I can't seem to find a Michigan football thread and I wanted to know what happened with the Spring Game yesterday since I was out of town............so I made a new thread. If one of the Mods knows where the old one is at they can merge this.

So what happened yesterday at the Spring Game in Ann Arbor?!?

All I've seen is press conference notes. It's full of Lloyd's usual. You know, fractured sentences, the word tremendous repeated over and over again. With the number of players who were injured or held out for other reasons, this was somewhat uneventful.
That being said, here are some notes:
Mallett got a lot of reps. Making some mistakes but progressing. By no means would he be lost if he had to play in a regular season game.
Justin Boren did a great job and is officially the starting center.
A bunch of guys changed positions - Mouton to LB, Brown to DB then back to TB, Stewart to S, Dutch to DB, etc.
The corners will be shaky. It looks like Sears and Trent right now, but look for Warren to challenge for one of those spots when he arrives.
The Defensive line is coming along. There's a lot to replace, but a lot of depth there. Banks, Kates and Ferrara all got looks. Brandon Graham is a beast. He's continuing to adjust to DE very well.
I think that's about it. Other mentions of some guy but really so many people were banged up here and there that at least half of the projected starters missed more than a week of practice.

I realize that your question is about the srping game specifically. As you probably know, Michigan doesn't use a game format anymore. It's just opened up as a practice to the public. So most of my comments above still apply. I've heard nothing special about yesterday in particular.


By the way, I looked briefly for the Michigan football thread and didn't find it yet. I'm sure it went off on a tangent before individual game threads took over, so I personally have no problem with this starting a new thread for the 2007 season. If State wants to do likewise, feel free. I know they used a different format with a points system that sounds like it could have been interesting, if not exciting.

Here ya go Diesel-

The weather graded at C-minus ("this is April!" freshman receiver Greg Mathews, a Florida native, said, shaking his head. "I'm waiting for something to break!"). Star power was at a minimum, too, with several starters sitting out due to injury or as a precaution. But there was no lack of intensity among the youngsters who did play in what turned out to be a full contact scrimmage …

That alone was refreshing compared to past years, when hitting was held to a minimum. On a cold, gray (yet dry) day in Ann Arbor, the defense beat the offense 42-41 in what proved to be a spirited competition (using a unique scoring system in which the offense was awarded six points for a touchdown, three points for a field goal, two points for a 20-plus-yard pass, two points for a 15-plus-yard run and one point for a first down, while the defense earned six points for a turnover, three points for a three-and-out, two points for a "sack," two points for a fourth-down stop and one point for a tackle for loss).

Here are some best, worsts and other notes from Saturday's action:

Top player: Chad Henne, hands down. Henne won the Meyer Morton award as the top spring performer, and he showed why Saturday, looking sharp on his passes and directing the offense like a senior.

"I love catching passes from him," freshman Greg Mathews, the John F. Maulbetsch Award winner as the spring's top freshman, said. "I'm so glad I came to Michigan. He's going to be in the NFL."

Henne's prettiest pass of the day came on an early touchdown to Mathews (23 yards or so) over the head of converted wide receiver Doug Dutch, placed right on the money.

Others who played well: Freshman quarterback Ryan Mallett had his ups and downs (and has all spring, said Mathews – he's got the zip, but has a ways to go to match Henne's accuracy as you'd expect). But he found a seam in the middle of the field and zipped a strike to walk-on David Middleton for a touchdown, threading the needle with a beautiful throw.

Mallett also provided some of the comic relief when he escaped pressure and rolled out of the pocket and, ignoring the whistle, stiff armed a couple of would-be tacklers and asked the officials to signal touchdown when he made it to the end zone.

"He has a lot of confidence," fifth-year senior tackle Jake Long said with a wry grin.

Obi Ezeh passed the look test and played well at SAM linebacker, seeing plenty of snaps (linebacker Shawn Crable dressed, but did not play; Chris Graham, Brandon Logan and John Thompson did not dress), in on a number of plays. Converted safety Jonas Mouton (who "loves everything about Michigan," he said with a huge grin after the scrimmage) excelled at WILL linebacker, providing a number of big hits, while JuCo transfer Austin Panter showed great instincts and speed early in reading a play action pass to Brandon Minor out of the backfield, providing a big hit while Minor bobbled the ball.

Maybe it was coincidence, but fullbacks got most of the touches in the running game from that point.

Freshman Vince Helmuth received a number of carries and looked impressive, while walk-on Mark Moundros, who earned a scholarship (and will be one to watch, coaches and teammates insisted), also ran well, scoring a touchdown (but also losing a fumble).

Defensive lineman Brandon Graham earned props from teammates as one of the most impressive players in the spring, and he seemed to wreak havoc in the scrimmage, spending plenty of time in the backfield. He got Carr's message about being "too big" to play on the edge and slimmed down to 268 pounds (on his way to 260, he said) – subsequently, he spent most of the day at defensive end. Defensive lineman Adam Patterson played well, while John Ferrara made his presence felt a few times.

Safety Stevie Brown is "the fastest safety I've had here" in the words of defensive coordinator Ron English, and he was impressive Saturday. He credited the upperclassmen for his rapid development.

"Jamar Adams is like a third coach out there for me," said Brown.

Finally, tight end Chris McLaurin showed good hands and good ability after the catch, hauling in a number of passes off play action.

Missing in action: The first question of Lloyd Carr's presser centered on freshman running back Carlos Brown, the subject of transfer rumors over the last several weeks (and confirmed to have missed a number of practices). Carr said nothing other than Brown was expected to move back to running back from cornerback in the fall, and did not comment further. Brown was nowhere to be seen.

Carr also refused further comment on receiver Adrian Arrington, also nowhere to be seen but rumored to be in the process of earning his way back on to the team.

Those who dressed but didn't play or played sparingly (mostly precautionary) included Crable, Will Johnson (who earned rave reviews from English and others for his play this spring), Tim Jamison ("consistency is the key for me," he said in the postgame – but he's been an absolute monster this spring), Justin Boren, Steve Schilling, Jake Long and Alex Mitchell.

Those who didn't dress: Brandent Englemon, Jamar Adams, Terrance Taylor, Perry Dorrestein, James McKinney, Adam Kraus, Jason Forcier, Mike Hart, Kevin Grady (crutches), Mario Manningham, Antonio Bass and Mike Massey. All suffered injuries before or during spring. Carr said he had nothing new to report on Bass, but expects to get a report later this spring.

Notes: Both potential starting cornerbacks had their struggles, Johnny Sears getting beat on a quick pass to the flat to Mathews and later victimized by walk-on Middleton on his touchdown reception from Mallett, and Morgan Trent getting beat a few times (including a deep ball to Mathews in which he obviously interfered, but wasn't flagged).

Mathews had a few choice words for the official after the play.

"I wanted to win," he said with a laugh after the fact. Told Trent thought he made a good play, Mathews responded, "defensive backs always think they made a good play even when they interfere with you."

• Brandon Harrison, playing nickel, was sent extensively on the blitz and got home a few times.

• Receiver LaTerryal Savoy struggled to catch the ball and was the victim of a big hit by safety Anton Campbell, who had a few bell ringers.

• Adam Patterson looks to have added significant strength and looked much improved.

• Charles Stewart has made a smooth transition and had a great spring, according to English.

• Brandon Minor, Steve Brown and Johnny Sears (punts) all took turns returning. Punter Zoltan Mesko boomed a few big punts.

• Asked who had impressed him this spring on the defensive side, Mathews responded, "Artis Chambers. That kid will come up and HIT you!"

• Offensive linemen were rotated in and out with such frequency that it was tough to tell who played well and who didn't.

• Kicker K.C. Lopata was the most consistent of the kickers, making several short field goals and a few middle distance attempts.

"Breakthrough performers" in the eyes of players-

All spring they kept an eye on each other. When they weren't on the field for a drill or a scrimmage, they noticed others impressing. So on Saturday, following the conclusion of spring practice, we asked seven different players which of their teammates really broke out with a strong performance this spring. Here are their answers …

Redshirt junior Tim Jamison's reply: "I would keep an eye on [sophomore defensive end] Brandon Graham. Based on the spring, he looked real good on the end, but Brandon Graham has the ability to play both inside and outside. He's just an awesome player and he's going to keep getting better under Coach Stripling's coaching. He does everything well. The way he sheds the blocker and his pass-rushing … he has one of the quickest steps I've ever seen."

Senior weakside linebacker Chris Graham's reply: "The new guy, [junior linebacker] Austin Panter impressed me. He came in and he had to learn a lot, but you could see today and these last few weeks he has tremendous instincts for the position. He's had to do a lot of film work and I think that's slowed him down a little bit. He's got a lot still to learn about the position, but once he learns the system and gets confident I think you'll see a lot of play-making out of Austin."

Fifth-year senior left guard Adam Kraus' reply: "[Redshirt sophomore tackle] Mark Ortmann really impressed me. He's coming along well. In the beginning of the spring he looked the same, but the last few weeks he's really improved and finally looks like a guy that could start at tackle. I see the battle at right tackle between Ortmann and [Steve] Schilling and if Perry [Dorrestein] can get healthy again. I think both Steve and Mark will eventually be starters, and great players, but Ortmann has really stepped up this spring."

Redshirt freshman linebacker Obinna Ezeh's reply: "[Fifth-year senior linebacker] Shawn Crable, when he's in there, was a guy that you had to pay attention to on every single play. Coach Szabo came up to me real early in spring ball, and said 'Watch Shawn to see how it's done' and that's what I did. When he's out there, he dominated.

"Brandon Graham also has that something about him that you know he's going to be great. For his size, he's so athletic and so fast. When you can tackle the back in the backfield like he can, I'd say you have a pretty good advantage. Tim Jamison is great off the edge, but I've never seen anyone as quick through the line as Brandon Graham."

Sophomore defensive end Adam Patterson's reply: I think Tim Jamison really became a different kind of player. Whenever we were down as a unit, Tim was there to pick us up and tell us to play harder, keep the drive going. He's the one that brought it up that LaMarr and Branch were gone. He said, 'Look around you, they're gone.' He kept on us about stepping up this spring, this year, and I think he's really taken over as the defensive line's leader."

Redshirt freshman offensive lineman Steve Schilling's reply: "Justin Boren is a great player, he's a hard worker and is really strong. This spring he really picked it up at center and plugged that hole. I think he's done a great job. What else can you say about him? I think what he's already accomplished and the position he's in says everything. But man, his strength is second to none. I think he's going to be a great player this year."

Sophomore defensive end Brandon Graham's reply: "Obi Ezeh came out and showed great leadership this spring. He stepped it up to push me to be a force on the field. He really gets after it 100 percent all the time and he's one of those guys that just pushes you to get after it too.

"[Redshirt freshman defensive tackle] John Ferrara is a guy that did a lot of really good things this spring too. He uses his hands real well. With him, he practiced something every day. He'd work on his hands one day, work on his footwork the next day. He was trying to get everything right because when you get everything right you can be really good out there. The coaches love him."

Here's a summary primarily focusing on just the front seven-

When Michigan opens its 2007 season there's a good chance its starting front seven on defense will be comprised of defensive ends Brandon Graham and Tim Jamison, defensive tackles Terrance Taylor and Will Johnson and linebackers Shawn Crable, John Thompson and Chris Graham. From this group, only Brandon Graham had full participation in Saturday's practice. Accordingly, Saturday's "ones" (starters) were likely this fall's "twos" (backups). With that qualification, some thoughts on key contributors at each position:

Defensive Ends – Talk about looking the part. Both Brandon Graham and Adam Patterson have developed into physically impressive defensive ends and both appeared to more than hold their own throughout the scrimmage. In 2006 Michigan had three players garner starter-level snaps at defensive end: LaMarr Woodley, Rondell Biggs and Tim Jamison. In 2007, expect Brandon Graham and Adam Patterson to step in for the graduated Woodley and Biggs and make up a similar three-man rotation with Tim Jamison (who did not participate in the practice). If Saturday's play was any indication (along with teammates singing Graham and Jamison's praises), expect this position to once again be a strength.

Defensive Tackles – With Terrance Taylor not dressed and Will Johnson not getting significant participation (if at all) in the scrimmage, John Ferrara, Jason Kates and converted offensive lineman Brett Gallimore seemed to garner the most significant snaps. Defensive tackle is a tough position to get a read on in a single session, but Ferrara appeared to have the best day of the three. Ferrara certainly looks the part physically and it would not be surprising to see him play the role that Will Johnson took on last year as a top backup defensive tackle. Strictly from a looks perspective, Gallimore still appeared a bit more offensive lineman than defensive lineman (a bit top heavy compared to other defensive tackles) and Kates still appears to be growing into his extremely big body.

Inside Linebackers – Austin Panter and Jonas Mouton both had encouraging debuts. Mouton has drawn early comparisons to Ian Gold and Larry Foote so it was a pleasant surprise to see a redshirt freshman linebacker that appeared more physically developed than both at the same stage. Equally encouraging was that his speed and aggressiveness did indeed resemble the former Michigan greats.

Starting with position drills and lasting throughout the scrimmage, Mouton displayed good speed, quickness, aggressiveness and a nose for the ball. Panter, a slightly taller and less compact linebacker than Mouton, also played fast and aggressive – particularly when moving laterally – and got the scrimmage started with a huge hit on Brandon Minor. Roaming from sideline to sideline to make plays will not be a concern with either of these two. However, shedding blockers and making plays on the inside might be.

