Wolverine Thursday: 2012 WR Recruiting

One of the spots that Michigan would like to add some depth in for the 2012 class is Wide Receiver.   Darryl Stonum's status with the team is fuzzy at best, Hemingway is a senior and Roy Roundtree is a junior.  There is room for 1 WR in this class and here are a few names to keep an eye on:

• Instate 4 star WR Aaron Burbridge who plays for Farmington Hills Harrison which historically has been an MSU feeder school but the Wolverines have already gotten verbal commits from Harrison teammates Devin Funchess and Mario Ojemudia in this class.  Could Aaron be the Harrison Hat Trick?  Aaron has visited A2 a number of times and there are some concerns/rumblings about his grades and if he has a commit-able offer from the Wolverines.  Could be one of those deals where if he gets his GPA up and a qualifying test score he will have an offer.

•  Dwayne Stanford from Cincinnati is another 4 star kid that has been rumored to be visiting Ann Arbor with his teammate Aldouphs Washington for a few weekends this summer already.  Neither Stanford or Washington has made it North on 75 yet but they both are keeping Michigan in their top group.  Aldouphs is having a hard time scheduling visits because of his AAU basketball schedule and it seems he and Dwayne would like to visit together.

• The latest name to get Wolverines fans excited is 4 star prospect from California, Jordan Payton who just de-committed from USC a couple of days ago.  Michigan seems to be running for his services and he hopes to make it out to Ann Arbor for a visit this summer.   This would be a great pick up for the Wolverines but we all know the disclaimer on West Coast kids coming to the Big Ten. 

Other names you might have heard of;

-Avery Johnson (no not that Avery Johnson) picked LSU.
-Durron Neal picked Oklahoma.
-5 star WR Dorial Green-Beckham.
-5 star WR Stefon Diggs.

As you can see with just one spot the Wolverine coaches are just focusing on top prospects.   If I had to guess, the best race for this spot maybe between Mr. Burbridge and a few text books.  I think a few names above would like to see first hand how Al Borgus uses WR's in the new Michigan offense.  Which is a pretty fair request.   Having Shane Morris locked up next year and 3 years of Devin Gardner doesn't hurt either.  This recruitment might go right down to signing day.

• Dee Hart just tore his ACL and is out for the season at Alabama. 
• Danny O'Brien says that Tennessee and Michigan will be there to the end in his recruitment.
• Don't forget that Jarrod Wilson has his announcement scheduled for tomorrow.  It's between Michigan, ND and Penn State.  I think Michigan is the favorite but look out for Penn State.  ND already has like 20 safeties in this class already.  

Brady Hoke Day 2: Time to Get to Work!

I was surprised by Brady Hoke yesterday.  Like David Brandon (before his search started), I didn't know Brady Hoke.  He wasn't a high profile coach during his time in Ann Arbor and really only knew him as the guy that all most ruined Michigan's undefeated season in 2006, Ball State's 12-1 season, and the guy that coached San Diego State in a Bowl Game.  Never heard him speak or understood his love for Michigan.  Make no mistake, this guy has passion and love for Michigan.  This is the same love or passion that Bo had, Gary had, and Lloyd had.   For all the fans that didn't like RR, I assume this is what you were looking for.  A man that "would have walked to Michigan".

The current players couldn't believe all the former players that came back to the program and were in the building.  They also liked Brady's National Championship ring!

Brady has also made Denard the #1 priority by spending time with him yesterday and meeting again today.  All reports seem to be that Denard is staying at Michigan.  Nothing is official until Denard says it, but the players believe he is staying.  Denard's high school coach is taking a ton of calls from other coaches asking if Denard is available.  Memo to other coaches:  STOP MOWING OUR LAWN!

With that said, Tate is out.  (another reason it's important for Denard to stay).   The rumors at the Gator Bowl were that Tate wasn't going to class at all which if true, probably means he has been thrown out of school.   The reports yesterday were saying that he is planning to enroll at a CC to get back to Michigan.  I wish Tate all the luck and hope he gets his head on straight and gets back to Michigan.  Devin has been clear in saying he is a Wolverine.   So we are good for next year with Denard #1 and Devin #2.

Recruiting doesn't look as dire as we thought:  TomVH reports that recruits just want to make sure their scholarships are good.  Here is a run down of some of our commits and guys still on the market:

• Kellen Jones is still strong with Michigan.  He is going to take a visit to Colorado for fun.  He just wants to talk with BH to make sure they still want him.

• Kris Frost hasn't heard from Auburn yet.  As you might have heard, he picked Auburn at the Army All American game.  The buzz after that was that Auburn was full and didn't have room for him.   If I'm BH, I get on the phone with Kris and family ASAP.   I want Kris at Michigan.

• K Matt Goudis and CB, Dallas Crawford are starting to look around.  They both will visit Miami this weekend.  Both are important to this class and hopefully Brady can sell them on his staff and Michigan.

• Justice Hayes is still strong with Michigan.  (need to make sure Fred Jackson is on the staff)

• Jake Fisher will take some visits but I think he is another guy that needs to hear from coach and will be ok.  Even if he takes a couple visits.

• Blake Countess seems to be strong with Michigan but needs some contact from the coaches and has a few questions.

• California 4 star WR Devin Lucien is being recruited by SDSU and Michigan.  So Brady should know him well.  Devin would like to visit and I think we have a great chance in landing him.

• I'm sure the ship has sailed with Dee Hart.  I guess that is what it is.  Which is too bad.  

• Update: reports are that the "ship as sailed with Michigan" (his words) in Dallas Crawford's recruitment.  I have a hard time believe that when he probably hasn't spoken to BH or a DC or DB hasn't even been hired yet.

Brady has to work pretty much 24/7 over the next 3 weeks to secure this class.  They just can't whiff on this class which needs to be 18-20 strong.  When I say strong a top 20 class.   Sam Webb does his thing in the Detroit News today, talking about what a good recruiter Brady is and that he does a lot of the recruiting himself.  There are a couple of high profile DT that Brady was recruiting to SDSU.  Interesting............

