Mark Borchers

Fri, Dec 18, 2009 : 1:53 p.m.

Feel free to ignore me, I'm a Buckeye. But there's one thing I don't hear anybody saying. Sure, the players are young. Sure Rodriguez deserves more time. But he dug his own hole to some extent. He insisted on overhauling the offense wholesale instead of working his system in gradually. Ohio State is running a percentage of plays from a pro-style set, a percentage from a spread/shotgun, etc. RR was willing to ditch everything to do it "his way" and the record speaks for itself.

a2girl

Mon, Nov 23, 2009 : 9:20 p.m.

jbayerl@sbc...Thank you for your comment. Of course I want a winning team, and loved watching the goal posts torn down, but I also remember what band day was like. My parents had season tickets for nearly my entire childhood but gave them up when they got too expensive and the games were longer due to television coverage. For awhile, my sisters and I bought 2, then 3 dollar end zone seats. One of my fondest memories was sitting on the wall, which was not as high above the field as is is now, and sharing our thermos of hot chocolate with George Cavender, the Director of the marching band. I know this is a bit off topic, but my sense is that many fans have forgotten that there is more to Michigan football than winning, for fans and for players.

Tim Wild

Mon, Nov 23, 2009 : 8:22 p.m.

Perform as well as 6-6 Michigan State Jaxon5 (note they were 6-6 without playing Ohio St)??? RR performed at that level this year with only 70 scholarship players, a true frosh at QB, 2 walkons on the starting D and injuries to his best OL, WR, and RB. Not to mention a flurry of unforced turnovers - including a backup Center who's snap struggles single-handedly killed 10 drives over 3 games. This team made Huge strides in one year and enters next year as likely the top offense in the Big Ten (maybe Wisconsin) despite still being very young.

wolverine4lyfe

Mon, Nov 23, 2009 : 4:16 p.m.

who are these supposed people that support RR? I know a TONNN of people involved in or around uofm football and nobody supports him - Lol is this article a joke?

RDL1044

Mon, Nov 23, 2009 : 3:47 p.m.

I am an Illinois fan. Speaking for all the other teams in the Big Ten......I am sure I am safe in saying...........Michigan, keep RR around forever! Make all the excuses you want about no talent, not enough time to infuse his system, etc., etc., etc..........BUT..puhleeze....keep RR FOREVER! We all looooove him! And we loooooove your lady Prez that supports him also. Keep both of'em.....FOREVER!

BLU-Fan Cols

Mon, Nov 23, 2009 : 1:55 p.m.

As a Michigan fan in Columbus, Ohio who rode a motor coach to Ann Arbor with 48 OSU fans this past Saturday, I can honestly say all who want to run the coach out of town after two years are not true fans. Who would want to coach at a school who fires the coach after two years? What player would want to go to a school whose fans are trying to run the coach out of town? Try supporting the coach and getting behind the players. You sound like OSU fans who want to run the Vest out of town everytime he loses a game. Geez!!!!!!! At least Notre Dame gave the genious a chance!!

akopro

Mon, Nov 23, 2009 : 10:33 a.m.

If Rod is still there.....never! "Way to GO BLUE"

Paul the Malcontent

Mon, Nov 23, 2009 : 1:18 a.m.

Team, Conf. Record, Overall ---------------------------------------------------- Ohio State(#9), 7-1, 10-2 Iowa(#13), 6-2, 10-2 Penn State(#12),6-2, 10-2 Northwestern, 5-3, 8-4 Wisconsin, 5-3, 8-3 Michigan State, 4-4, 6-6 Purdue, 4-4, 5-7 Minnesota, 3-5, 6-6 Illinois, 2-6, 3-7 Michigan, 1-7, 5-7 Indiana,1-7, 4-8 ______________________________________________ Looking deeper at the record: Just 1 Big Ten win, on questionable call against Indiana (4-8) 1 last-second win over mediocre Notre Dame team (6-5, likely headed for 6-6) 1 win over D-I AA Delaware St.(4-6) 2 wins over MAC schools [Western (5-6), Eastern (0-11)] So, that's only 1 win against a team with a.500 (or maybe 7-5) record and tied for last place in Big Ten in Rich Rod's SECOND season. The previous season was not just a down year, it was historically bad...most losses ever in Michigan history and the end of a 33-season streak of bowl appearances. Worst 2-year record in Michigan history and only 4th time with back-to-back losing seasons. First loss at home to Purdue and first back-to-back losses to MSU in over 40 years. If you are a MICHIGAN supporter (not a Rich Rod supporter), these stats should make you ill.

billb1226

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 9:46 p.m.