One observation that applies to the defensive tackles as well as the inside linebackers was that there were too many eight- to 12-yard runs from backup running backs. While many fans marveled at the physicality of Michigan's safeties against the run and/or Vince Helmuth picking up surprise yards on occasion, coaches Steve Stripling and Steve Szabo likely winced at the inability of the tackles and inside linebackers to shed blockers and make plays closer to the line of scrimmage in these instances. Thoughts of Big Ten running backs Javon Ringer (MSU), Chris Wells (OSU) and PJ Hill (Wisconsin) running on the inside brought hopes of a healthy and effective fall for players like Terrance Taylor, Will Johnson, John Thompson and Chris Graham. Still, on whole, Painter and Mouton impressed and with the steep learning curve associated with their relative inexperience and a strong teacher in Steve Szabo, the future appears bright for both of these players.

Max Pollack and Cobrani Mixon also saw significant action on Saturday at inside linebacker. Based on Saturday's snaps and play, it appears that they will be looking up at Panter and Mouton on the depth chart.

Outside Linebacker – There is little question that this position belongs to superstar Shawn Crable. In his absence, however, Obi Ezeh had a solid debut. Wearing David Harris' number 45 jersey Ezeh's strength and athleticism were apparent in observing position drills. In fact, he looked pretty similar in stature and agility to the soon to be drafted star (though perhaps it was only the number and a longing for another year from David Harris that influenced this observation). Regardless, judging from his play and teammates' and coaches' comments, Ezeh appears to be a solid number two behind Crable at the strongside linebacker position and looked well schooled and aggressive throughout the scrimmage.

Ohene Opong-Owusu showed some surprising athleticism at the position as well. In fact, it took a bit to determine that he wasn't Brandon Graham as he wore the same number 55 as the defensive end. The temporary confusion speaks both to his size and athleticism displayed carrying out Crable's familiar role in Michigan's 3-3-5 (three linemen, three linebackers and five defensive backs).

It also speaks to the fact that they have to find this kid a new number…

Defensive Alignment

In past years, the spring game/practice has been a preview of what type of defensive alignment Michigan will deploy most. For instance, in 2004 it was during the spring practice where a new, separate position group of outside linebackers (including players like Woodley and Pierre Woods) was seen practicing together. Accordingly, on that same afternoon the now infamous 3-4 defense debuted. The 2005 spring game revealed the end of the 3-4 alignment and the 2006 spring game revealed a greater mix of nickel (defenses with five defensive backs) and the standard 4-3 defense (four defensive backs) than we had seen in past years. In all of these cases the spring observations proved to be a solid indication of things to come.

On Saturday, Michigan executed most plays out of its traditional 4-3 'under' defense with two inside linebackers playing roughly over the offense's guard and a strongside linebacker closer to the ball outside the strongside offensive tackle. Both the 4-2-5 nickel defense as well as the 3-3-5 defense that were both used extensively last year were seen as well. The only observation of note was that the 3-3-5 was used at a higher rate when the offense was inside the 20-yard line. That 3-3-5 showed the familiar movement/blitzes from the strongside linebacker and nickel back (usually Brandon Harrison). With the high number of starters out of practice it was hard to conclude anything definitively, but it does appear that the alignment of this year's defense will be very similar (at least to the casual fan) to last year's.

Other Observations

If the spring practice was any indication (which it may not be due to injury or other factors) any fans that are hoping for a whole scale change to a one-back, three/four wide and shotgun offense this fall may be disappointed. Michigan's offense looked very similar to the one deployed last year.

It did appear that there was a higher percentage of inside runs than last year's spring game (and season for that matter) and perhaps this is a direct result of a personnel shortage at tight end. These inside runs were extremely successful and thoughts of Mike Hart playing the role of Saturday's Vince Helmuth behind Jake Long, Adam Kraus, Justin Boren and co. led to an optimistic forecast of a stellar running game this fall. The backup offensive linemen seemed to do a great job getting out to the second level (linebackers) on several inside runs. Now whether this was good offense or bad defense is the basis of the yearly spring dilemma…
After a great spring scrimmage last year and considering depth issues at wide receiver it was a bit disappointing to see LaTerryal Savoy fail to stand out amongst the receivers. Fortunately, Greg Mathews does appear to have stepped up his game and appears ready to be a big contributor in 2006.

If there was one distinct and pleasant surprise coming out of Saturday's session it was the wealth of competent depth that exists at safety. Charles Stewart was filling in for Jamar Adams and looked very comfortable (and physical) in his new role. Steve Brown certainly looks the part at free safety. He has the build, the speed and the aggression to be a great one. Artis Chambers and Anton Campbell also impressed in a group that looked fast, physical, emotional and hungry. Add the group's lone All-Big Ten performer (Jamar Adams, second-team all Big Ten in 2006) and its savvy veteran (free safety Brandent Englemon) and you are looking at deep group that may end up being a strength of this team.

As much as depth at safety appears to be a strength, depth at the cornerback position has to be a concern. Morgan Trent and Johnny Sears appear to be the starters. While both have the potential to be solid cornerbacks neither has shown signs of being the star at this position Michigan fans have become accustomed to having. With Doug Dutch, a recently converted wide receiver, appearing to be a top backup and an apparent reliance on yet-to-be-seen incoming freshman Donovan Warren, this is a position group for Michigan fans to watch closely in the fall – with fingers crossed.

The personality of the 2007 football team was evident on opposing sidelines late in Saturday's scrimmage. One one side was Ron English with a razor sharp focus and intensity barking out commands to a defense responding with fast, physical and emotional play. On the other sideline was Mike Hart, in a white long sleeved 'T' and football gloves and smiling ear to ear as he roamed the sidelines giving it mostly to officials, but really to anybody within earshot. A few yards away was Jake Long, standing with his fellow offensive linemen, and Chad Henne, calmly tossing ball after ball to a teammate. Both sported the quiet posture and grin of great veteran players watching their final spring come to an end and possessing no doubt what they are capable of achieving in the coming months.

There certainly wasn't anybody asking "Who are THOSE guys?" and, if they get a few breaks and have their way this fall, nobody associated with Michigan football ever will.

Where does Michigan fill the holes and who fills them with the absence of draftee's Hall, Branch, Woodley, and Harris?

Holes? Shoot, I'm predicting the 58th national championship in row right here and now for the Maize "n Blue!

Zip's new Morning Constitutional, a must-read for any Michigan football fan.

http://www.wtfdetroit.com/index.php?page=morning5407

Lol, i find it really funny that MSU might be changing their uniforms like they are part of a fashion show. Why can't they pick to a good traditional clean uniform, like Michigan has had since who knows when, before they turn into the queer Oregon Ducks.

Who cares about Michigan Football? They were exposed for what they are last year. An old program stuck talking about the glory years when they won 100 national championships before helmets were invented. They've got one season to be proud of since those days nobody remembers. When they go up against the best, they get their asses handed to them. Start a USC, Florida, or Ohio State Football thread. Then maybe we'll have something worth talking about.

I don't understand why a Michigan football thread has recently attracted discussion of Spartan uniforms and the introduction of a new moron.

Jethro:
Agreed. This newest clod reads suspiciously like a Sparty trolling over from the Detroit News Big 10 forum. Common things discussed in the Sparty Treefort there are:
Michigan wins a national championship every year
Michigan did all their winning when leather helmets were in vogue
Michigan fans are "check writers"
They'll have numerous funny names for Lloyd Carr (more than me even)
The phrase "Wal Mart T Shirt" will be bandied about
And the funny thing is, they'll come on like knockout acting like they invented all this stuff, and I can tell you they do nothing more than copy, cut 'n paste, and repeat, verbatim, the TRUE original Sparty (and generator of EVERY original Sparty thought) HipDigIt.
I had hoped they wouldn't find their way here.

Jethro:
One more thing, and this is a phenomena you may already be faniliar with:
Every Sparty, on every message board or website EVER, is, of course, a graduate of MSU.
Now, we know most of them are lying, but it is their form of self validation, and of course they use it against UM'ers, knowing full well that Michigan fans most often did not go there.
When you're a Sparty, you gotta grasp at whatever straw is there.

Not sure where Michigan State comes in here? You start ripping Spartan fans because a new guy rips Michigan? I guess chances are he's a MSU fan which is tight, but he didn't mention MSU at all from what I can see.

Surprised to see your posts Zip, I believe you've said every single thing he did within the last few weeks. Is it that whole I can make fun of my sister, but you can't thing? You've ripped UM football for being stoneage and falling short all over the mb, why is it not okay for this dude to?

HOW DO YOU MAKE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN COOKIES?

PUT THEM IN A BIG BOWL AND BEAT FOR 3 HOURS.

That's a good one bball.
Tre: I have NEVER castigated ONE Michigan fan for buying a Michigan T-shirt at Wal Mart.
You sir, owe me an apology.

Apparently you can never make State cookies, since on the rare occasion you find a bowl, it's never big enough to warrant any attention.

HOW DO YOU MAKE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN COOKIES?

PUT THEM IN A BIG BOWL AND BEAT FOR 3 HOURS.
BBall I'm rolling....the joke was pretty good too.

HOW DO YOU MAKE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN COOKIES?

PUT THEM IN A BIG BOWL AND BEAT FOR 3 HOURS.

HAHAHAHAHA! Absolutely classic! And the logo, haven't seen one better. Bball11, you are officially my favorite poster here on WTF!

I love Spartan logic. Tell one recycled joke and include a picture that announces your fascination with a rival school and suddenly you're big man on campus. Nevermind the fact that you still posted a completely random criticism of Spartan uniforms in a Michigan football thread.

Aren't the three of you late for a circle jerk somewhere?

HAHAHAHAHA! Absolutely classic! And the logo, haven't seen one better. Bball11, you are officially my favorite poster here on WTF!

Tre, why is it that your favorite posters, or the ones you like, do nothing more than vent against Michigan?
And speaking of uniforms, no one beats my old high school. They looked like UM's only they were purple and yellow instead of Corn N Blue.

I liked Jethro's joke better BTW. I hate Spartan logic sometimes. Let's make fun of Michigan for going to big bowls every year and underperforming for much of them. Except that your program has a hard enough time even making a bowl game. When is the last time you had a better season than Michigan? When's the last time you've had a real bowl win? The win over Florida 7 years ago? Come on. It's painfully obvious that a perennial underachiever in big games is still 100 times the program you support.

How come we never see Michigan fans ripping MSU basketball? It's because they know that program is better. There is nothing to talk about. Yet MSU football fans talk trash regardless.

By no means do I want to eliminate the trash talk. It's very entertaining. But some things get very old, like saying the program hasn't done shit in years when your program completely sucks. This is like Atlanta Hawks fans ripping on the Piston fans because they lost to Miami last year. Rediculous.

And I think MSU football will turn around under their new leadership too BTW.

Much like Michigan hoops would gladly trade places with State hoops in their worst season, the same goes the other way around. Spartan fans were burning couches all over town because Michigan fell out of the top 25 for the first time in some of these posters lives, and yet Michigan was far better than State that year and they certainly would have traded a lousy bowl game loss to Nebraska over the debacle that was their season. The malnourished kid makes jokes about cookies - classic.

I love Spartan logic. Tell one recycled joke and include a picture that announces your fascination with a rival school and suddenly you're big man on campus. Nevermind the fact that you still posted a completely random criticism of Spartan uniforms in a Michigan football thread.

Aren't the three of you late for a circle jerk somewhere?

Fascination with the rival school? Look in the mirror. Some new guy rips UM football and you guys go ape shit about MSU fans even though he didn't mention MSU anywhere. Head over to the Michigan players arrested thread and you'll see Filly completely go off topic and start posting about Tom Izzo. You want fascination, look at your own.

Dude, step away from the wall you've been beating your head into. Never will I give a crap about anything Filly does, so quit using what he does in an argument with me.
I called out the three Sparty fans who fell out of their chair drooling over an old joke that has been used for 15 other schools at one time or another.
And the reference to MSU DID mention MSU and I don't know how you don't see it. Post 10 I believe, last one on the first page.
And I'm not going Ape Shit until now because I don't understand how you can be so retarded right now.
Was I ape shit in the post you quoted? No, just sarcastic like 98% of all posts on wtf.
And still all this crap is in a freaking UM football thread. Some days I'm not sure why this forum even has threads. Why not just one big "post your mindless dribblings about the other school here" thread. That should just about wrap up everything we ever talk about.

I liked Jethro's joke better BTW. I hate Spartan logic sometimes. Let's make fun of Michigan for going to big bowls every year and underperforming for much of them. Except that your program has a hard enough time even making a bowl game. When is the last time you had a better season than Michigan? When's the last time you've had a real bowl win? The win over Florida 7 years ago? Come on. It's painfully obvious that a perennial underachiever in big games is still 100 times the program you support.

How come we never see Michigan fans ripping MSU basketball? It's because they know that program is better. There is nothing to talk about. Yet MSU football fans talk trash regardless.

By no means do I want to eliminate the trash talk. It's very entertaining. But some things get very old, like saying the program hasn't done shit in years when your program completely sucks. This is like Atlanta Hawks fans ripping on the Piston fans because they lost to Miami last year. Rediculous.

And I think MSU football will turn around under their new leadership too BTW.

Chris, weren't you the one who RIPPED me along with Jethro and Moodini for lumping all the Michigan fans together earlier this year? Well, welcome to the hypocrite club. I also see that Jethro lumped us all together in his post above.

