Michigan Friday: Tate Continues To Have More Questions Then Answers

Editors note: The BHB hoster has been down for awhile, so that is why some older posts were up.  Sorry for the inconvenience.  


Tate Forcier is a confused young man and I feel bad about his situation, not for the decisions he has made.

He was groomed early on to be a QB. He liked the recruiting process but wanted to be a Michigan QB and got an offer, enrolled early, lite up the Spring Game and caused the starter from the year before to transfer. Home School to High School Football to Michigan’s starting QB in a couple of months.

He starts the season and has a nice comeback win against ND and overnight had become a media sweetheart. This is where it all fell apart with Tate on the field and off. He became a superstar and as Michigan’s season turned bad, it seems his life off the field didn’t. After the season, there was rumors he hadn’t worked out with his teammates at all. Troy Woolfolk threw him under the bus at the Big Ten Media Days and Tate didn’t even have “Wings” on his helmet as he started fall practice.

To his credit he worked hard to get back in his teammates and coaches good graces but during the first games of the season Devin Gardner seemed to be the #2 QB not Tate. By mid-season Tate was clearly the #2 and even led Michigan to a win over Illinois which made Michigan eligible for a bowl game.

Rumors swirled he was having issues in the classroom and that he might not make it to Jacksonville for the Gator Bowl. He does a story with the Free Press saying things were good in the classroom and he was attending class. He was sent home two days later and didn’t play in the game.

The next day, RR at the Gator Bowl Press Conference basically said, he didn’t know what Tate’s status was at U of M as student. The rumor was he wasn’t going to class at all, which of course could not be confirmed.

Brady Hoke is hired and within days Tate is not welcomed back to the team after he goes to the media saying he wanted to stay at Michigan and that Michigan didn’t want him. After a couple of visits, Tate picks University of Miami as his next school.

Today we learn that Tate is not expected to transfer to Miami due to personal issues and that he hasn’t been on campus since his recruiting visit. This is another sad example of a talented kid with the wrong priorities. Seems ironic that Tate and Denard were in the same recruiting class and are complete opposites.

• Michigan – ND Night Game will be televised on ESPN 8:00PM kickoff.

It wasn't about everyone pulling in the same direction

I have now heard and read a couple of interviews by Rich Rodriguez since he was fired at Michigan.  He pretty much has repeated the same themes in both interviews.  Including an interview from today's ESPN Radio's show The Herd:

#1: He was disappointed that he didn't have more time
#2: The worst was past us and nothing but up side from here
#3: Everyone wasn't pulling in the same direction.

These are exactly why he didn't work out at Michigan.  He didn't get it and I pretty much agree with his 3 points.  Let me first break down why his 3 points are only sort of right:

#1 More Time:  Ok, 3 years might not have been enough but it's what he did in those 3 years.   Year 1 was a complete throw away now looking back.  If you remember, Michigan had a good defense that year and an offense that was lead by two QB's who were off the team the next year.   A complete waste of a year.  His "all in approach" on the recruitment of Pryor was a huge mistake.  His only back up plan was a Slot WR who preferred selling drugs then playing QB.  You can't tell me there wasn't another QB that year that RR and staff could have found in the 6 weeks they had.  Hoke and Company found one in two weeks.

Year 2 should have been Year 1 and son on.  That wasted year hurt his chances in David Brandon's office in early January.

#2 The Worst Was Behind Us?  I get his point.  21 starters coming back.  Guys back from injury on defense and the MVP of the league in his 3rd year.  This was his only real point in trying to save his job.  Having a Heisman Trophy candidate in Denard and those guys back from injury could equal a good 2011 campaign.   The problem I have with this statement is two things.  Defensive Coordinators and The Gator Bowl.   RR if retained would of had his 3rd DC in 4 years.   His clear lack of attention and bad DC hires killed any chance RR had at saving his job.  Defense is important and his bad hires, killed any chances of him saving his job. 

The second part is the Gator Bowl.  Michigan last year got worse as the year went on, not better.  In fact, you could probably make that case for all the Michigan teams under RR.  Having a month to prepare to work on defense fundamentals and everything else and then to get blown out by a fairly one dimensional mid tier SEC schools is un-acceptable.   To quote a reporter who I was sitting next to in the press box.  "all this game did, was make David's Brandon's decision and easy one".   I agreed with him and David's decision now.

#3: Everyone pulling in the same direction:  Sure RR had people against him from the beginning.  I never understood what the Freep had against him but his ride to the Michigan job was messy and full of accidents at every turn.   These events are off the top of my head, I'm sure there are plenty of others that I left out:

• WVU fans up in arms after he left for the Michigan job
• Allegations of shredding documents and lost player records
• The loss of QB Ryan Mallett
• Contesting his buyout from WVU
• Losing Pryor to Ohio State
• 3-9 Year 1
• Freep Allegations
• NCAA Investigation and Penalty
• Getting sued for a bad condo deal
• 5-7 Year 2
• 7-6 Year 3
• Josh Groban Fan Club Meeting
• Blow Out loss in the Bowl Game
• 0-3 vs. OSU and MSU
• Getting sued on the purchase of his home in West Virgina the day he was fired from Michigan.

