Wolverine Wednesday: Hopes The Roster Stays Solid Today

After two straight days of roster attrition, I hope the Wolverines don't lose anyone today.  I am still surprised about Je'Ron Stokes who was on the two deep last year decided to leave.  I guess the Fall Camp buzz on Jeremy Gallon was taking his snaps.

Here is a snapshot quote from Brady Hoke's press conference yesterday that might give us a hint on why the kids left:  "Well, it was, to be honest with you, it was the right thing for them and what they felt," Hoke said. "We wish them the best, and they're great kids, but sometimes kids move on for different reasons - homesick or whatever it might be, and I'm not going to get into that. It usually works out for everybody."

Other important "bites" from his press conference:

• If they had a game today: Mike Shaw would be the starting RB


• Thought the scrimmage was physical


• Troy, JT and Courtney are fighting it out at CB


• Brink would be the starting 5 tech DE if the season started today


• Overall the entire team (both units) needs to improve on consistency

Recruiting News:

• The web site Bucknuts rates Chris Wormley as the #1 prospect in Ohio for the 2012 class.  That is pretty high praise with guys like Stanford, Washington and Kalis in Ohio as well.

• Ace from Mgoblog interviews 2012 verbal Caleb Stacey.

Michigan Tuesday: Practice 1 in the Books

Brady Hoke Day 1 Quotes:

"Will Campbell left spring at 342 pounds and came in at 316, 319," he said. "Just watching him move around and do those things, you can see that. That's a commitment. A commitment is always important - he showed his teammates he's made a commitment.

"Will loves people and he's a tremendous kid. In his defense, you play defense, you play offense, come back to defense - that's hard. You never get your feet planted in the ground. I enjoy him. I remember working camp when he was being recruited and spending time with him. I think he's moving in the right direction."

"[Redshirt sophomore left tackle] Taylor Lewan gained some weight he needed to gain. I could go through the whole roster and there were guys that needed to get bigger, more physical [and did]," he said. "Strength is an important part, and playing with endurance is an important part."

"We're ahead of where we were in the spring. I still think we're spoon-feeding it a little bit," Hoke said. "I always believed as a coach you have to have three things you have to hang your hat on. One of them ? the power play. We've got to hang our hat on the play pass, the power pass off that, and whatever may be in a two-minute situation."
"Defensively you've got to have three calls you think guys are going to execute at a fast level, playing fast and physical. There's no question in their minds what they're supposed to do. We made some strides in what we have in, but we don't have in nearly what we will."

"[Cornerbacks] Troy Woolfolk and J.T. Floyd are full speed," he said. "We're pretty doggone healthy."

Other news and notes:

• Kickers will work a lot at kicking in the Big House, not just in the practice facility.

• Coaches were happy with the energy and how in shape players were  Day 1 and they had a good team meeting. 

• It was obviously a good day with the first day of practice and Ondre Pipkins committing to the 2012 class.

• I have heard this a couple of times that the new Strength and Conditioning guy is really good.  They say that Baris trained guys to be fast but not powerful.  Aaron Wellman is preparing them for Big Ten Play.

Wolverine Thursday: Spring Game Information

Coach Hoke sat down with the media yesterday and gave us some thoughts on the Spring Game on Saturday. 

First off, the weather is supposed to be cold and rainy which is too bad because that probably will keep people way and donations for Mott's down.  If your wondering, the game is still free but if do $5 and up donation to Mott's you will walk away with some cool Fat Head stuff or special access to game day activities next season.

Players that are out:  JT Floyd, Troy Woolfolk, Taylor Lewan, and Kenny Demens.  Those are all starters and each one is expected to be ready for Fall practice. 

Match Ups:  #1 Offense vs #2 Defense.   #1 Defense vs #2 Offense.  Winners get Steak for dinner - Losers get Hot Dogs. 

"We're heading down the home stretch of spring, obviously. We've got two days left to keep evaluating." Mindset, mentality, etc. will still be evaluated in the final two days. "We've made some progress in some of those areas but we're a long way from being the football team we want to be in the fall."

I have heard there has been a ton of "coaching" going on for each player.  Much more working on fundamentals then under the last staff.  Which is exactly what this team needs.  I am not expecting a ton out of the Spring Game, my hope is the players can work on what they learned in Spring over the summer months and really turn it up during Fall Practice.

If your wondering, I still hear the kicking game still sucks.  I sure hope that freshman coming in can kick field goals. 

