Weekend Wolverine: What Happened to the Class of 2009 Quarterbacks?

Jump into the time machine with me for a minute. I know it's not a great time so we won't stay there too long.  

Michigan was coming off the disaster that was the 2008 season where we had two quarterbacks that didn't fit RR's offense and it looked like it. Watching Threet trying to run the spread option was tough to watch, so was watching Sheridan trying to hit open receivers.

Michigan could offer the top rated QB's in the country (2009 class) immediate playing time. Which was a strong selling point for them to come to Ann Arbor. 5 star Kevin Newsome attended the Michigan Spring Game at Saline High School and decided he wanted to be a Wolverine. Shortly after that Shavodrick Beaver a 4 star QB said he was coming to Ann Arbor as well.

Both held true to their commitment for a few months and then both jumped to other schools. Newsome picked Penn State and Beaver Tulsa. Which sent the Michigan coaches scrambling to fill the QB void now in the class. Tate Forcier who was very high on the Wolverines jumped on board, which still left one open spot as signing day approached.

Michigan did get a QB commitment on signing day that year and it happened to be Denard Robinson.

Now jump back out of the time machine to current time:

•  Tate Focier was thrown out of school at Michigan due to academics after a long search has settled at San Jose State in the WAC.

• Shavodrick Beaver just left Tulsa for Midwestern State due to academics and playing time.

• Kevin Newsome just announced he is planning to transfer from Penn State after trying to do so after last season.

• Denard Robinson is going into his Junior year after playing two years for the Wolverines (1 as a starter). He was briefly a Heisman Trophy candidate last year and won the Big Ten MVP award in 2010. He also set the 1 year NCAA record for rushing yardage from a QB.

The last guy Michigan picked up that year turns out to be the best all around kid. The guy that most schools wanted to play CB instead of QB. Well Done Denard!

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.

Michigan Monday: 4 Star WR Set to Visit Today

The end of the week could be a big deal for the Wolverines with the BBQ at the Big House with a number of current commits, 2012 and 2013 prospects will get to share some burgers and hot dogs and get to know the coaches and the Michigan program a bit better.  Guys like Wormley or Dunn could take a few steps closer to becoming a Wolverine. 

Today and Tuesday a 4 star WR from Iowa,  Amara Darboh will visit Ann Arbor. Darboh holds offers from Florida, Iowa, Iowa State, ND, Nebraska, Wisconsin and others.  I'm going up to Michigan tomorrow [Monday the 25th]. Me and my basketball coach are going. He's a Michigan fan and he was able to give me a ride, so he wanted to go. We're taking off here at 8am on Monday, staying all day Monday, all day Tuesday, and then we might be back for a little bit on Wednesday too. 

I thought I'd have a top list already but I'm not going to have it until my season starts. Hopefully when my season starts I'll have it narrowed down to a top five and then just go from there. If I take an official visit somewhere and I feel comfortable and it feels right then I'll just commit there. Right now everything changes every now and then because I haven't seen everywhere yet. I don't want to name a list until I finalize it, but I think Michigan has a good chance to be in the top five. I'll know more about them after my visit.

With Stanford's interest in Michigan starting to slip, it seems Hoke and Staff will take the first 4 star WR that wants to commit.  With one spot in this class, I expect someone will commit in the next couple of weeks.

Bad News for former Michigan recruits:

• Pryor has had a bad 8 months but now reports are coming out the NFL might not allow him or even have a supplemental draft.
• We knew about Dee Hart blowing out his ACL.
• Now comes word that Kris Frost has a dislocated elbow and needs surgery. 
• Russell Shepard who considered Michigan his leader for about 5 minutes before committing to LSU, might have some eligibility issues.
• Jatashun “Big Tex” Beachum RB/DT who was considering Michigan near signing day for the 2010 class has left Arkansas program.
• If you didn't hear, Hawaii said, thanks but no thanks to Tate Forcier last week.   I think it's fair to assume that he has serious grade issues.  I'm guessing he will end up a Community College for a year.

