Wolverine Wednesday: Recruiting and Team Position Updates

Two Michigan commits got two real honors on Tuesday.  Mr. Ondre Pipkins probably one of the most important recruits in the 2012 class was awarded with a Army All American invite on Tuesday.  It was one of his goals and he made it.  If Ondre matches his camp/summer performances on the field this fall, expect him to add a 5th star.

Speaking of 5 stars, Michigan already has one in the bank for 2013 with the verbal of QB Shane Morris.  Shane was given 5 stars from Scouts in their first 2013 ranking. 

The new Rivals 250 ranking is out and there has been some Michigan Verbals movement:

Kyle Kalis (22), Eric Magnuson (44), Ondre Pipkins (53), and Royce Jenkins-Stone (97), James Ross (158), Joe Bolden (184), and Terry Richardson (214).

Others to keep an eye on:  Stefon Diggs (8), Andrus Peat (18), Aziz Shittu (21), Zach Banner (38), Yuri Wright (51), Adolphus Washington (74), Bri'onte Dunn (141), Danny O'Brein (154), Dwayne Stanford (163), Jordan Payton (118),  Amara Darboh (211), Jordan Diamond (226), Darius Powe (246)


The Team, The Team, The Team............ 

Sometimes as a fan you wonder why guys play over other guys?  The back up could be a 4 star guy that runs a 4.4 but for some reason can't get on the field.   The reason is coaches look for commitment on and off the field.  Two guys that look like have put in the time in the off season and during fall camp are Mike Jones and Thomas Gordon.

Here a quote from Coach Mattison on MJ:  "He has consistently come out everyday trying to do what he's supposed to do. I got a feeling Mike Jones came from a program where he probably either blitzed all the time or played 'sic'em' football. Now all of a sudden he's getting coached every single second. Some guys can't do it. He is one that I've been really excited about. It looks like everyday he's looking to get better and he's listening. I see signs of him -- now you did it right, you stayed back, you didn't run past the hole -- that kind of thing. And hes' a sophomore, that's what should happen."

Thomas Gordon on why he is starting: 
What did you do to earn the start? "I think it's more outside of football, just being more dedicated to football and being a team player. Coming along as an individual off the field has really helped me on the field."

How hard did you work this summer? "This summer, (I worked hard) with the new weight staff and Coach Wellman. They're a really dedicated staff, and they put their work in with me and all the other players, and it helped me tremendously on the field as far as size and speed. I hope it transitions to the field, and I'm waiting to see what the effects are going to be during the season."

If you want to play at Michigan it doesn't matter if you are a 5 star guy or a walk on.  If you follow the model from TG and MJ above you are going to play in the Big House.

I don't know why the below picture made me laugh, but Al Borgus reminds me of that 6 grade gym teacher we all had that wore his shorts and sweatpants way too high.  This year is already a success if we have more pictures of Big AL!   Thanks to Rivals for the photo.

Michigan Tuesday: Game Week Thoughts and Some Recruiting Notes

There was a good discussion going on in yesterday's comments field regarding this Michigan team, which I agree with. 

So I wanted to share these thoughts with the larger audience.  

How will this team be different then last year?

Brady Hoke has a philosophy that if you play great during practice on Wednesday you will play great during the game on Saturday.  Camp has been physical and I expect practice to continue to be physical during the year.  The only way you prepare for a team like Nebraska is practice physical during the week.  From his PC yesterday:   I'm a big believer in that when you prepare and when you practice, you're going to play that way. So if we've got great intensity getting to the football (with the) eleven guys defensively, (or if) our wide receivers are sustaining blocks and harassing corners, we expect that to be done during practice. That's a demand that we have because I believe you have to play like you practice."

Expect to see a lot of players rotating on defense.  I expect to see 8 players rotate on the DL for example (Martin, Campbell, Roh, Black, Van Bergen, Washington, Brink and  Heininger).

Same with LB and Safety.   The two players I am looking forward to seeing is Marvin Robinson and hopefully Josh Furman. 

I have a feeling about Jake Ryan being a very good player.  I remember a few years ago in the Spring Game when it was clear Tate and Roundtree had something special and then we didn't see Roundtree until mid season.  I think Jake Ryan is one of those kids with great instincts for the ball.

Power Run Game?

I don't think we are going to see a ton of that this year.  I think we will see Denard under center and in the shot gut a lot.  Michigan just doesn't have the personnel to run a ton of power run plays. 

Can Denard be effective in this offense?

Yes and he can even be more effective.  The reason is last year he had running plays and passing plays.  He threw the ball during passing plays and ran during running plays.  This year he will mix scrambling during passing plays which will freeze the linebacker and open running lanes.  Also look for a ton of RB's and TE's running wide open.  Because if your a LB, who are you going to be watching the RB out the backfield or Denard?

