Big Ten Preview Week #5: Big Ten Play Begins

In golf, they call the pre-season the "silly season" because the guys really don't practice they just go to a couple of tournaments play ok and cash a few checks.   For some college football teams, they just finished the silly season.  For others, Big Ten play is their only hope of having a successful year.   This week starts the second or real season for Big Ten schools.  I also like it because I don't have to preview 11 different games.  So it works out for all of us!

Big Ten Game of the Week:

Wisconsin at Michigan State:  When the season began, I would have bet a $1 that the Penn State at Iowa game would be this week's BTGOTW (big ten game of the week) but with Dantonio's mild heart attack (is any heart attack mild?) but returning to coaching in the press box and both teams undefeated, this is clearly the better game.  Both are power teams that like to run the ball.   Both have good running backs and good non-conference wins (ND and ASU).    I think this will be a very close game and believe it or not MSU is a home dog getting 2 points. I usually side with a home team is a close game, but I have a strange feeling that Wisconsin is the better team.  Wisconsin 24 MSU 21


More Big Ten Play:

Northwestern at Minnesota:  The Golden Gophers really need a win and Northwestern is quietly un-defeated this year.   Could Tim Brewster be gone before the end of October?  He could, if the Golden Gophers don't start playing better football.   This is another home dog scenario where Northwestern is giving 5.5 points.   It won't be that close.   Northwestern  28  Minn 14

Ohio State at Illinois:  Illinois has given Ohio State fits in the past but this team lead by Ron Zook doesn't really have much to offer to stop Mr. Pryor and company.   Ohio State always has a Big Ten sleeper game on the road (last year it was Purdue) but not in this game.  Guess what another home dog game:  OSU is favored by 17 points.   Seems about right.  OSU 31 Illinois 10

Penn State at Iowa:  Both team has high hopes for a Big Ten Championship.   Iowa's schedule set up nicely for them being able to host PSU, MSU, and OSU during Big Ten play.  Both teams have already lost a game on the road in 2010.  Penn State got man handled by #1 Alabama and Iowa got down quickly to Arizona and wasn't able to recover.   Penn State's offense will struggle against Iowa's defense.  I see this game as a defensive battle with not a lot of points scored.  Iowa is favored by 7 points.   Iowa 17 Penn State 7

Purdue has a bye.

I will preview the Michigan - IU game on Friday.

A thought to ponder on a Thursday afternoon:  How big would next weeks Michigan - MSU game be if both teams were undefeated?  Story lines:  Dantonio's heart condition, RR trying to beat his instate rival for the first time, two really good running teams,  MSU's first time in the new Big House, and I'm sure there will be a little brother reference or two.  (note: MSU does not play OSU this year)

Bundesliga : Stock Report, Week 6

Another late report, you can blame it on the apocalyptic state of the Bundesliga. If you aren't sitting down you probably should...ok... Bayern Munich is not top of the table. Something crazy is happening this season, and lowly Mainz is 6-0-0 and top of the world. I'm going to put it all on sample size, the season is still young and Mainz has been playing well beyond their means. If you watch them nothing jumps out at you, they are a very organized vanilla no-name team that has been playing well. I'll put my money on Dortmund to finish above Mainz, and I'll be shocked if they finish in a Champions League spot (Top 3).

Borussia Dortmund : UP. Dortmund are on fire, winning 3-1 over St. Pauli and sitting #2 in the Bundesliga. Shinji Kagawa scores his fourth goal of the season, and they only have to play Bayern Munich next week.

Werder Bremen : NO CHANGE. Beat rival Hamburg 3-2, they had a 2-0 lead at the half and allowed two goals in 4' to start the second half. I finally got to see Marko Marin score, the guy reminds me of a not-as-funny Andrei Arshavin who actually looks his age. I'm so late on this report that Bremen have just finished their Champions League game against Inter, a bad 4-0 loss.

Side Note : Finally figured out what happened to Per Mertesacker, he took an elbow to an eye in an international friendly. Apparently it broke his eye socket and their were concerns of permanent damage to his vision, looks like he will be ok.

Bayer Leverkusen : NO CHANGE.

Kaisersluatern : NO CHANGE. Lose 0-1 to Hannover 96 in a dull game. Kaiserslautern had a few chances to score but let Hannover take this one. They are really falling down the table now and have probably settled into the bottom half for good.

VfL Wolfsburg : NO CHANGE. Didn't get to watch their 2-1 win over Freiburg. Grafite nets twice.

Eintracht Frankfurt : NO CHANGE. Win 2-0 over Nurnberg, vault out of the relegation zone... barely.

Wolverine Mid Week Injury Report

RR had a short and sweet session with the media today and updated us on the status of a couple players. 

Look like Shaw and Toussaint are doubtful to play on Saturday. 

Carvin Johnson and Marvin Robinson injuries are getting better and should play this weekend.  Brandon Herron is also healing at might make it back as well.

Denard Robinson is practicing and will be ready to play at IU.  "He's fine. He did the entire practice yesterday," said Rodriguez. "Everything is good to go. There will be no restrictions whatsoever."

Taylor Lewan will also make his second start and first Big Ten start. 

Wolverine Wednesday: Is this Team Different Then the 2009 Sqaud?

Everywhere a Michigan player or coach goes these days, there is one question on the mind of Michigan fans:  Is this team better then last years team?  It gets asked by every media member to every player or coach at Michigan. 

Coach Rod doesn't look back and uses his favorite line from the Lion King about the Monkey hitting the Lion and the Lion asking, "Why did you do that?"  The Monkey:  "It doesn't matter it's in the past".  That DVD must be stuck in his player because he dusts that line off a couple times a year. 
The players say, this is a different team.  They have had another year in the system and they are just a lot closer family this year. 

The reason the question gets asked is Michigan has had a lot of similarities between the two years, both teams: started 4-0, had wins over ND, had an early season Heisman trophy candidate, and had higher expectations then before the season started.  The bottom fell out of the 2009 season and Michigan could only muster one more win against a very poor FCS team.  That memory is still fresh in the minds of Michigan fans and many are scared that history could repeat itself.

All of the above is true, but I will give you the real reasons Michigan is better in 2010 then 2009:



#5:  Greg Robinson is coaching the linebackers.   Take away the UMass game and the linebacker play has improved from 2009.

#4: Michigan already has a road win.  Michigan has struggled the past two years on the road under RR and only had one win in two years.  Michigan played well at ND which should give them confidence to play on the road at IU, Penn State, Purdue, and OSU.

#3: Speed on offense.  Remember when Michigan had two QB's that ran a 40 in about 6.0 flat?  The running backs were beat up and Michigan didn't have a deep threat at WR?  Well times have changed and Michigan has depth at all the skill positions and many have contributed in a positive way.  Roy Roundtree is on his way to earning the #1 jersey next year and Darryl Stonum is running by CB's down field.  You get Junior Hemingway back catching the ball and this is one dangerous unit.  (we haven't even mentioned the WR in the freshman class or the true sophomores either)

#2:  Michigan's offensive line is playing very well and there is depth at each position.  Taylor Lewan has had one start under his belt and is already being compared to another famous #77 Jake Long.    David Molk is healthy and leading the charge from his center position.

