We have a winning streak of one. Hail to the Victors.
Didn't get the stomp down I was hoping for, but a victory is a victory isn't it. And it felt good.
The Buckeyes played well. Played up for the game. Luke Ficknell is a good coach and hope he doesn't get thrown under the bus. He got thrown into the fire and did well with what he was handed. Losing the head coach and 5 great players for half the season is hard to overcome. Unfortunately, this is probably not the time for him and Urban Meyer will be the coach.
We played a pretty good game. Giving up a fumble to gift wrap a touchdown to the Bucks, and two blown coverages to deliver two more. Not good. We'll learn from this game and improve for whatever bowl bid we receive. Hope it's against a SEC team.
Other than the fumble, Denard played within himself with great results. Toussaint the same. Refs robbed him of his TD. How do we not get that call in our own stadium.
Hoke and the team have accomplished a lot this year. They learned how to play as team instead of interchangeable parts. They learned how to win. They learned how to get better. They learned how to finish off a season. Can't wait till next year. My preseason prediction was 8-4. Not 10-2 and ranked 16.
It's great...to be... a Michigan Wolverine!
Go Michigan, beat the Razorbacks, or Bulldogs, or whoever else it is we end up playing.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Friday, November 25, 2011
Michigan vs. Ohio State: I feel a beat down coming!
Tomorrow's the big game. No football game is as big. Not Alabama vs. Auburn. Not any others.
Originally I was disappointed when Tressel stepped down. I wanted another shot at him with a real football coach at the helm of both teams, not the pretend coach we had the previous three seasons and not the not ready for prime time coach they have this year. As the season wore on, I slowly changed my mind, as I realized that the Buckeye winning streak was due not just to great coaching, but a regular, systemic, rule breaking as well. The win streak is a facade. Tressel was a great coach. Can't take that from him. But he wasn't playing on a level field either. I want more than a victory this year. I want revenge.
Last week, the Wolverines looked and played like world beaters. And like the rest of the season, they will have improved even more this week. This game is a culmination of a season long process to take Michigan back to the elite of College Football. No one expected a season quite this good, myself included. I picked them to go 8-4 at best. Expectations are higher, and not just for the fans. Expectations on the team are for excellence once again. "We're Michigan, for gods-sakes!" Their expectation for tomorrow is victory, and they shall have it.
I know. The game is a season redeeming game for the Buckeyes and they will be up and ready as they haven't been all season long. But that isn't going to cut it tomorrow. This is a season of redemption in Ann Arbor.
Michigan by 21 points.
It's great to be a Michigan Wolverine!
Originally I was disappointed when Tressel stepped down. I wanted another shot at him with a real football coach at the helm of both teams, not the pretend coach we had the previous three seasons and not the not ready for prime time coach they have this year. As the season wore on, I slowly changed my mind, as I realized that the Buckeye winning streak was due not just to great coaching, but a regular, systemic, rule breaking as well. The win streak is a facade. Tressel was a great coach. Can't take that from him. But he wasn't playing on a level field either. I want more than a victory this year. I want revenge.
Last week, the Wolverines looked and played like world beaters. And like the rest of the season, they will have improved even more this week. This game is a culmination of a season long process to take Michigan back to the elite of College Football. No one expected a season quite this good, myself included. I picked them to go 8-4 at best. Expectations are higher, and not just for the fans. Expectations on the team are for excellence once again. "We're Michigan, for gods-sakes!" Their expectation for tomorrow is victory, and they shall have it.
I know. The game is a season redeeming game for the Buckeyes and they will be up and ready as they haven't been all season long. But that isn't going to cut it tomorrow. This is a season of redemption in Ann Arbor.
Michigan by 21 points.
It's great to be a Michigan Wolverine!
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Michigan 45 Nebraska 17 A Romp in the Big House.
Reporting from Grosse Pointe, Michigan, the morning after attending the game at the Big House, in Ann Arbor.
A romp, against a nationally ranked and prominent program. Welcome to the Big Ten and The Big House, Cornhuskers.
I'm shocked and thrilled by the blowout victory yesterday. It's been so long since we've seen such a game. We were never not in control of the game, and in the second half we put them away. The Cornhuskers finished the game, confused, demoralized and discombobulated. Here are my keys to the victory.
1. The Defense played Michigan Defense the entire game. Only got beat on two plays.
2. Denard played within himself and as a result played a great game.
3. Fitz Toussaint gave the Cornhuskers something to worry about besides Denard. Our offense is multi-dimensional. Been a long time coming. Love it.
4. And finally, after a long season, we seemed to get some calls from the referees to go our way for a change.
We have momentum going into the Ohio showdown next week, for the first time in a long time. We'll have some swagger walking in. Hoke will have to tamp that down or we'll be upset by the Buckeyes. Next week is their season redemption game. They will be ready. We have to be "more ready."
Best parts of the game.
--The F-18 flyover at the beginning of the game.
--The crowd counting the play clock down for for the Wolverine Offense when the scoreboard in the West End Zone wasn't working.
--Great Nebraska Fans. Hurry back.
--The Defense pounding the Nebraska QB relentlessly in the Second Half.
--Denard undercenter, signalling Odoms that the ball was coming to him by looking at him and pointing to the endzone, then completing the TD pass.
--Being in the Big House for the first time in 7 or more years.
--At six minutes left the crowd cheering "Beat O--HI--O, Beat O--HI--O!"
It was great to be in Ann Arbor again, watching the game with my friends Steve Kelley and Dan Pierce. And it's always great to be a Michigan Wolverine!
Go Michigan, Beat the Buckeyes!
A romp, against a nationally ranked and prominent program. Welcome to the Big Ten and The Big House, Cornhuskers.
I'm shocked and thrilled by the blowout victory yesterday. It's been so long since we've seen such a game. We were never not in control of the game, and in the second half we put them away. The Cornhuskers finished the game, confused, demoralized and discombobulated. Here are my keys to the victory.
1. The Defense played Michigan Defense the entire game. Only got beat on two plays.
2. Denard played within himself and as a result played a great game.
3. Fitz Toussaint gave the Cornhuskers something to worry about besides Denard. Our offense is multi-dimensional. Been a long time coming. Love it.
4. And finally, after a long season, we seemed to get some calls from the referees to go our way for a change.
We have momentum going into the Ohio showdown next week, for the first time in a long time. We'll have some swagger walking in. Hoke will have to tamp that down or we'll be upset by the Buckeyes. Next week is their season redemption game. They will be ready. We have to be "more ready."
Best parts of the game.
--The F-18 flyover at the beginning of the game.
--The crowd counting the play clock down for for the Wolverine Offense when the scoreboard in the West End Zone wasn't working.
--Great Nebraska Fans. Hurry back.
--The Defense pounding the Nebraska QB relentlessly in the Second Half.
--Denard undercenter, signalling Odoms that the ball was coming to him by looking at him and pointing to the endzone, then completing the TD pass.
--Being in the Big House for the first time in 7 or more years.
--At six minutes left the crowd cheering "Beat O--HI--O, Beat O--HI--O!"
It was great to be in Ann Arbor again, watching the game with my friends Steve Kelley and Dan Pierce. And it's always great to be a Michigan Wolverine!
Go Michigan, Beat the Buckeyes!
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Michigan 31 Illinois 14--Ugly uninspired victory.
Not the bounce back game I was hoping for. Defense played great. Offense got lucky. But it's a victory. And I'll take it.
It doesn't make me feel optimistic about our chances against Nebraska.
The offense sputtered under Denard Robinson's play, despite the two touchdowns he scored. After the second one he kinda of just disappeared. Bad decisions passing. Ineffective running. Maybe it's him, maybe it's the play calling by the coaches. Either way, we still looked miserable and couldn't put the game away. We were unable to convert two gift turnovers in Illini territory. Bad play in the red zone.
The announcers were saying Robinson was pulled after injuring his hand on an opponent's helmet. Saw it on the replay. Still, I say he was benched. He wasn't making it happen. The offense was flat. He was responsible for 3 turnovers.
High points:
--Toussaint's 192 yds rushing. on 27 carries. We have a premier power back. Finally.
--Gardner coolly stepping up in the pocket under a fierce pass rush and delivering a TD pass to Odoms.
There was a nice article in SI this week about Robinson. Maybe it's SI jinx this week. I think the experiment of trying to make him play a pro style offense and a running spread at the same time isn't working. Too difficult for our offensive line to handle, they aren't good at at either this way. And he just isn't a sharp enough passer, especially on long passes where he can't seem to lead a deep open receiver. He keeps getting better, but I don't think he going to get there. A defense with a strong set of linebackers and a decent front can stop us, just as the Illini did.