• Here is some visit reaction from Joe Bolden's who was in town on Tuesady for his second visit to Ann Arbor with is Mom and Dad:  I didn't see as much as I wanted to last time. This time we got to drive through campus, see the classrooms, and we just got to see a lot more than last time. We go the grand tour of everything. I didn't get to see a dorm because there weren't any vacant, but I got to see the building that I would be living in.----Timeline: I still haven't gotten the chance to sit down with my mother, father, and uncle and weigh out the pro's and con's of everything. My uncle wasn't at school today, but we'll probably sit down in the next couple days. I really don't have a timeline, it could happen tomorrow or it could happen in February. I'm not sure yet.

Michigan Thursday: Teaching vs Scheming

When you go to college you learn the knowledge and maybe a few skills to become a professional.  No matter what your profession is; Lawyer, Doctor, Architect, Business Professional, etc. ............

The same goes with football players and at times I see a coaches that come from the NFL that don't understand that.   My first example is Charlie Weiss, he talked about there wouldn't anyone out scheming him at ND.  That was clear and so was his inability to be a college head football coach.   In college you need to be able to see an all state running back that might be a step slow is a perfect linebacker prospect.  In college you have to teach technique and football skills over drawing up complex plays.  In the NFL, you have elite athletes and to win you need to out scheme your opponent. 

What makes me excited about Michigan football is Greg Mattison gets it and I don't think Greg Robinson ever did.  Yes, Mattison came from the NFL Ravens but his experience in college football way out weighs Robinson's.   You can tell Mattison is a teacher in some of his comments yesterday when he met the press about Spring Practice:  

On learning the new schemes:  Even though installation is going slowly, "There is no disappointment whatsoever in me. I get excited and more enthused every day we meet." They get to mold the players into what they want to see, and the players are all excited to learn.

Talent and Technique: " There hasn't been any moping or negative attitudes, guys come in wanting to learn. When the coaches make corrections, the players demonstrate those by the next day. The entire D has tons of work to do on basic techniques. "But I would have said that about any time I've had, unless they're perfect with their technique, I'm not satisfied." First step, punch, etc. - all the basic techniques need work.

Big Will?  Campbell is coming off the football better at times, but not always. Quinton Washington "has been neck and neck with [Will Campbell]... When you see Quinton Washington and Will Campbell battling for a position, that says 'great, because now we can roll them.' Because I believe in that, and I always have." Will Heininger has stepped up, and can rotate with Jake Ryan. Jibreel Black looks as good as Craig Roh on some days.


LB's?  "The one guy probably that has improved the most and I have really become excited about him is Cam Gordon. I've really got high hopes for him." He's playing SAM backer, and has a chance to be good. "Has a tremendous attitude." He has safety athleticism, just need to get bigger. "Cam's a really long way away, but as a coach you see things in a young man you say 'this guy really could be one of those really good players some day.'" He's battling guys much bigger than him right now, and they want him to get as big as he can while still being able to run.

I know the proof will be on the field on Saturday's but it sounds like to me that Mattison is teaching the defense on how to be play their positions where Robinson used a stuffed Beaver to motive his players to be better. 

At the end of the day you want your football coaches to be good leaders and teachers.  This also maybe an area where RR could improve as well.  He was known as a the mastermind behind the spread but could he really teach 18-22 years old kids on how to be better football players?    His teams didn't get better during the season at Michigan, they got worse which makes me believe he was more of a scheme guy then a teacher.  To quote Charles Barkley, "I could be wrong but I doubt it!".

Michigan Thursday: Spring Football Information

Brady Hoke had a press conference yesterday and updated the media mostly on injuries:

-Christian Pace is doing individual drills only.
-Molk has a hamstring tweak.
-Troy Woolfolk is doing a little group work, mostly individual.
-JT Floyd doing less group stuff than Troy.
-Mike Shaw is doing alternate conditioning things, more next week.  (broken hand)

Team Stuff:
-Need more full backs
-Stephen Hopkins will do some duty there and in a two back look
- DL he spoke about Big Will, Richard Ash, and Quinton Washington.
-Probably won't play a full game for the Spring Game.
-Practicing at 5:30 AM in the morning right now

• Ray Vinopal is transferring to Pitt which is an hour away from his home.  Also where his former Michigan coaches are at.
• Former 4 star QB recruit out of Saline Joe Boisture who committed to BC then changed to MSU has decided to retire from football due to back problems. 
• Michigan Basketball 2012 incoming freshman Trey Burke has been named Ohio's Mr. Basketball.
• Here is a Detroit News Article on Sheldon Day a DT out of Indy.
• One of the top RB's in the country Brionte Dunn and a 2012 OSU commit, is planning a visit up to Ann Arbor soon.  Brionte was an early commit for OSU but the Wolverines have been recruiting him very hard.   
• 2011 Basketball Recruit Max Bielfeldt a 6'8 220 pound power forward will announce his decision on Friday at 3:30.   Down to Michigan and Illinois. 