Since when did Michigan football become RichRod's program? And lets not forget that he managed to run off some better than fair talent. He's managed to do something that no one else, either friend or foe, has managed to do in 130+ years - make Michigan football irrelevant. I think it was Darryl Rogers head coach at MSU who once said "There are arrogant asses in Ann Arbor." Based on the press conferences that I've seen, he may finally not be off base.

Jaxon5

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 9:17 p.m.

sandi, you might want to check the date - this is RR's 2nd year with the team, not his 1st.

Michigwen

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 6:53 p.m.

The only thing more depressing than yesterday's loss was seeing "In RichRod we trust, say U-M football fans" on the front page of today's ANN ARBOR.com. Thanks to those of you who have set the record straight.

Thick Candy Shell

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 6:44 p.m.

Any one who suggests Harbaugh after his criticism of our Academic Program, clearly is a hypocrite. He is no longer a "Michigan Man"! There is no way that Les Miles can be considered a "Michigan Man" either after what he did to a fellow Michigan coach. The plain and simple fact is that there is no such thing as a "Michigan Man" that has anything to do with being from the Michigan Family. Bo wasn't, Yost wasn't, Crysler wasn't, need I go on. I believe we have all ruined a good portion of what it was to be "Michigan" by tearing down our own coach from with in. I know Lloyd is not as out spoken as Bo, but Bo would have never tolerated the abuse with out speaking out. And on a side note, RR is some what of Michigan Man - RR coached for and took over for Don Nehlen who was quarterbacks coach for Bo. Don Nehlen and Bo remained very close friends through out. Don was the one who told RR he would be a fool to not take the Michigan job. He said there wasn't a better job out there. I just hope at this point the fans haven't ruined that with RR and any other future coaches. If Michigan is no longer the "Best of the Best" we will return to the 1950's and 1960's. Most people can not remember that far back, but Michigan Football was a joke at best!

Kooler

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 5:59 p.m.

After another sad loss, there was much in the paper again about the cupboard was left empty for RichRod. Tired of hearing this so I went back to the data. Here are the rankings of UMs recruiting classes (Rivals.com) nationally and in the Big 10. For example, 2005 would be for freshmen starting at school in fall 2005. Year - National Ranking - Big 10 Ranking 2005 - 6 - 1 2006 - 13 - 3 2007 - 12 - 1 2008 - 10 - 2 2009 - 8 - 2 Just wanted to set the record straight. How does a team with this level of recruiting end up winning 3 Big 10 games in 2 years?

sandi

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 5:26 p.m.

i was also sad about the osu victory, but i do know rich rod will turn it around. this is his 1st. year with this team, that is mostly freshman. he needs time to put this team together. we will be back, michigan will not stay down......go blue

sandi

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 5:23 p.m.

i was also sad about the osu victory, but i do know rich rod will turn it around. this is his 1st. year with this team, that is mostly freshman. he needs time to put this team together. we will be back, michigan will not stay down......go blue

tomhagan

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 4:06 p.m.

Rich Rod and Martin are responsible for the collapse of Michigan football. Bad coaching in game and with personnel decisions. RR forces attrition which causes key players to leave the program etc. Dump the Koolaid, it is time to cut bait.

Butters

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 2:38 p.m.

I am honestly ashamed...Who did you interview for your poll. It certainly wasnt those of us who were at the big house on saturday. I was disgusted with everything I saw this year. How did so many people from ohio state make it in the game today. If you are a ticket holder and you sold your tickets to a buckeye fan you should never be allowed into Michigan stadium for the rest of your life. Our house sounded like their house. There was so many OSU fans that they cheered from every section of the stadium. There wasnt enough of us die hards to drown them out..In our own building... Remember after the notre game game all of you idiots in the stands were cheering rich rodriguez over and over. After 2 wins you were ready to forgive him for destroying this program. He wiped his feet on our traditions, he disrespected coach carr, he keeps whining he has no talent. That is because they all transfered when they hired this joker. We actually lost a player who transfered to ohio state. He celebrated a win here on saturday. Wake up, MICHIGAN FOOTBALL IS BEING LAUGHED AT, disrespected and mocked.. If that is ok with you and you are willing for more of that in the future then jump on the bus for columbus. I would rather sit in the big house with 60,000 true fans than ever watch a game with any of you who sold your tickets....Rediculous

Butters

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 2:23 p.m.