Some bad play calling by Borgess too. Monotonous. And why didn't he go for the field goal in the first half. Not scoring didn't really hurt us except as a momentum shift. Take the three points next time, Hoke.
Will we get to 10 victories?. We can by beating OSU. We should beat them when comparing games with common opponents. We have to beat them to get to 10 wins. And that game will be a toss up as it's OSU's "save the season" game. We won't be getting to 10 by playing this way against Nebraska.
Still, It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Huskers
It doesn't make me feel optimistic about our chances against Nebraska.
The offense sputtered under Denard Robinson's play, despite the two touchdowns he scored. After the second one he kinda of just disappeared. Bad decisions passing. Ineffective running. Maybe it's him, maybe it's the play calling by the coaches. Either way, we still looked miserable and couldn't put the game away. We were unable to convert two gift turnovers in Illini territory. Bad play in the red zone.
The announcers were saying Robinson was pulled after injuring his hand on an opponent's helmet. Saw it on the replay. Still, I say he was benched. He wasn't making it happen. The offense was flat. He was responsible for 3 turnovers.
High points:
--Toussaint's 192 yds rushing. on 27 carries. We have a premier power back. Finally.
--Gardner coolly stepping up in the pocket under a fierce pass rush and delivering a TD pass to Odoms.
There was a nice article in SI this week about Robinson. Maybe it's SI jinx this week. I think the experiment of trying to make him play a pro style offense and a running spread at the same time isn't working. Too difficult for our offensive line to handle, they aren't good at at either this way. And he just isn't a sharp enough passer, especially on long passes where he can't seem to lead a deep open receiver. He keeps getting better, but I don't think he going to get there. A defense with a strong set of linebackers and a decent front can stop us, just as the Illini did.
Some bad play calling by Borgess too. Monotonous. And why didn't he go for the field goal in the first half. Not scoring didn't really hurt us except as a momentum shift. Take the three points next time, Hoke.
Will we get to 10 victories?. We can by beating OSU. We should beat them when comparing games with common opponents. We have to beat them to get to 10 wins. And that game will be a toss up as it's OSU's "save the season" game. We won't be getting to 10 by playing this way against Nebraska.
Still, It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Huskers
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Michigan 16 Iowa 24. Tough loss to endure.
Easy to analyze this game:
Iowa and Michigan played each other equally statistically except for the score and turnover. Our two turnovers handed the Hawkeyes 10 points. We lost by 8. Good play by the defense including several 4 and 1 stands, valiant effort even with being on the field longer than desirable. Offense was inconsistent. Iowa played a better game than us. That's all there is to it.
In spite of acknowledging the above. We were robbed. By the officials. No way that Hemingway's catch at the end of the game gets called incomplete. He had control of the ball when his knee touched the ground in the endzone. Didn't fumble it either. Everyone knew it. Even Lou Holtz said it was a TD. Refs just didn't want to play an overtime. On the two subsequent plays the looked the other way on obvious pass interference calls. In fact the refs didn't seem to think pass interference needed to be called all day.
But that's not why we lost. Two dropped easy to catch passes by normally surehanded Junior Hemingway. other mistakes along the way. Couldn't get the run going against the stout Iowa defense. Two turnovers that gave points to the Hawkeyes. Defense gave us the chance to win. The offense didn't produce.
There is reason to be optimistic though. The final moments of the game were inspriring. Denard is capable of being a superb field general when he wants to. He looked great on that drive. Poised, precise. Looked a bit like a true pocket quarterback on that drive. Elsewhere during the game he did as well. Net year he will be awesome. We looked like a Michigan team of old today. Rusty. But a Michigan team. We'll learn from this. Watch out Illinois.
Nebraska got beat by Northwestern today, in Lincoln. Welcome to the Big Ten Huskers. The Big Ten ain't the walkover you thought it would be, is it. Penn State learned this a few years back. The race remains wide open.
Still, It's good to be a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Illini.
Iowa and Michigan played each other equally statistically except for the score and turnover. Our two turnovers handed the Hawkeyes 10 points. We lost by 8. Good play by the defense including several 4 and 1 stands, valiant effort even with being on the field longer than desirable. Offense was inconsistent. Iowa played a better game than us. That's all there is to it.
In spite of acknowledging the above. We were robbed. By the officials. No way that Hemingway's catch at the end of the game gets called incomplete. He had control of the ball when his knee touched the ground in the endzone. Didn't fumble it either. Everyone knew it. Even Lou Holtz said it was a TD. Refs just didn't want to play an overtime. On the two subsequent plays the looked the other way on obvious pass interference calls. In fact the refs didn't seem to think pass interference needed to be called all day.
But that's not why we lost. Two dropped easy to catch passes by normally surehanded Junior Hemingway. other mistakes along the way. Couldn't get the run going against the stout Iowa defense. Two turnovers that gave points to the Hawkeyes. Defense gave us the chance to win. The offense didn't produce.
There is reason to be optimistic though. The final moments of the game were inspriring. Denard is capable of being a superb field general when he wants to. He looked great on that drive. Poised, precise. Looked a bit like a true pocket quarterback on that drive. Elsewhere during the game he did as well. Net year he will be awesome. We looked like a Michigan team of old today. Rusty. But a Michigan team. We'll learn from this. Watch out Illinois.
Nebraska got beat by Northwestern today, in Lincoln. Welcome to the Big Ten Huskers. The Big Ten ain't the walkover you thought it would be, is it. Penn State learned this a few years back. The race remains wide open.
Still, It's good to be a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Illini.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Michigan 36, Purdue 14. Great bounce back from a disappointing loss.
It was really good to see the Wolverines bounce back from the tough loss to MSU. I didn't get a chance to post my predictions prior to the game. Busy week of learning and work. But I was feeling better about the loss after learning about State's victory against Wisconsin the previous week. MSU is better that we may have thought they were. We were in the game all the way.
This is what is great about the Purdue game. On defense, we continue to see six or seven bodies are rushing to the ball. Great pressure. Great blitzing. Recovery from the previous game. Continuing to improve. On offense, I'm most impressed with the development of the Toussaint. Finally a running back who outgains Robinson. I hope to see this continue. We need the balance this brings to the offense. Robinson played better at QB, and doesn't have to carry the whole team on his back. We are beginning to look like a Michigan Football Team again.
The Future Outlook: I'm more confused than before, mostly because of what the rest of the Big Ten is doing. Ohio State beats Wisconsin ("I'm not dead yet"). Nebraska whips MSU. Penn State the only undefeated team in Big Ten Play. Iowa and Illinois playing schizo ball.
We could finish the season 3-1 or we could finish 1-3. No real way to tell.
Hopefully we continue to improve and get wins at Iowa and Illinois. Nebraska will be a battle for the ages. And the Big Game will be the Big Game.
What I'm most amazed at this season is this. We pretty much have the same team as last year. Same players with the same relative talent. What a difference a good coaching staff makes. Coaching men. Leading them. Teaching them to lead. The confidence is there. The swagger is back. We got game. The rest of the season looks like fun. Can't wait.
It's good to be a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Hawkeyes
This is what is great about the Purdue game. On defense, we continue to see six or seven bodies are rushing to the ball. Great pressure. Great blitzing. Recovery from the previous game. Continuing to improve. On offense, I'm most impressed with the development of the Toussaint. Finally a running back who outgains Robinson. I hope to see this continue. We need the balance this brings to the offense. Robinson played better at QB, and doesn't have to carry the whole team on his back. We are beginning to look like a Michigan Football Team again.
The Future Outlook: I'm more confused than before, mostly because of what the rest of the Big Ten is doing. Ohio State beats Wisconsin ("I'm not dead yet"). Nebraska whips MSU. Penn State the only undefeated team in Big Ten Play. Iowa and Illinois playing schizo ball.
We could finish the season 3-1 or we could finish 1-3. No real way to tell.
Hopefully we continue to improve and get wins at Iowa and Illinois. Nebraska will be a battle for the ages. And the Big Game will be the Big Game.
What I'm most amazed at this season is this. We pretty much have the same team as last year. Same players with the same relative talent. What a difference a good coaching staff makes. Coaching men. Leading them. Teaching them to lead. The confidence is there. The swagger is back. We got game. The rest of the season looks like fun. Can't wait.
It's good to be a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Hawkeyes
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Michigan vs. MSU. Reality finally hits.
The essence of this game and the future for the Wolverines can be summed up in the following description of the key play of the game:
The Wolverine D, just forced a second fumble, giving the offense the opportunity to tie the game and change the momentum and take control. On fourth down and a very short one for the first down we line up. And run a play action pass play, with Denard Robinson getting sacked. First down Spartans.