Things I'm not real happy about:  Is the current status of Mike Barwis who is under contract at U of M.  The reports are the Brady is planning on bringing his S&C coach with him.  I understand that but I think keeping Mike Barwis makes a lot of sense on a lot of different levels.  #1 - He seems like one of the best in the nation.  #2 - The players would be comfortable in the off season work outs, #3 - It would help with any player wanting to stay with the program.  #4 - (probably should be #1) Brock Mealer.   I hope they keep Barwis and Brady's S&C guy can stay on the West Coast or will work with Barwis.


Les Miles also falls under this category for me.  I don't know any of the private conversations between Brandon and Miles.  I also don't know if there was or wasn't talks about the job with him.  David Brandon is on record saying he didn't offer the job to him.   There was a 100 reason for Michigan not to hire Les Miles, there was 2 reason to hire him (he played and coached at Michigan). 

He never answers the question about if he was offered the job but he leads everyone to believe at LSU and in the media that Michigan was doing all it could to land him and he works that into contract extension.  Which is now the second time he has done that.   I'm sure you have your opinion of Les Miles but he really seems like a snake in the grass to me.   Any time he wants a raise he should invite the Michigan AD to have dinner with him.   (don't get me wrong, he had legit reason to stay at LSU, I'm just saying what my gut feelings on the situation is).


Enjoy the below videos.  Please note who was working hard when coach got to see the new indoor practice field.

Michigan Tuesday: It's the Recruiting Quiet Period

Today marks the recruiting "quiet period" for football recruits.  This period allows coaches and recruits to take a break from the recruiting trail and enjoy the holidays or focus 100% on bowl preparation.  The quiet period runs from 12/21 - 1/3 and coaches are not able to contact kids pro-actively.  Kids can contact coaches on their own, but that is the only contact that is allowed. 

That means the recruiting news should be pretty light the rest of the year.  Michigan's next big official recruiting weekend will be January 7th.   Don't forget January 8th is the Army All American game and Michigan has a number of prospects in that game including: Dee Hart, Ha'sean Clinton-Dix, Wayne Lyons, Kris Frost, and Blake Countness.

It will be key to have RR status "cleared up" by 1/3 for Michigan to save players like Dallas Crawford and Dee Hart in this class.

• Past Michigan visitor 2011 WR Hakeem Flowers just visited Oregon and is also looking at MSU, NC State, UCLA, and GA Tech. 

• I know there has been alot of questions regarding a QB in class after Kevin Sousa changed his mind and elected to go to Wake Forrest which had a better path to playing time.  One of the QB targets is QB Tanner McEvoy from NJ who just visited South Carolina this past weekend and will visit Ann Arbor on January 7th as well.   Tanner won't list a leader until after all his visits are completed.   He is also visiting North Carolina and Rutgers.  Spurrier seems pretty high on this kid and has already done a in-home visit with him.

• Other visitors expected on 1/7 include: WR Devin Lucien, TE Frank Clark, DB Sheldon Royster, DB Dallas Crawford, and DE Deion Barnes.

 

• 2011 TE prospect Jack Tabb from NJ might announce his decision this week, as of right now I don't expect a Michigan decision. 

• Roderick Ryles, a 2011 safety and teammate of Dee Hart's at Dr. Phillips has been talking to the Michigan coaches and might make a visit to Ann Arbor in January.  A dream scenario for the Wolverines would be Hart, Clinton-Dix, and Ryles.  I know, I said it was a dream scenario! 

• Michigan 2011 Verbal RB Justice Hayes will be playing in the Offense - Defense Bowl in Myrtle Beach on 12/31. 

• Former Michigan LB Doug Mallory was named co-defensive coordinator for Indiana yesterday.

• It is clear the Michigan coaches want one TE in this class.  The latest guy to be offered is Dallas, TX TE Andrew Peterson who is rated a 2 star prospect from Rivals but has a nice offer list which includes: Tennessee, Utah, Texas AM, Nebraska, and Arkansas. 

Michigan Monday: Early Week Recruiting Buzz

The Dee Hart watch is on again:  Dee didn't have a very good weekend.   His Orlando Dr. Phillips team lost in the State of Florida Championship game to Miami Central 42-27 and Dee came in second in the Mr. Florida voting.   Florida seems to be coming on strong for both Dee and his teammate Ha'sean Clinton-Dix who is rated one of the top safties in the 2011 class.  Both guys are expecting to play together in college.  Here is some new information from Orlando Sentinel:  
Clinton-Dix said there was an 85-percent chance he and Hart could end up playing together. Hart upped the ante on that projection.



"Oh yeah, we're still hearing from Florida, Florida State and yeah, it's still 85 percent ... probably 90," Hart said.


Florida is not the only school making a push. He had a visit from Michigan running backs coach Fred Jackson, a visit from Muschamp, who also called Hart the night before the big game, and he said he has also been in contact with Florida State offensive line coach Rick Trickett.


One thing that raised eyebrows Saturday night was Hart's confirmation that he still plans to enroll early, a plan that was in limbo for awhile, as the 5-foot-9, 185-pound runner was waiting out the situation with Michigan coach Rich Rodriguez. Hart said his plan is to leave for college Jan. 21, but most schools are well into spring semester by then.

Not sure I understand the leaving for college on 1/21.  I guess we will see what happens as this one plays out.  At least we should know who Michigan's head coach is by then.  Michigan running backs coach Fred Jackson was down to see Dee this past week and Dee and Ha'sean are planning a Florida visit in January.  I hope Dee is planning to be at the Gator Bowl on 1/1 and not in Orlando for the Citrus Bowl or Tampa for the Outback Bowl. 

• Former IU verbal commit and instate CB Raymon Taylor who is rated 3 or 4 stars by the recruiting services was at Michigan's practice on Saturday and received an offer for the 2011 class. Raymon had 5 Big 10 offers.   This offer seems like a big deal for Raymon and I expect he might commit in the next few weeks to the Wolverines. 

• Michigan continues to recruit Kris Frost hard.  Listen to the video in this article and how he talks about Michigan and his love for the Wolverines.   He is still planning on annoucing at the Army All American Bowl. Kris is rated the #39 player in the US by   Here is an update from the All Star Shrine Bowl this past weekend:  Kris Frost finished second on the North Carolina team with seven tackles, including three for loss, and the Matthews (N.C.) Butler prospect was all over the field tracking down running backs and making some violent hits.

• Former Michigan 2010 recruit at DB Tony Grimes has flammed out at Ole Miss and is no longer on the team.