Michigan Friday: Desmond Picks the Wrong Example

I have a ton of respect for Desmond Howard.  He has been successful on the field and off of it.  He has a Heisman Trophy and a Superbowl MVP in his trophy case.   He is a smart man and one I would hope young Wolverines would inspire to be like.  

On Thursday, Desmond (IMO) made a mistake on the example he used in proving his point.  He was speaking at the Black Coaches and Administrators Convention and said this: 

"I was told by a giant, Bo Schembechler, that no one man is bigger than the program. Not even (Schembechler). He was larger than life. For me to sit there and this guy tells me nobody's bigger than Michigan, that's all he had to say."



Howard said the prominent coverage of recruiting has young players in the spotlight before they've accomplished anything significant in college. He said if Bobby Bowden can be forced out as coach at Florida State, why should any player feel irreplaceable?


"I'll give you a perfect example: Michigan fires coach Rich Rodriguez," said Howard, who starred at Michigan from 1989-91. "All the noise in Ann Arbor is, 'Is Denard Robinson going to stay or leave?' I'm like, 'Hey, if the kid wants to go, don't let the door hit you on the way out. You looked fantastic for five games against nobody. That's what you did.' I'm not going to deny his talents, but, 'You ain't won nothing in Ann Arbor, son! Not so much we need to worry about if you're going to be here next year or not.' "

The premise of Desmond's remarks are valid.  There shouldn't be any entitlement to playing at Michigan or any other program.  The mistake he made was using Denard as a possible example.  Denard is one of the finest student athletes at Michigan or any program nationally.   He works hard everyday and has zero sense of entitlement.   If he left Ann Arbor, it would have been for a better fit for his skills.  Just as if Desmond left ESPN for CBS or Fox.   Use Justin Boren or Tate Foricer as an example, not Denard.

I am disappointed in the example Desmond used and my hope he apologizes to Denard, because Denard deserves it.

 

• Wayne Morgan has moved his announcement out a day and now will announce on June 2nd.

• TomVH catches up with Offensive line prospect Joshua Garnett from the State of Washington.

• I'm now officially worried about Tate and his mental state.  He was seen hanging out a window in Grand Rapids at an apartment building where his girl friend lives.  Again, many more questions then answers regarding Tate.

• RJS has been added to the Army All American Game Roster.

Wolverine Wednesday: Forcier is Confused Again

I bet you guys are getting tired of Tate Foricer news as much as I am.   Here is his latest statement:  "I just didn't feel comfortable and wanted to be closer to home," Forcier said. "Miami is completely on the other side of the country. It would have been fun playing there. But I just wanted to be closer so my parents can afford to come to the games."

Then he says:  "I'm looking into Auburn," Forcier said. "I'm definitely interested in USC, San Diego State, Montana, Kansas State and University of San Diego. I have to lay everything out and figure out my visits."

So Miami is too far but Auburn isn't?  I am willing to bet there is a grade or eligibility issue here.  Can we re-name player transfers from one program to another a Forcier? I wonder how many uniforms that family has in their closet?

• With DJ Williamson out, Michigan now really needs a highly ranked WR in this class.   With Shane Morris in the next class and coming off really good performances in the Elite 11 and Nike Camp earning the QB MVP last weekend along with serious interest from Gunner Kiel, that task shouldn't be too hard.  

• There are a number of rumors that SI is about to blow the roof off the OSU football program.  I believe it when I see it.  Stay tuned. 

• Wayne Morgan is now a 4 star DB on both Rivals and Scouts.

• Cincinnati teammates and Rivals top 100 prospects in the country WR Dwayne Stanford and DE Adolphus Washington are planning a visit to Ann Arbor this weekend.  Both are/were considered big OSU leans but getting them on campus is a great first step for the Wolverines.  It seems Michigan is recruiting both very hard as a package deal.  Stanford could be the WR that is needed in this class and Washington is Ohio's best player and borderline 5 star player.    Go North Gentlemen!

Michigan Friday: Tate Continues To Have More Questions Then Answers

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tate To Miami

I had a long post written on why Tate was no longer at Michigan. 

I decided this is a young man who just got a second chance and there was no reason to write an entire post on why he isn't on Michigan's roster.