Why would you call a play action pass play in this situation? Maybe the coordinator saw and opportunity to score and wanted to take it. Here's how I see it. The coordinator and staff didn't have confidence in the ability of the offensive line to create the foward surge needed for a sneak or a run up the gut to succeed. We hadn't succeeding in doing anything of the sort thus far in the game, and had failed to do so last week in goal line situations against Northwestern last week. Either that or they were spooked by the dominance of the MSU box to try it. Probably both.
Our offensive line is good, and getting better, but not great. The MSU front four and linebacker core is strong, fast, determined, and mean. We are not good enough to win the battle of the line against a great defensive box like MSU's. That's why they won the game and deserved to win.
Our defense played well enough to keep us in the game. Cousins and the MSU offense was good but not stellar up to this point. After this let down by our offense, the game was over. The defense needed the momentum shift to inspire them to keep stopping the Spartans. The rolled over us from this point on.
This is the weakness of the Wolverines. Our offensive line, although much better than last year, just isn't good enough to compete for a title. Maybe next year.
Five games left. We will win at least two, maybe three. Four is doubtful. Five is impossible. I'm curious to see how well Nebraska fares against MSU. Right now I think MSU wins that match up. We should be able to beat Purdue, and Illinois. Nebraska, Iowa, and OSU are maybes. OSU is a little better than maybe, but not much. It will be the game that redeems their season. Or not.
The team will learn from this, and improve. Glad I live in Memphis, far away from most Spartans.
Still, It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine!
Go Michigan, Beat the Boilermakers. (bye this week for us).
BTW: I've lost a bit of respect for MSU, despite their deserved victory. Trash talk is okay. Dirty play (numerous late hits, intentional facemasks, punching a player, etc.) has no place in the game. It's done to intimidate, and rev up one's courage. But it's false courage. The player who both face masked Denard in the pile up after the whistle on one play, and punched another player after the whistle on a different play, should be suspended for at least one game, voluntarily by D'Antonio and by the Big Ten is he isn't man enough to do it. The other late hits were very intentional. D'Antonio should man up and suspend this player and warn the others. Otherwise, he's a d___ and an embarrassment to MSU and the Big Ten.
And what about those goofy uniforms we wore. Ugly. Didn't mind the white pants. And I liked the undershirt sleeves with Victors and Valiant on the inside seems. But the jerseys made us look like pansies. And let's get rid of the numbers on the helmets too.
The Wolverine D, just forced a second fumble, giving the offense the opportunity to tie the game and change the momentum and take control. On fourth down and a very short one for the first down we line up. And run a play action pass play, with Denard Robinson getting sacked. First down Spartans.
Why would you call a play action pass play in this situation? Maybe the coordinator saw and opportunity to score and wanted to take it. Here's how I see it. The coordinator and staff didn't have confidence in the ability of the offensive line to create the foward surge needed for a sneak or a run up the gut to succeed. We hadn't succeeding in doing anything of the sort thus far in the game, and had failed to do so last week in goal line situations against Northwestern last week. Either that or they were spooked by the dominance of the MSU box to try it. Probably both.
Our offensive line is good, and getting better, but not great. The MSU front four and linebacker core is strong, fast, determined, and mean. We are not good enough to win the battle of the line against a great defensive box like MSU's. That's why they won the game and deserved to win.
Our defense played well enough to keep us in the game. Cousins and the MSU offense was good but not stellar up to this point. After this let down by our offense, the game was over. The defense needed the momentum shift to inspire them to keep stopping the Spartans. The rolled over us from this point on.
This is the weakness of the Wolverines. Our offensive line, although much better than last year, just isn't good enough to compete for a title. Maybe next year.
Five games left. We will win at least two, maybe three. Four is doubtful. Five is impossible. I'm curious to see how well Nebraska fares against MSU. Right now I think MSU wins that match up. We should be able to beat Purdue, and Illinois. Nebraska, Iowa, and OSU are maybes. OSU is a little better than maybe, but not much. It will be the game that redeems their season. Or not.
The team will learn from this, and improve. Glad I live in Memphis, far away from most Spartans.
Still, It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine!
Go Michigan, Beat the Boilermakers. (bye this week for us).
BTW: I've lost a bit of respect for MSU, despite their deserved victory. Trash talk is okay. Dirty play (numerous late hits, intentional facemasks, punching a player, etc.) has no place in the game. It's done to intimidate, and rev up one's courage. But it's false courage. The player who both face masked Denard in the pile up after the whistle on one play, and punched another player after the whistle on a different play, should be suspended for at least one game, voluntarily by D'Antonio and by the Big Ten is he isn't man enough to do it. The other late hits were very intentional. D'Antonio should man up and suspend this player and warn the others. Otherwise, he's a d___ and an embarrassment to MSU and the Big Ten.
And what about those goofy uniforms we wore. Ugly. Didn't mind the white pants. And I liked the undershirt sleeves with Victors and Valiant on the inside seems. But the jerseys made us look like pansies. And let's get rid of the numbers on the helmets too.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Michigan vs MSU--Tough one to call.
Would love to see us go into their house and blow it down. Not likely.
Who has the better coaching staff? We do.
Who has the better players? Sad to say, but with a few exceptions, they do.
Who has the most motivation? We do.
MSU will dominate the line of scrimmage. Their quarterback will challenge our defense. We will be in real hostile territory for the first time this season.
We beat ND, they lost to ND.
We got D&D. We got momentum. We got continuing improvement week to week. We got real motivation, can't lose four in a row to our step sister.
Michigan by two touchdowns. M will be in control the whole game but won't be able to put it out of reach until the fourth quarter.
It's good to be a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Spartans.
Who has the better coaching staff? We do.
Who has the better players? Sad to say, but with a few exceptions, they do.
Who has the most motivation? We do.
MSU will dominate the line of scrimmage. Their quarterback will challenge our defense. We will be in real hostile territory for the first time this season.
We beat ND, they lost to ND.
We got D&D. We got momentum. We got continuing improvement week to week. We got real motivation, can't lose four in a row to our step sister.
Michigan by two touchdowns. M will be in control the whole game but won't be able to put it out of reach until the fourth quarter.
It's good to be a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Spartans.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Michigan 42 Northwestern 24.
I always love a Michigan Victory.
We played a great half of a football game. God, I love the halftime adjustments Borges and Mattison make. We played some shutdown defense. The offense looked pretty good in second half. Robinson settled down and played a great second half. Devin Gardner looked right at home too. Great catches by all the recievers. Glad ours can jump higher than theirs. Love that when we put our minds to it we can shut them down and pretty much score when we want to.
But what was this fiasco in the first half. We looked ridiculous and lost. Liked the first 3 and out, and the subsequent touchdown. The rest of the half we looked like a high school team. 3 really bad interceptions. Sloppy tackling. We were lucky to not be down by more.
Our rushing game sucks. Other than Robinson, our running backs contributed only 62 yards, none of it really impressive, although Shaw had a good couple of runs in a row in the second half.
Time for a mid season review and update of my preseason predictions.
We are really a lot better than last year. I'm really impressed with what Hoke and staff has done with basically the same team as last year. Great coaching really makes a difference. Especially on defense. They are playing over their heads, talent wise. They are tackling strong when they want to. They play together well. They know what each other is doing and reacting well.
Doing well offensively as well, but I would like the offense to be a little bit more than the Denard Robinson show. The offensive line is better, providing great pass protection. Denard seems to have all the time he needs. But on the rushing game they are average. Don't see a surge at the snap. Ever. The running backs don't have any holes. We need that big fullback-type. Couldn't punch in the end zone from inside the 5. Have to rely on misdirection to score. But I suppose I shouldn't complain. We scored in the red zone each time. Denard's passing is perplexing. He has the time to get his feet set, when he does he's as capable as anyone. But when he doesn't get his feet set each pass seems to be a Hail Mary. Especially the long ones. Kudos to Junior Hemingway for going up and bringing it down. Sign him up as an outfielder on the baseball team. But it would be nice to see a deep receiver led a little bit.
This is a good team, and will be in every game from here on in and have a chance of winning each one. It's going to be so much more fun than last year. But we aren't a team that can dominate the rest of the way. Our remaining opponents are much better than Minnesota and Northwestern. I think we can only count on splitting the rest of our games. Maybe we'll get lucky and win a few more. Everyone will gunning for us and we are still learning as a team. With lots of luck we might be able to play for the Big Ten title. I want it, but I don't see it. Here's hoping I'm wrong. Mid Season adjustment. 9-3, maybe 10-2.
We learned a lot about the Wolverines in this game, and we aren't ready yet, next year. Prove me wrong against Michigan State.
It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine!
Go Michigan, beat the Spartans.