I actually agree with you Chris. I'm not going to rip UM football, because our football program has been a joke. Hopefully that will change. I will rip them if the maize and blue faithful want to make their program out to be unparalleled. I've had many of my Michigan friends rip on State when they lose a big game in basketball or if they bow out in the tourney. It always drove me nuts seeing that their bball program was a disgrace. So I'm not going to join in on ripping UM football. I will laugh at the jokes and love them though.

I lumped three of you dipshit, and I called it Sparty logic. If you want to call me out specifically and call it Wolverine logic, that's fine, but statements about typical Michigan fan referring to one or two idiots is different. You probably don't understand, but I can show you on a chalkboard sometime if you like.

Man, fuck all you Michigan cry babies. Spartan fans this, Spartan fans that. Fuck that. I'll take the generalization. Because at the end of the day, we don't cry like you bitches and we can hang with the big dogs in our sport. You saw it this year, you put State on the floor with #1 or #2 and we win or come damn close. You put the whiners on the field with the best of the best and they get their asses handed to them. I live in Florida and Michigan is considered a postseason joke there. Everybody in Florida knows that if you get Michigan in a bowl, you've got an easy win. You get State in the tourney and you are in for the battle of your life.

Welcome back. Good to see you didn't trip over your own droolcloth this time. Let me fill you in on a little secret, everything you think is original, is old and played out here. If you want to come in here and talk some shit, bring it on. But calling Michigan fans "whiners" is about as new as your grandmothers nipples. The Florida angle is a nice, creative way to pretend you know what you're talking about. How are those Heisman winning QB's working out for you? Oh, that's right, it's the culminating event in a career that just ended.
So really, what's the angle? Born in East Lansing, 25 years and more drinks than you can remember you're selling life insurance in Florida? Are you Sparty faithful in all sports or just THE sport, since you called it "our sport". So which school do you tag-team ass rape for football? Let me guess, you love the Yankees, Patriots (though it just chaps you that Brady was a Wolverine), and you used to like the Bulls, then it was the Lakers, now you're just dying watching this San Antonio Phoenix series because you can't tell if you want to jump ship for the Suns or not.
Trust me, I can shoot at you all day on your hoops claims but that would upset Tre's post, so I won't do it seeing as how Michigan's program is still a mess there.

http://www.chs.org/graphcoll/images/1995_36_1304.jpg
this thread has officially de-railed

Man, fuck all you Michigan cry babies. Spartan fans this, Spartan fans that. Fuck that. I'll take the generalization. Because at the end of the day, we don't cry like you bitches and we can hang with the big dogs in our sport. You saw it this year, you put State on the floor with #1 or #2 and we win or come damn close. You put the whiners on the field with the best of the best and they get their asses handed to them. I live in Florida and Michigan is considered a postseason joke there. Everybody in Florida knows that if you get Michigan in a bowl, you've got an easy win. You get State in the tourney and you are in for the battle of your life.

This is exactly what I am talking about. Are you saying Michigan is an easier victory than State? I doubt it. So how do you have anything to trash talk about. I think almost all Michigan fans on here give MSU bball proper credit. I can't remember anyone ripping them for the way they play. So why even bring that up? My point is simply that until you are on the same level as the other team, how can you run your mouth about how they play?

Sure, Michigan fans might celebrate a MSU bball loss. But you won't see them ripping MSU's program because you know darn well they'd trade programs in a heart beat (at least level of sucess, etc).

HAhahahahahahaha, I see I have started some pretty heated shit over a stupid ass joke. It is really funny seeing all the "Wolvie" fans getting all anal over a joke that could easily be applied to MSU....... Damn, Jethro bringing the heat! I love it. Watch out ladies and gentleman guard your kittens, puppies, and babies, we got a mad man on the loose. O and WTFchris really wants to suck Jethro's shorty. ..........we can all see that........ :o -8

I googled the logo and only thought it would be appropriate to go along with the joke. People are testy...

I also believe I stated that the UofM football uniforms are nicer than States. Doesn't Michigan Uniforms and Michigan Football have anything in common.

I couldn't care less about the joke. I just think it's lame to rip on a program better than you. Rip on U of M basketball and MSU football all you want.

I could care less about the joke. I just think it's lame to rip on a program better than you. Rip on U of M basketball and MSU football all you want.

Listen homie, if the Spartans field some embarrassing shit on the football field, I'll be here to say it first. However, listening to Michigan football fans talk about how great they are has made me sick for years. Especially when I've got something to compare it to down here in the sunshine state. If the maize cry babies want to pump their shit like their the best, then they need to take a big king kong shot of reality when the truth rises. For the last few years I've watched these maize and blue fans pump their shit only to crawl into holes and hide[smilie=peepwall.gi: when they go up against the best. I'm not sayin' my shit is original, I'm saying it's the truth. And don't think its not said down here in the south. Everybody knows Michigan tries to act like they are one of the big boys, but we all know that when real speed hits the field, they're a bunch of pretenders.

great thread...

I love multiple personality disorder.

By the way, anyone have any good info about the UM camp? Anyone close to committing, any standouts, etc?

Yes there were some great standouts and yes there will be some committments because of it. After the staff sits down and decides who to offer (mostly OL and some LB/S) you can expect 1 or 2 to drop. The regular camp will be absolutely HUGE and should net us another 2 or 3 committments more than likely.

Anyone notice any similarities between bball11 and Knockout's posts?

http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/883/F408909.jpg

this thing is going to be HUGE

Nice! I can't wait. Combine a fast-moving style of offense and a structure that traps sound and the Big House might actually start to rank among one of the more intimidating places to play.

I wonder how the renovations at Soldier Field changed the noise there. They used to have sort of an open bowl like Michigan and built up around that (and added upper decks as well) to enclose it a lot more.

D'snutz?
Vinny?

http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/883/F408909.jpg

this thing is going to be HUGE


geez, yeah it is...


that shits not going to be finished this year right?

geez, yeah it is...


that shits not going to be finished this year right?

Nope, not going to be ready until the 2010 season. Here are some other pics too.

http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/883/F408924.jpg
Above the Champions Center.

http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/883/F408914.jpg/
A view from Main St.

http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/883/F408919.jpg
New brick.

I wonder how the renovations at Soldier Field changed the noise there. They used to have sort of an open bowl like Michigan and built up around that (and added upper decks as well) to enclose it a lot more.

D'snutz?
Vinny?

I only went to the old soldier field twice, and once it was so cold and snowy that my only real memories are of the Lions losing and our freezing walk home after the game.

Thus it's hard for me to compare.

I will say that the new field's pretty nice on the inside and horrid looking from the outside. It literally looks like they landed a ufo on the old soldier field and started playing football there.

The views are all great though, even from the nosebleeds, though they're a hell of a long walk up the stairs if your seats suck, especially in the fall when it's real hot and you've been tailgating since 7:30 AM.

The key really is how it sounds at field level and I'm usually nowhere near it, though hopefully if the Bears continue their collapse good seats will become more affordable.

Full report from Michigan Camp:
Top Position Group-O Line. Adam Gress (most impressive looking), Kyle Koehne (most consistent), and Nick Ash (fundamentals and technique) really stood out.

Overall Top Performer-William Campbell, obviously. He worked out at DT as well as offensive tackle and dominated.

Top performer by an uncommitted prospect-ATH Cameron Gordon from Inkster, MI. Worked out and impressed at LB and WR. Wants to play WR, by may project better as a LB. Was by far the best LB in attendance throughout the drills.

Most Likely to receive an offer-4 star safety Bradley McDougald. Chiseled 6'1, 188, and already holds offers from Ohio State, Wisconsin, and Michigan State. Not sure what RR is waiting on here.

Biggest Surprise-Zurlon Tipton, RB. 6'0", 200 lbs, and was one of the bigger backs in attendance, but ran as fluidly as many backs 30 to 40 pounds lighter than him.

Top Underclassman-2010 RB Austin White. At 6-0. 185 pounds, White brings elite speed to the table and phenomenal athleticism. His body type does not scream running back – he almost looks better suited for wide receiver – but his skill set puts those concerns to rest.

Other Standouts-Detroit Cass Tech running back Teric Jones joined fellow teammate and commitment Will Campbell on Sunday and had a fine performance. He was not as standout as he had been at the State College NIKE Camp, and one reason may have been because he was running pass patterns against defensive backs instead of linebackers, but he was solid all day.

At the wide receiver position, Redford (Mich.) Covenant's Jamonne Chester appeared to be the only prospect in Cameron Gordon's class of athlete. An outside wide receiver at 6-1, 195 pounds, Chester is also fluid and a natural pass catcher, though not quite as explosive off the line of scrimmage as we'd like to see.

The linebacker group featured several prospects we were looking forward to seeing, but the two who stood out the most were Erie (Pa.) McDowell's A.J. Fenton and Birmingham (Mich.) Seaholm's Adam Fenton, two prospects who share more in common than just a last name. Nearly the same size, both Fenton's possess above average speed and quickness for the linebacker position. Adam Fenton looked better in the bag and footwork drills whereas A.J. Fenton was better in pass coverage drills.

Joining Bradley McDougald on the trip up from Dublin, Ohio, was another safety prospect from Scioto High, Deji Olatoye. Nearly the same size as McDougald, Olatoye looked smoother in some of the drills than his higher touted teammate and certainly appears to be an under the radar prospect who has a bright future.

The offensive and defensive line one-on-one competitions are always the most intense at an event of this nature. One prospect who did a lot of talking, but also backed it up, was Dearborn (Mich.) Fordson defensive end Abdallah Homayed. At 6-3 and 226 pounds, Homayed could use some work on his physique, but he could not be stopped in the one-on-ones and made sure everyone knew it.

I only went to the old soldier field twice, and once it was so cold and snowy that my only real memories are of the Lions losing and our freezing walk home after the game.

Thus it's hard for me to compare.

I will say that the new field's pretty nice on the inside and horrid looking from the outside. It literally looks like they landed a ufo on the old soldier field and started playing football there.

The views are all great though, even from the nosebleeds, though they're a hell of a long walk up the stairs if your seats suck, especially in the fall when it's real hot and you've been tailgating since 7:30 AM.

The key really is how it sounds at field level and I'm usually nowhere near it, though hopefully if the Bears continue their collapse good seats will become more affordable.

Yeah, they did not integrate the old and new well (visually) at all. I think the renderings on Michigan Stadium look really well in that regard. Hopefully the sound will be harnessed a little more when it's done.

For anyone that wants to see more of the ongoing construction photos, here's the link:
http://www.mgoblue.com/football/page.aspx?id=12116#

I'm curious to see if they're going to do anything "cosmetic" to make it look a little different during the season, even though it won't be done for two years. I'll be at the opener against Utah. I'm sure people will see plenty on TV, but I'll take some pictures as well.

Michigan Football Camp starts today and it should be HUUUUGE. Look for us to pick up a couple committments either during the camp or immediately afterwards. The three biggest positions seem to be safety, defensive end and offensive lineman. It would be nice if we could could 2 of each to commit in the very near future.

If anyone with premium access wants to share a little info this week that would be cool as hell. I"m assuming both sites will have multiple reports up each day concerning camp overall and specific prospects.

GO BLUE!!!

Michigan Football Camp starts today and it should be HUUUUGE. Look for us to pick up a couple committments either during the camp or immediately afterwards. The three biggest positions seem to be safety, defensive end and offensive lineman. It would be nice if we could could 2 of each to commit in the very near future.

If anyone with premium access wants to share a little info this week that would be cool as hell. I"m assuming both sites will have multiple reports up each day concerning camp overall and specific prospects.

GO BLUE!!!

I'll see what I can do Diesel.

I frequently like to look at consecutive recruiting classes to see what talent will be around in a few years when guys are juniors and sophomores - it's hard to guess too much beyond that considering who leaves early, but much of the depth could be around for a while considering redshirts and players who stay. By the way, that year (when this group in Jr and Soph) will be the first year in the completely renovated Big House.

Anyhow, this 2 year haul is looking nice and deep. It's also a good way to assess needs.

QB - Feagin, Newsome and Beaver. Solid depth and ability.
RB - McGuffie, Cox, Shaw and Toussaint. Plenty of depth here, especially considering how many of these guys are interchangeable with slot WR's - see below.
WR - Stonum, Robinson, Odoms, Roundtree, T. Jones, McNeal, Gallon. This should probably be at least two categories, with outside WRs and slots, but there's a ton of talent here. I'm hearing Stonum's name a lot lately and I don't know if it's good or bad - any insight?
TE - Moore and Koger. That's some serious talent for a position that's not huge in the spread. These guys have the athletic ability to convert. RR will find a way to use them, and obviously they stuck around after the change so we'll see. Big strong possession WR's or maybe DE's - which would fill a huge need.
OL - O'Neill, Mealer, Wermers, Khoury, Barnum and now Schofield. Taking 5 in last year's class helped, but kids will need development. Many might get early PT this year since the depth in front of them is inexperienced and injuries could make it really thin. There's enough to have a line with one extra, but hopefully we grab a couple more from 09.

