I think we have to embrace a paradigm shift with Michigan Football and the spread with Denard Robinson and Rich Rod. Consider the following stats:
Indiana's time of possession: 41:47
Indiana's # of first downs: 31
Indiana converted 11 of 19 third downs to Michigans 2 of 7
Indiana's 480 yards of passing.
How do we end up winning with these stats? I know, the most important stat is the final score and if it's the winning one why should one worry? But I do.
I love this big play offense and Denard Robinson, wouldn't trade it for anything. Forget the Heisman, Denard for Pope. We can score from anywhere at any time with Robinson at the helm. Forget all that ball control nonsense we learned so well from Schembechler, Moeller and Carr. Don't need it. Don't need a defense either. The defense isn't suppose to shut down the opponent, it's just supposed to make sure the score is tied with a minute left for the offense to score. Slow them down, make them take a long time which wears them out so our offense who barely plays(but can score) is fresher at the end of the game and score last to win.
I'm having a hard time with this new paradigm.
It's a painful football game to watch. Delightful when we have the ball, and agonizing when we don't. Really agonizing.
Our defense had good athletes. They gang tackle well. Stop the run pretty well. Useless against the pass. They play like individuals. Not as a team. Out of position often on pass coverage. Like they don't know how to adjust to how the play develops or how their teammates react to the play. They play like they aren't aware of anyone else's responsibilities. This is either poor coaching (I think so, Gregg Robinson should be worried about his job) and a poor scheme (who else runs a 3-3-5) or both (probable). Could it be that Rich Rod doesn't really care about the defense, convinced that he has the players he needs on offense to over come anything the defense lets happen. He's focused on getting the right talent for the offense and teaching them how to run it perfectly which they just about do. But how about getting the defense to play well.
My suggestion. Like he made Forcier play without wings on his helmet until he thought he was more serious about his commitment to the team, the defense should practice in pink helmets this week and Coach Robinson should wear a tutu in practice. Until they all learn how to man up and play defense like men. They have had three years.
Still I love the Wolverines and the outcome. Great away game victory over a team that had a great offense too, and had real revenge on their minds as motivation. They will improve as a result of this game.
Next week vs. MSU, a team with both a defense and an offense. They beat a real good Wisconsin team. If men show up on defense, we have a chance to steal this game at home.
My prediction for the season stays the same. 7-5. No progress with the team this week. I remain unmoved. I want better results, I just don't see it. Still in the old paradigm.
With rhythm and feeling now....
It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine!
Go Michigan, beat the Spartans.
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