We played a great half of a football game. God, I love the halftime adjustments Borges and Mattison make. We played some shutdown defense. The offense looked pretty good in second half. Robinson settled down and played a great second half. Devin Gardner looked right at home too. Great catches by all the recievers. Glad ours can jump higher than theirs. Love that when we put our minds to it we can shut them down and pretty much score when we want to.
But what was this fiasco in the first half. We looked ridiculous and lost. Liked the first 3 and out, and the subsequent touchdown. The rest of the half we looked like a high school team. 3 really bad interceptions. Sloppy tackling. We were lucky to not be down by more.
Our rushing game sucks. Other than Robinson, our running backs contributed only 62 yards, none of it really impressive, although Shaw had a good couple of runs in a row in the second half.
Time for a mid season review and update of my preseason predictions.
We are really a lot better than last year. I'm really impressed with what Hoke and staff has done with basically the same team as last year. Great coaching really makes a difference. Especially on defense. They are playing over their heads, talent wise. They are tackling strong when they want to. They play together well. They know what each other is doing and reacting well.
Doing well offensively as well, but I would like the offense to be a little bit more than the Denard Robinson show. The offensive line is better, providing great pass protection. Denard seems to have all the time he needs. But on the rushing game they are average. Don't see a surge at the snap. Ever. The running backs don't have any holes. We need that big fullback-type. Couldn't punch in the end zone from inside the 5. Have to rely on misdirection to score. But I suppose I shouldn't complain. We scored in the red zone each time. Denard's passing is perplexing. He has the time to get his feet set, when he does he's as capable as anyone. But when he doesn't get his feet set each pass seems to be a Hail Mary. Especially the long ones. Kudos to Junior Hemingway for going up and bringing it down. Sign him up as an outfielder on the baseball team. But it would be nice to see a deep receiver led a little bit.
This is a good team, and will be in every game from here on in and have a chance of winning each one. It's going to be so much more fun than last year. But we aren't a team that can dominate the rest of the way. Our remaining opponents are much better than Minnesota and Northwestern. I think we can only count on splitting the rest of our games. Maybe we'll get lucky and win a few more. Everyone will gunning for us and we are still learning as a team. With lots of luck we might be able to play for the Big Ten title. I want it, but I don't see it. Here's hoping I'm wrong. Mid Season adjustment. 9-3, maybe 10-2.
We learned a lot about the Wolverines in this game, and we aren't ready yet, next year. Prove me wrong against Michigan State.
It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine!
Go Michigan, beat the Spartans.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Wolverines vs Wildcats. M wins by at least 15, maybe 24. .
Let's face it, other than the Notre Dame Game, Michigan's season has been a cakewalk. A cakewalk at home. The team is exciting to watch. Improving each week on both defense and offense, especially defense. We have momentum.
But this is a road game against a schizophrenic Northwestern team. A team that is better than it's 2-2 record. Dan Persa, an NFL first rounder, is back at QB with a good game under his belt. Their offense will be good. If he can finish the game, we will have to play our best. The Wildcats can put points on the board. Our secondary will be stretched.
The defense should be up to the task. I would love to see another donut hung on the scoreboard. I doubt it. But we dominate here.
I want to see another balanced game offensively. Good passing from Denard. More D & D sets. And more rushing yards out of our running backs than out of Denard.
Time to find out if Michigan is real or memorex. Last year at this time we were 5-0 and ranked and finished 7-5. We'll learn a lot about how good we are today.
It's always good to be a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Wildcats!
But this is a road game against a schizophrenic Northwestern team. A team that is better than it's 2-2 record. Dan Persa, an NFL first rounder, is back at QB with a good game under his belt. Their offense will be good. If he can finish the game, we will have to play our best. The Wildcats can put points on the board. Our secondary will be stretched.
The defense should be up to the task. I would love to see another donut hung on the scoreboard. I doubt it. But we dominate here.
I want to see another balanced game offensively. Good passing from Denard. More D & D sets. And more rushing yards out of our running backs than out of Denard.
Time to find out if Michigan is real or memorex. Last year at this time we were 5-0 and ranked and finished 7-5. We'll learn a lot about how good we are today.
It's always good to be a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Wildcats!
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Michigan 58 Minnesota 0. Wow.
I didn't watch the game yesterday, was selling Christmas Wreaths on behalf of the Dorothy Day House of Hospitality at the Greenline Block Party. They are a good deal. Go to this link to order one on-line. Back to the game.
How do you say perfect. A perfect shut out. A perfectly balanced offensive attack. Yes it was against Minnesota, the current doormat of the Big Ten (not us this year) but it was a game we needed to have. Built confidence on all parts of the team. We've been improving each and every game, and it came together yesterday. No more easy games though.
Liked that we ran a few plays with Devin Gardner at QB and Denard Robinson at half back. It must scare the s--t out of opposing defenses to see that line up. And I bet we see it more often. Let's call it the D&D formation.
Liked that Denard completed 11 passes in a row and 15-19 without an interception
Liked that two running backs had more yards that Denard, and that he only ran 6 times.
Liked triple threat Vincent Smith. Run, catch and throw. Way to go.
Like the defense playing all out the entire game, not letdown in the third quarter when the game was out of reach for Minnesota. Even with the second team playing most of the second half.
Liked that the defense held the Gophers to 94 yds rushing and 104 yards passing.
Loving the forced turnovers.
Don't like? What's not to like.
The season gets harder from this day forward. Our opponents know we are for real, even though we are still improving. Tough stretch of away games with only on home game in the middle of it. We must step it up a notch. Keep the learning going. Learn to win and then wallop on the road. Win against Northwestern (a schizo team if there ever was on) a Wallop on MSU.
As always, it's great, to be,a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, beat the Wildcats.
And I found out the other day that I'm going to the Nebraska game. Can't hardly wait.
How do you say perfect. A perfect shut out. A perfectly balanced offensive attack. Yes it was against Minnesota, the current doormat of the Big Ten (not us this year) but it was a game we needed to have. Built confidence on all parts of the team. We've been improving each and every game, and it came together yesterday. No more easy games though.
Liked that we ran a few plays with Devin Gardner at QB and Denard Robinson at half back. It must scare the s--t out of opposing defenses to see that line up. And I bet we see it more often. Let's call it the D&D formation.
Liked that Denard completed 11 passes in a row and 15-19 without an interception
Liked that two running backs had more yards that Denard, and that he only ran 6 times.
Liked triple threat Vincent Smith. Run, catch and throw. Way to go.
Like the defense playing all out the entire game, not letdown in the third quarter when the game was out of reach for Minnesota. Even with the second team playing most of the second half.
Liked that the defense held the Gophers to 94 yds rushing and 104 yards passing.
Loving the forced turnovers.
Don't like? What's not to like.
The season gets harder from this day forward. Our opponents know we are for real, even though we are still improving. Tough stretch of away games with only on home game in the middle of it. We must step it up a notch. Keep the learning going. Learn to win and then wallop on the road. Win against Northwestern (a schizo team if there ever was on) a Wallop on MSU.
As always, it's great, to be,a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, beat the Wildcats.
And I found out the other day that I'm going to the Nebraska game. Can't hardly wait.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
The Little Brown Jug. Michigan keeps it in a big victory over Minnesota
Sorry for the late post. Been busy and won't even watch the game today.
Michigan needs a big breakout game and today is the day. We've seen improvement every week of the season. Today it all comes together. The 100 playing of the Little Brown Jug Game is today. First Big Ten game today. Minnesota will up for the game but isn't up to the task.
It's all going to come together today. Big Michigan Victory to start the Big Ten Schedule. Denard will have a big day. The defense might just hang a donut. If Minnesota scores it will be on the scrubs. Running backs will have a big day.
I have no evidence that this will happen. Just got a feeling.
It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Gophers!
Michigan needs a big breakout game and today is the day. We've seen improvement every week of the season. Today it all comes together. The 100 playing of the Little Brown Jug Game is today. First Big Ten game today. Minnesota will up for the game but isn't up to the task.
It's all going to come together today. Big Michigan Victory to start the Big Ten Schedule. Denard will have a big day. The defense might just hang a donut. If Minnesota scores it will be on the scrubs. Running backs will have a big day.
I have no evidence that this will happen. Just got a feeling.
It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Gophers!
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Mike Schooler guest blogs on Michigan vs. San Diego State
As I didn't watch the game, here is Memphis Michigan Spirit Club (defacto) leader, Mike Schooler's take on Saturday's game.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Good2BMichiganWolverine: Michigan 28 SDSU 7
Good2BMichiganWolverine: Michigan 28 SDSU 7: Another victory. I called that one wrong. I didn't watch the game today, as I headed down to the Grove for the Ole Miss/Georgia game. H...
Michigan 28 SDSU 7
Another victory. I called that one wrong.