#1:  Surprise!  It's Denard.  Who has taken college football by storm and is so humble he acts like he doesn't even notice.  He is the perfect combination for a RR QB.  He has personality, fast feet and a strong arm, a defensive coordinators nightmare.   What's interesting about this team is, it's just not Denard.  Michigan has two backups ready to play and play well.  Devin Gardner is a true freshman but has looked good so far and we all know Tate has one of the most accurate arms in all of college football.  Michigan has three guys that can beat you at QB and that is a great feeling for Michigan fans who remember the Sheridan and Threet days.

Sounds good!  What's the catch?

I can't type here and say the defense is better in 2010 with the losses of Brandon Graham, Donovan Warren, and Troy Woolfolk.  Michigan will have to out score some opponents in the Big Ten season and some games might look more like a track meet then a football game.  What I can tell you is, that Greg Robinson does know what he is doing and will do his best putting the Michigan personnel in the proper position to make plays.  Michigan is young pretty much everywhere on defense but I don't feel like we will get out coached on that side of the ball.

Special Teams is a big concern:  Punting has not been good and the field goal kicking has been terrible.  Missing field goals in Big Ten play will cost Michigan a game or two.  The good thing is RR knows this and will be more aggressive in getting first downs then settling for field goals.  Look for Michigan to go for it on a number of 4th downs.  

So there you have it.  Agree or disagree with me, but I now fully expect a bowl game and to be very competitive in games I thought were losses before the season started. 

A Tuesday Funny: Golden Gophers Coaching Search

I don't normally do this but this headline out of Minnesota made me laugh, so I wanted to share it:

If Gophers fire Brewster, Tony Dungy will be first on their list

I understand that Tony went to the University of Minnesota but do you honestly think he would head back to coaching for a chance to lead the Golden Gophers?  If they call, he doesn't have to answer. 

What Bill Parcells and Jon Gruden aren't options? I know everyone believes their program is the best job in the world, but there isn't even a 1% chance Tony would take that job.  He is well paid by NBC and I don't think he is interested in going out and recruiting every weekend.

The article also mentions, Marc Trestman who is currently coaching in the CFL.  That would be a better bet.   I will throw a wild card name out there, who would be a good fit and spent 6 seasons with the Vikings:  Brian Billick.  Having a guy with a Super Bowl ring would really help in recruiting. 

With Minnesota in Michigan's section of the new Big Ten Conference, maybe I should have kept that idea to myself.

Michigan Tuesday: Recruiting Blitz

The Dee Hart decision is close and is expected next week.  Dee will be enrolling early and wants to get his official decision made so he can focus on football and school and not on recruiting. 

Dee visited Arkansas last weekend (who played Alabama) and the weekend before was at Auburn.  This weekend  he is visiting Alabama and will make his decision know next week.  

When he visited Auburn there were reports he was close to committing on the spot.  We know he isn't that interested in Arkansas because he Mom said so.  With that said, I think it's down to Alabama and Michigan.  Saban vs Rodriguez.  A man that turned down the job vs the man that took it.  A possible match up between two teams in Dallas in 2012. 

Dee has visited Michigan three times and still has to be seen as the leader, but Saban can recruit and I'm sure will pull out all the stops this weekend as they host Florida.   Dee is still expected to be up in Ann Arbor for the Iowa or MSU game which has to be seen as a good sign for the Wolverines.

• Michigan is almost a two touchdown favorite at IU on Saturday.  -13.5

• Michigan has offered junior QB from Tampa Bay Plant City High Bennie Coney

• Michigan 2011 recruit from the same school in Tampa, Tony Posada has a sprained MCL and is listed as day-to-day.  He suffered the injury on 9/21 and didn't play last weekend.

• NJ TE Jack Tabb will visit Iowa this weekend.  Michigan is recruiting Jack for the 2011 class as well.

• Three updates below from TomVH at Mgoblog: 2011 CB recruit Avery Walls was named to the Army All American game.  Avery will visit Oregon and CAL and then make his offical decision known after that.  He plans on enrolling early and wants to make sure he is accepted before he announces his decision.

 

• 2012 recruit Alan Grant is the son of former Wolverine Tony Gant visited Ann Arbor last weekend for the BGSU game:  "The visit was good, and I got a chance to talk with the coaches too. We mainly talked about how the season was going, how I was doing, and we talked a little about school and the recruiting process too."   Tony is an OSU fan, so Michigan has some catching up to do. 

• Danny O'Brein is a 6'3 278 pound DT from Flint.  He is a 2012 recruit and visited Michigan this weekend as well:  "I was at the game with my Mom and Dad, and Coach Rodriguez came and talked to us right after his press conference. He said that he can't give me anything in writing until next August, but that I have a verbal offer from the University of Michigan. My Dad is a Michigan fan, so he was excited, me and my Mom were really excited too. It's a relief to know that I have that offer in hand now."

Rich Rodriguez Press Conference Injury Updates

Denard has a bruised knee and might be limited today but should do everything on Tuesday.  He is expected to play on Saturday.

Fitzgerald Toussaint who has been injured his entire Michigan career now has a shoulder problem.  He was coming back from a knee issue and was out all last year due to injury.   Fitz had two carries and a touchdown against BGSU. 

Michael Shaw sprained his knee and is day to day. 

Tate is fine, he just got a helmet to the quad.

The coaches are optimistic that both Carvin Johnson and Brandon Herron will play at IU on Saturday.

Team News:

• RR considers both Tate and Devin the #2 QB to Denard.
• Pleasant surprise has been the true freshman CB's so far.
• Michigan has played 13 true freshman this year most of them on defense.
• Courtney Avery is probably going to change to #5.  Michigan got called for penalty for having 2 #9's on the field against BGSU.
• IU has good WR's and will be a challenge for the young Michigan CB's.
• IU has only played 3 games and might be the healthiest team in the Big Ten right now.
• It's Big Ten season and "everything gotta get cranked up a notch"

Michigan Monday: Former Wolverine QB's Have a Tough Weekend

After watching Denard Robinson run the Rich Rod offense many of us Michigan fans can't blame Ryan Mallett and Steven Threet for transferring to other schools.  Both transfers have seemed to work out for the young men.  Ryan has become one of the more explosive QB's in the SEC and Steven Threet is well under way for making his imprint on Arizona State. 

Last Saturday both players had a chance to give their teams big wins over highly ranked opponents and for Mallett a chance to grab the lead in the Heisman race.  Both players threw for over 300 yards but both had poor decisions that cost their team wins.   Ryan had 3 interceptions against #1 Alabama and threw two in  the fourth quarter when Arkansas had the lead.   Steven through 4 interceptions on the day against #4 Oregon with 3 of those picks coming in the 4th quarter.  His first interception was returned for a pick 6. 

Those decisions obviously either cost their teams the game or a chance at a comeback.  So we wish these gentlemen luck and hope for better days in the PAC 10 and the SEC.

• Michigan - MSU Game will be 3:30 kickoff on ABC/ESPN.  This will be a lock on ABC if both teams win next weekend.  MSU hosts Wisconsin.

• For those that are worried that Fitz Tousaint got caught from behind on his first carry as a Wolverine that went for 60 yards but was caught at the 3 yard line.  He is still nursing a knee injury and had a knee brace on.  I'm sure he doesn't get caught if he is healthy.   He scored on the next play.

• Michigan is ranked #20 in the AP and #19 in the Coaches Poll.

• TomVH from Mgoblog reports that 2012 instate DT Danny O'Brien got a Michigan offer on Saturday.

• Lloyd Carr wants some type of playoffs in college football.