• Chris Mortenson from ESPN says that Andrew Luck might not go to the NFL if Jim Harbaugh stays at Stanford.  Chris reports that Jim prefers to stay on the West Coast.  Maybe the 49'ers?

• The Michigan coaches were in to see Darian Cooper last week which maybe kept the Wolverines in his recruitment. 

Michigan Thursday: 1/8/2011 is a Make or Break Date for the Wolverines 2011 Recruiting Class

Why you ask?  Well, first of  I assume that the Michigan coaching situation will be decided by then.  Michigan plays in the Gator Bowl on New Years Day and Stanford plays in the Orange Bowl on 1/3. 

So what's so special about the 8th?  January 8th is the day of Army All American Game where top 2011 recruits like to pick a hat for their school of choice on National TV.   By this game, Michigan should know if RR will continue his head coaching duties or another head coach has been hired.  If RR is retained Michigan has a legitimate shot at these following Army All Americans:

• RB Dee Hart of course
• Safety Wayne Lyons
• WR/LB Kris Frost
• CB Blake Countess

Bowl Practice:  RR gave us an update on Bowl Practice and how it's progressing.  They have had 5 practices so far and basically working on fundamentals (freep): "You get the timing back, you get some of the conditioning back a little bit, you can see the first couple days we were a little bit rusty, especially throwing the football, but as we went along, we've been getting better,"

"I can see from all the guys their legs are fresh, and Denard is obviously the healthiest he's been since the season started," Rodriguez said. "He's running a little faster, which you'd expect."


Austin in Austin?  There are rumors that former Michigan assistant coach Teryl Austin will be Texas's new defensive coordinator.  I have also heard Randy Shannon former Miami head coach name as well.

Hands off the MAC!  In less then 2 weeks, three BCS programs have picked off coaches from the MAC.  First it was Jerry Kill going to Minnesota, then Al Golden at Miami and now it's another coach from Miami but this time it's Miami of Ohio.   Pitt has hired Mike Haywood who turned around the Miami program from a 1 year win season a year ago to MAC Champions this year.  Mike was a former assistant under Charlie Weis at ND.   In a related story the MAC is looking for some good young coaches. 

Does anyone else think that the situation at West Virgina next year is going to be awkward? Oklahoma State offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen has been hired as WVU's OC and "coach in waiting" for current coach Bill Stewart for one year.  Bill is planing to resign or retire after the 2011 season.  Does this make any sense to anyone?  I'm guessing they had a small window to hire Dana or they were going to lose him to Pitt.  So they put this plan together so that Bill could coach the bowl game and step down after.  I don't see any upside for Bill Stewart to coach next year.  Pay him his salary and let him go find another job or head to Florida.  There are a couple of openings in the MAC. 

Max Issak a 6'3 240 DE from NJ and current Pitt commit is re-thinking his verbal and might be interested in re-considering Michigan.

Information about Miami's coaching search:  It seems they contacted Jim Harbaugh and he wasn't interested.

Wolverine Wednesday: Quick Recruiting Blitz

• Dee Hart is one of 8 finalist for Florida's Mr. Football Award.

• California kicker Connor Loftus now has a Michigan offer.

• Michigan is no longer in Darian Cooper's final 4 schools.  DT has become an urgent need for the Wolverines in this class.  Which you can add to the list with cornerbacks and safeties.  Side Note: The Michigan coaches are just trying to get to the "quiet period" with out losing too many more players on the recruiting trail.  They will resume recruiting visits in January when hopefully the entire coaching drama is past us.   

• If you enjoy pain, here's an article on the Avery Walls decision. 

• More Bad News for Vlad at Colorado:  Embree also informed potential transfer Vlad Emilien, who last played at Michigan, that the CU depth chart was already full at the safety position and needs more cornerbacks. Emilien is now considering Maryland and Southern Mississippi.
  Emilien was hoping former secondary coach Ashley Ambrose would be retained. When he learned that didn't happen, Ambrose told him he should still consider CU because Greg Brown was returning to the program and had served as Ambrose's position coach in the NFL and coaching mentor at the college level. But then Emilien said Embree called to tell him the bad news. "They need corners so I'm looking at other options," Emilien said.  Good luck to Vlad and I hope his knee continues to heal.

Speaking of Darian Cooper, JoPa told him he plans to coach maybe 4-5 more years.  If you haven't heard it yet,  below is JoPa's radio interview that didn't go so well.

Michigan Monday: Ponders Coaching Hires and How They affect the Wolverines

Since we don't know what David Brandon's plan is, we only have our thoughts to ponder on what will happen after the Gator Bowl.  In fact, here is David's reaction on waiting to make a decision.

Q: People are saying, "Why is he waiting? This is ridiculous. Recruiting is a mess."

A: I don't think recruiting is a mess. I met with recruits last weekend. I'm going to meet with recruits (before the Big Chill). The coaches are actively recruiting. Coach Rodriguez and I are just fine. We spend a lot of time together. He has a very clear understanding, and has from Day One, as to what the plan is. What I want is for everyone to focus on the fact we still have a game to play. It's a real important game. Everybody whines for the last two years because we haven't gone to a bowl game. Well, now we're going to a bowl game. I sense that's important to people.

And it's an important game and we've got to go play it, and the focus should be on, "Leave the coaches alone and let them coach. Leave the players alone and let them prepare and let's go finish our season." And then once the season has finished, we'll go through the evaluation process, as I do with all the sports, as we should.


To create a lot of distractions and stir right now, while we're getting ready to play one of our biggest games, to me, makes no sense. And to me the only people who are stirring the pot are people who are trying to create controversy because controversies are fun to write about. They get people stirred up and people start to worry, and I understand all that. But I'm doing my job.

Some interesting "coaching" things happened this weekend that got me thinking about Jim Harbaugh and the Michigan situation:

• Florida hired Texas - coach in waiting Will Muschamp.  This seemed to be an inside job and that Florida might have only offered the job to Will.  Arkansas head coach Bobby Petrino signed a new 7 year deal on Saturday on strong rumors that he was a candidate for the Florida job.  The Florida job might be the best job in the country right now, but with that comes high expectations and big shoes to fill.

• Miami, FL - Picked up Temple head coach Al Golden.  Temple went 8-4 this year but was not invited to a Bowl Game.  The thing that surprised me was that Al was rumored to be the next head coach at Penn State or even the open Pitt job. 