I didn't watch the game today, as I headed down to the Grove for the Ole Miss/Georgia game. Had a great time. Enjoyed seeing the score of our game flash on the scoreboard, especially the halftime score of 21-0.
Since I didn't see the game, I'm posting Mitch Albom's analysis from Freep.com. I agree almost wholeheartedly (my biggest concerns highlighted in red):
It's Good, To Be, a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, beat the Golphers.
I didn't watch the game today, as I headed down to the Grove for the Ole Miss/Georgia game. Had a great time. Enjoyed seeing the score of our game flash on the scoreboard, especially the halftime score of 21-0.
Since I didn't see the game, I'm posting Mitch Albom's analysis from Freep.com. I agree almost wholeheartedly (my biggest concerns highlighted in red):
'Brady Hoke crossed the field, hugged the man who took over his old job, greeted a few players who used to play for him, then headed down the tunnel.
Good-bye to the past.
Those warm moments with his former San Diego State crew symbolized the end of whoever Brady Hoke used to be and the clarion call for who he is now. His Wolverines are undefeated, but their nonconference schedule is done, the lightweight teams have been vanquished, and from this point on, everything counts a bit more.
Or a lot more.
Even his players know it.
“We want to be Big Ten champions,” said senior defensive tackle Ryan Van Bergen after the 28-7 win. “We haven’t had a good record in the Big Ten — anybody on this team — since we’ve been on it. It’s a big thing for us.”
It’s a big thing for the fans. And if Hoke is true to his Bo Schembechler/Gary Moeller/Lloyd Carr roots, it’s the biggest thing for him.
So where — at 4-0 and ranked in the top 25 — does this Michigan team really stand?
Which brings us to the defense in general. How good is it? It gave up one touchdown to SDSU, yet the Aztecs were in Michigan territory 11 times. It gave up a lone field goal to Eastern Michigan, yet let the Eagles hang around longer than they should have. It beat Notre Dame with five turnovers, but allowed the Irish over 500 yards of offense.
You tell me. Is it bend-but-don’t-break, or has it not been bent by a tough enough opponent? Have the Wolverines just been lucky with fumbles and interceptions, or is it a big play mindset?
“I think we would all like to be that kind of defense … punching it out, ripping it out … I don’t think that’s a bad thing,” Hoke said. “I don’t know if it’s such a good thing that, field possession battle, for a good point of this game, we were getting our tails kicked.”
In other words, the defense needs to exit faster. The Wolverines are undefeated, but the time of possession is virtually equal to their four beaten opponents.
We know Robinson is the best running back on the team. And we know every time he has a passing play, you flip a coin and pray. He is capable of accurate delivery — if he slows down, plants and is mechanically sound. He is also capable of throwing behind, over or into traffic for his receivers — which he did several times Saturday.
Let’s be honest. The defenses he has faced in the first four games are not in a league with the Big Ten elite, yet Robinson has six interceptions and a less than 50% completion rate. Neither is a confidence builder. "There were some throws that I just forced,” Robinson admitted after the game. “I should have taken my time and done what Coach taught me.”
On the other hand, the Wolverines win. They have a way. Their timing is good, their big-play mentality (on both sides) is good, and Hoke observed that “they really like each other.” Don’t downplay that. Chemistry is a big deal, especially at a college level — even though it’s true that most teams like each other more when they haven’t lost a game.
So where is this U-M squad? It is as good as it could hope to be with October looming. It has avoided upsets, it beat one severe opponent, it has shown flashes of brilliance and a taste for the big play.
It also hasn’t played a road game or a team currently in the top 25.
Next week will be different. Next week is conference play. And Hoke, who was greeted by a San Diego writer with the joking comment, “Nice place you got here” is now fully and completely maize and blue, his past on an airplane home, his present about to be measured on a big — and Big Ten — scale.'
Mike again: We won't really know how good we are until we play Michigan State. We should beat the Golphers and the Wildcats. After that, every game is up in the air.
Still...
Good-bye to the past.
Those warm moments with his former San Diego State crew symbolized the end of whoever Brady Hoke used to be and the clarion call for who he is now. His Wolverines are undefeated, but their nonconference schedule is done, the lightweight teams have been vanquished, and from this point on, everything counts a bit more.
Or a lot more.
Even his players know it.
“We want to be Big Ten champions,” said senior defensive tackle Ryan Van Bergen after the 28-7 win. “We haven’t had a good record in the Big Ten — anybody on this team — since we’ve been on it. It’s a big thing for us.”
It’s a big thing for the fans. And if Hoke is true to his Bo Schembechler/Gary Moeller/Lloyd Carr roots, it’s the biggest thing for him.
So where — at 4-0 and ranked in the top 25 — does this Michigan team really stand?
Give and take
“Well, we can’t turn the ball over four times, I can tell you that,” Hoke said after Saturday’s lopsided yet sloppy victory. “…You can’t win your Pop Warner league if you turn it over four times.” On the other hand, Michigan forced three turnovers of its own — giving it 13 in four games.Which brings us to the defense in general. How good is it? It gave up one touchdown to SDSU, yet the Aztecs were in Michigan territory 11 times. It gave up a lone field goal to Eastern Michigan, yet let the Eagles hang around longer than they should have. It beat Notre Dame with five turnovers, but allowed the Irish over 500 yards of offense.
You tell me. Is it bend-but-don’t-break, or has it not been bent by a tough enough opponent? Have the Wolverines just been lucky with fumbles and interceptions, or is it a big play mindset?
“I think we would all like to be that kind of defense … punching it out, ripping it out … I don’t think that’s a bad thing,” Hoke said. “I don’t know if it’s such a good thing that, field possession battle, for a good point of this game, we were getting our tails kicked.”
In other words, the defense needs to exit faster. The Wolverines are undefeated, but the time of possession is virtually equal to their four beaten opponents.
Passing grades
And then there’s the offense, which in Ann Arbor is another word for “Denard Robinson.” The nation’s most explosive player once again hypnotized with his feet (200 yards rushing, three TDs) and mystified with his arm (8-17, two interceptions.)We know Robinson is the best running back on the team. And we know every time he has a passing play, you flip a coin and pray. He is capable of accurate delivery — if he slows down, plants and is mechanically sound. He is also capable of throwing behind, over or into traffic for his receivers — which he did several times Saturday.
Let’s be honest. The defenses he has faced in the first four games are not in a league with the Big Ten elite, yet Robinson has six interceptions and a less than 50% completion rate. Neither is a confidence builder. "There were some throws that I just forced,” Robinson admitted after the game. “I should have taken my time and done what Coach taught me.”
On the other hand, the Wolverines win. They have a way. Their timing is good, their big-play mentality (on both sides) is good, and Hoke observed that “they really like each other.” Don’t downplay that. Chemistry is a big deal, especially at a college level — even though it’s true that most teams like each other more when they haven’t lost a game.
So where is this U-M squad? It is as good as it could hope to be with October looming. It has avoided upsets, it beat one severe opponent, it has shown flashes of brilliance and a taste for the big play.
It also hasn’t played a road game or a team currently in the top 25.
Next week will be different. Next week is conference play. And Hoke, who was greeted by a San Diego writer with the joking comment, “Nice place you got here” is now fully and completely maize and blue, his past on an airplane home, his present about to be measured on a big — and Big Ten — scale.'
Mike again: We won't really know how good we are until we play Michigan State. We should beat the Golphers and the Wildcats. After that, every game is up in the air.
Still...
It's Good, To Be, a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, beat the Golphers.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Michigan vs. San Diego State. Michigan wins by a touchdown.
Hard to call this game. San Diego State is a bowl winning, talented team, coached the last two seasons by Brady Hoke. Undefeated, just like us. Been playing their offense for two years now, not three weeks like us. They'll be up for the game.
So will we. But I'm not sure we will be ready for this first real test of the season. They won't fold for us like ND did. Still, we have improved every week of the season. Last week's practice game should have been a boost for both the offense and defense. And we have Denard Robinson.
If we come out of the box establishing Denard, instead of trying to establishing the running game, we could blow this wide open. Denard takes two steps left, the whole defense goes with him, opening up the receivers, and the running backs. This is backward, a Michigan team is supposed establish the running game first, but that hasn't worked. Do it in reverse.
Defense will have to keep improving. Mattison will again have to call a great game.
Michigan by less than a touchdown.
It's great to be a Michigan Wolverine
Go Michigan, Beat the Aztecs
I won't be watching the game, so I will need a guest blogger to do the follow up analysis this week. Going down to the Grove to experience the SEC and Ole Miss/Georgia Game. Any volunteers out there.
So will we. But I'm not sure we will be ready for this first real test of the season. They won't fold for us like ND did. Still, we have improved every week of the season. Last week's practice game should have been a boost for both the offense and defense. And we have Denard Robinson.