The kicking game scares me does it scare you?
Yes it does.  The place kicking and punting scares me.  I hope they preform well against Western because we will need good performances out of both positions for ND.


Recruiting News:

• The common thought on the two players from Cincinnati Taft WR Stanford and DE Washington that the Michigan ship had sailed.   There was even a strong rumor that Washington had verballed to OSU last week, which turned out to be false.   Then comes this newspaper report that both have scheduled an official visit to Ann Arbor.   OSU is not on the list but it's only two hours away from them, so they can visit anytime. 

• Jordan Diamond's teammate committed to Arkansas yesterday.  There were reports that Jordan and his mom loved their visit, so this could be a team to watch.  I keep hearing whispers that the Michigan coaches might be cooling on Jordan.  So we will see what happens here.

• I know Darboh cancelled his visit for this weekends game but I suspect he shouldn't wait too long to visit or verbal with the likes of Powe and Payton coming in for the ND game.  There is very strong interest in 5 star WR Stefon Diggs in Michigan.  He has some academic issues he needs to clear up but if he does, Michigan would recruit him very hard.  Diggs is a former teammate of Blake Countess.

Michigan Friday: Brandon's Decision Making and 2 Scrimmages

David Brandon has done an excellent job since taking over the AD position at Michigan.  He got the football program through an NCAA Investigations and got the penalty reduced.  He fired the football coach that was under preforming and hired somewhat of a "sleeper" pick as the new head coach.  

He has improved on the Big House work of former AD Bill Martin and is now focusing on Crisler Arena.  If you had to grade him right now it would clearly be a A and maybe even an A+.

This brings me to his latest decision to play App State again in 2014 and his response:  "the opportunity to play again is a good thing. I don't see how it could be a negative".

Since he is having a hard time finding the negatives, let me list them here:

1. Michigan players and fans will have to live through 9 months (Jan-Sept) of App State upset  highlights from the 2007 game before the kickoff of the 2014 season. 


2. It's a no win situation for Michigan.  Like I mentioned yesterday, if the Wolverines win 50-10 they beat up on the little guys and ran up the score to get revenge.   If the game is close, App State has our number.   If Michigan loses the game, its a disaster. 

For all the teams that are looking for a large payday by visiting the Big House it's hard for me to believe that was U of M's only option.   If David wanted to get a revenge game, why didn't he schedule Toledo?

I don't see any upside to playing this game.   None.

Greg Mattison's PC yesterday:

He wants 22 players strong on defense:  For next weekend, "I hope it's 22." Needs to have 22 capable guys, and have seven more days to get 22. Won't ever be a coach who says we lost a game because a guy got injured.  

• Standouts on D are the seniors Martin and Woolfolk 


• Jake Ryan and Marvin Robinson have had some good days but have been a bit banged up in practice.


• Kenny Demens is running with the 1's but need to be more consistent.

On Denard:  "I got on him today. He didn't play every play of yesterday's practice, and I yelled at him during stretch today: 'Boy, you must be as fresh as a daisy today,' and he gave me something back.' I love him."

AL "the hat" Borges PC:

(Does this comment give us some insight into why Michigan might have lost a few players this week? Both freshman's weights were much higher then expected)

"Our practices are not for the faint of heart. We get after them pretty good." It has been a real real grueling training camp. (We want to) see what they're made of when they're tired."

• Would not comment on Chris Barnett.


• Thomas Rawls has been out a couple of weeks with a injury.  Looks like it's Shaw, Hopkins and Smith at this point.  They may redshirt Hayes and/or Rawls.  (I bet not having a RB in the 2012 class might effect this decision)


• Denard will be in the shotgun and under center. 


• WR: Roy and Junior are the starters. Expect to see Grady, Gallon, Jackson and Dileo.

Michigan will play a scrimmage today and Saturday before they ease up a bit for game week. Today and Saturday should cement the two deep, when we learn who on it will probably come out on Monday. 

Here is my prediction for starters:

OL: Lewan, Barnum, Molk, Omameh, Huge
TE: Kroger
WR: Roundtree, Hemingway
QB: Robinson
RB: Shaw
FB: McColgan

Defense:

DL: Roh, Martin, Campbell and Van Bergen
LB: C. Gordon, Demens and Hawthorne
CB: Woolfolk and Floyd or Avery
S: Kovas and Johnson

I'm concerned about the speed at safety.  Look for Woolfolk to move to safety and Avery fill in his CB spot if that becomes a problem.   Or maybe more Marvin Robinson.   I also think Big Will could lose his starting spot to Brink. 

The defense looks like it's built to stop the run (which would be a huge improvement) but could get beat deep in the passing game.

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 Monday: Gives 2nd Hand Scrimmage Updates

This past Saturday marked two weeks before the start of the season.  Which also meant a full contact scrimmage for the Wolverines.   This scrimmage will go a long way of creating the two deep for the Western Michigan game.  