DEFENSE

DE - Omameh. So thin here. One recruit and he's the lowest rated from the two classes. If a TE can't convert, perhaps a LB can. Either way, it may be the biggest need we have left.
DT - Martin and Campbell. One thing that will help any DE we have is the fact that we have two absolute beasts in the middle. Either one of these guys would be great inside, but the thought of them playing together is remarkable. This duo might achieve things I hoped to see when Gabe Watson was lined up next to Alan Branch, or Branch next to Terrance Taylor.
LB - Witherspoon, Fitzgerald, Demens, Hill. Very solid group. If any players switch positions it becomes a thin group and we should add one or two this year because of that.
DB - Cissoko, Floyd, Smith, Turner and Bell. I always have a hard time reading DB's. There might be a decent learning curve this year for Booboo, waiting behind Warren and Trent. He should see PT but not a ton of pressure and a chance to learn from solid guys. A couple more this year would be nice, especially if Darius Winston was part of that group.

So with at least a half dozen more recruits to join the 09 class, the needs are lined up but either way those recruits will join a very talented and well-rounded group of players. The future is bright in Ann Arbor.

Any word on the best day of camp..............The Smokehouse Awards? HA HA HA, I always thought it was a cool name that they came up with and I'm assuming that RR will keep the tradition of the Smokehouse alive this year.

This is all the Smokehouse info I could find at this point Diesel-

Winners
LB-Thaddeus Burton
WR-Ricardo Miller

2010 CB Dior Mathis provided even more entertainment for onlookers at the end of day, this time competing with one of his fellow cornerbacks, Torri Zeno, in the Smokehouse races. While Mathis had a small edge with just under 10 yards remaining, he stumbled slightly at the end, making the winner too close to call.

http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/883/652360.jpg
Dior Mathis, class of 2010. That's right, he hasn't even begun his junior year of high school yet.

No biggie Mood. I found out about the smokehouses and which offers were given out this week. Thanks for the info though man.

No biggie Mood. I found out about the smokehouses and which offers were given out this week. Thanks for the info though man.

That's the 2nd time you've posted some sort of inquiry, only to later respond and say "Oh, I already got it. Thanks though."

When you get it, share it.

'Michigan Replay' is finished

"Michigan Replay" is no more.

The Michigan football coach's show, which reviewed the previous game and looked ahead, will no longer be on the air Sunday mornings.

"It was the greatest thing I ever did professionally," said Bob Lipson, who created the show in 1975 and produced it for 33 years. "It's me. That's my identity. I absolutely loved it and worked with three great coaches. Nobody had it better than me. It was a great run."

So what's to become of new coach Rich Rodriguez's show this fall?

One thing is certain: it will not be called "Michigan Replay."

"I own the name," Lipson said. "It's not for sale."

But multiple sources indicated that while a concept still is in development, expect a previewshow and not a review. The show will be produced in-house and offer fewer highlights from previous games and focus more on players.

Rodriguez has said he's not interested in hanging around after games to tape a show because he would rather use the time visiting with recruits and spending time with his family.

What remains unclear, however, is when the show will air and which network will carry it. Its most likely destination is FSN Detroit, perhaps on Thursdays, and the Big Ten Network.

An obvious destination would be Channel 7, the ABC affiliate since ABC and its ESPN affiliate, carry such a large part of the college football schedule."I know there are Michigan fans who will be mad about not having a show on Sunday mornings," said Jim Brandstatter, the show's host the last 28 years who will return to host the new show this fall. "But this is a new coach and this is just part of that change."

Kinda sucks. I used to love watching my Michigan Replay on Sunday mornings. I'm interested to see what this "preview show" will be all about. Welcome to the Rich Rod era. It's like night and day. It's going to be a very interesting season.

Pretty good article on Rich Rod and the new regime at U-M.

http://sports.espn.go.com/espnmag/story?id=3469577

A little tidbit I picked up "Inside the Fort"

You’ve all seen the film on Texas running back standout Sam McGuffie, featuring his freakish athleticism. Well, McGuffie has been everything expected and more, according to some who have seen him in action. Some close to scene have predicted McGuffie could play a significant role this fall, and he’s done nothing to change that opinion.

“He’s unbelievable,” said one who has seen him up close. “I’ve never seen a freshman as advanced as he is with his combination of moves and athleticism.”



Sweet! I was kind of expecting him to redshirt, probably because he looked like half the size of Warrick Dunn at the high school all-american game.

A few tidbits from day 1 of camp.

Carson Butler is a ripped freak and is becoming a team leader.
Rich Rod said he was very impressed with the freshman skill position players. (McGuffie, Michael Shaw, Terrence Robinson, Martavious Odoms, etc.)
QB play still looks shaky. Apparently Threet missed a lot of makeable throws but "looked like Elway" when compared to Feagin.
Offense looks very creative, as expected. All types of plays were ran to get the ball to the playmakers (What a concept!) and Carlos Brown saw some time at QB.

Here are some pics of the freshmen.
http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/883/F423183.jpg
QB Justin Feagin

http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/883/F423218.jpg
McGuf

http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/883/F423379.jpg
Mike Martin with Terrance Taylor

http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/883/F423239.jpg
Boubacar Cissoko. Wow! I thought I was looking at an LB!

http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/883/F423234.jpg
Darryl Stonum

Also, here's a link to MGoBlue's countdown to kickoff. A new behind the scenes video each day until the season starts. Sweet!
http://www.mgoblue.com/football/article.aspx?id=141930#

All this access is great. The doors to "The Fort" have been blown open, bye bye Lloyd!

http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/883/F423239.jpg
Boubacar Cissoko. Wow! I thought I was looking at an LB!


Impressive, but why does his right forearm look so much larger than his left?

Someone'e been [smilie=master_emot:

http://mgoblog.com/sites/mgoblog.com/files/uh...okay.jpg

Those guys were all offensive lineman before BARWIS.

Wow. Sparties have all the ammunition they need for 4-5 years thanks to that picture.
Who was the fag with the camera?

Who's projected to be opposite Mathews? Hemingway, Clemons, or Stonum?

Or heaven forbid, Savoy?

So far it's Hemingway. But you should get out of the old school idea of a WR on the outside on either side of the field. This offense will be more and more about slot receivers on the inside and finding ways to get the ball in space. So there may be a WR on the outside, but more often their job, I believe, is to get a defender or two out of the picture so something underneath has a better chance of working. In other words, they're a decoy unless all defenders completely leave them and then the QB, if they have time and see it, can throw the rare deep ball.

Someone more familiar with the offense can correct me if I'm way off base.

Who's projected to be opposite Mathews? Hemingway, Clemons, or Stonum?

Or heaven forbid, Savoy?
Its going to be Clemons (as of right now) after watching most of their practices...Clemons seems to be the guy they like getting the ball to the most...

It's still early, but Rodriguez's offense has Wolverines excited
Posted by Jim Carty | The Ann Arbor News August 11, 2008 08:52AM

Way different.

That was tailback Brandon Minor's simple bottom line on training camp under the University of Michigan's old offensive system and this new one.

"Especially with the speed of the game and special formations," said Minor, a front-runner along with Carlos Brown to replace Mike Hart at tailback. "Last year, it was basically almost the same one formation, the I-set form. Now, there's no telling where we'll line up. We can do so much, and it's real good. I love it, because the defense doesn't know what to expect."

Just watching 30 minutes of practice Monday made it easy to see exactly what he was talking about.

The Michigan offense never seemed to show the same formation on back-to-back plays.
There were two tailbacks in the backfield, an empty backfield, wide receivers motioning into an empty backfield to become tailbacks, slotbacks turning into quarterbacks, quarterbacks turning into wide receivers, tight ends lining up in the slot and so forth.

There were more looks on display in 15 minutes than an entire season under the previous coaching regime.

More than anything else, it looked fun.

Fun to watch. Fun to coach. Fun to play.

"A lot of people who run on all levels (believe that)," Michigan coach Rich Rodriguez said. "A lot of high school coaches have said they get more young guys out for it who have maybe never played, a track guy or a basketball guy, because they have a chance to get on the field."

Rodriguez was loose Saturday, in between a morning practice and one scheduled for the afternoon, Michigan's first two-a-day. He talked about the good (no one he's counting on has had a disappointing camp), the bad (still too early to know what's up with the offensive line) and the shaky (those pesky quarterbacks again).

Five Wolverines spoke to the media - Minor, Brown, wideout Greg Mathews, linebacker Obi Ezeh and safety Brandon Harrison - and all were all at ease talking about the new system and how camp was going.

For anyone who has covered the Wolverines for any length of time, it's impossible not to notice a change from the always serious, always scripted Augusts of Lloyd Carr. In the past, we were lucky if the coach talked three times in the first four weeks, let alone three times in the first week, as Rodriguez has done.

And the players, on the few occasions they were allowed to speak, were carefully vetted and always seemed worried about saying something interesting.

Neither approach will win or lose you a game, but the new one certainly makes for more fodder for those of you who live and die with Michigan football.

And as for football, six days into camp there are some interesting tidbits, like Brown's take on the current offensive approach.

"There's A LOT of running, I'll tell you that," the tailback said. "I really like it. It gives a lot of athletes the opportunity to get the ball in space. As an athlete, that's what you really want."

Not a surprise, given the quarterback situation.

Mathews' prediction when asked about the deep passing game, though, might raise some eyebrows.

"There's definitely going to be a vertical passing game, especially with the pace of our offense. Sometimes, (the defense) isn't getting the signals and we just run right by them, we're so open," the receiver said.

Formations for everyone, a lot of running and a vertical passing game.

It's a whole new offensive ball game in some ways, and a lot of what you're used to in others, neither of which is a bad thing at all.


it may not look good after the snap, but it will be fun as hell before it

How many teams on their schedule this year run a spread offense?

If nothing else, the D should be more prepared for it than in the past just by playing against it in practice all the time.

Found this in an old article, is this what to expect?


In rushing yardage per game, the Mountaineers ranked fourth nationally at 292.9 yards, while Michigan averaged 166.1 yards.

In passing yardage per game, the Wolverines averaged 207.4 yards, while West Virginia sat near the bottom of the NCAA rankings at 157.6 yards per game.

In scoring offense, West Virginia averaged 38.9 points compared to Michigan's 26.1.

How many teams on their schedule this year run a spread offense?

If nothing else, the D should be more prepared for it than in the past just by playing against it in practice all the time.


I know Utah runs a spread for sure. Illinois runs a poor mans spread offense except they can't throw the ball much...

Because Juice makes Joey ball game look like Dan Marino. I don't think he even completes half his passes.

Shaw's hit, Threet's pass mark latest Michigan practice
Posted by Jim Carty | The Ann Arbor News August 12, 2008 17:18PM

Two moments marked the beginning of Tuesday's University of Michigan football practice, one good, one not so good, both tying in nicely with coach Rich Rodriguez's comments earlier in the day.

The good came during what Rodriguez and his staff call the M-drill.

Three pairs of players, one offensive and one defensive in each pair, are placed inside a gradually narrowing cone. While the rest of the team surrounds the drill and shouts for one side or the other, a running back starts in the narrow end of the cone and tries to make his way around the battling pairs to the open end of the cone.

The close quarters mean few backs get through.

Michael Shaw's turn came a few minutes into the drill.

The freshman from Ohio sprinted past the first defensive player, then cut back around the second. If that had been all he did, it would have still been an impressive display of speed and shiftiness, but highly touted freshman corner Boubacar Cissoko was still between Shaw and the end of the cone.

Shaw hinted at a move and then simply squared up and pancaked Cissoko. Rolled right over him. With authority.

"Ohhhhhhh!" went the team.

"Wow," whispered a reporter.

Earlier in the day Rodriguez had admitted a handful of freshman had already caught his eye, including Shaw and fellow tailback Sam McGuffie.

"McGuffie and Shaw are two guys that will not be redshirted - they'll play," the coach said. "They've done enough to convince us that they can contribute as freshmen, and I think as much mentally as physically. The biggest drawback for a freshman coming in is, can they mentally handle the schemes and the pace, all the things that go on with it? Those two have shown that they can.

"They're both fast, explosive players, who I think are good with the spread system. We're excited about it. As much as anything, I like the way they practice. Freshmen come in and sometimes you have to teach them the intensity of practice. These guys were obviously well coached in high school. They were prepared well when they got here."

McGuffie's YouTube highlights have made the Texan the most anticipated Michigan running back since Mike Hart - and watching practice, it's easy to imagine McGuffie living up to the hype. All the speed and elusiveness seems to have translated to the college level.

But Shaw has a lot of the qualities and more smack when he hits you.

If the two continue to produce, Michigan could be stacked with talent at running back now and in the future.

Quarterback is another matter, a point underscored by both the coach and the practice.

Tuesday morning, Rodriguez seemed to rule freshman Justin Feagin out of the competition. "He's got a long way to go mentally," the coach said, "because he's got so much to learn."

Former walk-on Nick Sheridan and Georgia Tech transfer Steven Threet remained very close, he said, adding that both would play if the season started today (then semi-grumbling that he didn't really like the hypothetical).

Come practice time, though, it didn't look all that close.

Sheridan played with efficiency and a swagger, smoothly running through his drills, delivering almost all his short- and medium-range passes with accuracy and zip.

Threet wasn't bad, he just wasn't good, and certainly didn't seem as steady as Sheridan. In one red zone passing drill, his pass drilled into the ground just in front of a receiver cutting back to the middle of the field.

"I pray to God you never throw the ball like that in a game," offensive line coach Greg Frey snapped.

"If you're in the game," offensive coordinator Calvin McGee added.

If indeed.

Can Sheridan, the undersized local kid from Saline, the former Michigan assistant's son, really win this quarterback job?

Can Shaw and McGuffie keep it up?