• Vanderbilt looks to be hiring Auburn's OC Gus Malzahn.

So here are my random thoughts on all those hiring and how they might relate to Michigan:

• What percentage of Michigan fans would have thought in August, if Michigan was playing in a January 1st bowl, RR's job would still be in question?  I'm guessing about 90% would of thought his job was safe.

• If Jim Harbough is such a hot "prospect/candidate" why wasn't his name linked to either the Florida or Miami jobs?  I suspect this means he is either a lock to come to Ann Arbor, he has his sights firmly on the NFL or maybe the guy just wants to stay at Stanford. 

• I wonder if Mitch Mustain current USC backup QB has any eligibility left to join his former high school head coach at Vandy? 

• Remember when Michigan was looking for a coach 3 years ago?  A couple of things we sort of knew was that:  Michigan wouldn't hire a head coach without head coaching experience - well that wasn't a factor for Florida and a coach in the MAC wasn't really qualified enough to coach the Wolverines.  Well that wasn't a factor for Miami either.  

Does Harbaugh's name not coming up in the Miami or Florida searches lend credibility to the rumor of him coming to Michigan?  It might a little.   These coaching searches are done through intermediaries and agents.  Do these guys know something we don't?  Most Michigan insiders believe, Michigan's head coach in January will either be Rodriguez or Harbaugh.  That there isn't a plan B.

Does Miami hiring a MAC coach give some credibility to Brady Hoke as a Plan B?  I doubt it.

Michigan Head Coaching Situation and 2011 Recruiting 

• Speaking of Bobby Petrino, on Saturday he pulled a scholarship offer from Dr. Phillips defensive back Roderick Ryles.  Roderick is a current teammate of Dee Hart and a Michigan recruit. 

• Saturday's visitors to Ann Arbor, Anthony Zettel, James Richardson, and Chris Bryant were all impressed by the Big Chill and will all wait to make a decision until January when the Michigan coaching situation is cleared up.   Michigan is looking good for all 3 prospects if they agree with the direction of the leader of the program in January.

• Avery Walls a 4 star DB will make his decision on Tuesday.  Avery was a strong Michigan lean all year but the coaching un-certainty and a recent trip to Oregon will probably make Avery choose the Ducks.

Michigan Tuesday: Recruiting Blizzard

Another update on Dee Hart:  The Orlando Sentinel traded texts with Dee Hart and he says that he will stick with his Michigan commitment as long as RR and staff are there, or he might not.  If RR is no longer at Michigan he says he will select Florida over Alabama due to Florida running the spread.

Here is what I think, Dee is having a bit of fun with the media so he can announce his official decision at the Army All American game.  I don't believe Alabama is out (they are also practicing at Dr. Phillips when they are in Orlando for the Capital One Bowl - wow what luck for Michigan fans!) and it now seems Dee might not be enrolling early.  So this recruitment is far from over and when the RR situation clears up, so might his recruitment.

Conway is Out:  It looks like Shawn Conway instate WR will have to attend a JUCO next year.  It seems he won't qualify at Michigan.  I guess this is why Michigan has been recruiting the WR position so hard lately.

Kevin Wilson, Oklahoma's Offense Coordinator will take over the Indiana Hooisers.

Some Michigan coaches took in Ray Drew's basketball game last week.  Let's hope the Wolverines are still in his recruitment.

With Sousa out, who is Michigan recruiting at QB?  Here is one:  QB Tanner McEvoy (6-6 205) of Oradell, N.J who will visit Ann Arbor on 12/17.

How about a kicker?  It seems Michigan has strongly been recruiting Connor Loftus from California and he may take a visit to Ann Arbor this winter.

It seems last weekend visitor Blake Coutness is still very high on the Wolverines.  Blake is a 4 star CB and will announce at the Army All American Game in a month.  This is a high priority recruit for the Wolverines, mostly after Avery Walls recruitment seems to have been pretty quiet for awhile now.

Instate RB Thomas Rawls gives us his visits plans:  He’ll take an official visit to Central Michigan — the school that first expressed interest — next weekend. Then it’s off to the University of Michigan the following week, with a stop due in Toledo sometime in January. Cincinnati is in the process of setting up a date as well, said Rawls.  Thomas head coach is the son of Michigan RB Coach Fred Jackson and also former Wolverine Andre Weathers also coaches at his school.

Michigan Monday: Michigan vs Mississippi State

Is that enough "M's" for you in one title?  Yes, the Wolverines got a favorable bowl last night as they accepted an invitation to play in the Gator Bowl on New Years Day.  I know NYD isn't what it used to be but after two years of not watching the Wolverines at all during the holidays, I think the Gator Bowl was a nice choice for the Wolverines.

Mississippi State was some what of a surprise as an opponent for the Wolverines.  Most expected a Michigan - Florida match up but the Outback Bowl decided they rather snatch up the Gators.   Then the rumor floating around was Tennessee but that didn't happen either and now the Wolverines face a top 30 defense in Dan Mullen's Mississippi State squad. 

Even though Michigan State didn't get a BCS Bid they are playing a very difficult Alabama team in what should be re-named as the Saban Bowl.   Iowa seemed to get the short end of the stick having to play Missouri a 10-2 Big 12 Team on December 28.   I don't think MSU has the talent to say to Bama but I think Iowa can beat Missouri. 



More News and Notes From This Weekend:

• Change of Hart?  Too bad to see Mike Hart limp off the field on Sunday with another ankle injury but it seems Dee Hart might be re-thinking his de-commit to Michigan.  Rod Smith was reportedly down in Orlando on Friday to talk with Dee and watch his game.   It seems Rod got him off the ledge a bit but Dee still has some decisions to make, like enrolling early or not and if Michigan stays with RR long term.  Let's hope he stays Maize and Blue.  I'm thinking he probably wants to do the "hat thing" at the Army All American Game.  Michigan needs players like this young man.

• Kevin Sousa - Has de-committed from the Wolverines and verbally committed to Wake Forest.  Kevin is a young QB that "needed some work" to play at Michigan and probably saw a depth chart that listed guys like Denard, Tate, and Devin.  Which didn't really equal early or even late playing time.  So he decided to go a different direction, which seems to make a lot of sense for him.  Good Luck Kevin!