Before we get into some of 2nd hand reports from the scrimmage, here are a couple of things I would like to give me two cents on. 

- Greg Mattison Defense:  One thing I think that hurt the Michigan Defense last year was the inability to play multiple players at the same position.  This year, I think Michigan will have more opportunities for players to sub back and forth.   For example, there is a ton of buzz around walk-on Nathan Brink taking over for Big Will Campbell.  We should not get too worried about who starts over who because I expect a lot of players to play and a ton of subs to keep players fresh.  Another example is Kovas and Marvin Robinson.  Want another? Thomas Gordon and Carvin Johnson.    So everyone that might be worried about these positions battles, don't because having a number of guys that can play is a good thing. 

I expect the locks to start on Defense are: Kenny Demens, Mike Martin, Troy Woolfolk, Ryan Van Bergen, Jordan Kovacs and Craig Roh.

The below buzz is from message boards and other Michigan sites on folks that saw the scrimmage.   I made sure I heard it from more then one source before it made the below list.  So take everything below with a grain of salt.

Scrimmage Buzz:

• Running Backs:  Michael Shaw and Fitz Toussaint had good days.  Fitz was said to be very impressive.


• Both Denard and Devin did well, made some mistakes but both had a good day.  (BTW: Isn't it nice to have a clear starter this year?  Haven't felt this way since Henne was on the team)


• There continues to be a lot of hype for Jeremy Gallon at WR.  Which is great to hear!


• It seems true freshman Desmond Morgan is getting a look at some playing time at LB.


• Buzz around Van Bergen moving to DT and Brink going to DE.


• Kenny Demens could be the star of this defense.


• Matt Wile is looking great at kicking field goals.   Let's hope that translates to the game.  


• Tackling was better and the defense brings a ton of people to the ball.


• Desmond Howard thought Denard looked faster.  (For those that listened to my offensive preview on the Michigan Man podcast, this is exactly what I mean.  Denard is much more dangerous if you don't know when he is going to run.  Last year, he threw the ball on passing plays and ran the ball on running plays.   If you are an opposing LB, what are you going to do when Denard drops back to pass and decides to run? )


• JT Floyd played well against the run (could be a battle between JT and Courtney Avery at the other CB position)

If you have heard other "highlights" please put them in the comments field so we can share them with all the Big House Blog Inmates. 

Today is the "last call" for the Next Two Recruits T-Shirt Contest. 

Michigan Tuesday: Wonders Why our 5 Star DB's are in Community College?

To follow up on the theme from yesterday, I was thinking about Michigan's Defensive Backfield is 2 of our recent 5 star DB that signed with Michigan either got to Ann Arbor or stayed in Ann Arbor. 

We all know the story of Demar Dorsey after he signed with Michigan didn't get in, tried to go to Louisville and the NCAA said no.   Demar is still in the State of Michigan playing for Grand Rapids CC.  Let's hope he gets his academic situation clear up and makes it back to D1.  (No MSU or Big Ten please).

Then comes the news that former 5 star CB/Safety prospect JT Turner has resurfaced with Scottsdale Community College.   (I would have picked Scottsdale over GR as well!).  If you remember, JT struggled with life on and off the football field at Michigan.  He really never played any quality time during games and even struggled to get time during the Spring Game.  The rumor was JT had some personal issues going on which lead him to leave the Wolverines at the start of fall camp in 2010.

JT bounced around a bit, originally trying to transfer to West Virgina (a reverse RR?) which didn't seem to work out then a small college in Ohio.   He now is at Scottsdale CC, with reports that Hawaii and ASU are interested in having him join their teams.   Good luck to JT!

These guys got me thinking about a Defensive Backfield this year with:  Dorsey at one corner and Woolfork at the other.  With JT Floyd and JT Turner at Safety.  That could have been a great backfield.  I guess it's time to move on.

Camp Buzz......................

•  Jeremy Gallon seems to be having a strong camp at WR.  I hope he can bring some big plays to  the Michigan offense and the return game. 

• Thomas Rawls continues to get praised for his effort.   Maybe he is the guy to set up at RB.  I still think the other guys in front of him will get more carries.  I am a little torn because with no running back in the 2012 class, I was hoping for a redshirt.  On the other hand if he really has Mark Ingram skills, he needs to be playing.

• Special for Uncle Ron:  A walk on making news on the defensive line is Nathan Brink who seems to be pushing Big Will for playing time.  The knock on Nathan was his weight (being too skinny).  His weight is now up to 263 pounds and is 6'5.  The buzz is he has great effort and has very good DLine skills.   Nathan is from Holland, Michigan and it would be great if he could contribute this year.  