I am honestly ashamed...Who did you interview for your poll. It certainly wasnt those of us who were at the big house on saturday. I was disgusted with everything I saw this year. How did so many people from ohio state make it in the game today. If you are a ticket holder and you sold your tickets to a buckeye fan you should never be allowed into Michigan stadium for the rest of your life. Our house sounded like their house. There was so many OSU fans that they cheered from every section of the stadium. There wasnt enough of us die hards to drown them out..In our own building... Remember after the notre game game all of you idiots in the stands were cheering rich rodriguez over and over. After 2 wins you were ready to forgive him for destroying this program. He wiped his feet on our traditions, he disrespected coach carr, he keeps whining he has no talent. That is because they all transfered when they hired this joker. We actually lost a player who transfered to ohio state. He celebrated a win here on saturday. Wake up, MICHIGAN FOOTBALL IS BEING LAUGHED AT, disrespected and mocked.. If that is ok with you and you are willing for more of that in the future then jump on the bus for columbus. I would rather sit in the big house with 60,000 true fans than ever watch a game with any of you who sold your tickets....Rediculous

lostwithnomap

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 1:11 p.m.

For those who say Coach Rod needs one more year, and may rave about D-Gardner coming to UM next year, please take a deep breath. If you dissect UM's recruit list for next year, you will be crushed. There is no hope of replacing Graham with anyone close to as talented. Our largest lineman are smaller than the smallest one's being recruited by OSU and PSU. Rod's lines will be run over even more badly next year (after Carr's cupboard is completely bare) than they were this year. Tate, Robinson, and Gardner will all see playing time due to injuries and turnovers, and all will look bad. We have four new DB's coming (only one of which is rated over 4 stars), and what's worse? Not a single LB recruit in the whole frigging class. Now, I was always against RR. I am totally biased. Despite being a lifelong UM fan, 4th generation student, I cannot buy into the "all in for Michigan" slogan thats popping up left and right. I was always all in for UM. I loved Carr, and liked the teams he put together. I was proud of the boys we graduated to the NFL. But for the first time in my 25 years that I can recall, I'm embarassed by UM. By the lack of proper vetting in the decision to hire Rodriguez. I know it was a sticky situation and we needed a coach, but Coach Rod was never and will never be the correct fit for Michigan. We will have some immensely exciting games, as UM will put up 30 or 40 points with much more regularity, but our record will never be as good as under Carr because of the lack of Defensive talent. I predict a bowl next year, with an accompanying 7-5 or 8-4 record. I just hope we can shake Harbaugh free from Stanford. He is not the offense talent that Coach Rod is, but recruits soundly, has a great eye for talent (See Andrew Luck: the most complete talent since peyton manning), and most importantly, he can make his system work with smart but less talented kids. I'd take that system anyday over one that depends on lowering UM's standards to those of SEC schools

digger87

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 12:48 p.m.

What four people what RR to stay?

dwc13

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 12:38 p.m.

Just wondering, where are all of the Michigan fans who -- prior to yesterday's Cal-Stanford game -- were clamoring for Rodriguez to be fired and Harbaugh to be hired on the spot as his replacement? Stanford was at home, coming off a huge win over USC, and was playing as well as any team in the country of late. The Game against its cross-bay rival was for a (long) shot at the Rose Bowl. In other words, the Cardinal had every incentive to win and still (somehow) choked against a team renowned for choking. Before Harbaugh is annointed as the savior of UM's football program, you'd better be sure his Stanford teams can consistently beat its archrival (Cal). Stanford has been the home team for The Game in 2 of the 3 meetings Harbaugh has been head coach, but the jury is still out (1-2 against Cal). Ohio State didn't do its homework before John Cooper (0-3-1 against rival Arizona while he was head coach at ASU) was hired to replace Earle Bruce (5-4-1 against UM). The end result was a head coach who was way too stressed when Michigan week came and the Buckeyes performance was reflected in their record of futility against UM (2-10-1) during Cooper's tenure. Thankfully, Coach Tressel has openly embraced the rivalry with UM and as a result his team plays loose (albeit, at times, nauseatingly boring on offense).

dwc13

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 12:38 p.m.