• Tommy Two Times?  Not on Saturday.  Michigan beat Tommy Amaker's solid Harvard team with some clutch second half shooting by Stu Douglass.  Tommy beat the Wolverines a couple of years ago when they traveled to Harvard.

• Kill The Gophers?  This line reminds me more of Caddy Shack then Big Ten Football but it seems the Minnesota Golden Gophers have hired Jerry Kill of Northern Illinois as their next head coach.  Jerry is also the former Saginaw Valley State head man and his team just lost to Miami (OH) in Ford Field over the weekend in the MAC Championship Game.

• TomVH from Mgoblog reports: That 4 star WR Devin Lucien will visit Ann Arbor on January 7th.

• Looks like Jim Harbaugh is about to sign an extentsion at Stanford.   Is there a Michigan clause?

Michigan Friday: Is Dee's Heart with Michigan?

One of the things that Michigan fans were worried about in David Brandon's timetable to make a decision on Rich Rodriguez and the future of this program is it's impact on recruiting to the 2011 class.  When people say "impact" they are really talking about *Dee Hart.   The reason this timetable effects Dee more then any other recruit are a few things

1. Dee plans to enroll early
2. Dee believes he fits the RR spread very well
3. Dee's best friend is going to Alabama
4. Dee has been invited to play in the Army All American game 

If David Brandon plans to make a decision in early January that means Dee would have to make a "leap of faith" and enroll early and hope RR stays.  Or he waits until Summer to enroll at Michigan.  He also has to decide if he wants to play in the Army All American Bowl which is on January 8th. 

The last point is that Dee was interested in the commitment of Michigan RB Justice Hayes.   RR had a conversation with Dee this past weekend that Justice was coming to Michigan as a slot WR or cornerback. 

With all that said, it seems Michigan is losing it's commitment on Dee Hart.  The rumor mill is running wild that Dee is planning on committing to Alabama today.  The Hart family has shut down all communications with all Michigan insiders.  Which is not a good sign. 

Michigan last hope is an in-school visit with Dee today to try to change his mind.  Which seems unlikely at this point.

Here is a quote from an ESPN article after he committed (bold is mine):  There was some speculation that one of the reasons Hart didn't commit to Michigan earlier was due to the tenuous job status of Wolverines coach Rich Rodriguez. But Hart dismissed that line of thinking.



"I liked Michigan either way and if he were to leave it wouldn't affect me because I think I can play in any offensive system," Hart said. "So it really wasn't my concern.


"That being said I wanted to make sure everything came together. He's winning ball games right now and the future looks good, so it's coming together."

David Brandon's timeline on this process seems to come under heavy scrutiny and I agree.  If he keeps RR he has potentially killed the recruitment of some of the "big name" players that the staff has been working on for years.   Which basically effects the future success of the program.   If he makes a change, he gives the new coach little to no time to build his class.   Not sure if I fully understand how this "lame duck" status can benefit either situation. 

What are the coaches telling recruits when they come to Ann Arbor the next two weeks?  If I was a recruit, the only person I would want to talk to is David Brandon.

*There are two other guys that also could be enrolling early on Michigan's list.  Those two guys are Avery Walls and Kris Frost.  Both would have to be enrolled at Michigan before they would play in the All Star games where they plan to annouce. 


Michigan had it's Bust last night (which seems to be the appropriate word).

Some of the second hand information on the night:

• Denard told the seniors that they were going to get a Win in the bowl game and send the seniors out right.

• AD Dave Brandon on bowl destination: "Frank (Beckmann) thinks we might be going west, I think we might be going in a different direction." (BHB:  I hope that direction is up.)

• RR was emotional talking about they were building something special here at Michigan and that he was honored to be Michigan's head coach.

Wolverine Wednesday: Tries to Give Some Bowl Insight

Sunday (between 8:30 and 9:00 pm) the Wolverines will know where they are playing in late December or early January.   Most experts believe it's between the Gator or Insight Bowls.  My choice would be the Gator Bowl for a couple of reasons:

• The Insight Bowl starts at 10:00 PM EST
• In the Insight Michigan most likely would get a 10-2 team from the Big 12.  Most expect Missouri. 
• Most believe Michigan might face Florida in the Gator Bowl
• Michigan has many players from the State of Florida (including Denard)
• The Gator is drive-able (for me)

I actually just want a good match up.  That would be my #1 Bowl priority if I were David Brandon.


Cha Cha Changes...........................

• We all know about TCU moving to the Big East.  Now it seems UMass is in discussion with the MAC.

• Initial reports are that Jon Gruden might be named the University of Miami head coach as early as today.   If that is true, that is a great hire for them. 

• A San Diego State Donor has made a $5 Million dollar pledge to keep Brady Hoke and staff at SDS.  He is one of the leading candidates for the Indiana and Minnesota jobs.  The former Michigan Man should think twice about trading the weather, his league, a great recruiting state, and a raise for the Golden Gophers or the Hooisers. 

• The Michigan Basketball Team had a nice win over Clemson last night on the road in the ACC/Big Challenge.  Well done guys!

• Michigan verbal Dee Hart was named to the Army All American Bowl.  That is a great honor for him.  The timing of David Brandon's decision and the first day of class of January 5th along with the Army All American game on the 8th are some interesting dates for decision criteria. 

• AD David Brandon was on WTKA's "Michigan Insider" this morning.  Basically, continued with the company line.

Michigan Tuesday: Is there Justice in Ann Arbor? No then Yes

Recruiting is a strange thing; kids pick schools years early, kids pick schools on national TV, kids pick schools at All Star games, and kids change their minds. 

The latest player to change his mind is highly ranked in-state RB Justice Hayes.  Justice is a 5'10 175 pound 4 star RB (to Rivals), 3rd ranked all purpose RB in the country (#1 is Dee Hart)  and currently number 84 in Rivals top 100.  What makes this recruitment strange is that Justice had originally committed to Notre Dame months ago and had visited the Golden Domers a few weeks ago then de-committed just this past weekend.

Then last night he commits to the Wolverines.  Strange indeed.

Justice had a number of big offers including Tennessee, Wisconsin, Iowa, Northwestern and others.

This is Michigan's 13th commitment for the 2011 class and their 2nd running back.  