There are rumors that Michigan Football might get it's first 2012 commitment today or tomorrow.   I will have it when the news breaks.

Brady Hoke NSD Press Conference

Notes:

• Signed 20 kids
• All expected to qualify academically
• Went through each kid, where they were from and HS
• Said OC Al Borges looked at 15 QB's in this class and thought Russell Bellomy was the best.  He and his family took a trip to Ann Arbor and fell in love with the place.
• Chris Bryant is a refrigerator with legs
• Tamani Carter was recruited as a safety
• Frank Clark as a LB
• Kellen Jones plays sideline to sideline
• Jack Miller as center
• Tony Posada is a road grater
• Michigan is a national and a world wide brand.  They will always focus on Michigan first but Ohio and the Midwest are very important as well.
• Recruiting with the M on his chest was awesome!
• Michigan will run a 4-3 defense
• The rest of his staff will be firmed up by Monday

Brady Hoke: "I would have walked to Michigan"

If you feel on the fence about the Brady Hoke hiring.  Watch today's press conference at Mgoblue.com.

It might get you off the fence.

He sounds like Bo Schembechler and acts like him.

Brady talked about:

• it will always be about the team.
• the Michigan players will be about charter, effort, and toughness
• everyone associated with Michigan Football will respect the tradition of the Michigan program
• met with the team today and has spoken with Denard for about 15 minutes today and will talk to him more today as well.
• the Ohio State game is personal to him
• got emotional when talking about all the players that he has worked with.
• going to focus on building a staff, meeting with the players and working on the recruiting class
• there won't be any visits this weekend

David Brandon:

• 5 cities in 6 days
• interviewed several coaches face to face and via the phone
• 6 year term sheet
• Tate is not with the program
• Didn't know Brady before this process started but got to know him through face to face meeting. 
• Brady took this job with out talking about salary.  The only person David knew who had done that was Bo.
• Looking for a guy that loved this program and had a reputation as good coach/players coach.  
• Doesn't need to teach Brady the Victors
• Liked that Brady knows how to coach defense
• this game is about the players and all the Michigan players have noticed Brady's National Championship ring and he also has 5 other Big Ten Championship rings.

There were about 10-20 former players at the press conference supporting Brady. Which is very telling.

RR's Gator Bowl Press Conference Notes

News from RR's press conference this morning:

- Devin Gardner is the #2 QB for the Gator Bowl

- Tate is back in Ann Arbor and his status as a U of M student is unclear. 

RR Press Conference Notes

Today notes are provided by mgoblog.  I had a conflict during the press conference today. 

• Mike Shaw will be evaluated and tested this week.  The coaches are hopeful he can play.  Here is my take:  I looked into his eyes when he was getting help going back to the locker room.  I think he had a serious concussion and he is at least a week away from playing.  I would expect that he might be out until the bowl game.  I have never seen anything like that before, it was really scary actually.  
• Martin and Mouton "We're hopeful that both can play." They'll be evaluated tomorrow and Wednesday.
• Roh will stay at DE, now at about 250 pounds, like to get him to 265.
• Cam Gordon will stay at box safety - getting better
• Vincent Smith - "He's probably been the most consistent back we've had" not just running, but blocking and catching, too. "It has been almost a year since he tore his knee" and is looking faster.
• Carvin Johnson - "Really excited about him. Again, he's another true freshman that right now can play both safety positions."
• Vinopal made a couple mistakes but kept plays in front of him.  He is getting better as well.
• Team wasn't ready for the weather conditions and didn't play well in it.  Need to practice with a wet ball, conditions were a factor in the turnovers.
• Kicking will continue to be competitive in practice.  Seth has kicked well in practice but not in the games.
• Wisconsin last home game for the seniors, will do some special stuff during the week
• Wisconsin is a top 5 team that uses the power run game but also has a balance offense. 
• RR has been spending some more time with the defense.

Rich Rodriguez Monday Press Conference Notes

Denard is Ok and passed his tests, he will start on Saturday.