• Highly ranked 5 star Basketball player from the 2012 class Mitch McGary will be visiting Michigan for an official visit in September.  

Wolverine Wednesday: Day 2 of Practice - Weight, Defense and some Recruiting

DC Greg Mattison took the mike yesterday at his press conference and had a few quote-ables.  My favorite one was this one:  "I do" expect them to set the world on fire. "I wouldn't be coaching if I didn't think we'd be able to get this defense up to the level that Michigan expects." If players play hard and execute assignments, they can succeed.   "I know in my heart what's about to happen here. We're going to have a Michigan football program that Bo, Coach Moeller and Coach Carr are going to be proud of again."

"I'm really, really impressed and excited about the effort of our guys. I couldn't be around them in the summer ? but I think you saw it starting in the summer," he said. "You saw these guys trying to do the right thing, trying to improve themselves and then it just carried over when they started practice."

"We're only two in. We've got miles and miles to go to where we want to be, but in effort and preparation, I'm very excited about it."

I haven't been this excited about a DC since Ron English.

Michigan published the new roster yesterday and there was some notable weight gain and losses:

Running Backs: Mike Shaw is up 8 pounds and Vincent Smith is down 8.

WR:  Gallon is up 5 pound and Robinson is up 7.

TE: Ricardo Miller is up an amazing 17 pounds.

OL: Taylor Lewan is up 8 pounds and now over 300.

DL:  Roh is up 18 pounds!, Big Will down 11, Q Washington down 13, Kenny Wilkins up 10, Will Heininger is up 28 pounds! and Richard Ash is down 19.

LB: Cameron Gordon up 15 and Mike Jones up 16.

BHB Take: The weight on Roh is very good.  I expect a huge year out of him.  Ricardo Miller is changing his body to be a true TE.   Big Will ,Q and Ash needed to cut some weight which they did.  Will adding 28 pounds is amazing and hopefully he will be regular this year on the DL.

Recuiting Tid Bits

• Armani Reeves the 4 star CB that Michigan just got re-acquainted with, has scheduled a press conference for Friday at 10:00 to pick his school.  This quick of a decision is not good for the Wolverines.  My best guess is Penn State.

• 5 Star Offensive Guard Joshua Garnett from Seattle is planning a visit to Ann Arbor for the ND game with his friend Erik Magnuson.  This would be a huge pick up for the last OL spot on in the 2012 class.

• Michigan is the top 2 for 4 star California WR Jordan Payton.  (CAL and Michigan).  Jordan has yet to visit Ann Arbor. 

• Do you think Michigan is back in basketball recruiting?  Here is 5 star 2012 recruit Mitch McGary's top 6 list:  Florida, Maryland, North Carolina, Michigan, Duke and Kentucky

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.

Michigan Monday: Practice, Suspensions, Red Shirts and Recruiting --- O My!

Today starts Fall Camp for the 2011 Michigan Wolverines.  Today officially starts the preparation for year 1 in the Brady Hoke era.  There should be plenty of motivation and expectations for this group of Wolverines.
With the start of practice came a press release last night on 3 players: senior wide receiver Darryl Stonum, senior wide receiver Terrance Robinson and sophomore punter Will Hagerup.

We know Stonum has multiple DUI's and the coaches have decided to redshirt him this year to get his life together:  "While it would be great to have Darryl on the field this season, we feel it is in his best interest and the best interest of our program for him to redshirt," Hoke said. "Darryl will continue to be an important part of our team and family. He has done everything we have asked him to do, but our number one priority is to help Darryl grow as a person."  With Stonum using a scholarship in 2012 now, I wonder if the 2012 class size is now down to 25 players instead of 26?

Terrance Robinson will be suspended for season opener and Will Hagerup will be suspended for 4 games, both players broke team rules. 

Here is my take:  This was the right decision for Michigan and Stonum.  I hope he gets everything together and has a great 5th year next year and heads to the NFL.    Not sure what T-Rob did but he really hasn't ever contributed on the field for the Wolverines.  

Now to Hagerup.............What is going on Big Fella?  You are a punter and now have been suspended for the 2010 Ohio State game and for the first 4 games of the year.  Get your off field stuff in order and keep booming punts in Michigan Stadium.

Hoke:    "In order to build a championship-caliber culture, you have to be accountable to each other on and off the field. There are expectations at the University of Michigan you must live up to." 

Many remember the disaster that was the Ohio State game punting and are worried about how Michigan will punt for the first 4 games of the year.  Well, don't worry too much (worry a little) but incoming kicker Matt Wile is a pretty good punter as well.  He punted in the Army All American game and averaged 41 yards per kick.   I can hear the coaches talking to him today:  "Matt welcome to practice you now have 2 starting positions!"  I hope this kid has a ton of confidence.