If just one of the things happened under his watch, it wouldn't of been a big deal.  All of them together is a big deal.   I'm not sure the stance that everyone was not pulling in the same direction with all the history makes a lot of sense.  If RR was 10-2 and beating Michigan rivals he would still be the coach.  He didn't and he isn't.   Bottom line.

So RR take a gig at ESPN or CBS College Sports and save us the Michigan talk.  It's been a month, we have moved on and so should you.   Good luck at your next stop.

Michigan Thursday: Gives my $.02 on the Next Head Coach at Michigan

I'm sure all of you like me have been taking a lot of time thinking about who the next Michigan head coach might/should be. 

I would like to get a few things out of the way first:

1. Jimmy is not coming here.  The Dolphins owner is willing to pay him the highest contact in the NFL and the 49ers are probably will get close to that number as well.
2. Kurt Herstreit is not to be trusted with any Michigan coaching rumors.  He still would be "shocked" if Harbaugh isn't Michigan's next coach.
3. I'm betting that Desmond Howard will be giving David Brandon a lot of advice on this hire.  He was the only person that was in contact with David Brandon between the two RR meetings this week.
4. I don't see a viable "Michigan Man" option.  IMO you don't fire Rich Rod and hire Brady Hoke.   That would be going from a Cadillac (ok one that didn't run great all the time) to a Taurus when you are willing to spend more money on a car above the Cadillac.   They are both good cars but not in the same class. 
5. I'm basing this decision on guys who I think would consider the job and willing to take it.  Also someone that would be willing to be announced as the next head coach by this weekend.  

Here are my top two candidates:

#1 Pat Fitzgerald: Pat is the best young coach in the Big Ten.  He has Big Ten experience and has a great relationship with his players.  He has learned to be a HC on Northwesterns dime and will continue to be a great HC.  He is young and runs the spread, which would keep Denard happy.  He also was a good Big Ten linebacker and would make sure Michigan's re-built it's defense.   Northwestern is his school and I'm not sure he would want to leave for another Big Ten school that has competed against.  Michigan would probably could double his salary.  His current DC also played under Bo at Michigan.

#1A Kyle Wittingham:  Kyle has been the head coach of Utah for 6 years.  A couple of years ago he had an undefeated team that beat both Michigan and Alabama.  He has been able to keep Utah a ranked program after Urban Meyer left for Florida.  He is 51 and has a lot of coaching years left.  He is a hard nose guy that could really re-build the toughness this team has been lacking.   He also runs the spread and would be a good fit with the current Michigan personnel.   Would he be willing to move to the Big 10 with Utah set to move t#o the PAC 12 next year?  Michigan would be able to more then double his $1.2M salary.   He is also an Urban Meyer disciple.

If I'm David Brandon, those are two phone calls that I make for sure.

Michigan Gator Bowl Recap: Leaves More Questions Then Answers

So Michigan and Rich Rodriguez had a bad day on Saturday.  I happened to be at the game and didn't have a very good day either.  I got a call before the game that my sump pump and back up pump had both failed and that my basement was full of water.   Yes, it's a finished basement.  Then Michigan goes out and gets embarrassed by an average or below average SEC team.   I drove back all night and now back home.   Fun Times.

Not much to recap in that beat down on Saturday.  Michigan started fast on offense in the first quarter and then didn't score again.  Michigan got a punt blocked and RR tried a field goal for some reason.   The defense couldn't have stopped MSU if they played with 12 players all day.   It was a complete disaster, in every aspect of the game.  Hey, at least Devin didn't blow his medical redshirt!!  

Denard and RR both spoke after the game.  Denard is a humble young man that was clearly upset on how he and his team played in his home state.   Rich looked like a dead man walking.  The press who usually doesn't hold back in press conferences, had a hard time even asking him questions.  He looked like a defeated man with out answers. 

So now what?  I have been a long time supporter of Rich on this blog.  My takes have been that he is a good coach who has had some bad luck and 2 poor hiring decisions at defensive coordinator.   I still think he is a good coach but now I'm resigned to the fact that he is not going to be successful at Michigan.   This week I got to spend some time with parents of the kids on the team and most talk very highly of the Michigan coaching staff.  That they truly are a family and that Rich and staff are the perfect mix of knowing when to break a kid down and then build him back up.   I think Rich could be very successful at Pitt , Clemson or Maryland or some other place that doesn't have the expectations that Michigan does.

The reason, I have left the RR Express is due to a couple of things.  #1 This team is not getting better, they are getting worse as time goes by.  Michigan had 6 weeks to prepare for a 1 dimensional offense and couldn't stop the run when everyone knew they were going to run.   #2 The offensive game plan was terrible and this high flying offense didn't execute outside the 1st quarter.  Every team that plays Denard is going to stop the run, if you can't have an effective passing game to counter that, you are not going to score too many points.  There is no excuse for the state of Michigan's special teams, none. 

Yesterday was a complete embarrassment for the entire University and I think most of us are tired of being embarrassed.  It started with App. State and continues with 0-3 records to MSU and OSU and now the Gator Bowl.

