for quite some time and Michigan starts the season 2-0.

Tate & DRob / Det. News

Chapter 3: The Reminder
Notre Dame was last week and who really cares about it anymore as the nature of college football makes each next game matter more than the last – so a let down would tear down the greatness and glory of the ND victory. Eastern Michigan walks in and manages to play a game that forces Michigan fans to remember – this is a young, young team. Inexperience is on both sides of the ball and at the most important positions. Mistakes are going to be made this year – hopefully they are made at times where Michigan can recover or absorb the blows. This game also served as a reminder to Michigan fans why Rich Rodriguez was hired. When I see 45-17 on a scoreboard, I assume the game was relatively lopsided and the victorious team probably walked away happy. I’m gonna say – not this Michigan team. The game was close at half and the defense looked sloppy at best. The Michigan passing game was somewhat stale. But Rich Rodriguez exploits a defense by utilizing a scheme that forces a defense to get out of position. Rich Rodriguez exploits a defense by utilizing speed at critical offensive positions. Yes, it wasn’t pretty and thank you for the reminder that this team is going to struggle, goof, be ugly – but I’m taking it because the upside is enormous. Michigan starts the season 3-0.

Chapter 4: The Escape
The Reminder told us that this is still a very young team, but when playing well – they are so tough to beat (offensively speaking – now the defense is another thing). Indiana – yea sure come on in. Michigan fans were excited to see some extended playing time for the likes of Denard Robinson, Vincent Smith, Justin Turner, etc. Not quite the case. Damn, what a frustrating game to watch. The snaps – holy damn. Terrible. How can Michigan lose momentum and drop the Big Ten opener to Indiana? Tate Forcier stepped up once more and gave Michigan a great way to escape a game that they didn’t deserve to win. Brandon Minor again proved his worth late in the game by picking up some crucial yards and the ultimate game-winning first down. The defense wasn’t good, but hey, I’ll take field goals all day over touchdowns. Michigan starts the season 4-0.

Chapter 5: The Agony
To be outplayed for all but five minutes of the 4th quarter was pure agony and it flat out sucked booty hole. Every Michigan fan hates little brother and losing to them, while not as bad as losing to Ohio State, it’s still a hated, hated in-state rival. So, Tate Forcier again proved his worth and that Michigan can really never be counted out until the game is completely over. It simply wasn’t Michigan’s day on either side of the ball. While the D was ripped on hard throughout the game on message boards and forums – it gave up only 20 points in regulation. Michigan needs to be able to score more than 20 points to win games, especially on the road. The problem was that the D simply couldn’t get off the field – 1st and 2nd downs were typically played ok, but 3rd and long for the Spartans were not a problem to get against Michigan’s D. The game was downright agonizing to watch. Stonum doesn’t fumble the rock at the lil bro 10 with about ten minutes to go in the fourth and I think Michigan has a much better shot at winning that game. BUT, no more looking back. Michigan has to pick itself up and get on with Iowa City and the Hawkeyes. A challenge it will be, but I trust that the team is going to be up to that challenge and put up one hell of a fight and maybe walk out of that stadium with a dubya. The season is kicking in now – and Michigan finds themselves sitting at 4-1 with a huge opportunity coming up.

Chapter 6: The Drop
This game was a huge opportunity for Michigan to get back on track in the Big Ten race and even jump back into the national rankings. But it wasn’t to be. You just knew the game was going to get close, quickly, after Donovan Warren picked off Stanzi on the first offensive play of the game. Sure enough, it did. But this game wasn’t about Iowa’s offensive execution or what Iowa did. Michigan shot themselves in the foot with 5 freakin’ turnovers. Michigan gave the ball to Iowa deep in Michigan’s territory and Michigan gave the ball away when they were in scoring position. Michigan battled and found a way to have a chance to win the 4th quarter winding down. Denard Robinson came in to lead the offense much too late in my opinion. I would have like to see Denard get a possession early in the third quarter. (Ir)Regardless, it was a battle that made this group a better football team. But there’s no doubt, Michigan could and probably should have won that football game. Literally, Michigan dropped the ball. This week comes another opportunity for this team. The team can get healthy and play some different guys against a dismal I-AA team in Delaware State. Halfway through the season, Michigan strolls in at 4-2. This makes me smile in August, but after going 4-0 in September it’s tough to take these last two losses. The key is to stay positive because this team truly has some great things happening and an extraordinarily bright future. Michigan is 4-2.

NEXT – Chapter 7 – ?