Recruiting Weekend Re-cap:

• Michigan wants another elite corner in the 2012 class and they have targeted two guys out East.  We know about Armani Reeves and the second one is 4 star CB from NJ, Yuri Wright.  I expect both players to visit Ann Arbor for a game this season and maybe announce after the season.  Yuri plans to announce at the Army All American game.

• 2013 Offensive line prospect from Wheaton, Illinois Kyle Bosch visited Ann Arbor on Sunday.

• John Beilein has offered another 2012 prospect, this latest offer goes out to 6'8 200 pound forward Marshall Wood from Lynchburg, VA.  

• For those wondering whatever happened to Demar Dorsey, he ended up at Grand Rapids Community College. 

Michigan Monday: Wonders if there are any left over commits from the BBQ?

We now know that Chris Wormely thought the hot dogs and burgers at the Big House BBQ were too good to pass up and committed to the Wolverines on Sunday.   Michigan fans have wanted Chris to commit for some time now, so it was a good feeling to have him in this class. 

The big question is who is next?  Michigan has 5 spots left in this class and still with some needs.   The largest outstanding need is DT.  The coaches keep saying they will only take 1, I believe they will take 2.   Those two are Ondre Pipkins and Danny O'Brien.  

Ondre's father lives in Michigan (Ondre lives in Missouri) and from what I have heard Ondre is still in the Great Lake State and might make it back to Ann Arbor for another visit real soon.   Sunday was his first visit and some insiders that spoke to him feel like he might have been a bit over whelmed with the day and was just trying to take everything in.   The Michigan fans were hoping for a BBQ commit from Ondre which didn't happen.  Will it happen this week?  We have to wait and see.   I would like Ondre to do what Kalis did, visit take a few days to think about it and discuss with his family.   Come back to Ann Arbor spend some 1 on 1 time with the coaches and then make his decision.

Danny O is his nickname and he had another good visit to A2 for the BBQ.  I'm going to think about my comfort level this week and where I'm at with everything. I have a top six of Michigan, Tennessee, Florida, Alabama, Michigan State, and Iowa right now. I'm going to cut that down to three and then take official visits to those schools. I know Michigan said they're only taking one defensive tackle, but if they want to take two I will still consider them if someone commits before me.

I believe if both Ondre and Danny want to become Wolverines, the coaches will take both.

WR is the other need in this class and there wasn't much movement on that recruitment on Sunday with Cincinnati Madris not making it to the BBQ.   St. Louis WR Jehu Chesson visited Ann Arbor this week and so did Iowa WR Amara Darboh.  Michigan seems to be in pretty good shape with all these guys and it will be a race to who commits first.   If I had to predict a winner in this race, I think the quickest commit could come from Monty Madris.

Bri'onte Dunn enjoyed his visit up for the BBQ but I think there still needs to be some thinking for him to leave Columbus.  Having the NCAA hit them hard this Fall after their meeting in August would be huge.

Michigan also made up some ground with  some 2013 recruits at the BBQ including; OL Steve Elmer, LB Jonny Reschke, RB Ty Isaac, DE Wyatt Shallman and athlete RB/DB Dymonte Thomas.

Fall camp opens in a week, so the coaches really only have this week to spend quality time with the recruits.  After that some recruits might want to attend practice to see what how the coaches really coach.  

With only 5 spots left, I would assume many players feel like they need to make a decision sooner rather then later.

• BTW:  Jordan Diamond is visiting Iowa today. 

Wolverine Wednesday: Makes Its Way to San Jose

If you haven't heard, former Michigan QB Tate Forcier announced on his twitter account that he will be playing for San Jose State next year.   After he sits out this year he will be eligible to play in the WAC conference against the following teams: Utah State, New Mexico State, University of Nevada-Reno, Fresno State, Hawaii, Idaho and Louisiana Tech.   Lets hope he takes his academics seriously and plays well on the football field.  Sort of ironic that he will be a Spartan now.   Look for him on Friday night ESPN games in 13 months.

Since we are down to the final 6 spots in the 2012 class, I thought I would estimate for you who could be filling out the class.

• Chris Wormley
• Jordan Diamond
• Danny O'Brien
• Ondre Pipkins
• WR from (Payton, Darboh, Powe, Madris)
• Wild card spot

Potential Wild cards will come from a list from the following players:

Bri'onte Dunn:  With the recent misleading news that OSU won't be hit hard by the NCAA, I think will keep him in Columbus.  The outside chance Michigan has is if the NCAA hits OSU hard or he falls in love with the coaches, the University, and players at the BBQ this weekend.  He is also visiting Penn State this week.

Ron Thompson:  Many thought that Ron would be Michigan's first commit of the year, he wasn't and still hasn't committed anywhere.   He played well at the Grid Iron Kings last week and keeps Michigan in his top 3.   This could be his way of getting more offers by keeping Michigan alive when Ann Arbor isn't a option or Michigan could be keeping his recruitment alive to see how this class fills out.