• TomVH from Mogblog has a interview with Kris Frost up

Wolverine Wednesday: Looks at Michigan Prospects in the Top 250

Update:  2011 CB from Florida Dallas Crawford might make his college decision known this Friday which is his 18th birthday.  All signs point to Dallas being a Michigan Wolverine.  For those that don't know, Dallas is a teammate of bigtime WR Sammy Watkins. 


Rivals new top 250 is now out and Michigan has plenty of prospects on the list including verbal commit Brennen Beyer from Plymouth at #194.   Other prospect that are considering Michigan between 100-250 include:

• #222 Austin Traylor
• #210 Darian Cooper
• #196 Chris Bryant
• #188 Mickey Johnson
• #159 Avery Walls
• #156 Blake Countess
• #148 Deion Barnes
• #127 Aundrey Walker

Michigan fans, don't hold your breath on the DeAnthony Arnett announcement tonight.   DeArnthony has been having some fun on Twitter that past couple of days, but expect an announcement for either MSU or Tennessee.   Tennesse looks to be the winner.

Today is the start of the early signing period for basketball.  Michigan is expected to sign 2 players:  Carlton Brundidge, a 6'1 200 pound shooting guard from Southfield, MI.  He is rated the #73 player in the country. 

Also Trey Burke, a 6'1 160 pound point guard from Columbus, OH.  He is a 3 star prospect to Scouts. 
Michigan's class might not be done with one big fish still in the pound with the #36 player in the country Amir Williams, a 4 Star center (6'9 210 lbs.) from Detroit Country Day.  Michigan has been recruiting him for awhile and was in town last Saturday.  He is visiting Ohio State this weekend and will announce his choice next week.  It seems down to Michigan, Purdue, Florida, and OSU.

Michigan has the 5th rated class in the Big Ten right now.

• Sammy Watkins is a new Army All American and will play in the all star game.

• Michigan's Football Facebook page has 300,000 likes. 

• Roy Roundtree was the co-offensive Big Ten Player of the week.  This is big week for Roy, since he was orgnianlly committed to Purdue before changing his mind on signing day. 

• Threet having an up and down year with ASU: Michigan transfer Steven Threet continues to produce mixed results in his first season with Arizona State. He threw three touchdowns for the fourth time, but had multiple interceptions for the fifth time."Just too much up and down," Threet said. "I just need to play more consistent and help the team more."

• Dee Hart and his Dr. Phillips teammates are breaking records down in Florida.  Through nine games, Hart’s stats now read: 1,434 rushing yards to break the school single-season record of 1,351 set by Aaron Layne in 1992. He also now owns the Metro Conference career touchdown mark at 32 and he is closing in on a milestone 6,000 all-purpose yards with 5,999. Hart and his teammates have scored 476 points with only West Orange to go this Friday. Those numbers bring the Class 6A state scoring record, previously held by Miami Northwestern, to Orlando.

Michigan Tuesday: Catches up on Recruiting

When the chips are down for the Michigan faithful there is always next year and a new recruiting class.  It's hard not to smile when you think of a backfield with Denard and Dee next year.  Right?

So let's get to some recruiting updates:

• The Dr. Phillips Crew is expected to visit for the Illinois game:  I usually prefer Florida guys visit in the summer or September/October.  When you get into November the weather gets a little iffy.  With that said, Orlando's Dr. Phillips crew is coming this weekend with includes:  Dee Hart, Ha'Sean Clinton-Dix, Linebacker Darryl Monore, Safety Roderick Ryles, Wide Receiver Chris Gallon, and 2012 QB Nick Patti.   I think Michigan will/would take all of them.  I also hear they have a kicker on that team.  (I'm not kidding they really do)

• Talk to me about Defense?  Michigan is in the race for two very high profile safeties from Florida.  First is Clinton-Dix mentioned above and next is Karlos Williams.  Both are verbally committed to other schools (Alabama and FSU) but both are considered "soft" because they visiting other schools.  Both could hit campus and start on Michigan's defense. 

• Sean Duggan a LB from Cincinnati is now committed to Boston College

• A name we haven't heard from in awhile is AZ OL Cyrus Hobbi who still may try to get back to Michigan for an official.  He visited Ann Arbor this summer.

• Sammy Watkins the top WR in Florida seems to be down to Clemson and Michigan as his top 2.  Sammy who has been to Michigan twice already still plans to make an official to Ann Arbor probably after the season.  Michigan leads for his teammate CB Dallas Crawford.

• Instate LB Desmond Morgan will most likely do another visit to Ann Arbor after the season.  Maybe for the Big Chill?

• You can consider Michigan verbals Greg Brown and Kevin Sousa as "soft" commits right now because they are taking visits to other schools.

• Instate WR recruit DeAnthony Arnett will skip his basketball season to play in the Army All American Bowl.  The Michigan coaches watched DeAnthony's game last week.

• Instate OL/DE Anthony Zettel season is over and has a final list of 5 schools which include: Michigan State University, the University of Michigan, Penn State University, the University of Iowa and the University of Southern California.

Michigan Thursday: Recruiting Blitz

This is like a" run" recruiting blitz update today but with some tasty nuggets in there for you that follow the recruiting trail. 

• The #1 Safety in the country and current Alabama commit Hasean Clinton-Dix will be making another visit to Ann Arbor for the Illinois game with Dee and the Dr. Phillips crew (Chris Gallon WR, Darryl Monroe LB, Roderick Ryles S, 2012 QB Nick Patti) .  If I had to guess, Michigan is trying to put together a Miami Heat like package (no not money!) for the Dr. Phillips guys that would include them all playing together next year.  Dee Hart is already verbally committed and now Clinton-Dix could be re-considering his verbal to Bama.   There are a number of other Dr. Phillips prospects that Michigan is looking at as well.  There were Michigan coaches at their high school just this week.  It seems Michigan would be one of the only schools that could take 3 or 4 Dr. Phillips players.  Let me tell you that with a lot of certainty that Clinton-Dix would be starting right now for the Wolverines.

• Offensive Lineman from Chicago Chris Bryant will be visiting Ann Arbor again in December. 

• TomVH from Mgoblog says that some Michigan coaches will be at Anthony Arnett's football game on Saturday.  Anthony is a State of Michigan player who dropped U of M from his list a number of months ago.   Maybe the young man is reconsidering Michigan and his future with Dee and Denard?