Teric Jones is out with an ACL.

Mouton is a bit banged up.
We tackled ok, not great.  We didn't get off blocks.  We missed some open field tackles.

They haven't talked about the #1 it seems Roy likes #12

Didn't sleep very well on Saturday night, keep replaying the OT's in his head.

Was happy a defensive play won the game.

The 2 pt play was a rub route.  Don't want to say a pick route. Sent 7 players on the blitz.

Q Washington is sticking with D line he could move back but is doing well right now.

The key to blitzing is to not always show what they are doing. 

2 interceptions - first one was a good play by the DB the second was a mis-read on the route. 

There are countdown clocks in practice, alarms go off, and the coaches run in the building before the 4 hour deadline. 

Courtney Avery played well, didn't show he was nervous, get Troy and JT back and you got a lot of guys with experience.

You worry about kids with a loss when they are outside of practice and might lose confidence. 

9 freshman on the 2 deep on defense.  He has never been in this position even at a small college, the next couple year and developing, they could be pretty good back that.

There has been some negative recruiting and people say things that are not true.  If you really love the program you are not going to bash the university.

 
Ryan Van Bergen

Team is excited to get that 6th win, feeling confident, and have a lot of emotion going into next week.  Weight is off our shoulders.

Want to improve Big Ten record and a better bowl game.

I was exhausted.  Glad to get a win.

Michigan ran the same defensive play the first time they called the 2 pt conversion.

Excited as a defensive to play Purdue.  We played well after turnover and field position.  Felt we made some tremendous strides last week.

There was 3 holding calls on Ryan rushing the passer.   Craig played better at DE.

The offense always has to account when Mike is in the game.

Defense will get better as the freshman get more experience. 

Need to disguise our coverages a bit.  Better tackling and getting turnovers and fumbles.

Been working on 3rd down and Illinois was 6-16.

Kicked field goals in high school and could make an extra point for sure.  Long of 46 yards in high school.


Patrick Omemeh 

Heart stopped a few times watching that last play.

The win is a good emotional push.

Denard does everything fast.  He even talks fast.

Will is a big strong guy, making progress at guard.  He can help us down the road.

It's a good feeling going to a bowl game, something you expect from this team. 

The team was aware the investigation was wrapped up and we were confident in the coaches and was glad to hear it was in our favor.

Roy Roundtree

Didn't know he had broken a record until after the game.  It amazed me that I had so many yards. 

He had a similar game in high school. 

Didn't sink in until Sunday talking to his cousin. 

If we play like we play on offense, I don't think anyone can stop us.

Really don't see a difference in the huddle between Denard and Tate. 

When Denard went out, he said "stay focus and tell Tate to keep rolling"

Going to get ready for Purdue.  Every team is going to talk trash.

Committed to Purdue and when RR was a West Virgina, I told him I wasn't going to WV.  Then when he visiited Michigan he loved it.   

Was 158 coming to Michigan now 178 wants to be 185 or 190.

Got faster in the off season and will get even faster.

Jr. is a great player.

Feels he has to work for the #1 jersey and you have to earn it.  Yes, I want it.

Was on a knee praying (during the last play).

Don't want to ask for it (#1) and hope they give it to him.  A goal is to get some more wins.

Darryl Stonum

Happy to get 6th win, now it's time to get to a better bowl.

Guys got emotional after the game.  Happy to send the seniors out with a bowl game.

Just want to go where it's warm.

Can't hear Denard, you have to look at the signal.  Mostly with his mouth piece in.

Molk kept saying we have 60 minutes to play

Keep your spirits and head up during a game like that.   

Roy works hard in the weight room

Thought his sideline grab was a good catch.

Rich Rod's Monday Press Conference Notes

Hope to have Mike Martin in practice today.  He was limited last week in practice and that is why they held him out in the game after hurting his other ankle.

Denard is sore but should practice today.  Fell on his hip on the sideline, his knee bruise and his shoulder has been bothering him the past couple of weeks.

Will be sending in the personal penalty on the kick off to the Big Ten office this week.

Will try to help scheme with the defense this week.  Trying to simplify the defense so they can play faster.

On offense they can add a new play a week, can't do that on defense. 

Need faster and more athletic guys on defense.

Illinois is one of the most athletic teams in the Big Ten.  They are playing their best football right now.

No changes on the defensive staff.  Just met with the defensive staff for 3 hours.  Heard about the rumor, which was un-true.

It's not the scheme on defense it's the execution. 