Just wondering, where are all of the Michigan fans who -- prior to yesterday's Cal-Stanford game -- were clamoring for Rodriguez to be fired and Harbaugh to be hired on the spot as his replacement? Stanford was at home, coming off a huge win over USC, and was playing as well as any team in the country of late. The Game against its cross-bay rival was for a (long) shot at the Rose Bowl. In other words, the Cardinal had every incentive to win and still (somehow) choked against a team renowned for choking. Before Harbaugh is annointed as the savior of UM's football program, you'd better be sure his Stanford teams can consistently beat its archrival (Cal). Stanford has been the home team for The Game in 2 of the 3 meetings Harbaugh has been head coach, but the jury is still out (1-2 against Cal). Ohio State didn't do its homework before John Cooper (0-3-1 against rival Arizona while he was head coach at ASU) was hired to replace Earle Bruce (5-4-1 against UM). The end result was a head coach who was way too stressed when Michigan week came and the Buckeyes performance was reflected in their record of futility against UM (2-10-1) during Cooper's tenure. Thankfully, Coach Tressel has openly embraced the rivalry with UM and as a result his team plays loose (albeit, at times, nauseatingly boring on offense).

Allinformichigan

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 12:16 p.m.

After watching this last game i think its obvious we're going to be alot better next year. The defense looked like for the first time all year it wasn't confused that maybe ther starting to get it and understand. We moved the ball very well on the Big Tens best defense. Tate made BIG freshman mistakes, that will not be the case next year. Add in some more talent in this years recruiting class and we can become very dangerous. Even talking to some Ohio state fans they can see how dangerous Michigan can be in the future. Even though RR has underachieved this year Michigan will be a very good team here in 2 years and should be a 8 win team next year. Go Blue!!

birch creek john

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 10:13 a.m.

In the early 1960's, when I was in Ann Arbor earning a degree at UM, the football team was horrible. Those of us who were here then recall being able to go to a UM game at the end of the first quarter, get in free, and, once inside, get good seats anywhwere in the stadium. When my wife and I returned to Ann Arbor in the late 1960's and I began work on my Ph. D., Bo arrived on the scene and all that changed; no longer were high-school bands and Scout troops allowed in free. Was that better? I suppose. But I do recall early on that many people were astounded that a disciple of the coach at OSU had been hired--it was a disgrace to have to count on someone from that bastion of hgher education to put The University of Michigan football program back on course. What changed all those feelings? Winning, plain and simple. I now volunteer as a ticket taker/usher at UM football games, and recall high-fiving fans as they exited the stadium after the win over Notre Dame, and for a while Saturday thought that perhaps we would be doing that again, but that was not to be the case. For one game this year I was honored to be able to work on the field for a game. It was then that I became aware of what most fans sitting in the stadium don't get a chance to see--underneath the uniformas and famous winged helmets there are 18-19 year old kids. Think of what you were doing when you were that age. Could you have performed on national TV, in front of 111,000 people? I grew up in the UP, my goodness, there are less than 300,000 people in the whole UP; one-third the mass of the whole State of Michigan. So, for all you folks out there who hurt so badly each time we lose another game, I guess I'd say that perhaps it might be a good idea to lighten up a bit and bear in mind that these are kids out there, enjoying playing a game that they love to play with every intention of winning. And, yes, the kids from OSU, MSU, PSU, and even Toledo U are all doing the same thing when they come to visit the Big House. And, oh, by the way, when Bo performed his magic he was able to do it with a few more scholarships than coaches today now have. At the risk of sounding like a rambling, sentimental, perhaps a bit senile old fool; I predict that in five years we will be singing the praises of Coach Rodriguez in much the same way we now sing the praises of that young fellow who came up here from Ohio to set things straight. As I recall, he didn't talk real well in press conferences either. So, the big house will be, as Ufer used to say, "the house that Yost built, Bo filled, and Rich Rod decorated."

LGC15

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 9:55 a.m.

There are no words or actions that will take away what Rodriquez has done to a once proud Wolverine Nation...I for one am tired of the what Carr left and have not seen a glimmer of hope in what Rodriquez brings to the table. These underclassman will compete with the same underclassman of the Big Ten schools that wiped their feet on Michigan this season. Goodbye RR I say, we cannot afford to put anymore stock in your capabilities if there are any...this is a travesty and not one I enjoy to witness. My 35 years of being a season ticket holder are not tarnished forever. We sit in our garb with incredible expectations that never come and won't as long as he is there...Lorenzo of Novi

stunhsif

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 9:44 a.m.