 

• Tim Brewster, Minnesota's head coach is on "unemployment watch" after the Golden Gophers lost to Northern Illinois last weekend.   This week would be a good time for a fresh start with the Big Ten season starting. Maybe they should call Glen Mason again. 

• ESPN's Big Ten Blog is ranking Michigan #4 in the Big Ten Power Rankings behind OSU, Iowa, and Wisconsin.  Which is about right.

• There is a rumor floating around right now that Dee Hart will visit Alabama this weekend and then make his official decision known. 

We know that Denard it talented but this run in the first quarter was ridiculous.  BTW:  He had 189 yards of offense in less then a quarter. 

Michigan - BGSU Post Game

Well that was more like it.   We got want we wanted but it just came a week late.  Michigan got all 3 QB's in and all 3 looked pretty good.   Tate went 12-12 in throwing the ball and Denard was lighting it up on the ground before he went out with a knee injury.  65-21 is an obvious mismatch but it's good to be 4-0 heading into October and The Big Ten season.

Devin looked pretty sharp throwing the ball and even had a long bomb dropped by Junior Hemingway.   The defense played well for most of the game.   

So what did we learn from this game?  Not much in my opinion.  BGSU was not a very good team.  Their backup QB seemed to struggle most of the day.   Michigan got whatever they wanted on offense and didn't punt all day long.  They didn't even attempt a field goal.  

This game was good for confidence on both sides of the ball after a pretty humbling week against UMass last week.  All the running backs found holes and ran the ball well.  It was good to see Fitz Toussaint, Mike Cox and Stephen Hopkins get some touches at RB.   I would like to see Mike Cox be the goal line/short yardage running back. 

Let's quickly get to the Cheers and Jeers:

Cheers:

• The Michigan offense was un-stoppable
• Michigan finally got some pressure on the opposing QB and recorded 3 sacks
• Michigan got to go deep in the depth chart
• Confidence should be high going on the road to IU next week
• Defense seemed to be more aggressive this week

Jeers:

• Michigan seems a bit banged up with Denard going out with a knee and Shaw getting tripped in the 3rd quarter.  Shaw's injury could last into this week.  He was limping coming off the field after the game.  RR said Denard will be ready to play at IU next weekend.
• The Michigan defense did give up a big play on a 71 yard screen for a touchdown.
•  No punts or field goals mean our kickers didn't get any more confidence
• Devin's redshirt is for sure gone

Michigan played well and blew out a team they should of blown out.  It's difficult to see Denard go down in such a mismatch but it gave Tate a chance to show he isn't dead or transferring.  I still don't understand why they would blow Devin's redshirt unless they fully believe they will need him this year.   I guess he could always redshirt next year? 

So Michigan is again 4-0, just like last year.  The Big Ten season is now on tap with  a trip to IU next Saturday and then huge games against MSU and Iowa at home.  Michigan needs to prove they can win on the road and start off the season the right way.  IU likes to score points and they will test Michigan's defense.  Let's hope some of the guys banged up at linebacker will be back for next weeks game.

Let's also hope Denard's injury isn't serious and he will be 100% next week.

Go Blue!

Enjoy some photos from the game:

Barwis and Big Will

 Mike Martin

 Denard after the game

The last drive of the game

Bleep 15

No punts so far from Michigan today.   Devin Gardner just replaced Tate with 8:37 left in the game.

Cox has shown some power running the ball.   Fitz T #28 gets in and runs 61 yards but gets caught at the 4.   Next play he runs it in for a touchdown.

Bleep 14

Denard's knee is wrapped but he is moving around on the sideline.  Tate has been very accurate with his throws and looked sharp all day.  In my mind he is the clear #2 and has taken all the 3rd qtr snaps so far.

Vincent Smith for another Blue Touchdown.  Heading to the field soon, so will be logging off.  51-21

Bleep 13

Michigan scored to make it 44-14 then BGSU scored 44-21.

Bleep 12

Tate leads the team down the field.  1 yard pass from him to the full back out of the I formation.

Bleep 11

BGSU hikes the ball through the end zone for a safety.  Tate in after free kick.

Half time Bleep

28-14

Bleep 10

Tate lead the drive and Shaw scored from a yard out.  28-14

Bleep 9

BGSU scored on one play 72 yards screen.  Poor tackeling. 21-14.
Tate is in the game.

Bleep 8

BGSU got thier first score a 1 yard TD run. 8:53 left in 1st half.  Denard is up walking around and seems fine.

Bleep 7

Stephen Hopkins just fumbled.  End of the first qtr.  21-0.  Denard is on the bench and hasn't moved too much since his injury. 

Bleep 6

Devin throws his first TD pass to Gallon, who makes his first TD catch.  21-0

Bleep 5

Denard goes for 45 yard run and gets hurt on the sideline.  Devin Gardner in

Bleep 4

Denard just went 44 yards for a TD on a play where he should have been tackled for a loss.  He is crazy good.

Bleep 3

Denard scores.  Too easy.  made the field goal!  2:15 scoreing drive.  Boo Boo on kickoff return for BGSU

Bleep 2

Denard is moving the ball down field and the offense looks fast.  No slow start today.  Shaw is running hard. 1st and goal.

Bleep #1

Here in the press box.  Very nice, much different then last year.  Just saw Gary Moeller in the hallway.

Team warming up 1/2 an hour before kickoff.

Press Box on Saturday

BHB Inmates,
I will be in the Press Box on Saturday and since I don't have a twitter account, I will give you some updates here at BHB.  Instead of Tweets lets call them Bleeps here at Big House Blog. 

So tune into the game and share you feelings here at BHB. 

See you then.

-Bob

Michigan - Bowling Green Game Preview

Time: 12:00
Location: Big House
Line: Michigan - 25.5
TV: ESPN2
Weather: 63 and Sunny

I find there are a lot of similarities between these two teams:

• Both have fairly new head coaches (ok after 3 years, I guess we won't be able to use that much longer)
• Both have young QB's
• Both have a young defense
• Both teams like to score lots of points
• One team lost their first two games but had a good win last weekend, the other had two good wins but didn't look so good last weekend.
• Both schools are 72 miles apart from each other
• On Saturday, I will drive by one stadium and sit in the other.

The big difference is talent.  Michigan has much more talent on it's roster but these days it really doesn't make a difference.  See any FCS school that has played a D1 school close this fall.

What will we see from BG?

Bowling Green likes to run a "west coast" style offense with high percentage throws.  Which means lots of short routes and screens.  This offense is made for ball control and first downs.   BG's starting QB is out for the game and their new QB is making his first start.   BG's offensive line is young and has been struggling.  

BG is also young on defense where their DB's and LB's are very young but talented.  They got a pick 6 last week and 4 total interceptions against Marshall.   I didn't see the game but I expect some of those 4 picks were poor decisions by the Marshall QB.

What will we see from the Wolverines?

I don't see the BG defense being able to contain the high powered Michigan offense.  So points shouldn't be a problem.  Michigan hopes to use a number of new running backs to give them some experience.  So look for Cox, Hopkins, and Toussaint. 

Michigan's defense is the big question mark going into the game.   They played well for the first two games and terrible against UMass.  Will we see some new guys at LB?  How will Cam Gordon and the CB's play against a passing team?  Will they pressure the young BG QB making his first start?  Did they learn something from last week?