Need to try to get Craig Roh more involved.

Greg Banks:

• Spirit still seems to be high
• Need to have upperclassmen step up
• Defense needs to make plays and play together as a unit
• Haven't looked at Illinois much yet.  Will look at film today
• Need to improve tackling and 3rd down stops. 
• Going to hit practice hard this week

Kovacs

• Trying to improve this week
• Hadn't heard about the Robinson rumor
• Thought Ray Vinopal was a little wide eyed but had a good week in practice last week
• Has moved past the Penn State game, now focusing on Illinois
• Tries to avoid ESPN, SI and the Blogs.  (what?)
• This group fights and hungry
• Practicing agaist Denard will help preparing for a similar offense in Illinois
• Playing a lot of freshman, which are improving daily and will continue to get better

David Molk

• Attitude adjustment can't be half assed
• Losing isn't good and looks bad.  We have worked to hard and come to far.
• I am going to do everything I can do (to show leadership)
• We have the ability, effort is no problem, it's the mental aspect. 
• The mental part can come in days or weeks.  It's an acquired talent
• We are moving toward the place we want to be, were just not there yet.
• We are a team and we won't point fingers
• Practices are intense
• He doesn't pay any attention to the Coach Rod Hot seat talk.  Doesn't read or watch the media and will do anything for this team.  "This is my team!".

On a side note:  David Molk is a man who is clearly frustrated and pissed off.  Michigan needs a 100 more David Molks. 
 

Rich Rod's Press Conference Notes - Now with Denard Updates..........

Excited about the night game.  It's a fun experience at Happy Valley.

Big Will is working on the offensive line and Quinton Washington is now on the defensive lines, the moves are permanent yet. 

Fitz Toussaint should be ready to play this week, not sure if he will contribute or not.

Denard is the starter, Tate has played well but Denard will continue to play.  Not expecting to play both QB's.

Denard just needs to minimize the major mistakes.

Devin has a back issue and it might lead to a medical redshirt (really didn't answer the question).   He is learning the offense and picking up more each week.

Watching games on TV is not as good as watching the tape, you don't pick up enough of the play on TV.

Saw Auburn QB Cam Newton at Florida when Tebow was there, knew he was a special player then.

Mike Martin and David Molk did a little bit last week and should be ready to go this week.  Same with Shaw.

JoPa is a great coach with a great staff.

The Penn State fans will be jacked up and they have really good players that are ready to execute. 

Every game we play is critical.  Everyone puts a little more importance on a league game.

You can't press the issue and let the game come to you.  The times we have pressed the issue we have gotten in trouble.

Denard's shoulder needed some rest and he got that last weekend.


Craig Roh:

A week to heal is great looking forward to this weekend. 

He feels refresh.

They have been working on fundamentals the past week.

Just watched the Penn State game.

He gets more out of watching film but he can get stuff from watching the game on TV.

Defense has been improving and it's slowly showing on the field.

Thought Quinton Washington should have been playing defense weeks ago.  Just has the right mentality for defense.

Mike Martin is an amazing athlete and can take on 3 blockers.

Loves night games.  You feed off the excitement from the crowd.

Team is looking forward and staying positive.


Vincent Smith 

Didn't watch any football on TV this week.

Trying to get his body right this week.

This bye week got us back on track.

Saw that Hopkins was special at the end of camp, a good down hill runner.

The team is hungry and been correcting mistakes the past week.

He likes being in space and doesn't mind playing wide receiver.

He is 100% healthy.

Denard Robinson

Feeling good and it feels great having a week off. 

Hung out, slept a lot during the week.

Treating the shoulder everyday last week

Team came together during the week and learned from the mistakes.

Didn't like sitting out practice.

Trainers kept him out of Iowa game, he couldn't go. 

Cam Newton played a great game.

More as a team this year.

The turnovers were preventable.

(about his speech to the team after the MSU game) He rather lead by actions then words but didn't want the season to go the way it did last year and felt he needed to say something.  Didn't want anyone to be down.

Big Will is going to be a good offensive guard.

You don't hear the fans when your on the field.  Just focused on the game.


Steve Schilling

Big Will is going to be a good offensive lineman when he figures out what he is doing.  He almost played D line like an offensive lineman. 

When Quinton hits someone it's going to hurt.  They always joked about the two changing positions.

Team is excited about the trip to Happy Valley. 

Recharged the batteries and watched some football last weekend. 

Jibreel Black will have a great career here.