I still think RR is has a great offensive mind but his downfall at Michigan will be his decisions at defensive coordinator.  He has always looked for a defensive "head coach" so he could focus on developing his young offensive players.  He is 0-2 in that strategy and I believe it will now cost him his job.  

If RR is out, who is in?  That is the big question.  It's either Jim or RR stays another year with a complete overall of the defensive coaching staff.  I would buy an RR and say a Marvin Lewis or Randy Shannon at DC.  Both of those guys would come with a decent pay check but I think we are that point if we don't land Harbaugh.   Illinois had some success doing a 100% overall of their assistant coaching staff this year.   

The rumor mill is that everybody and their brother are interested in Harbaugh.  Denver Broncos, 49'ers, Carolina, and Michigan.  He is the clearly the #1 candidate out there and some NFL teams are going to throw big dollars at him.  It will be interesting to see how David Brandon plays this one out.  I'm willing to bet a $1 he won't fire RR without having Jimmy locked up.   The press box at the Gator Bowl was full of rumors that Maryland might be interested in RR and now maybe even Pitt.  Could a former WVU player and head coach be the head coach at Pitt?  Would that be like Harbaugh coaching at Ohio State?


Is Brady Hoke an option?  I think he might be more of an option then at this time on Friday.  I still think Brady is a bit of a stretch for this job.  I know Bo was from Miami of Ohio and Miami of Florida just hired a guy from Temple, but does a couple good seasons at Ball State and San Diego State make you ready for the Michigan job?  I'm leaning towards, probably not.


What about Denard?  During the press conference Denard gave the "no comment" to whether he would stay at Michigan if Rich was no longer the coach.  That isn't a ringing endorsement for a new coach.  If I'm Harbaugh and I come to Michigan, I run an offense that caters to Denard's skill set. 

My biggest concern at Michigan right now are the kids on the team and this recruiting class.  RR will be fine with a $2.5M check and probably a new job within a week.  Denard is a special young man that has time to sign every autograph and takes blame for every loss.  He is a hard worker and kid you want representing Michigan.   I worry about him and others like him on the team. 

I'm less concerned about former backup QB's who think they are the big man on campus and don't even need to show up for class.   I don't have anything official but I'm expecting that he has flunked out of Michigan by not going to class.

The man with the plan and the answers seems to be David Brandon.  I'm guessing he won't be going on any sailboat trips this week. 

Side Note:  Herbie if you have a "scoop" on Michigan's next head coach.  Please keep it to yourself or give it to Joe Schad

*** Dee Hart has de-committed from Michigan again and has committed to Alabama.  Too bad he was at Alabama's practice all week which is a violation and could make him ineligible to play for the Crimson Tide.  The hits just keep coming!

Below looks like a goodbye hug between Barwis and Lewan.

Michigan Thursday: Recuriting and The Wolverines Holiday Plans

There is a Jack Tabb recruiting update from Sam Webb at the Detroit News.  Rich Rod just did an in home with Jack last week:  "It was definitely good to have him here," Tabb said regarding the Wolverines' head man. "He stayed for a good long time. He talked again about how they need me and how they'd use me in their offense."  Jake and his mom visited Ann Arbor in November and really enjoyed their experience.   Jack was thinking about making a decision this week but is going to hold off until after the holidays.  If I had to guess it is because he wants to see what happens with RR job situation.

It's interesting to see RR and staff recruit TE's in this class.  When RR came to Michigan he really didn't use Tight Ends but with the talent Michigan had at that position he has found a nice place for them in his offense.  Let's hope Jack makes a decision to Go Blue in the new year.

• Breaking News: Is that Antonio Kinard a 2010 LB recruit who went to prep schools to get his grades up and a qualifying test score has qualified.   There is some question whether the Michigan coaches would give him 1 of the 7 remaining spots in the 2011 class but he is an athletic 6'4 210 pounds LB and Michigan sure does need those.  I expect Antonio is trying to contact the Michigan coaches right now to give them the good news.  If Michigan sures everything up with Antonio he plans to enroll at Michigan in a couple of weeks.  This is good news!

• Michigan Players are probably heading home for Christmas and will jump on the charter flight on the 26th to head down to Jacksonville.  Some of players will meet the Wolverines in Florida.  The Wolverines will be practicing at Jacksonville University during the week. 

• Alabama says there is nothing to see here - regarding the story about them putting thousands of dollars into Dr. Phillips field and locker room.    Ok, I get that but I'm pretty sure Ha'sean Clinton-Dix was quoted as saying he was going to take in an Alabama practice while they are at his school, which would be a recruiting violation.   So I guess the "gray area" is what happens if Ha'sean and Dee stop by and watch but weren't invited or they don't speak to anyone. 

• 2012 CB from Washington DC, Kenny Crawley has a Michigan offer.

• Jim's brother John (head coach of the Baltimore Ravens), thinks Jimmy is focused on the Orange Bowl, having a baby and wants to stay at Stanford. 

• Is Michigan's next coach on TV tonight?  I highly doubt it.  But Brady Hoke and his San Diego State squad takes the field/pool against Navy tonight.  The reason I say "pool" is because due to high rains in San Diego the field and parking lot are flooded.  They expect the game to go ahead as planned tonight.  