Tale of the Tape

Michigan offense vs BG defense =  Michigan

Michigan defense vs BG offense = Push

Special Teams = Push

Intangibles = Michigan

I expect to see a lot of points in this game.  What will Michigan's defense do?  If the same unit that showed up last week, shows up this week.  They will give up some points again.  I feel pretty good with BG's offense line and a new QB making his first start that the Michigan D can be successful.   I would like to see Michigan pressure the QB and get a bunch of sacks.

I would also like to see Tate and Devin (please redshirt him, please!!) (Yes, he could get a medical redshirt if he turns an ankle or something) and a number of new running backs.   I want to see the RB's get most of the carries like last week with another 100 yard rusher.

Sing Hail to the Victors if:

• Defense gets stops
• D pressures the QB
• Michigan gets 5 sacks
• Michigan makes a field goal
• Michigan catches and returns a punt
• Offense skill players stay healthy
• We see some backups on both sides of the ball
• This game isn't a replay from last week

Start to get that weird feeling in your stomach if:

• The defense didn't learn anything
• Ezeh and Mouton have a UMass type of Saturday
• Michigan attempts a field goal
• Denard has to play the entire game
• That fish taco you ate on Friday night isn't sitting well

I'm not worried about Michigan scoring points, I would like some linebackers that can read/react quickly and a kicker that can make field goals from 40 yards or less.   That would be nice.   I don't want to witness a UMass style game this week.  I want to see Mr. President Jack Kennedy (4th string QB) take some snaps.  That would be a good Saturday.   Michigan 48  BGSU 21


GO BLUE!

Michigan - Bama is Happening

Nick Saban let the "cat" out of the bag and announced the Michigan - Alabama game at Jerry World last night on his radio show.  It hasn't been officially announced but it seems like it's a done deal. 

I don't have any problem with this game and pretty excited to get a chance to go to "Jerry World" and see the Wolverines during Denard's senior year. 

What I do have a problem is which year they are playing the game.  In 2012, Michigan plays on the road:
Notre Dame, Nebraska, Ohio State and now Alabama at a neutral field.  Those are tough road games in one year.  

  

Michigan Mash Report: Bowling Green

OUT

Ferrara, John  Hand
Herron, Brandon  Ankle
Johnson, Carvin   Knee
Jones, Mike   Leg
Van Slyke, Jared  Clavicle
Williams, Mike   Head
Woolfolk, Troy  Ankle


PROBABLE (75% PLAY)
Robinson, Marvin     Shoulder
Toussaint, Fitzgerald    Knee

 
It's good to see that Marvin and Fitz might be on the field for the Bowling Green game.  Michigan will need both players for the Big Ten season so they need to get some live snaps in this game.  It's too bad about Brandon Herron who we thought might be ready this week.   Let's hope the LB's can step up after a poor game last Saturday.

Michigan Thursday: CC with RR

As we know, Colin Cowherd was in A2 yesterday to do his radio show and his ESPN TV show.  He had a good interview with Rich Rod that can be found here.  

• Dee Hart is visiting Arkansas this weekend.  Per his mom, he is supporting his teammates and not really interested in The Hogs.  Of course, if Ryan Mallett beats the #1 team in the nation this week, that could have a big effect on changing his mind. 

•  David Molk is the only Michigan guy right now on Mel Kipers 2011 Draft Board.

• Brian Griese will be calling the Michigan game this weekend for ESPN 2.

• In a Michigan fan's strange game of the week: West Virgina visiting LSU.  I wonder if Bill Martin will tune in or maybe he is on his sailboat.

 

• Former Michigan WR Ron Bellamy is now the head coach of West Bloomfield High.

• Good article from A2.com on Darryl Stonum's good game and his grandmother in the stands last week:

At age 87, Nettie Stonum boarded an airplane for the first time in her life last week for a flight from Houston to Detroit. That experience was nothing compared to watching her grandson play for the Michigan football team in Michigan Stadium.

“A lot of the people in the stands were trying to calm her down, because they didn’t know if she was going to have a heart attack or what,” said junior wide receiver Darryl Stonum.


“From what I heard, she was screaming and jumping out of her wheelchair in the stands, and just having a good time.”

Big Ten Weekend Preview Week #4

This has to be one of the most "down" weeks in Big Ten scheduling history.  It is full of Big Ten vs MAC teams and teams like Austin Peay and Northern Colorado.  Yikes, I'm not sure I can remember a Saturday when there wasn't at least one decent game in Big Ten country.   I wonder who Nebraska is playing?  Answer: South Dakota State.  Never mind.

Big Ten Game of the Week (Big Reach):

Temple at Penn State:  I did a Big Ten Preview for the Michigan Man podcast in August.  Two things I predicted was Arizona would beat Iowa and that Temple would upset Penn State.   Temple is a pretty good team that has wins over Villanova (#1 ranked in the FCS), Central Michigan, and UConn already this year.   If Penn State sleeps on Temple they will find themselves with a L on Saturday.  The line is PSU -13.5.  So Vegas is buying this won't be a blow out.  I will stay with my prediction:  Temple 21 PSU 20

The Other Games

Northern Colorado at MSU:  This will be the first game for the Spartans without their head coach after his heart attack on Sunday morning.  MSU will be inspired and this one won't be close.  Line is MSU -30.5.  MSU 42 NCU 10

Austin Peay at Wisconsin:  Wow, is this a basketball game?  It seems more like a December basketball game and not a football game in September.   Expect a huge day on the ground from the Badgers.  Line is -43 for Wisky.  Take the points with AP!  Wisconsin 40 AP 3

EMU at Ohio State:  I feel bad for former Michigan DC Ron English.  He is still trying to get his first win at Eastern and this is not the week.  I hope the Eagles got paid.  Line is OSU -44.  Yes, 44.   Vest 51 EMU 14

Akron at Indiana:  IU likes to score points and Akron has to travel from Ohio.   That's about all.  IU is favored by 22.5 points.  I think this one is a little closer then that.  IU 28 Akron 14

Northern Illinois at Minnesota:  Vegas thinks this will be the closet Big Ten game of the week with the Golden Gophers favored by 4.5.  The gophers are a mess right now and some people are predicting that thier head coach might not make it until Halloween.   Minnesota needs a win dearly.  I think they get one on Saturday.  Minnesota 24 NIU 17

Toledo at Purdue:  The Boilermakers are beat up and haven't been playing very well when healthy.  Toledo might make this game interesting.  The line has Purdue by 11.5.  I think Toledo will play well.  Purdue 17 Toledo 14

Central Michigan at Northwestern:  Central Michigan is a pretty good team and they are not having post Butch Jones problems.  On the other hand, Butch already has 2 losses at Cincinnati and they host Oklahoma this weekend.  I wonder if Butch looked at the schedule before taking the job at UC?   Central has been known for their high powered offense, but would you be surprised to learn that CMU has the 4th ranked defense in the country? They are giving up 9 points a game.  I had high hope for NW this year and they are starting to turn the corner with a 30-13 win over Rice last week.   These teams seem very similar (NW only gives up 12 points a game) and the line is NW -6.5.   NW 14 CMU 10

Illinois has a bye. 


I will preview the Michigan - BGSU game on Friday. 


A Thought to Ponder Today:  What should this weekend be called?  MAC Attack?  MAC invasion?  Big MAC Weekend?  

Wolverine Practice Notes

• Taylor Lewan "tweaked" an ankle in practice on Tuesday but should be ready to go this weekend.  Most likely will rotate with Huyge during the game.