Tate, don't let this second chance pass you bye.   Go to class and work hard on and off the field.   If you do that you will be fine.  

I would have suggested a different school other then Miami but hey, it's your choice.  Good luck!

Side Note: Tate will get a chance to play with Seantrel Henderson and Dallas Crawford.

Michigan Monday: Woodson Gets His Ring and Other Wolverine News

Charles Woodson had a up and down day yesterday.  Of course, breaking his collarbone before halftime was "the down" and getting his Super Bowl ring was the big "up".  Like I mentioned on Friday, Chuck has had a very nice career with a Heisman, a National Championship, the NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award, and now a Super Bowl Ring.   It doesn't get any better then that.    I hope his collarbone heals quickly.

I didn't see the Tom Harmon Icon special on BTN yesterday and hope to catch a replay.  I wonder if Tom knew that he could have won a Championship with the Green Bay Packers back in the day. Michigan's two other Heisman Trophy winners Desmond Howard and now Charles Woodson both won Championships with the Packers.   (Tom was drafted by the Chicago Bears but elected to play in the AFL with the New York Americans).

On a side note, If you get a chance to see the Lombardi documentary on HBO, I highly recommend it. 

• The Michigan Basketball team had a nice win in Happy Valley yesterday.  When Darius Morris plays well, Michigan is a very competitive team.   I also think Tim Hardaway will be a star in a couple of years. 

• Tom Brady wins the NFL MVP award by sweeping all 50 votes. 

• How about the National Anthem last night?  I thought something didn't sound right.

• MSU lost again last night.  Time for Izzo to go?  Just kidding but we haven't seen a swoon like this from the Spartans in a long time.

• Tate Forcier seems to be down to Kansas State, Miami, Montana, Washington, and Arizona.   He is planning to visit these schools in the next two weeks.   If he wants to play next year he would go to Montana.  If he goes to Washington he will be behind Joe Montana's son (Montana or playing behind Montana?).  Arizona would seem to make sense - (a lot of Michigan QB transfers go to that state to play football).   I worry about Tate in Miami. 

• Michigan's 2012 prospect list are coming out fast.  Here are two recent ones.  I will put up a 2012 watch list this week.

• David Harris is about to get paid!  Sounds like the Jets are about to put the Franchise tag on him.  I wonder how that works without a CBA?

• Michigan plans to announce the hiring today of Curt Mallory, DB coach and Jerry Montgomery to coach the D-line.

• Speaking of Desmond Howard it seems Phil Simms isn't a fan as they got into a confrontation this past week in Dallas.  Phil you are now dead to me.   Phil your in the media, you should be able to take a criticism of your son. 

• Maize N Blue Blood:  Here is an article on Michigan's 2011 walk on full back Joe Kerridge.  (Freep link) 

Tuesday Night Lights: Finds a QB

We all know how Texas loves it's high school football.  Today Michigan got a 6'3 185 pound QB from Arlington, Texas in Russell Bellomy.  Russell is a 3 star prospect (to Scouts) with offers from Purdue, Boise State, Michigan State, Colorado, Minnesota, South Florida and others. 

Russell was on a mid-week visit to Ann Arbor and it seems the Wolverines made a big impression on the young man and he committed to the 2011 class.  With only two scholarship QB's on the roster, Michigan needed a QB in this class and they picked Russell.   He has been committed to Purdue for sometime, so I'm sure Danny Hope "love" for Michigan will continue to grow. 

I had never heard of Russell before this week but I am impressed how athletic he is.  Check out the tape for yourself.  He throws very well on the run outside the pocket.





Stayed tuned I believe I will have information on another commit in an hour or so.

More News and Recruiting Briefs

With Some New Updates as of 4:30  today:

Seems Tate Forcier visited Montana to see if he was a good fit to be their next QB.  If Tate transferred to Montana he could have played next season.  Reports say he is more interested in a Division 1 program where he would have to sit out a year.  More on why Tate was kicked out of Michigan per his dad: Michael Forcier said last week. "Tate didn't flunk out, but he had two incomplete grades. If he was given a chance by at least one professor to make up the work and get a grade, he would be eligible." The schools he is looking at are: Miami, Washington, Baylor, San Diego State, Middle Tennessee State and New Mexico are among the FBS schools he is considering transferring to. Forcier said he is also considering lower-division schools such as Montana, South Carolina State and Florida A&M.