Wayne Morgan:  I have heard a few rumors that Michigan still might take another DB in this class.  Wayne was about to commit to Michigan a few months ago and then got cold feet when his family and friends said to wait and make sure you look at all options.  I think Terry Richardson will stay committed to Michigan but he still wants to take visits which is risky for the Michigan coaches.

Adolphus Washington:  Is a 5 star DE prospect from Cincinnati.   It seems his teammate Dwayne Stanford no longer has Michigan in his top group.   They both could go to the same school but it's looking more and more like that might not happen.   They both have been trying to get to Ann Arbor all summer and haven't yet.   Which is a sign because it's only a 3 1/2 hour drive to Ann Arbor.

With a FB in this class, I think it's Dunn at RB or Michigan is done with RB's in this class.  I also think highly ranked offensive lineman Banner, Gannet and Peat will stay on the West Coast.

There is also some buzz that Michigan might take 2 WR's in this class since they didn't take any in the 2011 class.    With the news of career ending injuries to DT Talbott and OL/C Pace, I now think taking 2 DT's is a must with the last 6 spots.  It sounds like Indy DT Sheldon Day might make it up for the BBQ as well.

Wolverine Weekend Update: The Numbers Game

The new Michigan Media guide just came out and incoming freshman have numbers and there are a few guys missing from the roster.  The missing guys make are the ones making the most news:
#1 Hot Topic is Kellen Jones:  Is/was an incoming freshman that isn't on the roster.  He was a 4 star LB to Scouts and 3 Stars to Rivals in the 2011 class.  There are plenty of message board rumors flying around, which we hope are not true.  Kellen was very high on the Wolverines and is considered a nice LB prospect.  He was very excited to be a Wolverine.

#2 Christian Pace: Was a 2010 class center recruit from Avon Lakes, Ohio.  He red shirted last year due to Molk and a number of rumored injuries.  I expect that his injuries continue to be a major issue and he needs to take this year off or his football career might be in jeopardy. (again just speculation)

5th Year Guys Not on the Roster:  (all were expected)  Michael Williams, John Ferrara, Zac Ciullo, and Kevin Leach.   Good luck gentlemen!

Freshman Numbers:  (HT Mgoblog)

No.	Name	Pos.	Ht.	Wt.	State
3	Russell Bellomy	QB	6'3	178	TX
5	Justice Hayes	RB	5'10	175	MI
8	Blake Countess	DB	5'10	175	MD
20	Tamani Carter	DB	5'11	175	OH
21	Raymon Taylor	DB	5'10	170	MI
24	Delonte Hollowell	DB	5'9	170	MI
35	Greg Brown	CB	5'10	180	OH
36	Joe Kerridge#	FB	6'0	239	MI
38	Thomas Rawls	RB	5'10	220	MI
40	Antonio Poole	LB	6'2	210	OH
44	Desmond Morgan	LB	6'1	225	MI
45	Matt Wile	K	6'2	210	CA
57	Frank Clark	LB	6'2	210	OH
58	Chris Bryant	OL	6'4	330	IL
60	Jack Miller	OL	6'4	268	OH
61	Graham Glasgow#	OL	6'6	316	IL
62	Dallas Williams#	OL	6'3	312	MI
71	Gary Yerden#	OL	6'5	328	MI
79	Tony Posada	OL	6'4	330	FL
82	Chris Barnett	TE	6'5	250	TX
92	Keith Heitzman	DE	6'3	237	OH
95	Chris Rock	DE	6'5	250	OH
97	Brennen Beyer	DE	6'3	225	MI

#walk on

Number Changes:

Name	Pos.	Was	Now
Josh Furman	S	6	14
Jack Kennedy	QB	25	14
J.T. Floyd	CB	12	18
Thomas Gordon	S	15	30
Isaiah Bell	LB	26	34
Terrence Talbott	CB	22	37
Marell Evans	LB	9	51
Ricky Barnum	OL	56	52
Brandon Moore	TE	88	89

 I am doing research on the walk ons and will post on Monday.  Dallas played for Huron last year.

Michigan Tuesday: Thinks About the 2011 Class

With all the fan fare around the 2012 class which is shaping up to be one of the best in the country, we start to forget about the 2011 class that is either on campus already and will be there shortly.  

Here is my take on who from that class might contribute this year:

Best Chance:

• CB Greg Brown: The biggest reason is that he has been enrolled since January and preformed well in the Spring Game.  He has a shot to get on the field early and mostly if Michigan's DB's are not 100% healthy at the start of the season.  Also look for him in Nickel formations.

• Kicker Matt Wile:  The job is his if he kicks well in Fall Camp.  This is a similar situation to last year when Punter Will Hagerup got to campus. 