• Fitz Toussaint keeps improving and RR wants to see him, Mike Cox, and Stephen Hopkins on Saturday.

• RR on Brandon Herron:  "Brandon Herron will be able to do a bit more. He practiced a little yesterday, should be able to do more today," Rodriguez said. "We're optimistic he'll be able to contribute some Saturday.

• RR on Carvin Johnson: "It does not look like Carvin is going to be able to play in the game, but he's doing a lot more this week. We're hopeful we'll be able to get Carvin back next week."

• No news on anyone stepping up in the kicking game, they are trying to do some competitive things in practice

• RR on Defense:  "Yesterday was really good for our defense. All of our guys are very, very conscientious in all three phases, so when we don't have our best performance and things don't go well, we talk to them about it and coach them up, but they understand very well," Rodriguez said.
  
  "They knew after the last game we didn't play well and could play a lot better- they have played better. They have a lot pride in themselves, so I would be surprised if they didn't come out this weekend, particularly on defense, and have a better performance and show they can play a little bit."
  

Wolverine Wednesday: Is There a Dr. Phillips in the House?

Today is Shoelace Birthday!  Denard turns 20 today.

We mentioned yesterday that Dee is supporting a number of his teammates on trips to places like Arkansas and Auburn.    Today, we list the pure number of Division 1 prospects currently on Dr. Phillips High School in Orlando, Florida.  I have to tell you this is pretty impressive:

Dr. Phillips Senior Prospects with verbal commitments:

• DB Ha’Sean Clinton-Dix: Alabama
• RB Dee Hart:  Open
• OL Darius Johnson: Colorado State
• LB Darryl Monroe: Washington State
• LB/S LaQuentin Smith: Arkansas
• CB Jared Singletary: Arkansas
• CB Roderick Ryles: Arkansas
• DE Chris Curtis: Starting to get offers
• Kicker/Punter Sean Moffitt: Starting to get some interest
• WR Chris Gallon: Starting to get some interest with 4 TD's catches this year (cousin of current Wolverine Jeremy Gallon)

I know I mentioned that Auburn might be gaining ground on Dee because they are recruiting some of his teammates.  With the list above, it looks like Arkansas might be trying to recruit the entire team.   I'm guessing Dr. Phillips has a good shot at winning the state title this year.  That is a lot of talent for one high schools senior class.  As I'm sure your also aware, current Wolverine Ricardo Miller played for Dr. Phillips before transferring to Ann Arbor Pioneer for his senior year.

Concussions

As you know, concussions in football is something that concerns me.  So when I find new research about this topic, I want to share it with my readers.  The latest comes from a study from University of Illinois.  They study the longer term effects for young children that get concussions.  Here are some excerpts from a NYT article today:

Many of the concussions had occurred years earlier and at the time of the testing, none of the students felt lingering symptoms. Each was performing adequately in college. In the testing itself, the concussed students scored just as well as the uninjured athletes.

But when researchers looked at the electrical activity of the students’ brains, they found that the concussed athletes showed noticeably less activity in portions of the brain associated with attention. ‘‘They had suppressed attentional resources,’’ said Steven Broglio, a professor of kinesiology and community health at the University of Illinois. He and his colleagues speculated that, as a result, the injured athletes most likely were devoting a greater percentage of their total mental reserves to each task than the uninjured athletes in order to achieve similar intellectual results. The effort wasn’t obvious. ‘‘These were high-performing college students,” Dr. Broglio said. ‘‘They were succeeding in school.’’


Trouble:

• I'm sure we all know by now that Braylon got a DUI the other night.  I was worried when Braylon got traded to the Jets that NYC might fit him too well.  It's a city that never sleeps and it seems neither does Braylon.  I expect him to get suspended and he maybe in more trouble with the law from his fight in Cleveland.  Let's hope this is a wake up call for him. 

• Dion Sims a former Michigan recruit and current MSU football player has been charged with being part of a ring that stole a number of lap tops from the Detroit Public Schools.  I expect that Mr. Sims football days will be over if he is found guilty.

Recruiting

• 2011 RB DeVondrick Nealy will visit A2 on 10/8.  He is a 3 star prospect and has offers from Auburn, Arkansas, Michigan, and Minnesota.  

• 2012 prospect from Michigan James Ross, LB is going to be one of the top players in the state for the 2012 class.  James has always been a Michigan fan and attended the UConn game.  There are a number of big name programs that are recruiting him.  Names like Alabama, Penn State, and others.   Michigan will push pretty hard to get him to commit early to the Wolverines, since it's a big position of need.    Robert Bolden his former teammate is the starting QB for Penn State.

Fantasy Baseball, 150 Games Down

Well, this is it. Just about two weeks left in the season, so the misery will finally end for eight members of our league. Sadly, the misery will end, but some of it will carry over until next season. Maybe one day I will be cleansed with victory, but it isn't likely. Everyone but Andrew is in standings purgatory, as Drew is 7.5 points clear in first (70), with the second place team (62.5) 2.5 clear of me (60), and I'm 5.5 clear of fourth. I would need everyone on my team to pull a Tulo to jump into 2nd, and Andrew's team would have to invent negative HR's, K's, and RBI's to lose.

I'm basically the living dead right now. I can be extremely happy that my most expensive player, Tulo, is destroying the ball. Tulo missed a tad over an entire month and hit 12HR and 55RBI through August 31, then he ate some spinach and hit 14HR and 34RBI in the month of September. Just to clarify, September isn't over yet. Where was this 4 months ago Tulo?! I was drinking your bathwater all season, and you save this for the last month of the season?! Oh yeah, Zito broke his winless streak at 12 starts, thanks Barry.

Oh Tulo, you handsome, mercurial, injured, sandbagging devil.

Andrew's luck combined with a stellar pitching and the 7 Closers Strategy has helped him lock up the season. It also helps that the #2 team, which was in first for quite a while, basically burst into flames. He lost his best pitcher, letting Andrew in, and started streaming closers which made it even worse.

Current Status
Bert - Those rich fucks! This whole fucking thing... I did not watch my buddies die face down in the muck so that this fucking strumpet...
Andrew - Yeah well, I still jerk off manually.

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.

RR's Press Conference Notes

• Played tentative on defense, didn't get off blocks, and tackling as gotten worse from game 1,2, and 3.
• Mike Martin played well.
• Kovacs and Martin have been the 2 most consistent players on defense this year.
• Patrick Omameh has been playing well, the first step is very important to him
• BGSU is very active and aggressive, very good skill players.
• Taylor Lewan played 20 snaps and he might start next week, played well
• Not making the stops and might need to move some young guys in there
• Don't know if Brandon Herrin will be ready this weekend (injury)
• Not worried about getting Tate and Devin snaps in games

Short and sweet with RR today.

Michigan Monday: Early Week Recruiting Blitz

This was an interesting weekend for Wolverines fans.  Michigan sleep walks through a game against an FCS team, Wisconsin beats Steven Threet by a blocked extra point, Iowa goes down 14 points before they get off the plane in Arizona and can't catch up, former Wolverine Ryan Mallet beats Georgia in the last minute, MSU beats ND in overtime on a fake field goal and then their head coach goes down with a heart attack later that night/next morning. 

Instead of pointing out all the problems Michigan has on defense, I thought I would re-cap some of the news regarding Michigan's football recruiting. 