These and plenty of other questions continue to make this the most intriguing August in years around here.

And as Rodriguez stressed a few hours earlier, there are 18 more days of practice before Michigan opens its season against the University of Utah, and a lot of things can happen in 18 days, for better or for worse.


Hell yeah.....and uh-oh

A little more on McGuf and Shaw-

Junior tailback Brandon Minor isn't ashamed to admit freshman backs Sam McGuffie and Michael Shaw are faster than him. If Minor doesn't get healthy soon – he's sidelined with a hip injury – the two rookies will be playing more than him also …

"It's been a little frustrating to have this injury, to miss some practice, but I'm just focused on getting treatment, getting back on field," Minor said. "[In my absence] I tell those two young kids they have to represent for me in practice, represent for the offense because we're always competing against the defense."

Minor's injury has put the starting job he seemingly won coming out of spring ball in peril, but for every closing door there is another one opening and the rookies are making the most of their opportunity.

"How comfortable would I be [in starting McGuffie or Shaw]? Very comfortable," running backs coach Fred Jackson said. "They know what they're doing.

"I love coming to work everyday because those two are like little puppets – they're just waiting for you to tell them something, and then they're going to do it to the best of their ability. And they both have great ability. I am very excited about those two kids.

"They have impressed me. They're going to play. In the first game you're going to see them a lot."

Jackson would like to see Minor at 100 percent, though. Following spring practice, Jackson predicted big things for the junior back, all but anointing him the starter.

"He's nicked up. He hasn't been able to show his ability," Jackson said. "Right now when I look at the situation, I see less than two weeks [until Michigan's first game] and you have to be repped out in this offense to be successful, and Brandon's not being repped out because he's not healthy."

Making matters worse, junior tailback Carlos Brown has also missed practices due to injury. He returned to the field Saturday, but is not at full strength.

The good news is that both McGuffie and Shaw have looked incredible in practice. Both four-stars in the Class of 2008, they have the speed to go the distance and have shown the toughness to run in between the tackles. In Jackson's estimation, they, potentially, represent the best tandem he's ever had at one time.

"I don't think I have had two in the same class like these two," he said. "I don't feel I've had two guys this explosive, this talented in the same backfield, in the same year. You watch."

Wow, 2 true freshman running backs starting? Are you kidding me? It sounds like something I would do on a video game. LC is clearly gone. Honestly, I love it. Put your most explosive players on the field and see what they can do. I can't wait to see the product on the field.

http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/883/F423377.jpg
Michael Shaw, Michigan's starting RB?

^That's a RB? Shit, he looks like a FS to me (body wise).

The QB and the RB are the same damn size.

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h213/JCashin101/TT.jpg
lol

Number 67 looks like he could stand to lose some body fat. Someone Barwis his ass.

oh he has
http://cache.viewimages.com/xc/78689958.jpg?v=1&c=ViewImages&k=2&d=17A4AD9FDB9CF193587004028B1CDC4E9C9AF2D7DDD7E3C1 284831B75F48EF45

Dear god, look at that arm fat. The worst part is, he's seriously probably double my size but he's probably still a better athlete.

btw, for those who don't know, that's Terrance Taylor, expected to have one of the best seasons a DT at UM has had in a while (including Alan Branch, Gabe Watson, etc.) He's the man in the middle of a defensive line that is expected to be the key to keeping UM competitive this season.

Cory Zirbel could be done for the season, per RR.

That's a big blow, he wasn't a starter last year, but he at least had some playing experience last year...and was probably going to start this year...

Cory Zirbel could be done for the season, per RR.

That's a big blow, he wasn't a starter last year, but he at least had some playing experience last year...and was probably going to start this year...

Probably true, and expect Terrance Robinson to be out for a while too. Came down funny on his knee and was wearing a huge brace and using crutches today.

Today Michigan held a "Bowling for Brock" fundraiser today at an Ann Arbor bowling alley and it was incredible. Brock Mealer is the brother of Elliott Mealer, an incoming Michigan freshman offensive lineman who was severely injured in a car accident that killed Brock and Elliott's dad and Elliott's girlfriend. It was a $50 donation to the Mealer family to get in to help them with medical bills for Brock, and then you were able to get autographs from all players and coaching staff, plus bowl with the players. In the lane to my left were Steven Threet, Justin Feagin, and Kevin Grady. To my right were Avery Horn, Sam McGuffie, Carlos Brown, Brandon Minor, and Michael Shaw. Amazing! On top of that, I got to talk to Brock, tell him I was praying for him and his family, plus got tons of pictures and autographs from players, and coaching staff. (Barwis included!) I also got to chat with Terrance Taylor for a while, McGuffie, Coach Rodriguez, and Barwis. McGuffie told me the workouts are mind blowing and if I tried to go through one I'd go straight to the hospital! RR told me he's excited to be here and glad he's still undefeated! I told him to keep it that way! Finally, Barwis gave me workout tips and nutrition advice. (He told me to eat lean meat, especially chicken breast! Overall, just an incredible experience.

Here are a few pics.

http://a350.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/68/l_d4dc7b250df0bf1c5a0df56995f0c5c5.jpg
TT and I.

http://a367.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/1/l_b75d0ad79fecb46563e512825c5f97c6.jpg
The Michigan running backs and I. From left to right, Avery Horn, Sam McGuffie, Kevin Grady, Carlos Brown, Mike Cox, and Michael Shaw.

http://a419.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/120/l_a1dc55d05fedf758f033ae3bd0e96b8a.jpg
McGuffie bowls "granny style"!

http://a85.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/46/l_15f9c23c548d9ccfa384fe00569cc014.jpg
I've been Barwissed.

http://a1000.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/124/l_242c334dc7bdd03d7ea29f09dae1c43f.jpg
Coach Rod.

http://a160.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/31/l_9bf020298563c5d8c5c261aff4610ce7.jpg
Went and checked out developments at The Big House afterwards. Should be called the Effing Huge House now!

I really hope McGuffie pans out. Or else we're going to have to add that picture of him to the douchebag thread.

Damn Mood, experience of a lifetime.

Great stuff Mood.

Nice. So, did you beat any of them (besides McGuffie's granny bowling)...and more importantly did you rub it in?

I'm betting if Llyod was there he just bowled it soft right down the middle every time to play it safe.

Nice. So, did you beat any of them (besides McGuffie's granny bowling)...and more importantly did you rub it in?

I'm betting if Llyod was there he just bowled it soft right down the middle every time to play it safe.

Or he would yell at someone between frames for critiquing his form.

Or he would lose to a 5 year old.

AHHHHHHHHHHHH, feel it Moooood. I can't wait till we get together for the Utah game to check out all of your autographs and the rest of the pictures. Not to get all serious on ya here, but how is Brock Mealer doing?

Or he would yell at someone between frames for critiquing his form.

Or he would lose to a 5 year old.

I still think Llyod's a class act. He was just a little out of touch with his offensive game plan.

Oh yeah, he's the toast of the Big Ten.

http://blog.pennlive.com/pennstatefootball/2007/11/medium_carrhandshake.jpg

Touche

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/mammothmardge/WhiteGoodmanDodgeball.jpg

If Navarre was there he would have gotten it batted down before it ever got to the lane.

If Navarre was there he would have gotten it batted down before it ever got to the lane.

Disgaree.

He would be so locked in on those pins (he would never look away to another lane) that I think he'd be a very good bowler.

Or he would get tackled before the threw the ball down the lane.

he'd stand at the ball return and throw from there because he's a statue.

Damn Mood, experience of a lifetime.

That pretty much sums it up Jethro, I had to pinch myself a couple of times.

Diesel, Brock is actually doing really well. He was in a wheelchair, but had full movement of his arms and was very talkative and in good spirits. I think he thanked me like 3 times for coming out and supporting him and his family.

As for the bowling, that didn't really happen. I signed up to bowl and was assigned a lane, but as soon as the players and coaches started rolling in, I just kind of took off and got pictures and autographs and stuff. Pretty much all the other fans did the same thing. The players were really the only ones bowling. I'm guessing I kind of looked like a d bag walking around trying to talk to these cats in bowling shoes, lol.

And if Navarre was there, he definitely would have been locked on to the "#4" pin. Anybody with me?

Did you experience a lot of family values?

Did you experience a lot of family values?

No, not at all. Next year I'll be going to Columbus to the fundraiser to help pay for Terrelle's Corvette.

http://3rdsaturdayinblogtober.files.wordpress.com/2007/12/pryor1.jpg

Again, I LOVE THE ACCESS we get now with RR. Check this out, a few new traditions, one being "The Victors Walk" and video footage of Friday's scrimmage at The Big House. Click on #8, "The Beanie Bowl". I hope that's not what they end up calling the game when we play Ohio State this year. Yikes.

http://mgoblue.com/football/article.aspx?id=141930#

I like that walk on QBs release...just saw it a couple of times, but it looked good.

Yeah, Sheridan did look pretty good in that video actually. Although it did look like they were playing 2 hand touch.

And here's a better pic of TP in his 'vette.

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f186/amp24/TPnTre.jpg

So what does the QB depth chart look like? Does he have a chance to play? He juked that one defender, which seems to be important in the spread.

So what does the QB depth chart look like? Does he have a chance to play? He juked that one defender, which seems to be important in the spread.

He definitely has a chance to play and will play. It actually sounds like he might start on Saturday. A little scary, but hey, if he's the one looking the best and running the offense right, I say let him play.

Ok, this is my last "Bowling For Brock" hype post, because I'm sure you guys are probably sick of it, but I picked up a few cool tidbits talking to the players while I was there.

I asked DT Will Johnson if he'd cracked 600 pounds on the bench yet, and he told me he just hit 610 that day! Wow.

Donovan Warren assured me he'd be returning punts. He was adamant about it.

I told Boubacar Cissoko, "Don't let your boy (5 star DT) Will (Campbell) go anywhere else, this is where he needs to be." He told me "He's coming for sure".

Finally, here are some more pics from the event from MGoBlue, click on photo gallery. Check out #6 especially! Ha!

http://mgoblue.com/football/article.aspx?id=143024#

Feagin redshirted
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=3563736

Two 4 star freshman Linebackers have left the Michigan program. Taylor Hill will transfer and Marcus Witherspoon is a non-qualifier.

Check out what RR had to say about it-
Rich Rodriguez wasn't too concerned about losing two linebackers ... said something like, "we're at Michigan. We're not going to have any problems recruiting more."

Does that help our 2009 scholarship numbers?

According to scout.com, both of those guys were WLB, as was Demens, so we still have a weakside LB from that class. Not to mention they list Jordan Barnes and Brandin Hawthorne in the 2009 class as WLB as well.

can Spoon play next year?? is his situation similar to Artis Chambers last year?? or is he gone for good...

can Spoon play next year?? is his situation similar to Artis Chambers last year?? or is he gone for good...

RR said he doesn't expect him to join the team now or in the future.

Carty is DONE.

http://blog.mlive.com/jim_carty/2008/10/it_was_a_privilege_to_write_fo.html

Good riddance, Carty was arguably the worst journalism contributor to U of M football...

Even Chengalis one-upped him.

Michigan AD backing Rodriguez in wake of upset loss
ESPN.com news services

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- Michigan Wolverines (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/clubhouse?teamId=130) athletic director Bill Martin says football coach Rich Rodriguez has his full support, despite a 2-4 record and three home losses -- including an upset loss last week to Toledo.

"There's absolutely no question I'm totally supportive of Rich," Martin said Tuesday. "Was I surprised with the loss last Saturday? Sure I was, no question about it. But I think he's the right man for this program at this time.
"You always have to, when you're sitting in my seat, look at long term. You can't look at instant gratification." The loss to Toledo was Michigan's first in 25 games against Mid-American Conference teams. And the upcoming schedule offers the Wolverines no favors; next is a trip to No. 3 Penn State, followed by a meeting with rival No. 20 Michigan State.

But Martin called for patience, noting that another first-year coach, Alabama's Nick Saban, endured a loss to Louisiana-Monroe last season. "And where is he now? [No. 2] in the country? Second year," Martin said of Saban. "So things turn quickly."

Rodriguez on Tuesday said that the team's transition to his system has been more difficult than he imagined. "Most coaches will tell you in the first year they expect a few bumps in the road, some places maybe larger than others. Honestly I didn't think we'd have this many bumps," Rodriguez said. "Unfortunately we haven't helped ourselves in some of the things late that have happened in games [because of] crucial errors," Rodriguez said. "But it's nothing we don't think we can overcome. And I certainly don't think there's anything the players don't think we can overcome."

There are many problems with Michigan football, but I think I've found the core reason. No, it's not that Rich doesn't have the players for his system yet, or the fact that 70% of Michigan's offensive output comes from freshmen who most were recruited to play in a different system. It's the fact that the 2005/2006 recruiting classes were a bit weak to start with, and look at the attrition as well. Fact is, a large number of these guys have left the program, and others have proved to be absolute busts. Check this out.