Taylor gets amped up and Steve tries to calm him down a bit.

Only going to run through the tunnel 2 more times.  Looking forward to the last 5 games to end the season right.

Michigan Monday: Asks For Help From Dr. Fix it

The Michigan Wolverines had a much needed bye last weekend where the Wolverines had time to focus internally to fix a few things on both sides of the ball.

Michigan has 3 winnable games in a row and they need to win all 3 before they face Wisconsin and Ohio State back to back.  Don't get me wrong, those winnable games are also lose-able for these young Wolverines.  So this week was about getting re-focused and getting ready for the home stretch.   

When something in your house breaks, you can either fix it yourself or call a handyman aka Dr. Fix it.  Since I'm allergic to fixing things, I usually call a Mr. Fix it.  Since the young Wolverines need some work I called Dr. Fix it for some help.   Here is what he said:

Michigan Defense

• Protect the young secondary.  In the off week, I hope Michigan found away to protect the young CB's.  There are a few ways to do that including zone coverages and putting pressure on the QB.  Did Greg Robinson find something this week?  Let's hope so.   My vote would be to pressure the QB.

• Where is my Ball Hawk?  Every good defense has a ball hawk.  Michigan doesn't seem to have one.  Sure, you can make a case for Kovacs but Michigan really needs another.  There are rumors floating around that true freshman Vinopal might start at safety this week and Cam Gordon could move to the Carvin Johnson/Thomas Gordon hybrid role.  I don't know if that is the answer, but I'm willing to take that risk at this point. 

• Stop the Run!  Coming into the season, the Michigan defense was expected to be poor against the pass but decent against the run.  Well, they haven't been good at stopping either.  The way the running backs are getting through the defensive line and linebackers is much too easy.  I expect that Kenny Demens has replaced Obi Ezeh permanently at middle linebacker but having Cam Gordon closer to line of scrimmage could also be a positive in the run game.

• Get some turnovers!  Through the first 5 games, Michigan was getting fumbles and interceptions.  In their 2 losses Michigan was giving those things to their opponents and not getting any back.   Denard and Tate will throw some picks, the Michigan defense needs to create some of their own.

• Healing Powers:  Let's hope Mike Martin is 100% after the bye week. 

This is a key two weeks of practice for the defense.  They need time to work out the issues.  On a side note, Michigan really needs a 6th win so they can have the extra bowl game practices.  Having those two weeks are so important to a young team.   Let's hope Greg Robinson mixed up some "mad formulas" these past two weeks for the defense.

Offense:

• Protect the Ball!  Michigan is not good enough on defense to give their opponents extra possessions.  Picks and fumbles have to stop if Michigan is going to win ball games. 

• Two headed QB?  Denard is the starter but is also a bit banged up.  I expect that Tate will see some more time in the second half of the season.  I'm not calling for QB controversy, I'm just saying if Denard struggles with his health, we will see more of Tate. 

• A Running Back needs to step up:  Michigan needs another threat on the ground outside of Denard.  I expect that Shaw is the guy but if he can't go due to injury, someone needs to step up and get some yards from that position.

• Penalties: Are killing drives and need to stop.  Play discipline football!

• Healing Powers: Let's hope Denard's shoulder is a 100% and that David Molk is ready to come back.   Those are probably the 2 most important guys on offense.  

The offense is still explosive but can't play from behind to be effective.  Michigan needs to take advantage of all the possibilities to score since the defense will be giving up a lot of points.  Protect the ball and do your thing and they will be fine.  

I can't tell you how important the next three weeks are for the the Michigan Program.  I hope the Michigan coaches were able to figure a few things out during the break.

More News and Notes:

• Karlos Williams the #7 ranked safety in the country who committed to Florida State has now become a "soft" commit and has USC and Michigan in his top 3. 

•  VA WR Quinta Funderburk who visited to Ann Arbor for the Iowa game has committed to Arkansas.

• RR will have his weekly press conference today at 12:15.  Look for questions on Big Will on offense? Ray Vinopal at safety?  Kenny Demens at LB?  Penn State's QB situation.  Denard's Shoulder.

RR Monday Press Conference Notes

Mike Martin and David Molk have ankle sprains, expected to play on Saturday limited this week.
#9 WR Tay Odoms is out with a broken foot
James Rodgers had cramps and will be back against Iowa.


RR

Not worried about team bouncing back.  The young guys seem to be able to put a loss behind them quicker then some of the upper classman.  But he is worried about the team bouncing back.  He is more concerned about fixing the mistakes.