• Just when you thought it was safe to pencil in Dee Hart into Michigan's 2011 class, the electric tailback from Orlando visited Auburn this weekend and got to witness a crazy atmosphere in an OT win over Clemson.  Dee rated the visit a 9 out of 10 and the only way it would have been at 10 is if he committed.  He said he is done with visits and will make a decision soon.   BTW: Dee had a great day on the field this weekend as well:  Hart carried 18 times for 224 yards and scored on runs of 17, 7, and 88. He added a fourth TD on a 33-yard pass from junior quarterback Nick Patti, who threw for four scores."It was a great effort," Hart said. "We had a lot of minor distractions. We came together to win."  So now the big question is, Will Dee's love for Michigan overcome his weekend at Auburn?  A decision could be coming as soon as this week.

• TomVH from Mgoblog updates us two visitors this weekend, Chris Bryant and 2012 prospect Jordan Diamond from Chicago.  Chris:  "That visit was great, I liked everything a lot. I don't think I'm going to wait until signing day now, but I'm not ready yet to make my decision."  Chris would like to visit U of M a couple more times and plans on making a decision before signing day now.  Jordan: The game was cool, it was crazy. My mom and aunt both loved it too. The coaches told me that I will be getting an offer on August 1st, so that was great.  Jordan was told he would be offered my Michigan as soon as official offers go out for 2012 prospect in August of next year.

• Charles Jackson a highly rated CB from from Klein, Texas is considering taking a visit to Michigan.  Charles is 5'11, 180 lbs. and rated 4 stars from Rivals.

• No word yet on how Kris Frost visit to Auburn went.  Don't be surprised if he had a similar reaction to the Dee's. 

• Two Michigan coaches saw Anthony Zettel play this weekend.

Breaking News: Mark Dantonio Has a Heart Attack

After a fake field goal that takes a lot of "guts" to call to beat ND in overtime late last night.  Mark Dantonio, head coach of the Michigan State Spartans apparently suffered a heart attack and had a stent put in for a blocked artery early this morning.

The "word" is he is resting comfortably and that offensive coordinator Don Treadwill will take over while Mark recovers.   We wish the coach well and hope he is back on the sidelines soon.

Michigan State visits Ann Abor on October 9th.

Bundesliga : Stock Report, Week 5

Another short week, after watching Antonio Valencia break his leg mid-week I've been a little out of it. I only managed to catch two games this weekend (Werder Bremen-Mainz, and Schalke-Leverkusen), but the fixtures looked fairly vanilla (aside from the 7-0 ass kicking Borussia Monchengladbach took) so nobody moved around in the standings.

Borussia Dortmund : UP. Shinji Kagawa! Dortmund beat rival Schalke 3-1, two of their goals coming from Japanese international Kagawa. Dortmund looked good, Schalke's recent form has been horrible, and they just couldn't catch a break today. This game could have been much worse for Schalke, I like what I saw from Dortmund today. This win puts them in 3rd, the season is young so that sounds more impressive than it should.

Werder Bremen : NO CHANGE. Lose 2-0 at Mainz in a very dull game. Neither side played all that well, but Bremen looked least interested in winning. I finally got to see Marko Marin play, and he didn't really do all that much aside from missing a few chances to put one on goal. They have been without Per Mertesacker, and I keep hearing alot of Champions League Fatigue excuses, its getting old. Mainz looked like they wanted this game, and took it, two preventable goals sent Bremen packing.

Side note : I learned that Bremen's rival/derby team is Hamburg SV, a team that could break into this list if I see good things from them.

Bayer Leverkusen : NO CHANGE. Draw 0-0 with Nurnberg, snooze. Despite having the ball 67% of the game, nothing much happened. It was even boring to read the game report, although Stephan Kiessling was injured.

Leverkusen may be lucky if this is as close as he gets to the field for the rest of the season.

Kaisersluatern : NO CHANGE. Draw 2-2 against TSG Hoffenheim, "plummet" out of the top after their win over Bayern. Their early form is slipping, but they aren't getting blown out of games.

Side note : Mainz is their rival/derby team, I may have said this last week.

VfL Wolfsburg : NO CHANGE. Win 2-0 over Hannover 96. Dzeko nets in this game, making it 4 goals in 4 games for him. This was a much needed win even though they are still in the relegation zone with a 1-0-3 record.

Eintracht Frankfurt : NO CHANGE. Lose 1-0 to FC Freiburg, still out of the relegation zone, but not by much.

UMass Post Game

photo courtesy of John T. Greilick / The Detroit News

So how did that go?  Did you feel like the Toledo game or maybe even the App. State game again.  I sure had flash backs and that uneven feeling in my stomach.  The Wolverines didn't show up today.  This clearly is on the coaches.  Greg Robinson and whoever coaches the special teams failed miserably today.    RR also failed on that second to last drive on the third down and 1 call when Smith is tackled for a two yard loss.  A drive with points ends the game and UMass hadn't stopped the Michigan offense in the second half.  The punt was blocked and UMass scored soon after. 

With that said, let's get to the cheers and jeers.

Cheers:

• Michigan won the game and scored 42 points
• Mike Shaw went over 100 yards and 3 TD's 
• Darryl Stomun had a good day receiving with 2 TD's

Honorable mention goes to Jordan Kovacs.  He had a pick and a strip.  He also had a pretty big MA on a touchdown. (could have been Mouton's fault)

Jeers:

• Michigan Special Teams are a mess. The kickoff return is the only unit that is somewhat playing effectively.  The kicking game is terrible.  The kickoffs are short line drives and I'm not sure if we could make a 20 yard field goal from the middle of the field.   Punting is not much better with the blocked punt almost costing Michigan the game.  The punt return was a comedy of errors.
• Greg Robinson:  When Michigan plays an FCS team you would expect that Michigan has better talent then the other team.  Michigan needed to man up on the WR and stop the run.  UMass ate up the zone most of the day and the Michigan rush hardly ever pressured the passer.
• UConn lost to Temple.  That win now doesn't look so good.
• Mistakes all over the field:  Missed coverages, penalties, fumbles after interception, dropped snaps, block punt, and so on.
• Not getting time for the backups.  The starters had to play the entire game.
• The linebackers had a pretty poor day
• Way too many missed tackles

I could go on, but it's too depressing.  A win is a win for this team as much as it feels like a loss.  A couple of things to take from this game.  Michigan has a long way to go on defense.  Michigan might have been a bit lucky in it's first two games on defense (UConn is not that good and ND had 2 back up QB's and a starter probably playing with a concussion). 

Not being able to kick field goals will cost Michigan a win this year.  They have to find someone to put the ball through the up rights.  The kickoffs have to have some hang time.  I'm not sure what is going on with that unit. 

I know the Michigan coaches didn't want to introduce anything new on offense for this game, but success is not measured by not showing your future opponents something and getting Denard less hits.   If there was a line on this game (estimated at 21-28 points for Michigan) it wouldn't have been close.   UMass also has given every team Michigan plays a blue print on how to score points on Robinson's defense.

If you want to take a positive from this game, a win is a win and maybe this will be a wake up call for Bowling Green next weekend.  Right now the trip to Indiana is much more in doubt then it was 24 hours ago.

Michigan ClearingHouse issue: Another Player Gone

I have never seen a team go 2-0 and get so much hype and positive publicity lose so many players.   Today, Michigan loses another defensive player from the 2010 class: Davion Rogers.  Davion was late getting to camp due to an NCAA Clearinghouse issue and it seems that issue did not go away.