2005
DE James McKinney - Gone
DE Eugene Germany - Gone
DE Andre Criswell - ....crickets chirping...
CB Chris Richards - Gone
DT Marques Slocum - Gone
QB/WR Antonio Bass - injured for life
OL David Moosman - Played in 7 games before this season
LB Brandon Logan - Has played sparingly
DB Brandon Harrison - Finally a contributor, unfortunately not very good
OL Cory Zirbel - Hurt this season
OL Mark Ortmann - Played in 13 games before this seaon, only two starts
QB Jason Forcier - Gone
TE/DE Carson Butler - Very good at holding and jumping before the snap
DT Terrance Taylor - A great DT
OL Tim McAvoy - 7 games, only 1 start before this season
TE? Chris McLaurin - Gone
P Zoltan Mesko - A great player, unfortunately he's just a punter
RB Mister Simpson - Gone
CB Johnny Sears - Gone
WR LaTerryal Savoy - Has he ever done anything?
WR Mario Manningham - Gone to the NFL
OL Justin Schifano - Gone
RB Kevin Grady-5 star drunken bust


2006

DE Greg Banks - backup
OL Justin Boren - gone to the Buckeyes
RB Carlos Brown -i njured, almost for life
S Steve Brown - fans whipping boy for two years now
QB David Cone - Must be absolutely attrocious not to get a chance to play.
OL Perry Dorrestein - 3 star who was hurt most of last year, now a starter, yikes.
LB Obi Ezeh - was a 3 star FB, now a decent linebacker
OL John Ferrara - backup DT turned OL due to lack of depth/injuries
DE Brandon Graham - solid, but has not lived up to 5 star billing
DT Jason Kates - ??? hasn't made the traveling squad, weighs like 600 pounds.
WR Greg Mathews - very average WR
RB Brandon Minor - was the #1 FB in high school, now a decent HB with fumbling problems.
LB Cobrani Mixon - gone
LB Jonas Mouton - somehow got a USC offer and has been a big disappointment.
LB/FB Quinton Patilla - transferred to Grand Valley
DE Adam Patterson - 4 star 4th string who has missed the travel squad this year.
OL Stephen Schilling - decent lineman, but I would say has not performed like a 5 star.
DE? Quintin Woods - I don't even know who this is
K Bryan Wright - replaced by walk-on Lopata for field goals and walk-on Gingell for kickoffs

As you can see, maybe we don't have the stockpile of talent we thought we had. Many players have moved on and most guys from these classes have flat out not been getting it done. The new system doesn't help either. This is just one big clusterf*** right now. It needs to be 2011 or maybe even 2012 soon, and Rich's classes fare much better than these two.

I would make the case that Mouton has been fine this year. He's our best blitzer at LB, and he's only a sophomore.

Other than that, you make some valid points. Rich Rod would probably not have recruited many of these guys had he been here the last 4 years.

It's just part of putting in a new system. It will solve itself out within the next couple seasons.

I would say that Ezeh, Mouton, and Graham have been better than you give them credit for but that overall your assessment is correct. Those are the two classes that should be providing 70% of our starters and the leadership of this team, and instead what little they provide in terms of starters is first time starters more often than not.

I very much appreciate coaches who keep 9-10 first team guys on the field at a time but always move 1-2 around in there to get them snaps of experience. There are times when guys step into the lineup and you can tell they're ready. Example, Mike Martin. Officially not a starter, but when he is next year you'll think he has started before because he's in on so many snaps.
It's difficult when you have guys like Jake Long who are 4 year starters because the guy picked to replace them is getting virtually zero snaps before that. I really hope Dann O'Neill will be ready to take on a load next season.

Lloyd Carr's 5 Star Recruits Dating Back To 2002

Kevin Grady- Fumbles + DUI = BUST
Ryan Mallett- transferred to Arkansas
Marques Slocum- 1 year at Prep School; then kicked off team
Jonas Mouton- productive, but not in the sense a 5 star LB should be
Brandon Graham- solid pass rusher, NFL future
Donovan Warren- solid corner, NFL future, jurys still out, he's only a soph
LaMarr Woodley- best Mich Defensive Player of the 2000's
Justin Boren- was in line to be the next Steve Hutchinson, no longer
Steve Schilling- currently our best OL, doesn't say much, only a Soph tho
Chad Henne- 1-7 Vs. OSU/Bowls aside, he lived up to his 5 star rating, he never cost UM a win
Prescott Burgess- I loved Burgess, but he never seemed to play up to his incredible size (6'3'', 240 and speed), playing next to Dave Harris & Crable made him better than he really was
Will Paul- who?
Gabe Watson- was a beast when he wanted to be, underachiever

Mouton and Burgess were both stud safeties that, for whatever reason, were converted to LB's. I'm never sure exactly how someone becomes a college safety. Most high school safeties with speed are converted to corner and those with size are converted to linebacker. I always wonder what might have been if they had been allowed to work on their original position.

^^^Brandon Smith, who committed last year as a Safety, but is being red shirted, is being moved to LB as well.

I still can't figure out why he puts Sheridan in there. Even Spielman couldn't figure out why they put him in backed up to the goal line. he's a turn over machine. Threet is not good (its clear we'll be starting a freshman next year), but at least he hasn't thrown 5 picks.

I still can't figure out why he puts Sheridan in there. Even Spielman couldn't figure out why they put him in backed up to the goal line. he's a turn over machine. Threet is not good (its clear we'll be starting a freshman next year), but at least he hasn't thrown 5 picks.

Threet was injured with numbness in his throwing arm. Maybe that's the reason for his inaccuracy all season. Probably not.

Maybe it could have been avoided if we weren't running him like a freaking RB.

OK, thanks. They didn't mention that at all on the broadcast.

I think I mentioned this before, but I'd be very intrigued to see what Threet could do in a pro-style offense.

He's bigger and way more athletic than Chad Henne. My guess is at some point (probably after 2009), he'll transfer like Matt Gutierrez did to a D1-AA so he can get 2 years to play in an offense that's suited to his game (without losing a year of eligibility). It's too early to say for sure, but I think it's possible he could have an NFL future. He's raw now, but he has the size, the arm, the pocket mobility, and 3 years of eligiblity left to polish his game. It's just not going to come from here.

I think I mentioned this before, but I'd be very intrigued to see what Threet could do in a pro-style offense.

He's bigger and way more athletic than Chad Henne. My guess is at some point (probably after 2009), he'll transfer like Matt Gutierrez did to a D1-AA so he can get 2 years to play in an offense that's suited to his game (without losing a year of eligibility). It's too early to say for sure, but I think it's possible he could have an NFL future. He's raw now, but he has the size, the arm, the pocket mobility, and 3 years of eligiblity left to polish his game. It's just not going to come from here.

You can't be serious.

Care to explain? Kind of hard to take your response seriously when you give me nothing to work with, Moodini.

Care to explain? Kind of hard to take your response seriously when you give me nothing to work with, Moodini.

Steven Threet, an NFL QB? He does move a bit better than Henne (not saying a whole lot), but arm strength is be no means impressive, and is terribly errratic with his throws.

I do realize he is a freshman, but I don't see a lot of upside.

Steven Threet, an NFL QB? He does move a bit better than Henne (not saying a whole lot), but arm strength is be no means impressive, and is terribly errratic with his throws.

I do realize he is a freshman, but I don't see a lot of upside.

You've got to be kidding me. Look at every recruiting profile on Threet coming out of HS, his arm strength and accuracy are his strengths! Just because it hasn't been on display here, doesn't mean he doesn't have it. Why do you think he has so few picks this year?? Thats why I said he'll likely have to transfer out of UM to a school that plays a conventional pro-style offense like Gutierrez did if Threet wants to get the opportunity to be in the NFL.

It's not hard to see that the tools are there. Albeit they're raw, but they're there.

I don't care what the recruiting profile's say...WATCH THE DAMN GAME! His arm strength is average at best. How can you say if he hasn't shown it in the game, that doesn't mean it's not there? I think the kid has a lot of moxy to keep running up the gut and getting creamed every play, but to claim he has a 'golden' arm based on his rivals scouting report is absurd. Sorry Wil, I just really think you are off base on this one.

If those are his strengths, I would hate to see what his weaknesses are.

(holding onto ball when getting hit)

How can you say if he hasn't shown it in the game, that doesn't mean it's not there?


Ummm...maybe because Rich Rod's variation of the spread doesn't involve throwing the ball downfield?

Which is why I said Threet's probably going to transfer after '09.

Threet is a typical drop-back passer. He's no Graham Harrell, he's not going to be as efficient of a passer running 90% of plays in the shotgun. If Ryan Mallett was here, we'd have the same results (except Mallett would have far less rushing yards).

Also, for some misc. notes I got from GBW...

- Carson Butler has been moved to Defensive End

- Threet had x-rays, everythings fine, he'll start on Saturday

- RR's going to balance the touches between Minor & McGuffie. Sam needs more than 4-6 carries.

- Brandon Graham guaranteed a win on Saturday. Put up or shut up...

Some info from a guy on TheWolverine, take it FWIW, but I thought it was interesting-

I'm not trying to bring him back up but I know alot of the guys on this board wanted to know the reason behind why Ronald Johnson had picked USC so this is what I got from one of his friends.

I work at UPS in Texas and one of my employees was wearing a Muskegon football shirt so I asked him where he got it since I used to live in Michigan. He said he played football for them and graduated in 2007 so I had asked if he knew Ronald Johnson(Rojo)and he said he was one of his close friends(actually showed me his number in his phone even though I didnt ask) and said they still talk. Anyway he told me that Rojo had liked Michigan at first because they were the first big program to offer and the in-state power. He then went on to tell me that Rojo's mom was very very strict on him and never let him do anything. She was always in his business and never really allowed him to just hang out and be a kid. He said that when they would all be hanging out together as friends that his mom would constantly call him and wanted to know where and what he was doing. For the most part said his mom gave him zero space. My friend told me about seeing alot of the Michigan coaches up at their school and talked about the story with Urban Meyer being at his school waiting for Rojo when he got back from an official visit or something like that. He said that Rojo loved Urban Meyer and thought he was really "hype" and really his final decision came down to USC and Florida. My friend said the last time he talked to Rojo that he loved it out at USC because he gets to live and his mom isnt always hovering over him. My friend told me that Rojo's mom really loved Michigan and if he didnt want to go there then she liked State too. He said that because Rojo's mom pushed Michigan so much that that was a big reason why he didnt want to go there. My friend said that he thinks if Rojo's mom hadn't pushed Michigan so much that Rojo probably would have went to UM. He told me that Rojo liked our program and Carr but in the end he had to get away from his mom.

Ummm...maybe because Rich Rod's variation of the spread doesn't involve throwing the ball downfield?

Which is why I said Threet's probably going to transfer after '09.


His accuracy is terrible though. If he can't hit a RB on a swing pass how is he going to hit WR's downfield? Most of the throws he's having to make in this spread are not that difficult. This isn't an air it out offense, but one based on the run and deception. He'd be even worse in a spread based on throwing down field.

He's a freshman, so he can improve those things, but he hasn't gotten any better during this year.

Here's an asshat from Scout:

"+1

I for one don't care about the streaks, if it meant winning NC. So, taking two back in order to take 3, 4, 5 forward, is just fine by me.

It's all about NCs ...... National Championships. Mostly everything is secondary."
Release the Wolverine, in Michigan Football !!!
The Maize & Blue forever !!
---------------------------------------------
Now, does the asshat realize that MSU fell completely off the map for like 40 years, and fell from far, uh, higher heights than UM has fallen from?

Does the asshat know that the tradition, the winning streaks, bowl streaks, and all of that are selling points to recruits?
Does the asshat realize that UM now looks like Nebraska, who imploded for four years and becamse completely irrelevant in a short time, and again, fell from far, uh, higher heights than UM has fallen from?

Asshats like this bury their head in the sand and just expect that people around the world think the same way he does about UM football. Well, I hope the asshat realizes that it isn't going to be any better next year, and could even be worse. And has the asshat ralized that recruiting (outside of speedy midgets that UM is using its huge name to steal from schools like Bowling Green and Indiana, and in one case, NOBODY) really isn't going very well?
Does the asshat realize that it takes talent to win, which means recruits?

Holy suck, that was hard to watch.

I couldn't turn away, though.

Holy suck, that was hard to watch.

I couldn't turn away, though.

"A typical disgusting display!"

Update:

RR is entering the history books at Michigan in his first season, but for all the wrong reasons.

Most yardage ever allowed to one player in Michigan Stadium history (Juice Williams)
Most points allowed (45 to Illinois) at Michigan Stadium since 1991 vs. Florida St.
First ever loss to a MAC school in Michigan history (Toledo)
Longest interception return for an opponent in Michigan history (Tyrrell Herbert, Toledo, 100 yds)
Most receptions for a Michigan opponent (20, Nick Moore, Toledo)
First loss to Michigan State in 7 years.
First loss to Michigan State in Michigan Stadium since 1990.
The ending of the 33 year bowl streak.
First losing season since 1967.
Failed to win consecutive games for the first time since 1962.
First loss to Northwestern in Michigan Stadium since 1995.
Most losses in one season in the history of Michigan Football. (129 years)

Not exactly getting off on the right foot.

I'm sure I missed some more too, let me know if you have anything else.

Steak Dinner?

Update:

RR is entering the history books at Michigan in his first season, but for all the wrong reasons.

Most yardage ever allowed to one player in Michigan Stadium history (Juice Williams)
Most points allowed (45 to Illinois) at Michigan Stadium since 1991 vs. Florida St.
First ever loss to a MAC school in Michigan history (Toledo)
Longest interception return for an opponent in Michigan history (Tyrrell Herbert, Toledo, 100 yds)
Most receptions for a Michigan opponent (20, Nick Moore, Toledo)
First loss to Michigan State in 7 years.
First loss to Michigan State in Michigan Stadium since 1990.
The ending of the 33 year bowl streak.
First losing season since 1967.
Failed to win consecutive games for the first time since 1962.
First loss to Northwestern in Michigan Stadium since 1995.
Most losses in one season in the history of Michigan Football. (129 years)

Not exactly getting off on the right foot.