If we come out of the box establishing Denard, instead of trying to establishing the running game, we could blow this wide open. Denard takes two steps left, the whole defense goes with him, opening up the receivers, and the running backs. This is backward, a Michigan team is supposed establish the running game first, but that hasn't worked. Do it in reverse.
Defense will have to keep improving. Mattison will again have to call a great game.
Michigan by less than a touchdown.
It's great to be a Michigan Wolverine
Go Michigan, Beat the Aztecs
I won't be watching the game, so I will need a guest blogger to do the follow up analysis this week. Going down to the Grove to experience the SEC and Ole Miss/Georgia Game. Any volunteers out there.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Michigan 31 Eastern Michigan 3 --Got this one right!
Pretty good practice, not a great one though. But enough to get better and gain confidence.
When was the last time a Michigan Defense prevented an opponent from scoring a TD. Long time. Good to see.
The Goal line stand was great in the first quarter.
Mostly good tackling. Great play calling by Greg Mattison to keep the pressure up. He has to call a good game for this defense to work. We have good players and a few great ones, Martin, Ryan, Kovacs. But not enough speed overall and not at linebacker. Next year. And we are learning the defense. It will only get better.
I'm disappointed in the offensive effort. How can one be disappointed in 31 unanswered points? Because we are still too one dimension, named Denard Robinson. What a talent. Have to go with him. But have to have other runners to relieve his load. Vincent Smith might just be that running back, with 118 yds. But all running backs combined, 168 yds, did not out gain Denard, with 198. I know, most of his yards are big gains. But we need more from the backs. And our receivers seemed to have butter on their hands. Denard delivered many catch-able balls that we dropped. Gallon played well though.
Seems like the mistake we made in the first half, was trying to set up Denard with the pro-style running plays. Didn't work. Maybe we need to set up the pro-style running game and passing game with Denard running first. Once he gets some momentum going, the whole defense keys on him, opening up the run for Smith and Toussaint and lots of passing opportunities. That's what happened in the second half. Let's start the first half this way next time.
San Diego State next. Hoke's old team. He knows them, and they know him. And they are good. 2-0 and beating WSU as I write this. Good test next week.
It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Aztecs.
When was the last time a Michigan Defense prevented an opponent from scoring a TD. Long time. Good to see.
The Goal line stand was great in the first quarter.
Mostly good tackling. Great play calling by Greg Mattison to keep the pressure up. He has to call a good game for this defense to work. We have good players and a few great ones, Martin, Ryan, Kovacs. But not enough speed overall and not at linebacker. Next year. And we are learning the defense. It will only get better.
I'm disappointed in the offensive effort. How can one be disappointed in 31 unanswered points? Because we are still too one dimension, named Denard Robinson. What a talent. Have to go with him. But have to have other runners to relieve his load. Vincent Smith might just be that running back, with 118 yds. But all running backs combined, 168 yds, did not out gain Denard, with 198. I know, most of his yards are big gains. But we need more from the backs. And our receivers seemed to have butter on their hands. Denard delivered many catch-able balls that we dropped. Gallon played well though.
Seems like the mistake we made in the first half, was trying to set up Denard with the pro-style running plays. Didn't work. Maybe we need to set up the pro-style running game and passing game with Denard running first. Once he gets some momentum going, the whole defense keys on him, opening up the run for Smith and Toussaint and lots of passing opportunities. That's what happened in the second half. Let's start the first half this way next time.
San Diego State next. Hoke's old team. He knows them, and they know him. And they are good. 2-0 and beating WSU as I write this. Good test next week.
It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Aztecs.
Friday, September 16, 2011
UM vs. EMU: Michigan will win by 4 TDs
Let's face it, this is a practice game for Michigan, and Michigan needs one. Badly.
Although it was an heroic victory against the Irish, showing a tremendous level of heart and desire to be admired, it can hardly be called a well played game.
Our secondary was shredded regularly by the Irish.
The Irish dominated the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.
Our running backs were nonexistent, forcing the offense to be one dimensional, although that dimension, Denard Robinson, is phenomenal.
Our kick off return team was miserable.
The good parts?
We were able to make adjustments on both offense and defense and find a way to win against a superior Irish team.
We forced turnovers and took advantage of them. We haven't seen that in a long time.
We never quit playing, something that happened regularly last year.
But lets face it, we are playing Eastern Michigan. Even though:
--they are the first team we face with a winning record, and
--they racked up more than 300 yds rushing in each of their first two games, and
--much of their coaching staff are Michigan Men. Ron English, Mike Hart, and several others and they will be motivated.
They are still Eastern Michigan.
So I want to see a great practice:
--Some shut down defense. Good tackling, dominance of the line, pressure on the QB. The run goes nowhere. Some interceptions. Lots of 3 and outs.
--Running backs delivering over 300 yds rushing.
--Robinson with less than 100 yds rushing because he didn't need to do more than that to win.
--No dropped passes(too many last week) and no interceptions. Robinson going 20-25 on completions or better.
We have to improve at these things before the Big Ten schedule comes up or we will be toast. Use this game to improve. Then do the same with San Diego State. Then come out blowing and going for the start of the Big Ten schedule to get ready for MSU, Iowa, Nebraska and OSU.
It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine!
Go Michigan, Beat the Eagles.
Although it was an heroic victory against the Irish, showing a tremendous level of heart and desire to be admired, it can hardly be called a well played game.
Our secondary was shredded regularly by the Irish.
The Irish dominated the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.
Our running backs were nonexistent, forcing the offense to be one dimensional, although that dimension, Denard Robinson, is phenomenal.
Our kick off return team was miserable.
The good parts?
We were able to make adjustments on both offense and defense and find a way to win against a superior Irish team.
We forced turnovers and took advantage of them. We haven't seen that in a long time.
We never quit playing, something that happened regularly last year.
But lets face it, we are playing Eastern Michigan. Even though:
--they are the first team we face with a winning record, and
--they racked up more than 300 yds rushing in each of their first two games, and
--much of their coaching staff are Michigan Men. Ron English, Mike Hart, and several others and they will be motivated.
They are still Eastern Michigan.
So I want to see a great practice:
--Some shut down defense. Good tackling, dominance of the line, pressure on the QB. The run goes nowhere. Some interceptions. Lots of 3 and outs.
--Running backs delivering over 300 yds rushing.
--Robinson with less than 100 yds rushing because he didn't need to do more than that to win.
--No dropped passes(too many last week) and no interceptions. Robinson going 20-25 on completions or better.
We have to improve at these things before the Big Ten schedule comes up or we will be toast. Use this game to improve. Then do the same with San Diego State. Then come out blowing and going for the start of the Big Ten schedule to get ready for MSU, Iowa, Nebraska and OSU.
It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine!
Go Michigan, Beat the Eagles.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Michigan 35 Notre Dame 31--A Game for the Ages.
It was the kind of game one writes a fight song about. Time for new version of the Victors, anyone up for writing it?
What a game full of emotion. We won, no we lost, OMG we won it again. Pandemonium breaks loose at Dan McGuinness Pub. Those who left at halftime thinking we had lost, missed the most exciting ending of a Michigan game in this century. I lost my voice. And went to sleep thinking about ways to put Michigan Flags on my Notre Dame's neighbors front porch. My son tried to talk me into going over to the Cathedral with a ladder, some duct tape, and our M Flag, and tape the flap, flagpole and all, onto the outstretched hand of the Statue of Mary that guards the front door (our pastor is a diehard subway alum of Notre Dame). We thought better of it, but it sure would have been fun to watch all the faces of the Notre Dame faithful walking up the steps as they noticed it.
The Irish mauled and manhandled the Michigan offensive and defensive lines. Yet we persevered.
Rees to Floyd, made mincemeat of the our secondary. Yet we kept on trying.
The sweeps of their running backs were demoralizing. Yet we never gave in.
We adjusted, and adjusted again, and adjusted again. We forced some turnovers when we absolutely had to. We built momentum, bit by bit. "Not in Our House" became the battle cry.
Then we set Denard Robinson loose. And it all came together. With 8 seconds left.
It's going to be one heck of a fun season. We may not win any titles but we're sure going to have fun losing them.
It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, beat the Hurons, I mean Eagles.
Go Blue.
Somethings I learned about Notre Dame Alums and fans this week:
--They refer to the Wolverines as the "skunkbears" (I kinda like that)
--The Big House is called "The Outhouse" (sticks and stones may break our bones but names will never hurt us)
Somethings I learned about the Michigan Team this week:
--We are still learning to play both offense and defense.
--We are not yet a good team. We'll get there soon.
--This game gives the entire Big Ten a game plan on our weaknesses. How to beat us.