Davion is no longer on the team and not expected to return.  This is the 5th player from the 2010 class that either didn't make it to campus or has quickly exited the program.  That list includes:  Austin White, Demar Dorsey, Conelius Jones, Antonio Kinard, and  now Davion Rogers.

This has to stop and RR and staff have to do a better job of finding suitable recruits that have a better academic standing.   4 out of the 5 above didn't make it to campus due to academic issues.  

To be fair, Conelius and Antonio are trying to enroll in January.  

Michigan Friday: Recruiting Blitz and UMass MASH Report

With Michigan's fast Denard type start.  You might think that some recruits that were waiting to see how Michigan will do this year are seriously interested in Mich-again. Here is a small sampling of some positives things happening for the Wolverines right not on recruiting trail:

• The Florida Duo of Sammy Watkins and Dallas Crawford are planning another un-official visit for the Iowa game in October.  Both wanted to keep their official visit for after the season.  So it seems these two young men are pretty serious about Michigan.  They also visited A2 for the Spring Game as well.

• Teammates/OL from Chicago will be in town this weekend: Chris Bryant a 6'5 330 OL in the 2011 class and Jordan Diamond a 6'6 290 pound OL in the 2012 class (one of the top players in the 2012 class) will be at the Big House this weekend for a visit.   TomVH gave us some insight in to Jordan's visit:   "I just wanted to see one of my favorite college teams play, and see what it's like to be in the Big House live."

• Michigan verbal Tony Posada was on ESPNU last night but his team lost.

• Marquise Williams a verbal to UNC is still planning a Michigan visit.   

• Michigan's high priority recruit Kris Frost is visiting Auburn this weekend.  Auburn insiders believe Kris favors them over Michigan right now.  Let's hope that isn't true.   

• Dee Hart will also be visiting Auburn this weekend.  I hope he and Kris put a plan together to commit to the Wolverines.  Dee is planning on enrolling early, so a decision should be coming soon.

• Anthony Zettel skipped his official visit to Iowa last weekend to watch the ND - Michigan game.  It would be nice if the Wolverines could get a commitment from Anthony this Fall.

Team News and Notes:

• Michigan  Defensive lineman Renaldo Sagesse is rated the 5th player in the 2011 CFL Canadian draft.
• Let there be light!  The permanent lights for the Big House was approved and will go in this Fall.

Michigan MASH report for the UMass game:

Out:
John Ferrara
Brandon Herron
Carvin Johnson
Mike Jones
Jared Van Slyke
Mike Williams
Troy Woolfolk

Questionable, 50%:
Junior Hemingway
Marvin Robinson

Probable, 75%:
Fitzgerald Toussaint


Mike Williams and Marvin Robinson are somewhat surprising to be on the list.  That is another bad sign for the depth at defensive back.  It seems Williams has a concussion.   It would also be good to see Junior and Fitz get a chance to play.  If they are not healthy this week, let's hope they see the field next week.

Make sure you check out the UMass Preview Below!

Michigan vs UMass Preview

Time: 12:00 EST
TV: Big Ten Network
Location: Big House
Weather: Isolated Thunderstorms, high 74
Line: None


I will start the preview with this line:  Don't Sleep on the Minutemen. 

When I looked at this schedule I thought UMass would be an easy win.  Similar to Delaware State last year - It's not going to be that easy.  This UMass team can play and is 2-0 and ranked #16 in FCS.  They have wins over two quality FCS opponents so far this year in the #3 ranked William and Mary and Holy Cross.  They have a senior JUCO transfer at QB and have picked up a number of kills players from Northeastern and Hofstra after their programs folded last year.   Greg Robinson should recognize a number of Syracuse transfers that are now starting for the Minutemen.

UMass runs a pro style offense with a power run game.  They like to lead with the full back and run between the tackles.  Which should run right into the strength of the Michigan strong defensive line and senior linebackers. UMass had to replace all 4 starters on the defensive line but the strength of their defense is their linebackers lead by Tyler Holmes an FCS All American.  UMass doesn't have any players that hail from the State of Michigan.

Let's go to the Tale of the Tape:

All levels of Michigan vs All Levels of UMass = Michigan

That was easy.  Let's hope the game is that easy as well.


What I'm looking for from the Wolverines this week:

• Less Denard and more Running Backs:  I would like to see Fitz Toussaint and Mike Cox get some snaps.  A running back with a 100 yards please. 

• Less Denard and More Tate:   I am still holding out hope they can redshirt Devin.  I know he has played and might have burned his redshirt but it's only been 3 plays and this game will go long way on that plan.  If Devin gets a lot of snaps my redshirt theory will die for sure.  I think it's very important for Tate to play and play a lot.  I have a feeling that Tate will need to win some games for the Wolverines this year during the Big Ten season.  He needs the reps.

 

• Less Mike Martin more Big Will:  We all know Mike is a great player.  I would like to see more snaps for Big Will because I think we will need him during the year.  This is a great team to have him in there against.  He is a big body run stopper against a team that likes to run.

• More experience for the DB's:  I would like all the freshman DB's to get snaps in this game.  The next two weeks is time to get some experience.

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

• Michigan isn't thinking about Big Ten play.
• The defense stops the run and puts a ton of pressure on the QB.
• A running back steps up and gets a 100 yards
• If it's out of reach by the 3rd quarter
• Lots of play from the 2 and 3 deep players
• Michigan makes a field goal

Worry if...................

• UMass is App. State
• Michigan is just to vanilla on both sides of the ball which keeps UMass in the game
• Michigan has been watching ESPN and reading the newspapers all week
• It's still close in the second quarter
• Michigan thinks this is a bye week after UConn and ND

I expect Michigan to play hard on Saturday as the coaches have reminded the team about Toledo two years ago and what happened to Virgina Tech last week.   I also expect the coaches to remind the players that they have been home for Christmas the last two years because they didn't take care of business in games like this.  I want Denard to run only if he has to and more from the Michigan running backs and wide receivers in the passing game.  (sure his numbers might take a hit and there might be a few: what happened to Denard stories on Sunday?) UMass should not be able to stop Michigan's offense at any point during the game.  No line on game.  Michigan 42 UMass 7 


Go Blue!

Michigan Thursday: Denard Version 1.0 Speaks About Denard 2.0

Pat White who is now a member of the Kansas City Royals organization spoke about Denard Robinson:

"He's a beast, that's all you can say," White said Wednesday in a teleconference announcing his shift from pro football to a baseball career with the Kansas City Royals. "He's just doing amazing things out there."

"He obviously knows the position and looks like a hard runner and a good leader," White said. "He doesn't look afraid to run the ball or stick his nose in there."

"I do think he's durable and will hold up," White said. "It's more than just being the right kind of quarterback, though. It's the right 11 guys doing the right things most of the time.

"He just needs to show up for work every day and be who you are. That's what he's doing now."

BG will be back in town to play his home town Detroit Lions this weekend.  Here is what he had to say about RR and Denard:  (freep link):  “I know he’s going to be there,” Graham said. “I know he’s staying there. He ain’t going nowhere, you can say that. I can see that, already within the team, that those guys, very strong. A lot of linemen that was light last year gained a lot of pounds to get ready, got stronger and got faster. “I don’t see Coach Rod leaving now. I just think them boys going to take it one game at a time, and a lot of people are going to have a different perspective when they talk about Michigan.”   On DRob:  "just one move, and he was gone,” Graham said. “That’s what I see that he gained a lot from last year. Last year, he was trying to do too many juke moves. Now I see him just making one cut, and he’s gone. “That was the biggest thing that we had to get him to do, to know his own speed. And to see him out there really killing it right now, I’m very happy for him, because I know he worked hard.”