• There is a lot of Michigan negative recruiting going on in the recruitment of Anthony Zettel.  Michigan still remains the leader but State and PSU are a close second.

• Sam Webb has an update on the 2012 Chris Wormley Michigan offer.

• It seems Michigan might be slow playing QB Kevin Sousa from Florida.  Kevin is setting up other visits this Fall.   Michigan had QB Marquise Williams in for an official visit as well (who is currently verballed to NC)

• Iowa visitor Tim Jernigan is one of the top DT in the 2011 class and will be seriously considering Michigan.  The rumor that he is a lock to Florida is not correct.  He will be visiting Florida, FSU and LSU as well. 

• Dallas Crawford and Sammy Watkins have both Miami and Michigan very high on their list.  We know Michigan leads for Dallas and most insiders expect that Clemson leads for Sammy.

• Like we expected AJ Jordan committed to Wisconsin on Wednesday.   It seems Michigan feels confident with some of the WR's that are still in the fold.

Wolverine Wednesday: Recruiting Blitz and Other News

Before we get to recruiting news, I have a couple sports related business topics for Wolverines and football fans. 

• More Jersey News:  Nike has bought the NFL contract away from Reebok/Adidas.  Which could mean layoffs in a plant in Indianapolis that produces replica jerseys for NFL teams and of course teams like the University of Michigan.  Maybe Adidas can open up the plant to Michigan fans so they can get a "special" jersey's when Michigan is in Indy next year for the Big Ten Championship game.

• If your interested and why wouldn't you be? :) I am again the guest on the Michigan Man Podcast this week, re-capping the MSU loss and previewing the Iowa game.  You can find the podcast here or download it on ITunes.  

• Fanvision: If you haven't heard, Fanvision is a new held device that you can watch the game, replays, or different camera angles from your seat at the game.  Michigan is the only NCAA team that has these devices available.  Over 12 NFL teams are piloting them this year.  The devices are from a company that Dolphins owner and Michigan grad Stephen Ross owns.   The cost is $200 for the device and $5 per game and this guy is a fan.   Part of their marketing plan was to send a bunch of these devices out for free to season ticket holders.  I wasn't one of the lucky ones.  Talking to some of the fans at the Big House, they like it for tailgating before, during, and after the games.

• Chris L. Rucker celebrated his team's win over the Wolverines on Saturday by going out getting drunk and then driving on Sunday morning.   He was of course arrested and will be suspended but the MSU coaches expect to have him back playing this year.  Chris was charged and is on probation for last years Dorm fight as well.  I guess this is strike 2 for Mr. Rucker.

Now on to the Blitz:

-TomVH gives us an update on recruiting visitors expected to attend the Iowa game:  
2011


DT Timmy Jernigan - 6'2", 275 lbs, 4 Star, Lake City, Florida

TE Drew Owens - 6'5", 225 lbs, 3 Star, Charlotte, North Carolina

DB Dallas Crawford - 5'10", 185 lbs, 3 Star, Fort Myers, Florida

WR Sammy Watkins - 6'1", 180 lbs, 4 Star, Fort Myers, Florida

WR Hakeem Flowers - 6'2", 175 lbs, 3 Star, Greenville, South Carolina

WR Quinta Funderburk - 6'5", 204 lbs, 3 Star, Chesapeake, Virginia

2012

DE Chris Wormley - 6'4", 255 lbs, Toledo, Ohio

RB Will Mahone - 5'11", 205 lbs, Austintown, Ohio (He confirmed he will be there)

DB Luc Haupt - 6'0", 180 lbs, Austintown, Ohio

DB Chris Davis - 5'10", 183 lbs, Austintown, Ohio

QB Demitrious Davis - 5'10", 183 lbs, Austintown, Ohio

-Avery Walls, a CB that Michigan fans are high on for the 2011 class has recently been to Oregon and CAL and he now tells TomVH this: "I'm going to go to Michigan State, South Carolina, Virginia, and U Conn. Once all my visits are done then I'll decide from there. I don't have a leader right now, because I haven't seen all the schools yet. I'm still evaluating different things about each school."  That doesn't sound like the best news for Wolverine fans.

-Dee Hart talks more about Michigan with ESPN:  "The Michigan fans are such friendly people, they make you feel comfortable and calm," Hart added. "They want you to enjoy the Michigan experience and take it all in. And the coaches are the same way. They wanted us to be around the team and experience everything first hand."

On RR: "I liked Michigan either way and if he were to leave it wouldn't affect me because I think I can play in any offensive system," Hart said. "So it really wasn't my concern.

"That being said I wanted to make sure everything came together. He's winning ball games right now and the future looks good, so it's coming together."

On Denard: "First of all he's a great person; he's the leading candidate for the Heisman," Hart said. "And he can throw first, he's not limited to just running. They have to check the other guys, like Martavious Odoms and Vincent Smith. The offense tries to get everyone in space, and with him and me in the same backfield it's going to be very fast. Speed kills."

Being sold on the Wolverines: "I was always sold on Michigan because I love what they offer from an educational standpoint," Hart said. "My field of study is going to be business management and I have a great opportunity to see first-hand how everything functions in that program.

"Just getting a four-year degree from a school like Michigan is going to help me have success over a long-term period. Long after football is finished."


As you can tell, Iowa is going to be a big visit game for the Wolverines.  The next big game is clearly Wisconsin, which could include Dee Hart and many of his Dr. Phillips teammates, Kris Frost, and 5 star DB Karlos Williams (who could do an un-official and might do his official after the season).  Karlos is currently committed to Florida State.

Michigan Monday: Starts to Turn the Page

When you lose a football game (even when it's against a rival), you have to look at what went well, what went wrong, learn from it and move to the next game. 

Today, the Wolverines need to do that.  They need to heal, learn, practice, and prepare for Iowa.  It was about 50/50 on people who thought that Michigan would win last weekend.   Most people don't believe Michigan has a chance this weekend against Iowa.  Even Vegas says that Michigan will lose by just over a field goal.  Monday is the day to focus on whats next and whats next is Iowa on Saturday. 

Per Sam Webb on the radio this morning.  Denard addressed the team on Saturday after the game.  He stood up and took responsibility for the loss and told his teammates," it will never happen again, never."   If that report is accurate this young man is one special football player but it sounds like a even better person.