--What happened to our Running Backs? And the slippery fingers of our recievers.
--The coaching staff is incredible. We don't have close to Notre Dame's talent, but our coaching staff is superior and outcoached the Brian Kelly and company. They are coaching the team to become men, which is what it is all about.
--This team has heart. The Heart of Champions.
Somethings I learned about the Big House:
--The ghosts of Crisler, Yost and Schembechler stalk the sidelines on our behalf.
--The Big House looks cool under the lights. All those yellow shirts and pompoms, looked great and were kind of intimidating. I credit at least one turnover to the crowd.
--The throwback uniforms look silly.
What a game full of emotion. We won, no we lost, OMG we won it again. Pandemonium breaks loose at Dan McGuinness Pub. Those who left at halftime thinking we had lost, missed the most exciting ending of a Michigan game in this century. I lost my voice. And went to sleep thinking about ways to put Michigan Flags on my Notre Dame's neighbors front porch. My son tried to talk me into going over to the Cathedral with a ladder, some duct tape, and our M Flag, and tape the flap, flagpole and all, onto the outstretched hand of the Statue of Mary that guards the front door (our pastor is a diehard subway alum of Notre Dame). We thought better of it, but it sure would have been fun to watch all the faces of the Notre Dame faithful walking up the steps as they noticed it.
The Irish mauled and manhandled the Michigan offensive and defensive lines. Yet we persevered.
Rees to Floyd, made mincemeat of the our secondary. Yet we kept on trying.
The sweeps of their running backs were demoralizing. Yet we never gave in.
We adjusted, and adjusted again, and adjusted again. We forced some turnovers when we absolutely had to. We built momentum, bit by bit. "Not in Our House" became the battle cry.
Then we set Denard Robinson loose. And it all came together. With 8 seconds left.
It's going to be one heck of a fun season. We may not win any titles but we're sure going to have fun losing them.
It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, beat the Hurons, I mean Eagles.
Go Blue.
Somethings I learned about Notre Dame Alums and fans this week:
--They refer to the Wolverines as the "skunkbears" (I kinda like that)
--The Big House is called "The Outhouse" (sticks and stones may break our bones but names will never hurt us)
Somethings I learned about the Michigan Team this week:
--We are still learning to play both offense and defense.
--We are not yet a good team. We'll get there soon.
--This game gives the entire Big Ten a game plan on our weaknesses. How to beat us.
--What happened to our Running Backs? And the slippery fingers of our recievers.
--The coaching staff is incredible. We don't have close to Notre Dame's talent, but our coaching staff is superior and outcoached the Brian Kelly and company. They are coaching the team to become men, which is what it is all about.
--This team has heart. The Heart of Champions.
Somethings I learned about the Big House:
--The ghosts of Crisler, Yost and Schembechler stalk the sidelines on our behalf.
--The Big House looks cool under the lights. All those yellow shirts and pompoms, looked great and were kind of intimidating. I credit at least one turnover to the crowd.
--The throwback uniforms look silly.
Friday, September 9, 2011
Michigan vs Notre Dame. September 10th.
Those of you following this blog for the past year or two, know that I am physically and spiritually unable to predict anything other than a Meechigan Victory. To do so would be to deny my citizenship in the Wolverine Nation. Go Blue. Hail to the Victors and all that who-hah.
After studying whatever I could about the game here's what I know:
Michigan is still learning how to play football. Both on offense and defense. Mucho improvements over last year, especially on defense. We needed that extra quarter of football that was cancelled from last week's game to solidify our improvements and build confidence.
Notre Dame is a much better team than their outcome against South Florida indicates. They are further ahead on their learning curve than we are.
Kelly started the wrong quarterback. The Irish had a bad game last week. They have something to prove this week. They'll get over it.
ND has better personnel overall, ones that were recruited to play the offense and defense they are playing (not like the number of spread type players we are asking to step up to play the power game at M).
As much as I enjoyed last years victory over ND, when it gets right down to it, we got lucky. Denard Robinson lucky.
The most improvement of a college football team comes between the first and second game. Michigan will be better. Notre Dame will be better also. Notre Dame should be favored.
I'm guessing that Michigan wasn't showing all the cards in their hand last week. Felt they could beat Western Michigan without giving away the store. (Schembechler did this all the time and Hoke is a kindred spirit to him.)
The game is the first night game at the Big House. The teams will be wearing throwback uniforms (Notre Dame's look better than ours). The ghost of great Michigan teams of the past will be in the Big House (home field advantage).
My prediction: The Wolverines will step up and play over their heads. Hoke will have them stoked yet realistically prepared. They are ready for a big signature victory. Defensively intense game. Michigan wins by a touchdown or less.
It's going to be a great game no matter what.
It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine!
Go Michigan, Beat the Irish!
Funniest prediction I read this past week. From Dennis Marks. Something like this, "Well fought see-saw battle. With Michigan on the ND one yard line ready to score and one minute to play, a swarm of locust descends on the field. Game called. Irish win 21-19."
After studying whatever I could about the game here's what I know:
Michigan is still learning how to play football. Both on offense and defense. Mucho improvements over last year, especially on defense. We needed that extra quarter of football that was cancelled from last week's game to solidify our improvements and build confidence.
Notre Dame is a much better team than their outcome against South Florida indicates. They are further ahead on their learning curve than we are.
Kelly started the wrong quarterback. The Irish had a bad game last week. They have something to prove this week. They'll get over it.
ND has better personnel overall, ones that were recruited to play the offense and defense they are playing (not like the number of spread type players we are asking to step up to play the power game at M).
As much as I enjoyed last years victory over ND, when it gets right down to it, we got lucky. Denard Robinson lucky.
The most improvement of a college football team comes between the first and second game. Michigan will be better. Notre Dame will be better also. Notre Dame should be favored.
I'm guessing that Michigan wasn't showing all the cards in their hand last week. Felt they could beat Western Michigan without giving away the store. (Schembechler did this all the time and Hoke is a kindred spirit to him.)
The game is the first night game at the Big House. The teams will be wearing throwback uniforms (Notre Dame's look better than ours). The ghost of great Michigan teams of the past will be in the Big House (home field advantage).
My prediction: The Wolverines will step up and play over their heads. Hoke will have them stoked yet realistically prepared. They are ready for a big signature victory. Defensively intense game. Michigan wins by a touchdown or less.
It's going to be a great game no matter what.
It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine!
Go Michigan, Beat the Irish!
Funniest prediction I read this past week. From Dennis Marks. Something like this, "Well fought see-saw battle. With Michigan on the ND one yard line ready to score and one minute to play, a swarm of locust descends on the field. Game called. Irish win 21-19."
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Michigan wins a 3/4 game for Hoke's first victory. UM 34 WMU 10
The Wolverines looked like a Michigan Football Team. First time in 3 years. They didn't look great, but they looked good. Go Blue. Hail to the Victors. Welcome home Defense. Congrats Hoke, coaching staff and players. You stepped up and played Michigan Football the way we want to watch it.
The Wolverines looked like a Michigan football team again, because they played hard hitting defense. Good defense. Not great defense, mind you. The important difference I noticed immediately was the lack of broken tackles. When some one was tackled, the tackles were hard and true. Many coverages were missed, to be sure, but no long gainers after a catch or big hole in the line. Pursuit was good and opponent brought right down. This defense knows how to react, something we haven't seen during the past three years. This is a good foundation to build on. The defense will get better as the season progresses.
The defense scored twice and forced another turnover that resulted in a score, a play-making defense. Haven't seen that in a long time. Kudos to Kovacs and Herron and Ryan. By the second half they had Crowder (WMU QB) and the Bronco offense rattled. All the hard hitting piled up on the Broncos.
The offense was okay. Best part was that Denard didn't have to carry the entire team on his back. He had some good runs, and a decent day passing. Both would have been higher if we had played a full four quarters. Played with poise. What was nice to see was some running backs running downhill. Shaw and Toussaint combined for 134 yards, with Toussaint scoring 2 TDs. He reminds me a bit of Michael Hart. These running backs were on the team the past two years. What's the difference? No more of that spread offense deception stuff. Power running.
The offense will have to improve. I'm not at all convinced that Robinson has the kind of arm we need to win a title. Convince me Denard.
Special teams were average. Kickoff coverage sucked. We gave the Broncos good field position every kickoff. Blocked extra point too. This will improve also. The team has had so much to learn. This will come.
One final impression. The team is, for the most part, the same players as last year. It's amazing what coaches that coach players can accomplish as opposed to that coach we had that coached a system.
It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Irish.