Outside Chance:

If your not going to contribute on offense or defense, it's hard to blow a redshirt on a guy just playing special teams.   Here are some guys that have a chance to contribute if they preform well or there are injuries ahead of them on the depth chart.

• CB Blake Countness: He was highly rated and if he is that good he could see the field pretty early.  Though we saw Cullen Christian flame out and he was in a similar position.   So I would rather seem him redshirt if he can.

• RB Justice Hayes:  Will there be Justice in 2011?  Michigan's RB situation is a mess with no clear leader in the club house.  There are plenty of candidates but it there a Mike Hart?  Justice is a versatile running back and could play WR or return kicks as well.

• OLB Antiono Poole:  Many thought Poole was the best player in the Big 33 All Star game this summer.  If he is that good he could play right away.  Many said the same thing about Jibreel Black last summer and he got a lot of time at DE in 2010.

Probably a redshirt but could happen:

• TE Chris Barnett:  Seniors in front of him but if he is a play maker, count him in.
• DE Brennen Beyer: Could he move to FB?  He also played TE in high school.  I could see him in on 3rd down and catching some short routes for first downs from the FB position.
• DB Delonte Hollowell:  Injuries or poor play could get him in there.
• LB Desmond Morgan: Could also move to FB to play right away.
• RB Thomas Rawls: was supposed to be the steal of the Midwest and a talented young man.  The only reason he was 3 stars was because he had some academic issues.  He qualified and could he be the next Mike Hart? 

I think the rest of the class is pretty much guaranteed to redshirt.  Did I miss anyone you think will contribute in this year?

Michigan Thursday: It's Getting Close

Tonight kicks off the season with a number of interesting games.  I will be glued to my TV from 7:30 on and that is for sure!

Michigan has a game in two days and it's getting so close you can feel it.  Even the weather is changing.  Ann Arbor is going from Summer to Fall in one day.  The high for Saturday is expected to be 65 degrees.  The high!

• Dee Hart will be in Ann Arbor on Saturday with his good friend and #1 Safety in the country Ha'Sean Clinton-Dix who has verballed to Nick Sabin and Alabama.  Getting both on campus at the same time is a very good thing for the Wolverines.

• If you don't know the Brock and Elliott Mealer story, I suggest you read it here.  It will be a very emotional start to the game on Saturday. 

• Who is the QB?  Only RR knows and he won't tell even the kid until Friday night.

• Mgoblog previews the Michigan running backs.  I expect to see Vincent Smith and Michael Shaw to play the most.  Surprise guy is Mike Cox.

Michigan Tuesday: 4 Days to Kickoff - Time to Play Hurt

I'm sorry about the late post today.  I got hit with some food poisoning today and it's knocked me down a bit.  But this is game week and we play hurt here at the BHB.

Things from the press conference, that I found interesting:

• Carvin didn't get the starting "Spur" spot 100% there should have been an OR after his name with Thomas Gordon.

• The situation around Mike Shaw isn't 100% complete.  They expect to get his grades still this week.

• Remember the "Snake Oil Salesman" label the Purdue head coach Joe Tiller threw on RR during his first recruiting year.  He was responding to Roy Roundtree changing his verbal from Purdue to Michigan.   Here is what the other RR had to say about the head coach RR:  First impression of Rodriguez: "Spoke to me like a real guy." Even before Roy was on the team, coach Rod was motivating him. "He never lied to me like other coaches did. He just always spoke the truth to me."  Makes you wonder about who was lying and who got the most upset with him going to Michigan.

• We will know if Fitz Tousaint's knee is ready to go this week. 

• RR said that the freshman on the depth chart won't redshirt.  Devin Gardner is the key guy on whether he should or shouldn't redshirt.  Last year, JT Turner was on the depth chart and didn't get any playing time, so a redshirt could still maybe in the cards.

More News:

• TomVH is reporting that Dee Hart's visit is back on and he will be here with his Uncle.  There was a mix up on what paperwork needed to be turned in. 

• 2010 QB Conelious Jones who signed with Michigan but didn't have a qualifying SAT score has left his prep school.  The story says he still might be trying to get to Michigan next winter.

• Former Wolverines who got cut from the NFL this week include:  Gutierrez, Fargas, Moosman, Dutch, and Ortmann.

• Do you want to hear Mark Snyder defend his Free Press story about the Michigan allegations last year at this time?  Hit this link and go to Michigan Insider - Round table.  Maybe this is why I am sick today.

• Brian at Mgoblog previews the linebackers (please be better) and the Dline (should be better).

CTK: Day 6 and 7

Great story about Zac's off season.  Nice to see guys with this much charter on the team.  Well done Zac, we are behind you and Michigan all year!   Go Blue!