I'm sure I missed some more too, let me know if you have anything else.

Wow, when you sum it all up like that I almost feel bad. Almost.

Update:

RR is entering the history books at Michigan in his first season, but for all the wrong reasons.

Most yardage ever allowed to one player in Michigan Stadium history (Juice Williams)
Most points allowed (45 to Illinois) at Michigan Stadium since 1991 vs. Florida St.
First ever loss to a MAC school in Michigan history (Toledo)
Longest interception return for an opponent in Michigan history (Tyrrell Herbert, Toledo, 100 yds)
Most receptions for a Michigan opponent (20, Nick Moore, Toledo)
First loss to Michigan State in 7 years.
First loss to Michigan State in Michigan Stadium since 1990.
The ending of the 33 year bowl streak.
First losing season since 1967.
Failed to win consecutive games for the first time since 1962.
First loss to Northwestern in Michigan Stadium since 1995.
Most losses in one season in the history of Michigan Football. (129 years)

Not exactly getting off on the right foot.

I'm sure I missed some more too, let me know if you have anything else.
Hey, douche, are you ready to put your money where your mouth is regarding our bet or are you going to be the loud-mouth meatchicken I suspect you are?

Hey, douche, are you ready to put your money where your mouth is regarding our bet or are you going to be the loud-mouth meatchicken I suspect you are?

Doesn't "put your money where your mouth is" mean actually making a bet? In that case, I've already done that.

If you're talking about the av, check it out.

LOL that is funny...

edit...and enjoyable at the same time.

dont be so fuckin ornery all the time buk fuk

Doesn't "put your money where your mouth is" mean actually making a bet? In that case, I've already done that.

If you're talking about the av, check it out.
Well done. A fine bit of middle ground you found there.

Heading into his first Michigan-Ohio State game — where the Wolverines are expected to extend their dubious record with a ninth loss — he tried to deliver a message to fans who have lost touch.

"It's amazing some of the things that people would say (on a message board) or yell at you of a personal nature," Rodriguez said Monday. "You almost want to tell them, 'Get a life.'

"There's a whole lot bigger problems. Look at the economy."


OMG thats funny...or is it sad? Sadly funny?

"It's amazing some of the things that people like that clown Bukdow would say [on a message board] or yell at you of a personal nature," Rodriguez said Monday. "You almost want to tell them, 'Get a life.'


Seriously, I think he's talking about Bukdow.

Interesting. In that acticle, he says he ALWAYS leaves his door open to anyone.....


http://www.ronscott.com/editorial/RonScottPieFace.jpg


I'd start locking that door right about now.

OMG thats funny...or is it sad? Sadly funny?
RR is so far in over his lil` pea-brain head I am almost feeling sorry for him.

Posted by a guy on the Wolverine who apparently has a recruiting website. Perfect summary of the "perfect storm" IMO. Pretty much what I've been saying and thinking, but this guy just said it better.


And so it ends. 3-9. Michigan’s Annus Horribilus

What went wrong? A lot. It’s pretty obvious what some of the key problems were. Here is a checklist (unfortunately, long):

- New coaching staff with new schemes, especially on offense

- A lack of the ideal type of athletes to fit the new offensive schemes (dual-threat QBs, experienced slots, athletic offensive linemen who have the quickness to get to the second level of the defense)

- An inexperienced offense with just one starter returning from 2007. This offense would have struggled irrespective as to scheme, albeit perhaps not as badly as in this transition year

- Lack of difference-maker type athletes on offense ? We need a Terrelle Pryor or Chris Wells type asap, and we wont’t have one next year

- Undermanned at the QB position ? Sheridan and Threet gave it there all and I admire them for heir perserverance. Nevertheless, the fact of the matter is that Sheridan could barely start for his high school team and is a D-III college QB at best. Threet has more pure QB skills, but lacks the intangibles to become a legit BCS QB.

- The least talented Michigan offensive line in at least half a century: In my view, here the blame primarily rests with Andy Moeller, who proved to be both a dismal recruiter and OL coach. He, and whoever else was evaluating offensive line prospects under Carr, did a very poor job of evaluating talent and developing the talent they recruited once on campus. It was tough to hide the inexperience at the offensive skill positions and lack of talent at QB with this OL.

- Key injuries on offense hampered such performers as Brandon Minor, Carlos Brown, Steve Threet, Cory Zirbel, Steve Schilling and Junior Hemingway.

- So many frosh at the skill positions: True frosh McGuffie and Shaw at TB, Odoms at slot, Stonum at WR and Koger at TE all started/were major contributors. Throw in redshirt frosh QB Threet . Freshmen make mistakes. That’s why they are freshmen.

- Poor football fundamentals: Too many fumbles, dropped passes, overthrown/underthrown passes to open receivers, poor open-field tackling. All signs of a young football team and a team in transition.

- Certain players not buying into the program. We know about the early departures of the likes of Boren and Mallett. We are just starting to learn about those who remained but did not buy in to the new staff’s program. Kates, Babb, Chambers, etc……We will soon find out.

- Defense a MAJOR disappointment. With so many talented starters returning, in my view responsibility for the defensive failures primarily rests with the staff. More specifics are below.

- Perhaps the worst third and long defense in Michigan history. How many times did we see the Michigan defense have an opposing offense on the ropes with a third and long only to see Michigan give up a big play.

- Same old, same old: Poor safety play. Benn that was the past eight years or so.

- Same old, same old: Arm-tackling and the inability to defend against the spread. We need to recruit athletes who can defend in open space and tackle in space.

- Defense giving up too many big plays. EVERY YEAR Beanie Wells breaks one for about 50 yards and a score against us. EVERY YEAR.

- Issues with the defensive coaching staff: Seems as though Shaffer was pretty much overruled by th other coaches before the Purdue game, an we all know the ugly result. I fear a schism in the staff. When the players are telling the coaches what to do it makes one wonder.

- Inconsistency. Michigan had flashes of good play. However, when the tam was bad, it was VERY BAD ? think third quarter against Ohio State, defense against Purdue, oh so many games when the offense simply stunk up the field.

- Failures in recruiting in the latter years of the Carr regime (see details below)

- Failure to develop talent in the latter years of the Carr regime (see details below)

- An unusually high attrition rate of players from recent recruiting classes which left the 2008 team with a dearth of talented upperclassmen (See details below)


Now lets take a closer look at the state of the player personnel that the current staff inherited from the Lloyd Carr regime.


Early Departures: The following players left the program early

There is no question that the rate of attrition in the 2008 and 2009 classes was unusually high. Moreover, talented youngsters such as Ryan Mallett and Justin Boren transferred.


*Losses after Rich Rodriguez named head coach
**Losses late in 2008 season

Class of 2008 (Fifth year seniors)

Adrian Arrington*
Alex Mitchell*
Jeremy Ciulla*
Brett Gallimore*
Grant DeBenedictis*
Max Martin
Roger Allison
Chris Rogers
Keston Cheatham

Arrington leaving early really hurt. The offensive line class was aMAJOR disappointment and no major loss. Allison would have been a star if he had not been injured as a freshman.




Class of 2009 (Seniors)

Mario Manningham*
Antonio Bass
James McKinney
Johnny Sears
Andre Criswell*
Chris McLaurin
Jason Forcier
Justin Schifano
Eugene Germany
Mister Simpson

What could have been in 2008 if either Bass or Focier were around to play QB. Either would have been a great fit in RichRod’s spread. Alas, Bass, a splendid athlete, suffered a career-ending injury in 2005 and Forcier transferred to Stanford back in the Lloyd-ball era of pro-style QBs.

Manningham bolted early to the NFL. McKinney, Germany and Schifano never lived up to their prep hype due to a variety of reasons.




Class of 2010 (Juniors)

Justin Boren*
Marques Slocum*
Quinton Patilla
Cobrani Mixon
Quinton Woods
Jason Kates**


Boren pulled a Benedict Arnold. Slocum, a great talent, couldn’t handle things off-the-field.




Class of 2011 (Sophomores)

Ryan Mallett*
Zion Babb**


The loss of Mallett, probably THE major loss for the 2008 season, resulted in Michigan having to go with two sub-BCS caliber QBs. Mallett may not have been an ideal fit for RichRod’s offense, but he would most certainly have performed at much higher level than Sheridan and Threatt.



Class of 2012 (Freshmen)

Marcus Witherspoon*
Taylor Hill*




A look at the 2008 team senior and junior classes:

A weak fifth-year senior class

Tim Jamison
Morgan Trent
Will Johnson
Charles Stewart
John Thompson
Mike Massey
Doug Dutch


This was a very strong class, so much so that players such as Chad Henne, Alan Branch left early for the NFL), Jamar Adams, Mike Hart and Chris Graham played as true frosh and used up all of their eligibility in 2007 Moreover, Arrington left early for the NFL.

The returning fifth-year playrers produced only three full-time starters in Jamison, Trent and Johnson.



An atrocious senior/redshirt junior class

Terrance Taylor
Zoltan Mesko
Kevin Grady
Carson Butler
Mark Ortmann
David Moosman
Tim McAvoy
Cory Zirbel
Brandon Harrison
Brandon Logan
LaTerryal Savoy


Terrance Taylor and Zoltan Mesko are he only two solid performers in this group. The offensive linemen produced some starters, but they were part of the weakest Michigan OL in at least half a century. Losing Zirbel, a fine run blockr, hurt. Grady lacks the quickness to be more than a short-yardage back. Butler is a splendid athlete, but, as my young daughter would say, he needs to get his head in the game.


An average junior/redshirt sophomore class

Brandon Graham
Steve Schilling
Obi Ezeh
Jonas Mouton
Brandon Minor
Greg Matthews
Carlos Brown
John Ferrara
Perry Dorrestein
Adam Patterson
Greg Banks
Mark Moundross
Bryan Wright
David Cone


There are six or seven solid players here. An average class by historic Michigan standards ? not great, not bad.



Elite Recruits Not Contributing

Taking a look at the top five “consensus” recruits in the four upper classes of this year’s team, it is clear that contributions from our so-called “blue-chip recruits this year have been minimal.

This is due to a combination of factors: playing as a true freshman (Chad Henne), being injured (Antonio Bass), being overrated as a prep (Brett Gallimore, Doug Dutch, Kevin Grady), leaving early for the NFL (Mario Manningham), transferring (Justin Boren, Ryan Mallett), academic issues (Marques Slocum).


Only six of the twenty “blue-chippers” made major contributions on the 2008 team, a troublesome 30% hit rate. More worrisome, however, is that five of the six were on the defensive side of the ball with just one, Schilling, on offense. Not one major contributor was an offensive skill athlete. Compare that to the Ohio State team that routed Michigan with two DIFFERENCE-MAKERS at the offensive skill positions in Chris Wells and Terrelle Pryor.


Class of 2008 (Fifth year seniors)

1. Chad Henne: Graduated
2. Tim Jamison: Starter
3. Max Martin: Transferred after being beaten out by Mike Hart
4. Brett Gallimore: Never contributed and did not return for fifth year
5. Doug Dutch: Career back-up

One out of five made a major contribution in 2008 (Jamison) with no difference-maker

Class of 2009 (Seniors)

1. Kevin Grady: Back-up. Plagued by injuries, but never he super he was touted to be as a prep
2. Antonio Bass: Career-ending injury in 2005
3. Mario Manningham: Left early for the NFL
4. Justin Schifano: Career back-up. Quit due to injuries
5. Terrance Taylor: Solid career as a three-year starter

One out of five made a major contribution in 2008 (Taylor) with no difference-maker


Class of 2010 (Juniors)

1. Brandon Graham: Star DE
2. Steve Schilling: Two-year starter on the OL
3. Justin Boren: Transferred to Ohio State after starting as a sophomore
4. Marques Slocum: Left school and was never a major contributor
5. Jonas Mouton: Starter at OLB

Three out of five made a major contribution in 2008 (Graham, Schilling, Mouton) with one difference-maker (Graham)


Class of 2011 (Sophomores)

1. Ryan Mallett: Transferred to Arkansas
2. Donovan Warren: Starter at CB
3. Ryan Van Bergen: Key reserve on the DL
4. Martell Webb: Saw limited time
5. Junior Hemingway: Saw time but hampered by injuries

One out of five started (Warren). Too early to say who will be a difference-maker



The Future: What needs to be done


Recruit like crazy. No ifs, ands or buts. Michigan needs players, players and more players. Michigan was totally outmatched by Ohio State. This needs to be THE FOCUS the next couple of months.


Action Points for RR:

1) Recruit, recruit, recruit
2) Changes in defensive staff
3) Focus on fundamentals - tackling, blocking, holding onto the ball -in spring drills
4) Give ALL first team reps to Forcier and/or Beaver in spring drills. No use wasting reps on Threet and Sheridan. The future is now.
5) Recruit, recruit, recruit (at least RR can sell immediate PTt)



My Take on Recruiting

Class of 2009 recruiting is looking good, not great. That could change if Michigan closes with the likes of William Campbell (actually they need Campbell to even be under consideration for being great), Taylor Lewan, Quintoin Washington and Vlad Emilien.

Recruiting under the RichRod regime is most certainly different than it was under Lloyd. There is a much greater emphasis on the South, where the coaching staff has strong relationships, while in-state recruiting has suffered.