• This site thinks Tony Gibson is over paid at $231,000 a year since he coaches the special teams and the Michigan secondary.  Both units are ranked very low nationally.  I tell you one thing, the guy can recruit!

• Darian Cooper, DT will wait to see what happens before he seriously considers Michigan or dropping them from his list.

• Michigan Basketball plays Bryant tonight on the BTN at 6:00.  This win will increase the Wolverines record to 10-2 with it's only two loses coming in a bad weekend in New Jersey.   This will be the last game before the Wolverines start their Big Ten season.  When the holidays are behind us, please go to the games and support this young exciting team.

I really don't want to touch the Ohio State Tattoo thing.  It seems Kansas State basketball was caught with something similar.  These things happen at all big time programs.  It really does.  So take it for what it's worth.  On a side note, stretching and having QC staffers coach is a worth 3 years of probation.  As they say on ESPN's NFL Countdown:  Come On, Man!

I also don't want to touch the Rex Ryan feet thing but there aren't any truth to the reports/rumors that he is interested in signing former Michigan linebacker Larry Foote.

Michigan - Illinois Preview

Time: High Noon
Location: Big House
TV: ESPN
Line:  Illinois +3
Weather:  43/30 Partly Cloudy

Sometime Vegas lines make you scratch your head and say, "are you kidding me!"  It's like an invitation for a non-gambler to find a sports book on-line and put down this months mortgage on the game.  The Michigan - Illinois game seems like the one game to jump on.  Michigan is favored by 3 points.  This line reminds me of when Oregon came to town and Mike Hart had a bad ankle after the App. State disaster and Michigan was favored.   We all remember what happened in that game. 

Let's take a quick look at some common opponents:

Both Teams Lost to MSU.  Michigan lost 34-17, Illinois lost 26-6

Both teams beat IU:  Michigan 42-35, Illinois 43-13

Illinois beat Penn State (in Happy Valley) 33-13, Michigan lost in Happy Valley 41-31


What does that tell us?
Michigan sure does have a way of making offenses look good.  Zook and company held IU to 13 points, Michigan couldn't hold them under 30.   Illinois beat Penn State on the road when their 1st string QB was playing, Michigan got lit up by their back up.   Those are terrible signs for this game.


Tale of the Tape:

Michigan Offense vs Illinois D = Advantage Blue.  Michigan should be able to score points against this improving defense.

Illinois Offensive vs Michigan D =  Sad Panda.  Michigan's defense showed up in Ann Arbor last Saturday Night for a game in Happy Valley.  It was maybe the worst showing of a Michigan defense since before Fritz Crisler roamed the sideline.   Now, Michigan's only experienced corner is out for the year after hurting his ankle in practice this week.  That means former HS QB Courtney Avery will be filling his shoes and hopefully covering WR's and not looking to pass to them.

Special Teams = Advantage Zook.  Michigan seemed to have worked out the kickoff issues but their last decent return was in 2009.  Michigan's field goal kicking is very suspect, but he did make one last game! If Michigan can catch the ball, not fumble, make a field goal and all the extra points, then that is a small win for the Maize and Blue.

Intangibles = Push.  There isn't a team that needs a victory more then Michigan and Illinois is improving every week.   This is a classic match up of Hot vs Cold.  How desperate are the Wolverines? is the question of the day. 

Illinois is not afraid of this Michigan team at all.  Two years ago they won in the Big House.  Last year, with me in the stands Roy Roundtree looks to have scored on a long slant play but was called down on the 1.  Michigan couldn't get it in end zone and Illinois took over the game.  Those plays cost Michigan the game and a trip to a bowl game.

Sing Hail to the Victors if..........

• Denard is healthy the entire game
• Michigan mixes the run and pass to keep Illinois off balance
• Michigan doesn't turn the ball over on offense
• The Michigan D can get a handful of stops (maybe some field goals?)
• The Michigan D can pick up a fumble or pick (haven't had one since IU game)
• Michigan doesn't spot Zook 30 points before they decided to play

Say, I thought it was supposed to be Zook's year to get fired if...............

• Michigan's Defense is well Michigan Defense from the PSU game
• Michigan doesn't grab a quick lead in the shoot out
• Illinois scores touchdowns instead of field goals
• Michigan only has 9 offensive possessions.
• Courtney Avery looks like a QB playing corner

Michigan hasn't kept a Big Ten team under 30 points this entire year.  IU 35, MSU 34, Iowa 38, PSU 41 what makes you think they will keep Illinois under 30?  Nothing.  Illinois has a young mobile QB and they will attack Michigan's defense in a similar way that Michigan will attack Illinois.  There will be a number of QB read draws, hand offs to the running backs and 7-15 yard throws.   This is the exact formula that has been beating Michigan the last 3 games.   The only difference is this QB is mobile and we have a true freshman starting at corner that was a QB last year.

Can Michigan win this game?  Sure if they get some stops on defense.  Which in my mind means turnovers, punts, and field goals.   This team needs to play desperate football because their season is at stake.   RR can't waste offensive possessions and there needs to be some 4th down gambles.  Michigan has to pretty much be able to score on every drive.  The Michigan offense just needs to protect the ball and score points in both half's.  No more slow starts.   As for the defense, who the hell knows?  Maybe a blind squirrel will find a nut in this game.  Or maybe Illinois is just the better all around team right now.  Illinois 34 Michigan 28

Dear Karma,
Thank you for the relief this week with the NCAA.  Us Michigan fans needed some good news.  I appreciate you throwing us a bone after the JT Floyd injury.   That really helped round off a not so good week.  