Big House Video Weekend Edition: Darryl Stonum

Michigan Friday: It's beginning to look a lot like Kickoff!

One more Friday left before kickoff.  This time next week OSU will have already played a game.  It's getting close!  8 days left equals Nick Sheridan days? Jonas Mouton days? or how about Michael Phelps days to kickoff?

• Cullen Christian is going to see a lot of playing time this fall.  In this interview he discusses he needs to work on his tackling.  “The (biggest) thing I got to improve on… I’ve got to improve on my tackling,” said Christian. “Covering and learning and listening to what the coaches are saying and listening to their directions and the technique and things like that, all that is (already) improving. I think the (biggest) thing I’ve got to improve on is my tackling. Usually, when I miss a tackle it is mostly when the receiver catches a curl route or something like that, and I’m not knowing which way they are going to turn. I don’t know if I should just fly and try and hit him or break down when he’s not looking and try to make a tackle. That’s what I got to improve on, my tackling.”   Look for all freshmen CB's to play this year and play a lot. 

• Matt Vogrich scored 22 points in a 80-74 win for the Michigan's Basketball Team in Europe.  This was Michigan's only win on a 1-3 trip. 

• 2011 QB and current North Carolina verbal Marquise Williams might still visit Ann Arbor on October 9th with good friend Kris Frost. 

• Michigan WR 2011 verbal Shawn Conway scored 3 TD's in his first high school game of the season. Two at WR and one kickoff return.

 

• Former Wolverines greats Amani Toomer and Dan Dierdorf have joined the Big Ten Network.

Wolverine Wednesday Take 2: Basketball and Football Recruiting

Were talking basketball..................

Coach Beilein is over in Europe this week with the young Wolverines gaining some experience and losing games.  The team is 0-2 so far but that game experience is very important to the freshman and the new members of the team. 

Even though he is across the pond, Coach Beilein got a 2011 guard commitment from Trey Burke a 6'1 scoring guard from Columbus, Ohio.  Yes, Michigan fans C-BUS.  Trey recently de-committed from Penn State and choose the Wolverines after his visit to Ann Arbor last week . Trey saw his stock rise this summer as he played well during the AAU circuit.   UMHoops has more details on his commitment.  This leaves one more spot for the 2011 class.

• 10 (Tom Brady) Days to kick off.

• TomVH gives us an update on Kris Frost: He is planning to graduating early and will be visiting for the MSU.  Kris is very high on Michigan's board, very high!

• Michigan is still expecting some very high profile visitors for the UConn game:  Dee Hart, #1 Safety in the country Hasean Clinton-Dix and CB Avery Walls. 

• Update: Valdez Showers is a Gator.  He told Urban Meyer today. 

Are cookies a snack or sweet? 


The next Jake Long or Jerry Seinfeld?

Michigan Monday: Notes From Media Day

Nothing ground breaking from Media Day besides the Austin White news below.   If you want to see a number of player and coaches interviews see here. 

RR's Media Day Press Conference:

• Happy nobody got hurt in Saturday's scrimmage
• They will have another scrimmage on Wednesday and we put together the 2-deep after that
• Troy Woolfolk hasn't had surgery yet, but they feel he will come back and play football at some point (maybe redshirt and play next year)
• Devin Gardner is having a good camp and they have to remind themselves that he is a true freshman and hasn't played yet.
• They are young at DB and now even younger with Troy out.  James Rodgers a senior is having a good camp.
• Jibreel Black most likely a freshman lineman that won't get redshirted and probably will get some playing time.
• The freshman are out of classes for the next two weeks and is looking forward to see how much they improve not having to go to school.
• Jordan Kovacs has improved and in much better shape
• Kicking game still a concern but he feels better about kickoffs and field goal kicking then two weeks ago.  Kickers are getting better and more consistent.
• Will watch film on UConn this week, familiar with them from the Big East.

Tate:

• Everyone is competing at QB and doesn't believe Coach Rod is close to making a decision on a starter.
• Was happy his teammates called him out because it's all about the team.  Which meant he needed to keep working
• Used the wingless helmet to get better and prove to his teammates that he was ready.
• Tate is exciting because there is so much skill at the QB position.
• Freshman year is over and the freshman mistakes shouldn't happen anymore.

Denard:

• Competition is fun, just trying to win for Michigan.
• He feels he is more "calm" and has improved.
• A whole bunch was going through my head last year.
• Everything has slowed down a little bit.
• More things are coming naturally now

Vincent Smith:

• Learning and not thinking about the knee is the most important part of the recovery.  (after ACL surgery)
• Competition is good at running back because you always have to be ready.
• Having an experienced line in front makes his job easy.

Some fun pictures from Fan Day via the Detroit News:


Bighouse Blog interview and walk-on kicker Jeremy Ross pictured below!

Good to see Troy there!

A DC's Nightmare