The Michigan coaches seem interested in quarterback Tim Byerly. What's more interesting is what the Michigan coaches told Tim's head coach:  "They really liked him on film. Michigan said they had another quarterback visiting this week who felt like would commit to them. But if that did not happen, then they are going to really look at Timmy.”  I guess it's looking good for Texas QB Russell Bellomy who is on campus right now.

There was some thought that Teryl Austin might come back to Michigan to coach the DB's.  That seems out now, as it looks like he will be coaching the DB's for the Baltimore Ravens.

In the low blow of the week:  It seems Rutgers is blocking freshman QB Tom Savage from talking to Michigan about transferring.   The other schools they blocked are Miami FL, Florida, and Florida State.  This is such a "jerk" move by Schiano, none of those schools are on his schedule.

Brady Hoke will be visiting Jake Fisher on Thursday at his high school.

RR gets a gig with CBS College Sports for Signing Day.

New visitors for this weekend include: RB - Thomas Rawls, OL - Ryan Nowicki (a PSU commit), FB- Trayion Durham, LB- Antonio Poole, TE-Chris Barnett.

Greg Mattison in home with DT, Darin Cooper tonight.  Trying to get him on campus for a visit this weekend.

Michigan Friday: Big Recruiting Weekend on Deck

State of the Union

Michigan has 11 verbals commitments in the 2011 class.  I expect the Wolverines would want to sign a class of 20 players, which leaves 9 spots to be filled in 12 days.   Michigan lost it's two highest ranked commits in 5 star Dee Hart and silent commit 5 star Kris Frost. 

This Weekend's Visitors

I went into more detail yesterday on this weekends visitors but Michigan with host:

3 verbal commits:  Posada, Hayes, and new commit Carter.

5 prospects:  Raymon Taylor, Frank Clark, Matt Wile, Stefan McClure, and Leilon Willingham.

All visitors are serious about Michigan and the Wolverines have a good chance at getting each one of these guys to sign in 12 days.  Next weekend will be huge as well.

Latest news to share with recruits

• Michigan hires Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, and Terrell Suggs Defensive Coordinator from the Baltimore Ravens, Greg Mattison.   Leilon Willingham is a huge a Ray Lewis fan and changed his weekend trip from Texas AM to Michigan.  

• HD Video Boards:  The Michigan Regents just approved $20 million in HD video boards for the Big House, Crisler, and Yost Arenas.   With these new boards, The Big House, Schembechler Hall, and the Al Glick Field House Michigan might have the best football facilities in the nation.   

2011 QB?

With Tate now officially gone, it's pretty clear Michigan would like to have a QB in this class but makes one in the 2012 class a top priority.  The rumor mill is saying that Michigan is focusing on a 2011 Boston College commit named Christian Suntrup.   Christian is a 6'3, 205 pound pro style QB from St. Louis.  He is rated 3 stars by Rivals.


Who are some new names that Michigan might be looking at?

- DE Max Issaka (6'3", 240 lbs) from New Jersey.
- TE Jamare Mills (6'5", 244 lbs) from Ohio.
- DE Brandon Alexander (6'6", 230 lbs) from Texas.


Update:  I forgot to mention that Hakeem Flowers a WR with a nice offer list will be picking a school on Sunday.  Insiders expect his decision to be Blue.  We will see.

Tate Forcier is no longer a Wolverine

Here is his statement from QB Force:

Immediate Press/Sports Release: January 20, 2011- Robert “Tate” Forcier University Of Michigan Sophomore Quarterback

Why do we all wait until we are at our lowest point to seek God’s help?

I’ve been kicked, pushed, knocked down, publicly berated, belittled, emasculated and more. There are plenty of legitimate reasons to give up or feel the victim. The humility of it all is indescribable and that is exactly my point. I had to reach rock bottom in order to see the light, and for that, I am thankful. It was not until then, I realized that it was my lack of accountability and maturity and not to pass blame.