I don't want to sound un-grateful but I need a favor.  Michigan has 5 wins right now and needs at least 1 more win to be bowl eligible.   As you might understand, I'm not asking for a holiday trip to Texas, Florida or even Downtown Detroit.    I'm asking because the kids on this team deserve it.  I'm asking for Denard and the hours he put in over the summer to get better, I am asking for David Molk who would rather walk on broken glass then take another loss, I am asking for Troy Woolfolk who hurt his ankle in the pre-season and has never seen the field this year.   These kids have worked hard for a couple of years and the most exciting place they have visited is Iowa City and as you might have imagined Karma, that's not very exciting city.   Not only do they deserve a reward but they also need two more weeks of practice.  They have lost a months worth of practices the last two years and really need the time to help them learn the positions and just to be a better football team.   

So here is the ask:  Can we please have two wins the next two weeks?  Yes, I know about Greg Robinson and the defense.  Yes, I understand how hard that will be but if you remember you granted a similar wish a couple years ago against Minnesota for the Little Brown Jug.   That is the request I put forward to you.  

Thank you for listening and I will look for your answer on Saturday at about 3:30.

Yours Truly,
BigHouse Bob 

Michigan - Penn State Preview

Date: Halloween Eve
Location: Happy Valley
Time: 8:00 EST
TV:  ESPN
Weather:  High 54, Low 37 Partly Cloudy
Line: Michigan -3

Michigan is coming off a bye week after 2 losses in a row.  Penn State got a win over the coach less Minnesota Golden Gophers last week where they gave up 433 total yards. So what do you make of that?  I think neither team is where they want to be and that is competing for a Big Ten Championship.   Both have two losses in the Big Ten and holding on for a Bowl game. 

There are other similarities between the two:

• They both have a first year starting QB's. 
• Both are injured (it seems Robert Bolden will be out, while Denard will play)
• Both defenses have struggled
• Both teams have lost to Iowa
• PSU is 4-3
• Michigan is 5-2
• There are questions if both coaches will be there next year.
• Michigan has Michael Shaw that de-committed from Penn State to go to Michigan.   Penn State has Anthony Fera and Kevin Newsome who de-committed from Michigan.

Who wants it more?  That is the most important question on Saturday.  Both teams have the opportunity for their seasons to go bad in a hurry.   Michigan is sitting at 5-2 with 3 winnable games in a row in the Big Ten before Wisconsin and Ohio State.   Penn State is barley over .500 and needs wins to get to a bowl game. 

The reason Michigan is favored in this game is due to their top five offense against Penn State's banged up defense.   Michigan is expected to run the ball effectively with Denard and their host of running backs.  Michigan can also stretch the field with their wide receivers if JoPa over commits to the run.

Penn State on the other hand is really banged up at QB where the true freshman starter Robert Bolden is most likely out with a concussion he suffered against Minnesota.  Which leaves Matt McGloin a walk-on sophomore.  When Michigan's defense has played well this year it has been against teams with young/in-experienced quarterbacks.  It's the upperclassmen that have picked the Wolverines apart.   With that said, Penn State does have a talent running back in Evan Royster.  I expect Evan to get a lot of carries this week against Michigan's defense that has given up some big plays in the running game. 

Tale of the Tape

Michigan Offense vs PSU D =  Go Blue

Penn State Offense vs Michigan's D = A real ugly push

Special Teams = Penn State (better place kicking, punting is a push, return game who knows?)

Intangibles = Push (both need a win, night game at home favors PSU but talent favors Mich)


I think the Michigan faithful is much more confident in this game then they were at the beginning of the year.  With that said, this is not an easy win for the Wolverines, no matter who is playing QB for JoPa.  Michigan will have to stop the run and make that young QB beat them with his arm.  The Michigan CB's will have to show improvements over the past two games in letting WR's run free.

Sing Hail to the Victors if..........

• Denard is week 1-5 Denard
• Michigan doesn't turnover the ball
• The young PSU QB looks young and confused
• Denard has 150 on the ground and so does two Michigan RB's
• The Michigan D gets stops against the young PSU offense

Shout I hate saying Go Blue when Penn State is wearing blue jersey's if..........

• Evan Royster is finding huge holes in the Michigan D
• Matt McGloin is the next Troy Aikman
• Michigan is sloppy and confused after the bye week
• Michigan's LB's keep losing contain
• Michigan beats themselves

I expect the Wolverines to have renewed focus and rest after the bye week and play a very good game.   I hope Michigan fixed things on defense and worked in a few new looks on offense.  A win = Bowl Game which they haven't had in two years.  With the game on prime time national TV they should be ready to play.  

If Michigan doesn't make the same mistakes they made against MSU and Iowa they should win the game even if the defense shows up for only part of the time.  With that said, I expect Michigan's D to get a lot of stops against young Penn State's offense. (examples UConn and ND first half)   If Michigan can pressure the young QB and not let Royster beat them, they should be in good shape.    Michigan 38 Penn State 24


GO BLUE!