The Wolverines looked like a Michigan football team again, because they played hard hitting defense. Good defense. Not great defense, mind you. The important difference I noticed immediately was the lack of broken tackles. When some one was tackled, the tackles were hard and true. Many coverages were missed, to be sure, but no long gainers after a catch or big hole in the line. Pursuit was good and opponent brought right down. This defense knows how to react, something we haven't seen during the past three years. This is a good foundation to build on. The defense will get better as the season progresses.
The defense scored twice and forced another turnover that resulted in a score, a play-making defense. Haven't seen that in a long time. Kudos to Kovacs and Herron and Ryan. By the second half they had Crowder (WMU QB) and the Bronco offense rattled. All the hard hitting piled up on the Broncos.
The offense was okay. Best part was that Denard didn't have to carry the entire team on his back. He had some good runs, and a decent day passing. Both would have been higher if we had played a full four quarters. Played with poise. What was nice to see was some running backs running downhill. Shaw and Toussaint combined for 134 yards, with Toussaint scoring 2 TDs. He reminds me a bit of Michael Hart. These running backs were on the team the past two years. What's the difference? No more of that spread offense deception stuff. Power running.
The offense will have to improve. I'm not at all convinced that Robinson has the kind of arm we need to win a title. Convince me Denard.
Special teams were average. Kickoff coverage sucked. We gave the Broncos good field position every kickoff. Blocked extra point too. This will improve also. The team has had so much to learn. This will come.
One final impression. The team is, for the most part, the same players as last year. It's amazing what coaches that coach players can accomplish as opposed to that coach we had that coached a system.
It's good, to be, a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Irish.
Friday, September 2, 2011
Michigan vs Western Michigan. Saturday September 3rd.
Michigan by two touchdowns, maybe three. Being realistic with this prediction. But hoping for much more.
This team has something to prove. They are fired up. The coaching staff has them ready to go. But new system on both offense and defense. Better ones than the spread an the no tackle defense of the past three years. But only spring practice and fall practice under there belts with the new systems. Good, motivated players. Maybe even a few great ones. But untested in game situations.
Not too worried about Denard Robinson in a pro set offense. He'll be protected this year. Won't have to generate everything and carry the entire offense. Got a good receivers running real pass routes this year. And running backs running real running plays.
Okay I've just talked myself into four touchdowns.
It's great, to be, a Michigan Wolverine!
Go Michigan, Beat the Broncos
This team has something to prove. They are fired up. The coaching staff has them ready to go. But new system on both offense and defense. Better ones than the spread an the no tackle defense of the past three years. But only spring practice and fall practice under there belts with the new systems. Good, motivated players. Maybe even a few great ones. But untested in game situations.
Not too worried about Denard Robinson in a pro set offense. He'll be protected this year. Won't have to generate everything and carry the entire offense. Got a good receivers running real pass routes this year. And running backs running real running plays.
Okay I've just talked myself into four touchdowns.
It's great, to be, a Michigan Wolverine!
Go Michigan, Beat the Broncos
Monday, August 22, 2011
Michigan Fans--"Like" the Michigan Memphis Spirit Club Facebook Page
Here's the link;
Go Blue
We'll be posting game watching information, etc. And sharing comments on all the great Meechigan Victories we'll be enjoying this season
It's Good to Be a Michigan Wolverine
Go Michigan, Beat the Broncos
Go Blue
We'll be posting game watching information, etc. And sharing comments on all the great Meechigan Victories we'll be enjoying this season
It's Good to Be a Michigan Wolverine
Go Michigan, Beat the Broncos
Wolverines To Go 8-4, maybe. It Will Be a Strong 8-4.
My preseason prognostications:
Sports Illustrated picks Michigan to go 7-5 and 4-4 in the Big Ten, finishing 5th place in the Legends Conference. 8-4? 7-5? Who really knows.
Either way, it will be a tough 8-4 or 7-5, not the wimpy one of last year.
This team will play tough defense. And strong offense. We won't be in high scoring track meet games to see who can score last to win the game. Power football this year. When we lose, we'll lose close and the other team with hurt more than Michigan after the game.
I don't think we'll do better than 8-4 mostly because the month of November is Iowa, Nebraska, and Ohio State. At least we get to grow into the tough part of the schedule. Notre Dame(very tough), and Michigan State will be tough also.
But here's what I hope. A repeat of Bo's initial season. Start strong and keep getting stronger and we surprise the heck out of the Big Ten and the Nation. We'll see what excellent coaching and a commitment to excellence produces. We have the talent.
Here's hoping we don't have to wait until next season to see it and enjoy it and see it dominate.
It's Good to Be a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Broncos.
Sports Illustrated picks Michigan to go 7-5 and 4-4 in the Big Ten, finishing 5th place in the Legends Conference. 8-4? 7-5? Who really knows.
Either way, it will be a tough 8-4 or 7-5, not the wimpy one of last year.
This team will play tough defense. And strong offense. We won't be in high scoring track meet games to see who can score last to win the game. Power football this year. When we lose, we'll lose close and the other team with hurt more than Michigan after the game.
I don't think we'll do better than 8-4 mostly because the month of November is Iowa, Nebraska, and Ohio State. At least we get to grow into the tough part of the schedule. Notre Dame(very tough), and Michigan State will be tough also.
But here's what I hope. A repeat of Bo's initial season. Start strong and keep getting stronger and we surprise the heck out of the Big Ten and the Nation. We'll see what excellent coaching and a commitment to excellence produces. We have the talent.
Here's hoping we don't have to wait until next season to see it and enjoy it and see it dominate.
It's Good to Be a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, Beat the Broncos.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Gator Bowl: Michigan 14 Mississippi State 51
Very disappointing game. We were cannon fodder for the Bulldogs. No offense, no defense. The Bulldogs were vastly superior.
The Wolverines were unprepared for the game. In every way and on every play. Can't even talk about it.
The said thing about it is that I expected this to happen. Couldn't watch the game after the third quarter.
Rich Rod should have been fired at halftime. Hell, he should have been fired after the Ohio State Game.
I hope AD Brandon has been recruiting the past six months and makes an announcement rather quickly about releasing RR and hiring his replacement. Hopefully in the same press conference or the on the same day.
I hesitate to speculate on the replacement. Will be a tough choice. The offense is set up for a spread. So should we get a better spread coach or abandon this experiment that has failed? Getting Harbaugh would be good from a tradition point of view but might mean three more years of rebuilding to re-install a pro style offense. Denard isn't the quarterback for that system, neither is Forcier (who will probably be leaving anyway). I think all the talk about Harbaugh is just speculation by the press. I would like to see him come but am doubtful it would happen.
Would love to have Les Miles, he could certainly upgrade our spread and establish the defense again. Again, doubtful he would leave LSU, except that they really don't appreciate him in Baton Rouge.
I would really love to see Brandon have the guts to hire someone like Jim Tressel, when he came to OSU. Great established coach at a lower level at Youngstown State, but had been recruiting against M and OSU for years. Knew the territory and the traditions. Who is this coach? The next "Bo".
What I'm afraid of, is that we have started a revolving door of coaches, like at Alabama had after Bear died.
We should have scooped up Brian Kelly years ago instead of hiring RR. Not available anymore.
Might post again after some press conferences this week.
Still
It's good to be a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, beat the Crimson Tide (next Season's Opener)
The Wolverines were unprepared for the game. In every way and on every play. Can't even talk about it.
The said thing about it is that I expected this to happen. Couldn't watch the game after the third quarter.
Rich Rod should have been fired at halftime. Hell, he should have been fired after the Ohio State Game.
I hope AD Brandon has been recruiting the past six months and makes an announcement rather quickly about releasing RR and hiring his replacement. Hopefully in the same press conference or the on the same day.
I hesitate to speculate on the replacement. Will be a tough choice. The offense is set up for a spread. So should we get a better spread coach or abandon this experiment that has failed? Getting Harbaugh would be good from a tradition point of view but might mean three more years of rebuilding to re-install a pro style offense. Denard isn't the quarterback for that system, neither is Forcier (who will probably be leaving anyway). I think all the talk about Harbaugh is just speculation by the press. I would like to see him come but am doubtful it would happen.
Would love to have Les Miles, he could certainly upgrade our spread and establish the defense again. Again, doubtful he would leave LSU, except that they really don't appreciate him in Baton Rouge.
I would really love to see Brandon have the guts to hire someone like Jim Tressel, when he came to OSU. Great established coach at a lower level at Youngstown State, but had been recruiting against M and OSU for years. Knew the territory and the traditions. Who is this coach? The next "Bo".
What I'm afraid of, is that we have started a revolving door of coaches, like at Alabama had after Bear died.
We should have scooped up Brian Kelly years ago instead of hiring RR. Not available anymore.
Might post again after some press conferences this week.
Still
It's good to be a Michigan Wolverine.
Go Michigan, beat the Crimson Tide (next Season's Opener)
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