I do hope all my young fans forgive me and benefit from my lessons that I have learned. Be grateful for what you have and be humble for your successes. Don’t wait to ask God into your life as he will help you see things clearer.


In summary, I believe, I will become a better student and a person of stronger character from these experiences at Michigan. I can proudly state,“I worked hard on the practice field, in the film room and at meetings” after all, football is my passion. I had fun celebrating with the fans. I even competed hard while injured as a true freshman through the last (8) games in 2009, but I always played the game giving it my all.


I am proud to have been part of Michigan Football history and will always cherish the memory. The last few weeks I worked extremely hard to catch back up. I really wanted to stay. I was not giving up on Michigan, but in the end, it was made clear they had given up on me.

With that being said, its time for me to go. I promise the Michigan family and fans I will make you proud again.


Tate Forcier #5 - A Michigan Man Forever - Go Blue

Here is my take:  Tate is a young man full of talent but struggles with maturity.  He had some early success and it clearly went to his head.  Speaking with some of the player and players family at the Gator Bowl, they weren't surprised when he was sent home.  Most speculated that is was grades related but Tate's father said he passed all of his classes. 

Use Denard as your comparison to Tate.  Denard didn't enroll early, Tate did.  Tate clearly was a couple steps ahead of Denard during their Freshman year.   That didn't last long and Denard clearly out worked Tate during the Summer and was the clear starter during the Spring Game and the start of the 2010 season.  Clear example; during one of Brady Hoke's day one videos he is getting a tour of the new Al Glick Field House and who is working on his throwing?  Denard.  Clearly, Tate would not have been that dedicated.

I can only speculate but it seems Tate became a rock star and loved that life.  School and working hard with his teammates became secondary.  He is now no longer part of the Michigan program, so yes he has hit the highest highs of beating ND and now the lowest lows.   We all make mistakes when we start college or as a 20 year old.   We don't understand priorities and would much rather hang with are friends and chase girls, then go to school or to the weight room.  So I feel for Tate today, even though he dug his own grave, I feel for this young man, that had a bright future that now barley has a light.   I wish the best for Tate, I hope he grows up, works hard and does whatever he wants to.   My advice to Tate would be:  Everybody falls down, your judged by how you get up and move forward.  It's time to dust yourself off work hard and see what happens.

Good luck #5.   

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.

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. 

Gator Bowl Preview

Location: EverBank Field Jacksonville FL
Time: New Year’s Day 1:30 EST
TV: ESPN 2
Line: Mississippi State -4.5
Weather: Sunny 75 with a few clouds


Michigan is back in a bowl game after a two year hiatus under Rich Rodriguez rebuilding of Michigan's Football program. The last time Michigan played in Florida was under similar circumstances when Michigan was an underdog against an SEC opponnet the Florida Gators lead by Tim Tebow, the Wolverines stepped up and sent Coach Carr out a winner in his last game.

Michigan will meet a ranked Mississippi State team tomorrow in the Gator Bowl. Both teams run the spread offenses and prefer the ground game over the pass any day. The Bulldogs have had a positive season under coach Dan Mullin who was rumored to be the leading candidate for the Florida job but didn’t even seem to get a sniff from the Florida AD. The Bulldogs are led by their dynamic spread QB Chris Relf who has been rumored to be more of a runner than a passer but in his last game against Mississippi he threw for 288 yards in a 31-23 win in the Egg Bowl.

During the year MSU won the games they should of and lost the games where they were out matched. With maybe one of their best performances coming in a 17-14 loss to Cam Newton and Auburn. MSU beat Memphis, Georgia, Alcorn State, Houston, Florida, UAB, Kentucky, and Mississippi. Loses were to Auburn, LSU, Alabama and Arkansas. The Florida win was a 10-7 score in the Swamp.

Gator Bowl Tale of the Tape:

Michigan Offense vs. MSU D= Advantage Michigan

Michigan D vs. MSU Offense = Advantage MSU

Special Teams = MSU and it isn’t close. They have a good kicker name Derek DePasquale who basically beat UAB with his leg and 4 field goals.