Big Ten Preview: Week #8

Michigan is off this week and for Michigan fans a weekend without a Big Ten loss is a good one.  There are some good games this weekend and one that might determine the Big Ten champion. 

There is also a game with a very interesting line.  Any upsets?  

So let's get on with the show.....................

Big Ten Game of the Week

Wisconsin at Iowa: Is clearly the Big Ten game of the week. Iowa comes in after a win in Ann Arbor where they gave up over 500 yards of offense to the Wolverines and Wisconsin had a win over someone like the #1 team in the nation or the Ohio State Buckeyes. Could the Big Ten Title be on the line in this one? It might. Wisky can’t afford a loss and Iowa still hosts the Buckeyes and Spartans. Wisconsin will try to run the football into the strength of the Iowa defense.  Whichever team flinches first will win.  Iowa is favored by 5.5 points. Wisconsin struggles on the road for some reason. Iowa 21 Wisconsin 20


Michigan State at Northwestern: Someone alert the media, The Spartans are un-defeated and ranked #7 in the country. I thought basketball practice just started, I didn’t realize they were playing Big Ten games already. I really think State’s guard play will be the key to victory in this one. Sorry, this is football and State comes in with a win over Wisconsin, Michigan, and Illinois already and they don’t play Ohio State this year. They have Iowa next week. This is the definition of a trap game. MSU historically has struggled against Northwestern for some reason. Vegas has State only favored by 5: Upset Special of the Week: NW 27 MSU 21


Purdue at Ohio State: Purdue has more starters on the IR list then they do on the field but that hasn’t kept them from winning lately. I’m not sure how they are doing it these days but the backups are playing very well. Purdue upset Pryor and Company the last time they met but this game is in C-Bus where there will be many points scored by the Buckeyes. It will be a payback game after last year and last week.  Ohio State is a 23.5 favorite. OSU 42 Purdue 14


Penn State at Minnesota: Could both of these teams be looking for a new head coach at the end of the year? Minnesota will be for sure and has already started the process. Mike Leach would like it. Which is ok, if you lock all your closets and don’t give Mike the keys. Both of these teams are struggling, Penn State has dropped two in a row in the Big Ten and Minnesota only has one win this year. Penn State will get back their winning ways before Michigan comes to town to play a night game. JoPa is favored by 9.5. Penn State 28 Minnesota 10


Indiana at Illinois: At first glance, this line is very strange to me. Vegas seems to be buying Zook and Company who played pretty well the last three weeks against OSU, PSU, and MSU. IU on the other hand, started the year 4-0 and lost to Michigan at home before getting killed at Ohio State and playing an FCS opponent close. Still IU can score points, even though they can’t stop anyone on defense. Illinois offense has struggled when they get close to the goal line which should be interesting. Is this a sucker bet? Illinois is favored by almost two touchdowns at 13.5 points. That really doesn’t make sense to me, I fully understand that Indiana is on their regular Big Ten downturn but they still can score points! Indiana 31 Illinois 27

Big Ten Preview and Picks Week 7

This week there are 2 Big Ten Teams with a bye (Penn State and Northwestern) and another one playing an out of conference game.   A pretty strange week for the Big Ten that does have some headline games.


Big Ten Game of the Week

#1 Ohio State at #18 Wisconsin:  In my pre-season prediction I picked Wisconsin in this match up, they dominated the game in Columbus last year but gave up 3 non-traditional touchdowns on pick 6 and 2 touchdowns on special teams.  (Can you really dominate a game that you were blown out in?  Probably not).  The Wisconsin crowd will be "jumping all around" and we be ready for a 7:00 EST kick off.  Pryor struggled the last time he was in Madison but did lead a last minute drive for the win.  Like, I mentioned before I liked Wisconsin before their trip to East Lansing.   OSU did struggle on the road against a all of a sudden not terrible Illinois team.    The Buckeyes are a 3.5 favorite on the road.  This is a coin flip game for me and one that "the Vest" doesn't seem to lose.  OSU 24  Wisc 21


The Rest of the Big 10...............

Arkansas State at Indiana:  IU got brought back to earth last Saturday with their trip to C-BUS.  IU's quick start now as 2 loses in a row.  Well time to relax, sit back and watch IU beat Arkansas State on Saturday.   Well, Arkansas State can play a little bit of football and played Louisville with in 10 points a couple of weeks ago.  IU is only a 11.5 favorite.  Still IU will throw and throw often:  IU 32  Ark State 17

Minnesota at Purdue:  Somehow Purdue won last week when their official mascot got changed from a Train or a Big Drum to Perry. 