Turn the page Wolverines, focus on Iowa.   They have had two weeks to focus on you. 

• Here is Dee Hart's entertaining announcement video. 

• TomVH from Mgoblog gives us a quick update on weekend visitor, Devondrick Nealy.   Devondrick called the visit,  "Tremendous".  He didn't commit but is close.

• RR will have his regular scheduled Press Conference today.  What will be interesting is the status of Mike Martin's injury.   For Michigan fans if MM is out for Iowa, expect to see Big Will get some playing time.  He was in late during the MSU game after Mike went down.

More to come today after RR's meets the press..................

Dee Hart is a Wolverine

Dee Hart picked Michigan tonight after his football game.  Rivals ranks Dee the #37 player in nation, #1 All purpose running back and #10 player in Florida. 

Dee has long been rumored to be a strong lean for the Wolverines where his former teammate and friend Ricardo Miller is a true freshman WR.

Dee has 4.4 speed in the 40 and should compete very early for playing time at running back in Michigan's backfield with Denard Robinson.   Dee is 5'8 and 190 pounds and rated as a 4 star prospect to Rivals and Scouts.   He is also planning to enroll in January, so the Wolverines won't have to wait until signing day to have the next "Hart" on campus.   The baton is now past from Mike to Dee.

For more recruiting information on Dee that you want to know but were afraid to ask can be found at Mgoblog. 

More good news on the recruiting trail:  Antonio Kinard a Michigan signee from the 2010 class who had some academic issues is currently at Hargrave Military prep school will enroll at Michigan in January. (TomVH from Mgoblog is reporting).   Did I mention that Antonio is a linebacker?


Dee would be #11 in the 2011 class and Antonio would be #12.  Since both are enrolling in January, RR and staff will have the flexibility of using a scholarship from the 2010 or 2011 class.

Michigan Tuesday: Dee Hart Decision Coming on Friday

Dee Hart is planning to announce his decision on Friday at 12:00 EST.  All signs right now point to a positive decision for the Maize and Blue.  Dee Hart is rated the #37 player in the nation by Rivals and might even make his announcement on ESPN.  Here are some quotes from the local paper in Florida:

"I've pretty much decided it's between Michigan and Alabama. I'll be coming up on a decision here Friday," Hart said Monday after practice. "I had a great visit to Alabama, talked to the coaches. I was with my boy HaHa (best friend and teammate Ha'sean Clinton Dix) we had fun. It was crazy. Nothing like that atmosphere in the SEC. That was a great football game. Florida had a good game, but Alabama's just the better team."

Hart, ranked No. 3 in the Sentinel's 2011 Central Florida Super60, has great hands out of the backfield, excellent leaping ability to overcome his 5-foot-9 height, and once he gets the ball in open field, anything can happen. His hip movement angers embarrassed defenders as he cuts, stops, starts again -- all, it seems, in milliseconds.

Clinton-Dix, a safety and ranked No. 1 in the Central Florida Super60, is already committed to Alabama and he reaffirmed that on Monday, saying, "Done, I am done. 100 percent done."
DP is 4-0 heading into Friday's game with Orlando Boone. Hart has 70 carries for 569 yards and 12 TDs this season, an average of 142 yards per game and 8.3 yards per carry.

Let's hope this starts off a very good weekend for the Wolverines on Friday!

Michigan Monday: MSU Week Begins Now

Michigan State week is always a strange week for Wolverines fans.  The reason being is many Michigan fans rank Michigan rivals as #1 Ohio State, #2 ND, #3 MSU.   Michigan State ranks their rivals as:  #1 Michigan, #2 Michigan, and #3 tried for Penn State (didn't really work).  

Don't get me wrong, Michigan wants to win this game and yes it's a rivalry game.  In-state bragging rights mean something for the kids and there is an effect on recruiting.   MSU has also taken advantage of Michigan's two down years and has had close wins over the Wolverines.  Both teams are 5-0, ranked, and have wins over ND so it should be a good game.  Michigan State's head coach is still recovering from his heart attack and had a set back late last week that had him back in the hospital.   Believe it or not MSU really hasn't been on the road this year, the farthest they have been away from East Lansing was a trip to Detroit to play Florida International. 

Should be a fun week.  Enjoy it here at the BHB.

• RR will have his weekly presser today at 12:15

• Dee Hart is planning to announce his decision this week.  The initial reports say it will be completed on Friday.  No press conference is schedule yet. 

• TomVH reports this weekend that Michigan is now recruiting Chris Gallon, Dee's teammate and cousin of current Wolverine Jeremy Gallon.  Chris is a 6'5, 205 WR. 

• AP Poll:  MSU at #17  Michigan at #18  USA:  MSU #16 and Michigan #17

• Early line has Michigan -4.5

• Look for a number of big time recruits visiting Michigan this weekend and next.  It seems the Iowa game might be the biggest recruiting weekend of the year. 

Trip Report to IU:

The stadium is much improved from the last time Michigan was there.  Their video board is impressive.    The IU fans seem to be pretty nice and it was good to see the Wolverines travel so well.  Best example is last time Michigan was there they were ranked #2 in the nation and were undefeated with OSU the following week.  This year, there were many more Michigan fans and they were loud and supportive.  Great to see.

• I have never seen a fan base celebrate first downs like IU fans.  It's actually pretty funny.  Memo to IU Basketball fans at the game:  First downs are good, but the time to celebrate is for touchdowns.  Like when you cheer for a made 3 pointer!

• Many folks said this was the first sell out since 2007.  The stadium was maybe 1000 seats short of a sell out.  Now I understand why they sold a home game to FedEx field against Penn State.

 

• The IU fan base celebrated like they won the game when they scored to tie the game with 1:15 left.  One guy turned to me and said: "This is the new Big House!".  You only have to double your stadium and get people to show up.  BTW: there is 1:15 left and we have Denard.  I also had to advise the person next to me if this game was "field rush" worthy if they won.  Glad we didn't have to find out.

• The overall trip to IU is pretty affordable for an away game.  Tickets were as low as $5 for kids and there were plenty available to fans not getting advance tickets.  Parking was also $5 to park near the stadium.  They really don't understand out how to flow the traffic after game day but it wasn't too bad.