My major concerns with recruiting the Deep South are that a higher percentage of these prospects tend to de-commit compared to prospects from north of the Mason-Dixon Line.

Under Lloyd, Michigan had very few de-commitments. On the other hand, expect Michigan to land more prospects who have de-committed from other schools. As RichRod has said, to him a verbal commitment simply tells him who the main competition will be. Last year Michigan signed several prospects who de-committed from other schools. It will be interesting to see whether that was a one year anomaly due to the new coaching staff starting late or whether we will see additional switches in Michigan’s favor come February.

My two major concerns when it comes to recruiting is that the current Michigan staff relies too much on relationships with high school coaches and are i) not recruiting heavily enough in Michigan and ii) not taking a systematic approach in identifying underclass recruiting prospects.

With respect to Michigan, failure to not recruit well in-state is a dangerous strategy. Granted, Michigan does not produce the talent of Florida, Texas, California or neighboring Ohio and Pennsylvania. Nevertheless, many of Michigan’s key difference-makers have come from Michigan. It has been much easier for Michigan to land difference-makers from in-state than from outside the state. RichRod cannot let these prospects go to Michigan State, Ohio State and Notre Dame.

Just think of how good Michigan would have been in recent years WITHOUT Braylon Edwards, Jake Long, Brandon Graham, Terrance Taylor, Lamarr Woodley, Dave Harris, and Gabe Watson. Worse, think about how much better Michigan State would have been WITH these players.

With respect to not taking a systematic approach toward identifying underclass talent, I have a specific example.

As some of you know, I run a recruiting service that specializes in identifying underclass prospects for college programs. I have over 50 BCS clients. These clients pay a lot of money to have access to my database. Some recent national champions, for example, are logged into my database daily for at least 3-4 hours per day.

As a fan, I have provided Michigan with free access to my database. The problem is, other than an assistant RC taking a look at it for 10 minutes, they have not bothered to use it. This breaks my heart, especially as programs that beat us by scores such as 42-7 are regular users.

Now, what is really weird about this is that someone in the Michigan staff is regularly looking at my free fan-oriented blog site (I can tell this by tracking down the ISP address). My blog only posts a very small sampling (1/1000th) of what I have in my database for colleges. I can’t believe that they are wasting their time looking at my blog when far superior information is available to them for free in my database. It’s like they are settling for hamburger helper when they can have filet mignon. Odd but disconcerting.

So Michigan had better be doing a systematic job of identifying top underclassmen and establishing relationships with them asap. They had better know about such frosh as Tony Gant’s son, Kenny Mouton’s son, super RB Rushel Shell and Ty Darlington. They had better know about super soph slot Tacoi Sumler, OLB Steve Miller. DB Greg Brown, and DB Sheroid Evans. There any many more. If they don’t have these kids on their radar, they are not doing their job.

^^that's a ton of solid information to chew on...theres just so many things that contributed to making this season such a bust, some of them Rich Rod had control of, and others he didn't...

regardless, I'm just glad it's over...

it can only get better from here...right??

I have a few thoughts...


No Huddle Offense- yeah our defense was less than stellar this year, but look at this trend. With all these lightning quick 3 and outs our offense has, it's only a matter of time before the defense begins to run out of gas. Look at how well our defense did in the first half of several games we lost (Penn St, Toledo, Illinois, Ohio St, Purdue, Northwestern, Michigan St) in each of those losses we we're within 1 score, or had the lead at the half. But when they're spending twice as much time out on the field in the 2nd half than they normally would under a traditional 'huddle' offense, I think it's a huge part of why the defense ultimately get's so tired down and can't finish games. I'm not saying we would've won all those games, but at the very least...the defense got no help.


Special Teams: I could not believe how many turnovers we had on special teams. It was unreal. The inability to hang on to the football was just a complete joke. KC Lopata was also another player who was downright brutal this year. He had a great game in Minnesota, but that was it. He missed extra points, chip shot FG's Vs. Toledo, and so on. Michigan has had problems with kicking FG's in the past during the Phil Brabbs & Troy Nineberg ERA, so it's not really anything new, but you just can't leave points on the field.

Instate Recruiting: I'm getting tired of hearing some people say that it's critical RR establish stronger recruiting relationships within the state of Michigan. First of all, since when has Michigan been a hotbed of legitimate, five star, NCAA D1 talent? News to me. Sure, this state produces their occasional 5 star athlete (who either ends up at UM or out of state), but past that, there's nothing to get excited about.


QB: RR doesn't have much of a free pass next year. He better hope Forcier & Shav enroll in January so they can at least get somewhat of a leg up on the playbook. I'll be absolutely shocked if Tate's not under center in UM's '09 opener. I'm not saying he's the answer, but if RR's going to be stubborn and run his offense, he better use the QB who's better suited to do it. If he has Threet under center next year, and Tate's on the bench, he has no excuse to say he doesn't have the right personnel to make his shit work.

The thing that gives me faith is knowing that the offense can't be any worse next year. I know we're going to have a true freshman QB, but having a QB that can run will be a threat. Neither Beaver or Forcier are going to set the world on fire, but giving the defense something to think about and making linebackers have to question who has the ball for a half a second can't hurt the likes of Shaw, McGuffie, Touissant, Brown and Minor. I think it'll help having some competition in practice at major positions. Who do you think pushed the guys on offense for time? I think Ferrara, Molk, Dorrestein and Ortmann will actually be pushed by the underclassmen linemen and that'll make for some interesting decisions.

The one thing that bugged me a little bit was the lack of creativity on the offensive side (especially when things got bad). Where were the jet sweeps with McGuffie in the slot or how come we went away from the option reverse after the first four games? Why didn't we have Carlos Brown running QB with Minor in the backfield or Mike Shaw handing off to Sam McGuffie. The only cool things we did was run the "Lloyd Carr Diamond Formation" and throw a quick screen or have the QB run a draw that sucked. While I'm bitching where is the RB screen to a cat like McGuffie or Carlos Brown in space...........why does it always have to be the bubble screen (can we throw it any worse BTW).

P.S. Did anyone NOT know we were going to roll out Sheridan on 3rd and Long and that he would bounce a pass to a WR 9 out of 10 times??? That play became the new "Stretch Left by Lloyd."

ALL THAT SAID............I BELIEVE IN RICH RODRIGUEZ. I'VE HEARD HIM TALK AT A COACHES CLINIC AND I THINK HE IS VERY CHARISMATIC AND CAN RECRUIT KIDS. I THINK THIS OFFENSE WILL BE BETTER WITH EXPERIENCE AND THAT WILL HELP THE DEFENSE. I BELIEVE!!!

ALL THAT SAID............I BELIEVE IN RICH RODRIGUEZ. I'VE HEARD HIM TALK AT A COACHES CLINIC AND I THINK HE IS VERY CHARISMATIC AND CAN RECRUIT KIDS. I THINK THIS OFFENSE WILL BE BETTER WITH EXPERIENCE AND THAT WILL HELP THE DEFENSE. I BELIEVE!!!

I'm with you, even though it's pretty much based on blind faith and a tattered WalMart circular.

I read today that Brandon Graham is expected to return. If true, that's a big boost to next year's defense. Putting him and Van Bergen together with Max Martin and anyone isn't as big of a dropoff as I expected. Especially if Lalota, Graves, Roh, or Campbell (if he recommits) are able to contribute at anywhere near the level Martin did as a true frosh.

Looks like we are recruiting a JUCO defensive end to come in and help immediately. I'm guessing they aren't huge fans of the backup DE's that we have on the roster for next year.

I'd like to see UM pick and choose from the Jucos out there. RR had to have developed a good eye for talent while at WVU, and I imagine that Juco talent is something he kept that eye on. You don't want to go overboard on them, but then again, there's too many good ones out there to ignore.

I think the existing depth at DE is not great. Van Bergen is alright, but hasn't been an every down DE at this level yet. Graham is a stud, Butler wasn't bad once he switched over, but that's it. Incoming freshmen have potential and may have a big impact, but you can't depend on it. It could end up being a very strong position, but multiple layers of insurance is always a good idea.

Van Bergen sucks, I'd rather see Roh or LaLota thrown into the fire than see RVB start.

I'd like to see UM pick and choose from the Jucos out there. RR had to have developed a good eye for talent while at WVU, and I imagine that Juco talent is something he kept that eye on. You don't want to go overboard on them, but then again, there's too many good ones out there to ignore.

I agree that it would be nice for Michigan to go after some JUCO's from time to time, but I heard RR talking about this subject last week and he said that he is pretty hancuffed because of academics. 95% of the classes at the JUCO level don't transfer to Michigan so its quite rare to find a kid that has transferrable classes and the ability to play at Michigan.

He hinted at the fact that he had a JUCO QB lined up last year, but the kid balked at Pryor and the fact that Pryor waited weeks after signing day squashed any chance of the kid becoming blue.

Carson Butler's not coming back. I can't blame him, he goes from starting TE under Lloyd to buried on the depth chart at UM. Once Koger took the TE spot, Butler tried to convert into a DE, but that's not going to work out.

If there was any player who clearly was hurt by the offensive scheme, it was Carson Butler. Perhaps he should've played basketball afterall.

Does anyone else get an erection at the thought of Koger catching passes down the middle of the field for the next three years? No? Oh well.
I hope Rodriguez finds a QB and figures out a way to use the tight end (unlike his days at WVU). If they can have that passing play as a threat, any and all options IN SPACE will open up exponentially.
Do you guys remember when Nebraska was good? They used the tight end as a weapon and the play was open every time they, uh, played it. It opened up the option also. I know many guys were walking around with erections here over how much of a weapon the tight end at Nebraska was. Even women were walking around with swollen labia and clitori.

I wished RR used the TE more too. That was something I liked about Lloyd Carr, when we had trouble getting the ball to David Terrell or Braylon or whoever was WR, guys like Bennie Joppru or Tim Massaquoi or Tyler Ecker we're running safety dump routes and would rip off a 15-20+ yarder once or twice a game.

TE play is non-existent in RR's offense. For whatever reason...

Hard to believe that it was less than a year ago that UM beat Florida.

Hard to believe that it was less than a year ago that UM beat Florida.

Are you saying they couldn't do it this year?

Scott Shafer has resigned as Defensive Coordinator. As of right now there is no leader to replace him, but WOTS is that it will NOT come from within.

I'd fancy Jon Tenuta...

Shafer resigned = Shafer got fired

I'd fancy Jon Tenuta...

Shafer resigned = Shafer got fired

I would be ecstatic if we got Jon Tenuta to come in and run our defense. I really appreciate his aggressive approach to pressuring teams. I think defenders really like having the abiity to go after the other team in that type of way. Plus we spent the last three years getting all these "fast" players on defense maybe we could let them loose.

P.S. Any chance Stevie Brown breaks his leg in 9 different places and can't play EVER again?!?

Izzo for UM DC

Michigan is 100% running the 3-3-5 next season. Its being rumored on a few sites that a bunch of the incoming freshmen blew the secret by telling everyone this. Mike Jones is being recruited to play the "rover" position which is the SS/OLB/DE position on the field. I don't know which possible DC's have experience with the 3-3-5, but my guess would be that would be priority #1 in the hiring.

In a 3-3-5, would Mike Martin & Will Campbell split time at the nose?

Brandon Graham & Ryan Van Bergen on the ends.

You know who would've been ideal for the 3-3-5 is Marques Slocum. If he could've kept his head on straight, he'd have been a beast at nose tackle.

Too bad he f'ed that up.

In a 3-3-5, would Mike Martin & Will Campbell split time at the nose?

Brandon Graham & Ryan Van Bergen on the ends.

You know who would've been ideal for the 3-3-5 is Marques Slocum. If he could've kept his head on straight, he'd have been a beast at nose tackle.

Too bad he f'ed that up.

I can't give you a 100% yes, but that would be my guess. One scenario I could see is MM playing some Defensive End due to his quickness. The reason why coaches like it is simply because you get more speed on the field and to each his own. I think if you can find a 6'4", 220 lb "rover" with 4.4 speed than you are okay, but the best way to beat it is to simply run right at it. I think the teams like Purdue, Penn State and Illinois will have more trouble than Iowa, Wisky and MSU against this type of defense.

I think if you can find a 6'4", 220 lb "rover" with 4.4 speed than you are okay.


Or get a 'BANDIT' like SirDarean Adams!

Or get a 'BANDIT' like SirDarean Adams!

HA HA HA HA HA, great post T.

P.S. Where is SirDarean these days?

"We just had a mutual decision," Shafer told the Free Press. "We had different thoughts on the way we did things. I take full responsibility for the demise of where Michigan's program is at this time."

Can you say, "passive aggressive"? lol

Jay Hopson's name is getting kicked around quite a bit

In a 3-3-5, would Mike Martin & Will Campbell split time at the nose?

Brandon Graham & Ryan Van Bergen on the ends.

You know who would've been ideal for the 3-3-5 is Marques Slocum. If he could've kept his head on straight, he'd have been a beast at nose tackle.

Too bad he f'ed that up.

It's always possible that they would concentrate on Campbell on the O-Line.

Personally, I would like a line that is so stinkin aggressive that players have to be replaced every single down in order to stay fresh.

I don't really like the 3-3-5, so I hope I don't have to scream much about it for the next several years. It seems too much risk/reward. I hope they practice enough 4-3 sets to be able to make in-game adjustments when necessary.