I guess Perry can play some football and Purdue beat a decent Northwestern team last week.  I didn't see the game and not sure how that happened.  Minnesota comes to town with the title of the worst team in the Big Ten with an overall record of 1-5.  If Perry comes to play, I think Purdue can win this game.  If Perry is out with a second ACL, Tim Brewster and crew can finally get a Big Ten win.   Purdue is favored by 5.5 this week (what is with all the 1/2 points this week?).   Purdue 21 Minnesota 20


Illinois at Michigan State:  Who are these teams?  The Spartans are talking Rose Bowl after wins over Wisconsin and Michigan.  Illinois is talking Pizza Bowl after playing well against Ohio State and beating Penn State on the road.  To quote Lombardi, "What the hell is going on out there?"  The Spartans are projected to be #10 in the BCS ranking when they come out on Sunday.   So 2 of Michigan rivals could be in the top 10 of the BCS rankings.  Sorry, I need to use the rest room for a second.  My breakfast bagel isn't sitting well after writing that.  How about Purdue's new Mascot - Perry?

Sorry, where were we?  Got ya, thanks.  Michigan State historically has had a let down after playing Michigan.  Usually it's against Northwestern.  I have a weird feeling about this game (maybe it's the breakfast bagel?) that maybe Illinois could pretend they are in the Big House and upset the Spartans.  MSU is only favored by a touchdown so Vegas isn't sold that the Spartans will run away with this game either.  Are these the new Spartans?  MSU 27 Illinois 17



Thought for the day:  You could make a case for either team in all the "conference" games this week.  All the lines in the head to head Big Ten match ups are under a touchdown.  Could be an interesting weekend. 


I will of course preview the Michigan - Iowa game on Friday.

Michigan - Indiana Preview

Time: 3:30 EST
Location: Bloomington, IN
Line: Michigan -10
TV: ESPNU
Weather: 66 and Partly Cloudy


This is the first Big Ten game of 2010 for both teams.  IU is 3-0 with wins over Towson, W. Kentucky, and Akron while Michigan is 4-0 with wins over UConn, ND, UMass, and Bowling Green.  

If it was a boxing match, most experts would expect a knock out in the first 3 rounds.   Both guys throw a ton of punches but don't protect themselves very well.

Let's go to the team ranking through 3 or 4 games:

Rushing:
Michigan #2
IU #96

Passing:
Michigan #50
IU #11

Points For:
Michigan #11
IU #10

Points Against:
Michigan #64
IU #43

So what do you make of these?  It's clear both teams like to score points, Michigan on the ground and IU through the air.  Neither team plays much defense.  I would say Michigan being #64 against the teams they played is a bit better then IU's #43 through 3 cupcakes.   Everyone is predicting a ton of points in this one and a running time of about 5 hours.  Which should make the crew from ESPN U happy since 2 million people tuned in for the Michigan - BGSU blowout a week earlier. 

Tale of the Tape:

Michigan Offense vs IU Defense = Denard

IU Offense vs Michigan D = Lots of practice for Michigan's Young DB's

Special Teams = Push

Intangibles = Push (IU is at home but Michigan is the best team they have faced this year)


Indiana has a senior QB and good players at the skill positions.  Michigan on defense will have to get a ton of pressure with the pass rush and not get surprised by the running game.   Michigan's DB's will have to make some plays to get some stops.   If there was ever a time to consider Brian from Mgoblog's theory of putting Kovacs at middle linebacker, this would be the game.   IU came into the Big House last year and almost beat Michigan with only a controversial interception by Donovan Warren giving Big Blue the win.

IU on defense won't be able to stop Michigan's offense since they had a hard time stopping Western Kentucky and Akron.  So ball protection will be key for Wolverines.  Michigan was focused and ready to play the last time they had a road game in Indiana a couple of weeks ago against ND and they need to have the same focus against IU.

Sing Hail to the Victors if............

• Michigan doesn't have to punt or kick field goals again
• Denard is Denard
• The Michigan Defense against UConn, ND, and BGSU shows up
• Michigan gets 5 sacks and 2 picks
• A Michigan RB has over 100 yards and Stonum and Roundtree are open all day
• Bill Lynch launches his gum toward the crowd 3 times.  Is that double bubble?

Scream, Indiana is a basketball school! if............

• The game becomes the "Chappell Show"
• If Saturday starts to look like 2009
• IU gets some stops on defense
• Michigan turns the ball over
• Michigan's DB's look like high school seniors

There is one thing I know for sure in sports:  When everyone thinks one thing is going to happen the opposite usually does.  Everyone and their brother are calling for a ton of points in this game (like 80!).  Whoever scores last wins!  Which could be true but I think Michigan's 2010 defense is actually better suited for a Pistol or Spread type of offense then a Pro Style (like Michigan will see the following weeks).  Greg Robinson will be very key in this game on the personnel and formations he uses.   I think both teams will give up big plays but not as many as predicted.   Turnovers will be the difference.  Michigan 31 IU 20


GO BLUE!

Michigan Tuesday: Dee Hart Update and More

Dee Hart has been in the news lately, mostly freaking out Michigan fans after his trip to Auburn this weekend.  I have two updates from recruiting insiders: Sam Webb from WTKA/GBW and TomVH from Mgoblog. 