Intangibles = Michigan

MSU has a highly rated defense and has faced some good opponents this year like Auburn’s Cam Newton. They won’t back down to the “Denard factor” and it’s defense will plan to be fast and get an number of defenders to the ball. Though in week 2 when Auburn played MSU Cam Newton was trying to be Denard Robinson. Whoever runs the spread best will win this game. Michigan has a balanced attack between running and passing and an effective Denard throwing the ball will be key factor in the Wolverines success. MSU will keep a number of guys in the box and see if Denard can beat them with his arm. Denard’s accuracy and the ability for Michigan’s wide receivers to CATCH THE BALL will be important to keep drives alive.

Michigan will have the same strategy in trying to stop MSU’s offense. Michigan’s defense main problem this year has been stopping the run when they know the other team is going to run. I expect the defense has worked for two weeks on tackling and staying in their gaps. Will the senior linebackers Obi Ezeh and Jonas Mouton have their best games of their careers? They will need to for a Michigan win. I expect these two seniors will play early and often.


Sing Hail to the Victors if…………..

• Denard goes off for 250 in the air and 150 on the ground

• The Michigan defense is improved with two weeks of practice

• Rich Rod runs a more complicated spread

• Michigan never lines up for a field goal

• A Michigan RB goes for over a 100 yards

• The Michigan secondary fills holes in the running game and covers WR deep in the pass game.


Say I need a lot less F’ing Cow Bell if…………………….


• If MSU figures a way to stop Denard

• The Michigan defense can’t stop the run and gives up a number of big plays

• Michigan continues to turn the ball over and not get TO’s on defense

• MSU has an effective passing game

• Michigan is trying to kick field goals

I have a theory that Michigan plays well when they have more than two weeks to prepare for an opponent. Michigan under RR has played well in all 3 season openers with blow out wins over UConn and Western Michigan and a two point loss to a Utah team then went undefeated that year. Many experts expected UConn and Western to give Michigan problems and they didn’t. Michigan is 23-5-1 over the SEC and 7-3 in bowl games. Michigan also plays well when their coach is on the line. I expect the Wolverines to play inspired on both sides of the ball in support of Rich Rodriguez. I hope and expect them to come out prepared like they were for the UConn game and not dazed and confused like they were for the Penn State game.

I also believe this offense plays better in warm weather then they do in cold weather. The temperature at game time will be in the 70’s and the Florida boys will be excited to play in their home state in front of their friends and family. Vegas have the Bulldogs as a 4.5 favorite. I disagree. Michigan 42 Mississippi State 28

(I wrote this before the Foricer news broke, so if Denard goes down reverse the score and all bets are off)


Go Blue!

Breaking News: Tate Forcier Ruled Ineligible for Gator Bowl

If your a Michigan fan, I wouldn't suggest going to Vegas with Rich Rodriguez any time soon.  He is really un-lucky when it comes to this team and program.  Michigan got dealt another blow this evening as Tate Forcier has been ruled ineligible to participate in the Gator Bowl and most suspect its due to academics. 

Tate has had an interesting year; seeing Denard take over his limelight as he has struggled on and off the field with issues during summer work outs and threatening to transfer after the UConn game.  He has also seen the highs of leading Michigan in an overtime win that qualified the Wolverines for this very bowl game. 

What now is the question for the team and player?

For team, what happens if Denard goes down? Like he has in pretty much every game this year.  Do you burn Devin's possible medical redshirt to save the game and maybe his job?  Or do you play 4th string QB Jack Kennedy?  Or maybe it's Jeremy Gallon who has been running the scout team these past two weeks so the Wolverines could prepare for MSU's offense?  All of those plans stink.

For the player, have we seen Tate in a Michigan uniform for the last time?  Is this the last straw and Tate is heading to D1A school like Montana or maybe another D1 school because he still has his redshirt available?  Does his academic issues make it more difficult for him to transfer?  I guess that has been the problem with Tate this year, there have been more questions then answers. 

I really thought Tate would be important in the Gator Bowl because I expect MSU to focus on stopping Denard running the ball and would be wide open to a passing attack.  I guess all that rides on Denard now and his ability to play the full game.  