B Minor / Det. News

Michigan @ Iowa Preview

Mike P. — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 18:44:16 +0000

Michigan comes off its first loss of this young season only to walk into its biggest challenge yet. A night game at undefeated, 12th ranked Iowa Hawkeyes. Some things to look out for and headlines that have popped up heading into this game…

Can Michigan’s offensive line give some life to a dead Michigan ground game?

Carlos Brown didn’t make the trip to Iowa City on reports of a concussion he encountered earlier in the week and rumor has it that Boubacar Cissoko didn’t make the trip either

Another rumor that has been flying around – Michigan may be wearing white pants instead of maize pants for the first time since the 1970′s. Over on Mgoblog – there is quite the thread on the topic…
Michigan Unis

Apparently Denard Robinson was seen this week in practice in the same backfield as Tate Forcier – so it will be interesting to see what kind of offensive wrinkles RR throws in to the package this week

How Michigan can get a Win

Solid Offensive Line Play
This is an obvious one. Michigan couldn’t run the ball last week – the running game was PATHETIC. Carlos Brown isn’t playing, so Brandon Minor is going to get most of the carries. Perhaps Minor can get into some type of rhythm? We’ll see, it all depends on the dudes up front and whether or not they can open some holes and control Iowa’s good front 7. Expect to see Mike Shaw in the mix to change it up a bit. Another thing to keep your eye on will be the capacity that Denard Robinson is used.

The Turnover Battle
Another obvious one. Michigan probably has to win the turnover battle to get a dubya here. Iowa QB Stanzi is known for making some bonehead decisions and tossing a couple bad picks. Hopefully Michigan can get a couple turnovers and either get some points or help give the offense some good field position.

Tate Forcier Early
Tate needs to play solid for 4 quarters – not just one. Not that the dismal offensive production against Michigan State was all Tate’s fault – because it wasn’t. But if Tate can make some of those great plays from the get-go, Michigan’s chances are much better and hopefully the defense can get some rest.

Forcing 3 & Outs
Michigan’s defense has to get off the field and allow the offense to get into a ryhthm. This was the ultimate killer last week as Michigan seemed to play strong on 1st and 2nd down, but then couldn’t get the job done on 3rd down. Obi Ezeh and Jonas Mouton need to step it up and play their best game of the season. Troy WoolfoRk might be playing corner – so it will be critical that the new defensive backfield alignment is not detrimental.

The Weather & Turf
This might be a stretch, but perhaps it’s not. It’s going to be cold – like mid 30′s and there were reports of snow this morning in Iowa City. How will Tate and Denard handle the chilly-ness? I think they will be fine, but you never know. Also, Michigan played on grass last week and definitely has some footing issues – see Brandon Minor’s slip and fall while wide open. If it were to rain or get slick – this should play to the smaller and quicker Michigan squad.

Items of Interest

The Big Ten Network talks with Rich Rod about Iowa…

Big Ten Network Preview…

From the Michigan Daily – Iowa Run D will be too much for Michigan, and Minor should have a bigger role.

ESPN’s preview and prediction…

QB Tate Forcier’s ability to improvise and make plays on the move makes Michigan dangerous, but look for Iowa to win at home because of its offensive line. The Hawkeyes’ front five will get the better of an active and talented Michigan defensive front, allowing Iowa to keep Stanzi out of a lot of third-and-long situations with an effective ground game. The offensive line also will give Stanzi enough time to go through his progressions and space to step into his throws when the Hawkeyes do drop back to pass.

Prediction: Hawkeyes 24, Wolverines 20

The Diag’s Preview – HERE

If Michigan Wins – This is How it’s Goin’ Down

Michigan gets first downs. I’m not saying that they are going to get the running game jumpin’ and pound the ball down field all day, but I do think they can move the ball with a could mix of playcalls. Stanzi will have to make a few mistakes that Michigan must capitalize on – and give Michigan some life and confidence early in the ball game. Last week, Michigan’s offense didn’t see the ball in the first half – obviously that simply cannot happen this week if Michigan wants a chance at winning. The D is going to have to control the line of scrimmage – I think BG continues his dominence in this game as well. IF Michigan walks out of Kinnick with a dub – the final score will be this-ish…

Michigan 29 – Iowa 22

Michigan’s Story of 2009 – Chapter 5

Mike P. — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 03:59:34 +0000

Wild season so far. Tate Forcier is in the house. Dude can get it done when it counts. As I’ve said before, he pulls that game out in OT last weekend at Michigan State – he’s in the thick of the Heisman race and Michigan again is the story of the week. But it wasn’t to be, Forcier was again playing beyond his years, but again, wasn’t to be. So the season has been defined by inconsistency on both sides of the ball and some outstanding play by some newcomers donning the maize and blue. This season is a step in the right direction for a rebuilding Michigan program. Things have changed. The Big House is now the Bigger House – and a much louder house (esp. the Notre Dame game). So there have been 5 games so far – 5 chapters. Each game can be described in one word – Western Michigan – Relief; Notre Dame – Glory; Eastern Michigan – Reminder; Indiana – Escape; Michigan State – Agony. Let’s just start from the beginning.