God Bless RR, he is the best thing to ever happen to the Wolverines from my perspective. Go Green/Go White!! Hopefully these past two seasons will humble the Wolverine fans and allow them to not be so "stuck on themselves".

Go Blue

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 9:10 a.m.

Michigan fans are overwhelmingly patient? Huh? I don't think so. What is that - at attempt to quiet everyone down? So maybe everyone is worried about what it would cost to start over? Worried about the cost to get rid of someone in over their head? What about the lost revenues to have the worst ONGOING record in UM history in eons? Loyal football fans will get tired of the consistent losing, the consistent lack of leadership. Who wants to support losers? What we are seeing is not going to change. First came Fielding then came Bo. Leaders. Their teams played for them not in spite of them. They lived in town and were part of the community. What did Bo accomplish in what was it - year 2 of his tenure? Apples to apples. Trying to compare RR to a past great is like apples to rocks. A team should play in unison and know exactly what to do and when. That comes from the C O A C H. The choas we see on the field says it all. And worse, to put blame elsewhere is a clear and accurate picture of exactly what you have (lack) in a leader. You either have the ability or you don't. If a student flunks, that student is out. Why the preferential treatment. Failure is failure. We did not start strong and finish weak over the past 2 years. We never saw strong and just get weaker by the year. Time to move on.

Joel Goldberg

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 8:50 a.m.

What a pity yesterday that we didn't have Bo on the sidelines and RichRod's picture on the wine label.

mgobluealways

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 8:34 a.m.

Most people would tell you that Mallett was long gone before Rich came into the picture

NoBowl4Blue

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 7:37 a.m.

LOL I don't know one Michigan fan that supports RR. I wonder how this game would have turned out with Mallet at QB and a good coaching staff?????

mgobluealways

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 2:18 a.m.

Nine I think we can agree on this point, and sorry if I confused yours with the others, but if RR doesn't win next year its over, and it should be. I think most were saying that 2010 was the year that Rod had to win, and the fast start this year was great, but it reset expectations to an unrealistic level. I fell for it, we all fell for it. Anyway I see progress and I will fully admit I was born with some kind of maize tinted lasik surgery so I am incapable of seeing things truly objectively, but if we can eliminate insane turnover margins we could have beat Iowa and, maybe, OSU. Michigan is a young team, and young teams struggle for a reason. Forcier (no pun intended) was pretty adamant about improving the team which reminds me of Hart after the 05 season. I'm already excited for next year.

nineblock

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 2:09 a.m.

mgoblue: You know...there is a certian irony in your question. If you read my previous posts you will see that I never actually said I wanted to replace RR. My comments were (admittedly) critical of RR (or actually his results). I don't really want to replace him because it will simply mean further delays in returning our program to prominance. But want and need are different issues. I am at the point where I have largely lost confidence. It doesn't take 3 or 4 or 5 years to "turn around" the UM program. In fact, "turn around" is wholly alien to our vocabulary. Regardless of our opinions RR will be back next year but BM will be going and if we suffer another year like the past 2, our discussions will be academic. RR will be gone, and in my mind deservedly.

uferdisciple

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 1:57 a.m.