Michigan Monday: Looks for It's Bowling Shoes

I'm glad that is out of the way. 

After two years of staying home for the holidays and no Bowl gear in Big House Bob's stocking, Michigan will be heading to a bowl game.  If you want to be negative, there is still plenty to be negative about like:  bowl games should not be the goal of the season - championships should be, 65 points? are you kidding me,  and 3 years of probation is 3 years longer then Bo ever had. I know and understand it, but I would much rather enjoy this win, ponder who we might play, and think about how 15 more practices that will advance this young team. 

Pete from AnnArbor.com beat me to this but here is where some of the experts believe Michigan will end up:

CBS Sports.com says:  Insight Bowl against Oklahoma.  Really Oklahoma?  I doubt it.

Rivals: Texas Bowl against Texas.  Would love it!  Rather have the game in Florida then Texas. 

ESPN Big10 Blog: says Dallas Football Classic. January 1 Bowl in the Cotton Bowl.  First Annual.

College Football News.com: Says Texas Bowl vs Baylor. 

I would rather have Michigan playing in Florida but being in the first Dallas Football Classic on January 1 would be pretty cool as well.   Michigan will be highly regarded and selected for any Bowl since they are a Big Name that travels well. 


Can a Defense Play Better and still give up 65 points?  The answer is Yes.  Stay with me.  Michigan turned the ball over 5 times and it seemed there were improvements and some good plays by some young players.  I thought Courtney Avery played much better, he had a couple of good tackles and was right with the WR on the long touchdown pass.  Ray Vinopal had a huge tackle on 3rd down, Cam Gordon was always around the football, Kenny Demens made a play on pass break up and seemed to attack the running plays, it's 100% clear Roh is a better DE then LB and was a regular in the backfield, and Mouton made the last play of the game by getting by the RB trying to block him.   Sure there were 100 mistakes as well, but this is a positive post today, remember! 


DeAnthony Arnett:  For those that don't know, Arnett is a 4 star highly rated instate WR in the 2011 class.  He has been listing a number of schools including MSU, Tenn, USC, and others.  Reportedly, he was somewhat down on the Wolverines becuase they don't pass enough and he wouldn't get enough looks in RR's offense.  DeAnthony was a visitor for the Michigan game on Saturday.  Do you think he changed his mind after the days Roundtree and Hemingway had?  He could be planning an announcement this week.  Could he be Blue?  He might.  He visited USC the weekend before. 

Question from a Big House Reader:  Ricky Asks:  Would this defense been different had Donovan Warren not declared for the NFL draft and Troy Woolfolk didn't suffered a season ending injury. Do you think they could've at least help us get 1 or 2 more wins?

Also, am I crazy or is it the case that the Michigan offense is more prolific with Tate Forcier as QB?

Let me answer the first question first.  The answer is Yes.  Having two senior CB's in the secondary could have made a huge difference in Michigan's wins total this year.  All of Michigan losses could have been wins, when you have two healthy seniors at each corner, Michigan could have done some other things to protect the defensive line and linebacker play to stop the run.  Sure, Michigan would still have issues at safety and LB, but this team would easily be in the top 25 with those guys in the lineup.  The MSU game would have been different and the Penn State experiment that went way wrong would have never happened.   So let's say, Michigan takes 1 out of 2 from either MSU and/or Iowa and beats Penn State.

To your second question.  The answer is yes and no.  Michigan is much more dynamic and hard to plan for if Denard is the QB.  His run/pass option is a defensive coordinators nightmare.  The safeties, CB, and LB's don't know if they should chase Denard or cover the Michigan WR's.   That type of indecision can cause long runs or open WR's.  As you can tell, Michigan's opponents are trying to take away the run and have Denard beat them with his arm. 

So why is Tate a better option?  If Michigan gets down by more then two touchdowns, I believe Tate is the better option.  Michigan's offense is built to be in the lead or near the lead.   If Michigan turns the ball over and gets down by say 17 points, Tate is the better option for a comeback.  His passing skills (all though his reads are sometimes too risky) are a couple levels above Denard's and he has more experience reading defenses.  When Tate is in the game the defense adjusts to play more pass, which opens up running lanes for him or the RB's.  As you could tell on Saturday, he made a couple of good first downs with his feet. 