Here is Tom's: 

• Talked to Dee's mom
• Uncle went on the trip and his uncle rated it 7 out 10
• Dee is still planning on taking two more visits this month Alabama and Arkansas
• Not really interested in Arkansas but supporting his teammates on the trip
• Needs to make a decision soon and the process is starting to wear on Dee

Sam:

• Talked to Dee
• Believes that Michigan still leads
• Maybe a decision soon but probably going to take a couple more visits
• Sam's opinion is that Auburn's is aggressively recruiting many of Dee's teammates, which could have an affect on his recruitment. 
• Dee still may come back for the MSU or the Iowa game as an unofficial visit (took his official for UConn)

So let's all take a deep breath on Dee for now and hope that he makes a decision for Michigan.  The longer this plays out the more time others schools can state their case. 

• Craig Roh:  It won't be tough to get up for BGSU. "From our performance this Saturday, this team is definitely going to get up for this game."  Craig doesn't listen to music before games to get pumped up - reads a bit of the Bible.

• The Michigan at IU game will be on ESPNU at 3:30 EST.

• Anthony LaLota "hints" the skem change at Michigan is the reason he left:  Rutgers "plays a different scheme, more of a traditional 4-3. I think it's a great style, very aggressive. I can come off the edge a little bit. I think it suits me well.''  I'm guessing not being on the 3 deep or not making the trip to ND had anything to do with him leaving.

• U of M Flint's first football game draws 400 people. 

• UMass moves up 5 spots to #11 in the FCS poll after losing to Michigan.  (no comment needed here)

• Timmy Jernigan one of the top DT in the country is going to hold off a decision until after the season so he can take some visits.  One of those visits  should be to Ann Arbor.

A thought for the day:  With Michigan in such bad shape from a kicking stand point, why didn't they give Bryan Wright a 5th year?  He is now kicking for Bowling Green and will kick in the Big House again this Saturday.   He transfered to BGSU under that rule getting a 5th year if you graduate and the new school offers a program your old school did not.

Wolverine Wednesday: Big Dog III is a Wolverine

The Michigan Basketball Team got another "son" of a former star with the verbal commitment of Glen Robinson III yesterday.   Glen will be a member of Michigan's 2012 class and is 6'6 wing player that expects to play the 2 or 3 position for John Beilein.  UMHoops has a nice write up on some evaluations, offers, and upside for the next Big Dog.

On a side note, this is Coach Beilein's 4th player with an NBA blood line:  Robinson will join, Dumars, Horford, and Hardaway on the Wolverines.  No word if Jordan or Bird have any son's still in high school.

• Quick trivia question:  Where do Michigan football players from the state of New York or New Jersey transfer to if it doesn't work out for them in Ann Arbor?  The answer is Rutgers.  That is where Anthony LaLota will be playing football in mid September next year. 

• Student Try Outs:  Michigan held a student try out earlier this week and 30 kids showed up: RR: “A couple really caught our attention,” he said. “They might have a spot on the team.”  There will be a 2 week trial period to see if these guys can make the team.  Let's hope there is a really good kicker in there. 

• 2011 CB prospect from Florida, Dallas Crawford has scheduled his official visit back to Ann Arbor for the Iowa game.  Dallas came up to Ann Arbor with his teammate and friend Sammy Watkins for the Spring Game.

• Dee Hart's teammate Hasean Clinton-Dix (#1 safety in the country) is starting to think about other options outside of Alabama.  He is starting to plan a trip to USC and might take another trip to Ann Arbor.  

• One of the "thoughts" on the recruiting trial this year is if Michigan starts posting some wins more highly rated players in the class of 2011 will show interest in Michigan.  I asked TomVH from Mgoblog on who he thought might change their minds if Michigan puts up 8 or 9 wins.  Tom comes through with his list.   

• The Michigan - ND Game was the largest NBC TV audience for an ND game since 2005. 7 Million views tuned  in for the game on Saturday.

• Staying with the TV theme, ESPN Picked up the Michigan - Bowling Green game.  The game will start at 12:00 an be on either ESPN or ESPN 2.  I'm sure Michigan fans with out the Big Ten Network are pretty happy with that news. 

Big Ten Fans Need a Couple TV's

Jim Delany, The Commissioner of the Big Ten has been the mad scientist lately.  His Big Ten Network turned out to be a huge success, he is bringing in Nebraska next year, he un-veiled the Big Ten Divisions without any fan base getting their nose bent out of shape, and will introduce a Big Ten Championship game in December 2011. 

Ohio State is playing well, Iowa will compete with them for a Big Ten Championship, Wisconsin is tough, and Michigan might be on the road back from two years in the graveyard.

Things are pretty close to perfect, right?  Wrong. 

Somehow this weekend, the Big Ten and the TV networks messed up and will split the national viewers for the Big Ten's 2 of 3 premier games this weekend. 

Michigan vs ND at 3:30 Eastern on NBC
Miami vs Ohio State at 3:30 on ESPN.

The third premier Big Ten game: Penn State vs Alabama will start at 7:00 following the Ohio State game.  To top it off the Florida State vs Oklahoma game is also at 3:30. 

How did Jim Delany let this happen?  If you had to, make the Miami/OSU game at 12:00.  So Big Ten fans could watch all 3 games.  I know TV/Money always get the last and final vote, but it seems to me 3:30 on Saturday is a Big Loss for Big Ten fans. 

Some might wonder why Miami vs Ohio State is not the ABC Saturday Night Game of the Week?  Becuase they are showing Nascar instead.