Poor execution was the reason that  the running yards were down.

Stonum has a slight hamstring and that is why he didn't return too many kicks

Need to be better on kick returns

Kenny Demens and Moundros might get more playing time at LB

Can't run any delays against Iowa's defensive front.  They are too good.

Doesn't look like Fitz is going to play.  Rotator cuff type of injury.  Had some tough luck with injuries, might be back after the bye week.

Shaw should be 100% this week

More info from Tim at Mgoblog before RR took the mike. 


Greg Banks:

Going into this week with the same type of focus.

Losing is losing, every game is a big game.  Trying to make improvements.

Seniors stand up in leadership roles and all the guys could do better.

When he was a freshman, the play book was large and the speed of the game were the two biggest things that took some time getting used to.

Need to get better each week. 


Ryan Van Bergen:

First team meeting this afternoon.  Stay focused on Iowa.

Young players can get better week to week.  All they need to do is find something that "clicks" and then keep doing it.

Wants the team to prepare harder this week.

This team has a good leadership core there is not going to be a letdown this season. 

DT things happen quicker, DE is a more athletic position. 

Strongest leaders on offense:  Molk, Schilling, and Roundtree

Confident in game plan.  The plays they ran for touchdowns is the ones they practiced all week.   Didn't get it done in the game.

Patrick Omameh

The running game was something they wanted to focus on against MSU.  It worked early and State made some changes and the line didn't execute the way they wanted.

Expecting the team to bounce back well. 

Iowa has a talented front 4 and talent defense. 

Big strong dudes on the interior.  Real good all around.

Denard was clearly upset after the game. 

Kelvin Grady

WR were frustrated with the drops, don't want it to happen again.  Will catch a few more balls this week.

All mistakes are fixable.

Had high expectations, had more mistakes against MSU then they had in 5 weeks.

Iowa has a great defense and we know what we need to do.  We are 5-1 were not 1-5, we are going to bounce back.

Denard spoke out after the game and showed emotion.  It was the first time he did that and he gained a lot of respect from the players.  He took another step at being a leader.

You could see it in his eyes, he is (Denard) hungry.  You can feel it.

Monday's Press Conference Notes

Injury Updates:
Shaw is ready to go
Fitz Toussaint is day to day. 
Brandon Herron is ok
Greg Banks has a calf issue and needs rest.

Lots of coach talk early on.  Denard is good and they don't worry about scoring or comebacks late.

On the Taylor Lewan penalty:  "From what I see... his left foot got tangled up as he was stepping over a pile... I didn't see it on film, maybe they saw something I didn't see." The scrum afterward was no big deal, the officials broke it up.

Special Teams:

"We were close to it in the last game. We were gonna center the ball for a game-winning field goal." RR would rather score TDs, and fortunately the offense has been good at doing so. "There's gonna come a point in time where we've gotta make field goals" to win the game. They have guys who will be able to do it.

Hagerup has played a bit better. "He had a couple good punts, and he seemed composed, so hopefully the little nervousness is out of the way."

Stonum returns: "It's been a little bit frustrating." Haven't come close to breaking one. The blocking isn't quite there at times, but Darryl has the ability to do that. "Boy would it be a good time to do that."


"We have not had an opportunity to return a lot of punts."

Defense:
 
"I don't think you have to blitz all the time to have an aggressive mentality defensively." You get on your heels a bit when you've been giving up a lot of first downs. "We didn't make some key stops. Some of it was mental, and some of it was physical." The D is a little limited because they don't want to confuse younger guys.
 
"There's some moments on defense where we've gotten a little better, but there's also some things we've not gotten better yet, and it's going to take some time." In a tough situation with a lack of experienced depth. Need to force more 3-and-outs and turnovers.
 
Our defense was playing too much and our offense wasn't on the field at all." Doesn't alter the offensive approach, but wants the defense to play as fast as they can. "We've just got to try to play better, and get a few stops."
 
"Our numbers defensively were way down." That's trending toward the positive, but they need to help the young guys out with their schemes.
 
MSU -  here are the highlights:  It's a rivalry game, they are good, well coached, good QB, well balanced on offense and play good defense.  It will be a challenge.
 
Denard Q&A:
"I'm feeling good. Feeling alright. Just got done lifting." He felt pretty good yesterday after the Indiana game. Staying healthy - "I guess every Big Ten game's going to be a big game. I've been working out, I've gotten treatment, doing everything I can to take care of my body."
 