I am sick and tired of the childish attitude of Michigan fans. Use your brains! We had virtually no chance of winning today without our oft-injured tailbacks: Minor & Brown. The most important player on the line, our center, didn't play either. Our freshman quarterbacks obviously wore down as the season progressed, but they showed plenty of promise along the way. Defensively, we played better than expected today. But it's obvious that we need to get better linebackers and secondary personnel--or our current personnel there need to improve. But here's the big picture. I well remember all you morons (and I don't use that term lightly) complaining year after year after year about Lloyd Carr, his predictable offense, & a defense that could never seem to even adequately defend against the spread. The back--to--back losses against Appalachia State & Oregon put you over the top. You wanted change! You demanded and screamed for change! 8 or 9-win seasons were simply not good enough anymore. You didn't in any way appreciate what you had, now you're getting exactly what you deserve---call it Carr's retribution. Well guess what, you got the change you wanted, and it's a big one. In case some of you forgot, Coach RR is one of the pioneers behind the offense you've dreamed of having since at least 1998--the spread--practically inventing it for Heavens sakes. He's had lots of success whenever he's been, including winning 2 BCS Bowl games, the first of which led to coaches from all over the country--including Jim Tressell--coming to W. Virginia to learn as much as they could about his offense. Had W. Virginia's all world QB not gotten injured during the last regular season of the season, W. Virginia would have won that game and played for the national championship---and Michigan never would have had a shot at him. Coach RR's mandate was clear the day he accepted the job. Install the Spread so that our offense becomes wide--open & unpredictable---with the potential to score on any given play--no matter where we are on the field. There was no in-between here. Coach RR made it clear that the spread was all he knew. If you wanted someone to coach to the strengths of remaining players while gradually installing a new offense over a few years, then AD Martin might as well gone for good--ole fashion Michigan continuity and signed one of Carr's assistant coaches to take over the reins. But that, of course, was totally unacceptable to you. Now that fans definitely got the type of change they demanded, they need to shut up and give this thing time to develop. The win/loss record obviously wasn't what we wanted, but deep down all of you know that lots of progress was made with very young players on offense--and at least the defense went out today with a bang! Fans, I implore you to stop being like the fans of Notre Dame, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Ohio State (especially right after losing to S. California & Purdue), and virtually every other school--who are all-too-ready to chop off the coach's head if they don't get everything they want right away. Show some character for a change--because that's what Michigan is all about--building character. If you can't help jumping off the ship when things don't go your away, then fine. But don't bother climbing back on the ship when everything's back on track. There's no place at the Univ. of Michigan for finicky, whiny backstabbers & brownnosers. You know, lots of so-called supporters abandoned Washington, Lincoln, & Grant when battles were lost--and plenty of them were lost. That's what the masses do. But they don't know any better. But if you're really a MICHIGAN MAN, you do know better--which makes your shipping off the ship extremely shameful & gutless, to say the very least! (For the record, I'm a Michigan grad and a loyalist who supported and believed in Lloyd Carr--win or lose--and now supports/believes in Coach RR---win or lose. I've always admired Michigan's great tradition on the gridiron--including having what--something like only 7 head coaches since 1900--and leading the nation in victories--absolutely amazing. Although players have and always will--like any college student--make off-season mistakes--we've always cleaned up our own messes---and how ironic it is that at the same time this so-called NCAA investigation is going on--regarding whether coaches deliberately made players spend more time than allowed on football during the off-season---the most embarrasing thing about the final years of Coach Carr--out-of-control players seemingly getting kicked out of school and/or arrested right and left--is now only a minor blip on the radar screen. Maybe keeping the players so busy with football and academics year-round isn't such a bad thing after all.)

Paco12054

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 1:55 a.m.

I must ask the following questions: If the cupboard was so bare and RR must have "his players" why did Brian Kelly have a 21-6 record in his first two seasons? Did he have a full cupboard and did he have "his players?" Could it have been that he actually knows how to coach? Also, if Mike Barwis is such a great S&C coach why did, until today, RR's 2009 team play so poorly and look gassed in the second half of the previous Big Ten games? These were the same players that played well in the first half of those games. Could it be that Barwis is way over hyped and that RR is not a good coach or motivator? Take a look at RR's record in his best 10 years and compare it to Lloyd's best ten years; the records are almost identical with the one notable exception that Michigan has a NC (shared) in his best ten. Even if RR gets things turned around, which I seriously doubt, we will have a coach that is no better than Lloyd, with whom many fans were quite unhappy. Will Michigan fans be happy with that? RR's best teams relied heavily on an outstanding QB, Do we have in Tate such a QB? Freshmen QBs are almost universally erratic but they usually get better not worse as the season progresses. How long will it take to get that outstanding QB?

mgobluealways

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 1:51 a.m.