I would like to see Tate throw the shorter pass to the tight end or the WR.  He sometimes looks for the bigger play/TD instead of getting the first down. 

Great Question!  Thank you.

Touchdown Panda!

Since the last 3 weeks we have been Sad Panda, I thought I would give you a little Touchdown Panda today!

Random Thoughts:

• I was just kidding about scoring 70 points in yesterdays post
• Can a Defense play better then the week before after giving up 65 points this week?
• I had a strange feeling that Tate Forcier would win a game for Michigan this year. 
• I really hope Denard is ok.  He seemed pretty good jumping around after the sack on the last play. 
• I really think Taylor Lewan is the next Jake Long, but his two penalties and specially the last one almost cost Michigan the game.
• More Mike Shaw please. 
• Weird things that go through your mind after a win like that while watching LSU and Alabama:  What if LSU fired Les Miles and he came to Ann Arbor as Michigan's new DC?  I know it's a crazy thought, but talk about the best of both worlds. 
• I was not happy that Michigan went for the field goal in the 3rd when they were up a touchdown. 
• I thought Ray Vinopal and Courtney Avery played pretty well at times. 

Bowl Game Baby!  Bowl Game!

Enjoy the rest of your night with an adult beverage!

Michigan Thursday: Could 2 De-commits have Saved Rich Rodriguez Job at Michigan?

For those of you that don't care for RR you have a laundry list of reasons why: 

• Weird new offense
• Really bad defense
• Not a Michigan Man
• Paying him too much money
• Stretching too long before practice which lead to NCAA Violations
• A bad record
• Recruiting kids that are borderline academically
• Piped in music at the Big House
• Transfers
• De-commitments

I'm sure you can list many more.  What's strange is maybe two QB de-commits could have saved his job.

Let's take a trip down memory lane, shall we?  The time is August 2008.  Michigan will be starting a season where a walk-on and a non-mobile red shirt freshman are Michigan's only options at QB.   Though help was on the way through recruiting for the 2009 class.  Michigan had two 4 star QB's verbally committed to that class:  Shavodrick Beaver a 6'3, 180 pound QB out of Wichita Falls, Texas and Kevin Newsome a 6'2 225 pound QB from Portsmouth, Virgina. 

Both of these guys had solved Michigan's future QB depth problems and now the Michigan coaching staff could focus on recruiting Offensive Line and Defense.  Well, that good feeling at QB didn't last long as Kevin decided to de-commit from Michigan on August 19th and Shavodrick did the same in December.  From a comfortable feeling to a really bad feeling. 

Michigan went 0-2 on their QB recruits for 2009 but help was on the way, Tate Forcier a long time Michigan fan gave his verbal during the season and things were back on track.    Michigan still had only one QB recruit until signing day when Denard Robinson signed up.   So you could say that Shavordrick and Kevin's decision to not join the Wolverines gave the opportunities for Tate and Denard to.

So that is one interesting point.  The other is what has happened to all four players since then. 

• Shavodrick Beaver is a back up at Tulsa and in two years has completed 5-9 passes for a total of 41 yards.
• Kevin Newsome is 3rd string at Penn State and 14-24 in two years for 144 yards.
• Tate was 165-281 for 2050 yards in 2009 and 30-39 for 349 yards in 2010
• Denard was 14-31 for 188 yards in 2009 and 97-143 for 1319 yards in 2010

Ironically, Michigan on Saturday could face (he is questionable due to a concussion) Robert Bolden a true freshman QB from the State of Michigan that picked Penn State after Devin Gardner verbally committed to the University of Michigan in the 2010 class.  My understanding is that Kevin Newsome is third string behind walk-on redshirt sophomore Matt McGloin.  Tulsa on the other hand plays Notre Dame this weekend and "The Beaver" might see a few snaps.

It was clear that RR and staff did a great job in recruiting both Tate and Denard.  Will that recruitment save his job?  I think the next 3 weeks will go a long way in answering that question.

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

Sounds good!  What's the catch?

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

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

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