Doesn't get any bigger than M-MSU, it's going to be a hard-fought game. "They're a great team, they're a physical team, and they come to play. It's going to be a hard game." Everybody gets pumped up for this game, especially in-state guys.

He also gives props to his offense line, Roy Rountree and says Greg Jones on State is a pretty good linebacker.

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. 

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. 

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"

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.

Rich Rodriguez Monday Press Conference

Notes from today's presser:

• Likes to mix up the run and pass in his spread.
• There are good teams and good players in all divisions.  Players want to go where they can play.  FCS has good teams and good players.
• ND had a bear front which covers all the Michigan offensive lineman to stop the run game. 
• You learn a lot on the road.  Nobody was worried when ND hit a big play
• Regarding Denard touches:  we will do what it takes to win.  Denard can handle it.
• Hoping to get Junior back this week, don't know but it would help - he was having a great camp before he got hurt.
• Rankings don't mater now didn't mater two weeks ago when they were 80th or something. 
• Getting compliments are good and take them but they are like poison just don't drink them.  (or believe you are too good)
• Hot seat question: Same guy he was two weeks ago.  Same team. 
• Try to put kids in high pressure situations in camp so they are used to them in the game.  Denard has showed that the last two weeks.
• Cullen's penalty was a freshman mistake
• 3 interceptions from the defense was huge. 
• Expecting a big crowd from the student try out today.  Maybe another Kovacs.  There should be plenty of kickers.
• Place kicking is still open and not worried about Will's punting.

David Molk

• Denard is the best person to handle this fame, he can handle it and he doesn't like it.  Doesn't like interviews or the media.
• Running backs are preforming and will step up and be big.
• Rather not be ranked, doesn't like the attention.
• Being 20 gives them a bigger target - nothing they can't handle
• Team is more mature, knows the play book and defenses.
• Offensive line is doing well and can improve
• Snap the ball and hit people
• Got stronger as a group, when the offense started to stall or got behind

James Rodgers

• Need to stay humble and will prepare the same way this week
• Don't know much about UMass and will start to get the scouting report today
• Just go out and have fun, doesn't have anything to lose
• Prepared well for ND WR's and new their routes
• Watch as much film as you can
• Denard is a great kid, just a sophomore and leader.
• Help young players learn the system
• Secondary is young, just need to have fun and play.
• Needed to pick up his leadership after Troy went down.
• Cam is a hard worker and the biggest critic is himself and will watch film to get better
• Denard is a speedster

JT Floyd

• Denard competed every play
• Seen positive things with James Rogers.  Just needed experience
• Want to Win for Michigan - worked hard in summer.
• This is a step in the right direction - still lots of work to do.
• We accept each challenge each week.
• ND most exciting game he has ever been a part of
• Thought secondary did well, wish they could have a couple of big plays back by ND
• Getting his first pick was a weight of his shoulders.
• Secondary needs to prove themselves each week, group only has a few starts
• Mouton is a strong communicator and he enjoys playing with him

Greg Banks

• Doesn't look at rankings
• Doesn't take any team lightly
• Need to earn every one's respect back
• 80th in the country motivates the team (to start the season)
• Had to flush that long pass and move to the next play
• Stay in the moment
• UConn and ND had good offensive lines
• ND is big every year
• Dline is getting better and finding an identity as a team
• Can't replace Brandon Graham, talks to him a lot.
• BG is a great friend and a lifetime friend.
• Always wants the line to get better

Denard Robinson (smiled the entire time)

• Heard from his family to keep going, this is the start not the end
• Mom raised me to be humble
• The prize is winning for Michigan
• A little sore but you have to get through it
• When he was recruited by other teams to play WR or defense.  Michigan was one of the only schools that gave him a chance to play QB.
• Looked up to Charles Woodson and some Florida guys like Peter Warrick
• Doesn't like to punt but here at Michigan the QB has to be able to punt
• RB's want to win so they aren't complaining about carries
• Shaw is a tough dude, real good guy, tells him to make the read and go
• Doesn't pay attention to Heisman talk, he doesn't have cable, doesn't get on the web. 
• Likes the comparison to Pat White, likes that Pat was a difference maker
• Classmates don't say too much
• Stronger and faster since he got to college, can read defenses better, run the ball better
• Michigan is one happy family.  Tate and Devin were happy after the game, we are all brothers.
• Lots of people doubted me last year.
• My whole family smiles
• Desmond and Denard call each other twins