• U of M to honor Ron Kramer #87 before the kickoff of the UMass game

• 3 Keys to an UMass Upset on Saturday.  Stop Denard, Stop Denard, Score points 

• Mike Marrow a former Alabama running back has decided to transfer closer to home and picked Eastern Michigan, over Wisconsin and Michigan?  That U of M offer doesn't pass the sniff test in my book.  Maybe there was a walk on offer.  Mike is from Toledo. 

• We will see how good UConn is this week as the take on a quality Temple team that is expected to compete for a MAC Championship and already has a win over Central Michigan.

Big Ten Preview Week #3

The Big Ten had an up and down weekend in week 2.   Ohio State and Michigan had nice "national news" wins.  I was concerned about all the quality games at 3:30 last weekend and it turned out that only one was close (Michigan vs ND) and 7 Million viewers watched it.   The down part of the weekend was Minnesota's loss to FCS school South Dakota in Minneapolis. 

With Michigan now ranked in the top 25, the Big Ten has 5 teams in the polls with Ohio State, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Penn State. 

Let's take a look at the weekend match ups.

Best Big Ten Match up:

Iowa at Arizona:  I did a previewed the Big Ten season on the Michigan Man podcast back in August and I picked Iowa to win the Big Ten Title this year.  Their only tough road game during the Big Ten schedule is a trip to the Big House or Denard's Den.  I did predict Iowa to have one non-conference loss and this is the game I picked.  Big Ten teams historically have not travelled well West anytime during the season.  Recent Michigan games in memory are losses to Washington, Oregon, and an Ohio State loss to USC.   This game is a late one which kick off at 10:00 EST time on Saturday night.    Vegas has this game pretty close with Iowa holding a 1.5 edge.  I think Iowa is the better team but I just don't trust the travel.  Arizona 21 Iowa 17

Arizona State at Wisconsin:  This game might be a close second for the best B10 match up.  This might be called the Steven Threet Bowl.  Steve hasn't beaten too many D1 schools as a QB at any of the 3 schools he has attended but Wisconsin happens to be one of them.  He lead a second half comeback in the Big House after being down 19-0 at half time during RR's first year in Ann Arbor.  Steve was terrible in Arizona State's Spring Game but has had a very nice first two games as the Sun Devils starter.  Wisconsin on the other hand has been under the radar in winning two games in un-spectacular fashion.   The Badgers are favored by two touchdowns which I think is a lot.   Wisky 28 ASU 21

Notre Dame at Michigan State:  You would think Brian Kelly had enough of his former home state last weekend when Denard Robinson ran all over the Golden Domers.  This week his team heads up to East Lansing to play a team ND has struggled against no matter where they play them.   Right now ND is 1-1 in the Big Ten and looking for a Rose Bowl birth (sorry I must have fast forwarded a couple of years).  Back to 2010:  Sparty has two wins against Western Michigan and Florida Atlantic both basically home games.   They host ND which gives them an edge but I don't think anyone was happy how Sparty played against FAU last weekend.   If Dayne Crist is healthy and the ND defense plays like they did last Saturday, I think ND wins this one.  Sparty is a 3.5 favorite.   ND 31 MSU 24

The rest of the games............ 

Ball State at Purdue:  The battle of Indiana.  Purdue lost their top WR last week for the year but they have enough to beat a Ball State team that was pretty good a couple of years ago.  Purdue is favored by 17.   Purdue 38 Ball State 10

Ohio at Ohio State:  The battle of Ohio.  Maybe not but after the Miami game, OSU deserved another MAC opponent.  Does OSU ever have to go on the road?  Pryor will have another big game.  The Vest better get a back up ready just in case TP goes down during the season.  OSU is favored by 30.5.   The Vest 42 Ohio 6

Northern Illinois at Illinois:  The battle of Illinois.  The Big Ten sure has done a wonderful job supporting the economy of Illinois this season.  I think every Illinois directional school has played a Big Ten team.  Zook got his first win of the season last weekend and should pick up #2 this weekend.  Zook and company are only favored by 7 so Vegas isn't sold yet.   Zook 24 NIU 13

Indiana at Western Kentucky:  A Tri-State Shoot Out.  IU took a bye in week 2 (seriously who takes a bye in week 2?).  Why is IU playing at Western Kentucky?  Lots of questions for Indiana only after one game.  I think they struggle on the road early but their offense over powers WKU.   Doesn't WKU have that big red mascot?  I like that guy.   IU is favored by 12.  IU 28 WKU 21

USC at Minnesota:  This is the lame duck coach bowl.  Ouch!  I'm guessing Lane might stay at USC for a few years but I'm guessing Pat Haden the new AD is not a fan.  USC has like 50 players under scholarship right now and Minnesota just came off a loss to South Dakota.  I don't have any confidence in Lane but I know his old man can coach.  This one might get ugly even though USC is playing with one bad behind their back.  USC is favored by 12.5.   I don't think this one will be that close.  USC 42  Minnesota 21

Northwestern at Rice:  Return of Sam McGuffie to Big Ten Bowl.  This is a tricky road game for Northwestern but I don't think Rice has that much of anything.  Even our boy Sam has struggled playing for the Owls this year.  Wildcats are favored by 6.5.  NW 24 Rice 14

Kent State at Penn State:  State vs State Rivalry?  I know I'm reaching.  Penn State had a cupcake for breakfast, a beat down for lunch, and another cupcake for dinner.   Bolden looks better when playing a MAC school vs the #1 team in the nation.  JoPa is favored by 3 touchdowns.   Makes sense: JoPa 21 Kent State 0


Week 3 Story Lines:  Will former Wolverines "haunt" their Big Ten opponents?  Will Tate Forcier play? Will Tim Brewster need a few brews after the game?  Will ND rebound against MSU (only Crist knows)?  Will that Red Guy play defense for WKU?  Will the Big Ten go 2-0 vs Arizona schools? 

I say if IU wins that game they should get to have the Red Guy as their mascot.  They can play every year for him.  It could be titled the Red Guy Return Rivalry. 

I will preview the Michigan vs Minuteman match up on Friday.

Top 10 Questions That Need to Be Answered in College Football

10.  Will anyone introduce Nick Saban to a "baseball style" hat that he can wear in practice? 

9. Is it possible for ESPN to get a translator for Lou Holtz?  Will the SAP button work?

8. Is it me or is every program under NCAA investigation right now? 

7. Why do coaches wear wind shirts in practice when it's above 90 degrees? 

6.  If the injury bug hits UNC and USC, will their players have to play both ways?

5. Why is it every time I see Chris Peterson from Boise State, I get hungry for Domino's Pizza? 

 

4.  Will Les Miles ever clap with his fingers together?

 3.  Does USC and Reggie Bush need a receipt to return their Heisman's?  Or will they just get store credit for the next time USC wins one?  They must have a nice credit built up with OJ and now Bush.   We would like to returns these 2 Heisman's for a Walter Camp in 2012?  I'm going to need to talk to my manager.

2. I know Derek Dooley as a new coach wants to have a close team.  But does he really need to be in the shower with them?  That can't be good for recruiting. 

1. Will Denard Robinson break the sound barrier this year?