Denard Robinson / Det. News

Tate & DRob / Det. News

NEXT – Chapter 6 – ?

Tate Forcier / AP

Thoughts on being 4-1

Mike P. — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 03:48:03 +0000

Lot of emotions and anger came out of watching Michigan fall to Michigan State in OT. A frustrating day of where the offense just couldn’t get into any kind of rhythm. The defense consistently put Michigan State in third and long situations but couldn’t get off the field. A remarkable comeback by possibly my favorite UM player to watch in recent history in Tate Forcier. The kid is simply great when it’s crunch time and his back is against the wall. To go 92 yards in a driving rain with no timeouts after his offense struggled all day is a story we would have heard about for years to come should Michigan have pulled out that game in OT. In the end, Michigan got outplayed badly by State, who appeared to have a gameplan that worked and UM had a tough time adjusting.

Should RR Have Abandoned the Run?
It appears as though the loss of David Molk is more significant of an injury than anyone initially thought. Michigan got pushed around up front and lost the battle. Minor and Brown simply had no where to go, no room to run. A game plan is a game plan and you try and get your offense into a rhythm when they haven’t had a chance to get on the field much. I’m not a big time of possession guy, but it gets to a point where the offense simply doesn’t get a shot. Michigan had the ball for 7:20 in the first half compared to MSU having it for 22:40. That’s a HUGE difference and Michigan was doubled up on time of possession in the game.

All that being said, I don’t blame Rich Rodriguez for not abandoning the run sooner than the fourth quarter. I’ve heard it over and over, MSU’s glaring weakness was there secondary and RR should have attempted to exploit that from the get-go. You play to your opponent’s weakness, but you don’t change your identity to do so. If Stonum doesn’t fumble that catch and run to MSU’s 10 yard line, Michigan may have been able to cut that lead to 7 with about 10 minutes to go in the final quarter.

Tate In the Rain / Det. News

Tate Forcier is Mad Clutch
Was there much doubt when Tate had the ball 92 yards away, 2 minutes to go with no timeouts? Well yea, but probably not in his mind. He continues to prove that he’s got some serious poise, moxy, it, whatever you want to call it that all great quarterbacks possess. Shit is this guy exciting and fun to watch. It’s chaotic, madness, and successful. I love watching the kid play and think he’s got some very bright days ahead of him at Michigan. Look at the pic – in a driving rain with poor snaps – Tate gets it done on that last drive.

Why Can’t the Defense Get Off the Field?
Frustrating is a light term for how I felt as I watched a three man front rush Kirk Cousins on 3rd and 15 – Cousins gets all day to decide whether he feels like running for the first or throwing underneath a zone for the first down. Time and time again this happened. FRUSTRATING. I can’t imagine how frustrating Greg Robinson was watching this happen right in front of him.

It’s really becoming clear that Michigan’s linebacker play is NOT good. It’s G Damn terrible. Obi Ezeh makes a lot of tackles against a power running game, but in other situations he is SLOW, very slow. Did you see him try to attempt to catch cousins on one, or any, of his long third down scrambles? I don’t know what has happened with Jonas Mouton, I expected better and quicker play from him this season as well.

All in all, the defense is young and inexperienced. Brandon Graham had a huge, NFL caliber day. Donovan Warren did his job. It was the killer third down conversions that enabled Michigan State’s offense to stay on the field. I think G. Robinson will do well at Michigan, he just needs some time and some additional talent to work with.

What’s It All Mean?
Michigan is young and probably a bit ahead of schedule. Most analysts and fans expected Tate Forcier to play like a freshman, not like a veteran that can bring his team back when his back is against the wall in yea – about every game. As negative as the game was in several facets, Michigan found a way to cut the lead and eventually tie up the ball game. Michigan’s inexperience and young talent is going to make for some exciting games this year.

As the week progresses, we’ll get more into the upcoming Iowa game, but I think this Michigan team views this loss as a learning experience and ultimately an opportunity. Momentum will not be lost, in fact gained. A win at Iowa would be huge – and it would put Michigan right back in the hunt for the Big Ten Championship.