That is another interesting point that, honestly, I have given a lot of thought to because at first I took it in the same way as you are right now To some degree I guess I don't like it but the overriding factor is that I think its true. I think Rod has a proven system that has worked everywhere else he has been (and there is no exception in the big ten, we play football like everyone else does). I would never hire Rod as my personal PR representative because he just isn't very smooth, but what he is trying to say is that his system will work once he gets the right players in it. How else can you say that without sounding like a compete BS? I think my Bo quote has never been more applicable than now. Bo came in and shook everything up and created a lot of resentment. If you recall Bo was an OSU COACH, so this kind of outside the program hire is not unheard of. Granted Bo had success a little sooner than Rod has, but Bo didn't change the schemes like Rod has. If the kids are screwing up, as it appears the are with 5 turnovers, what do you expect Rod to say? Do you want him to say his system is failing when it isn't? I don't think there is any good way to answer these questions in the college game, but if it;s the kids they should take responsibility.

GoblueinNE_PA

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 1:40 a.m.

Mgoblue I found your quote of Bo both funny and on some levels disgusting. Funny, because Bo says to stick by your team when they are losing, which is the exact opposite of what this hillbilly idiot does. At the first sign of adversity, he blames the kids and then says they have no talent. I wonder what the kids on the team think when their coach says they have no talent? I'm sure that makes them want to run through brick walls for him. Oh wait, the team has quit on him in both of his seasons. Who'd have thunk that??? I also found your quote disgusting because any attempt to make a favorable comparison between Bo and this Idiot is frankly a slap in the face to Bo, his family, and all those that played for him.

mgobluealways

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 1:35 a.m.

That is true you never brought it up, I did because I hear it so often. I can also say I never used to worry about the program's integrity and that was always nice, but I can't honestly say that I still have that confidence. Do I believe that Rod is breaking rules? No. Do I believe that is it possible and do I now have to think about it? Yes - until proven otherwise. That is unfortunate, but it doesn't really mean anything other than personal paranoia until something is proven. If Rod broke rules I will drop all support for him, but until then I will continue to support him. As a side note - who do you want to replace Rod? I heard Harbaugh as a hot name but he burned some bridges with past comments and I have heard through friends of friends who saw him at Dary Queen that he is not always a standup guy (similar to Les Miles rumors).

nineblock

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 1:22 a.m.

mgoblue...don't ever make the mistake of trying to get me to defend OSu about anything. That's my brother's purvey and if you want to trash OSU I'll give you his email. all I said was.."from Bump to Lloyd, I never worried about the integrity of our program. I never once mentioned RR's name relatve to NCAA rules etc...you brought it up....not me.

mgobluealways

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 1:15 a.m.

Nine can you provide me with the link to the NCAA violations for Rodriquez? No?... because there are no violations for Rodriguez from the NCAA? How odd... Anybody can accuse anybody these days, its a much different world than even a few years ago (for better or worse). Also, I recall a LOT of questions about Tressel that we aren't discussing, but lets: Maurice is in jail and has been for a long time, Smith took money from a booster, Pryor (while nothing has been proven and I have no reason to believe otherwise) was surrounded by some smoke during his OSU recruitment. The Senator talks a very clean game but behind the scenes appears to be a deeper story. I don't want to call him cheater because I have no evidence, HOWEVER, there are plenty of rumors and hard facts that would indicate otherwise. But, as long as he keeps winning nobody will question him - see Pete Carroll and Reggie Busch for exhibits A and B.

nineblock

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 12:59 a.m.

Sorry mgoblue but I couldn't disagree more. My brother is an OSU graduate and I can tell you that to him the Cooper years at OSU were the dark ages for a single reson...."character." Yes, we beat up consistantly on OSU in the Cooper years but I have heard my brother say a hundred times,...I'll take 8-4 with a clean program versus 11-1 with NCAA sanctions. could care less if RR did or didn't actually violate NCAA rules. All I know is from Bump to Lloyd it was never a question I had to worry about.

mgobluealways

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 12:42 a.m.

The conversation has not in any way turned towards wether or not he purposely violated NCAA rules, that is just one comment I made among others. I am saying that a lot of the heat that Rod is taking is based on the fact that he has violated NCAA rules when so far nothing has been proven and really there is no reason to believe that he has done anything wrong (yes there are rumors but they are rumors not facts). I can accept that Rod should take heat for having back to back losing seasons, as any coach should, but the vast majority of complaints i hear against Rod always end up focusing on how he is not only losing but is also destroying the UM program in every possible way. This is just not true. Aside from losing (which yes is not consistent with the program) I don't see him changing the school colors, mascot, etc... When Lloyd lost to App State and Oregon, what were you all saying then? I supported Lloyd and wished he had coached like he did against Florida all along (those teams could have been dominant with that type of open play calling!) but were you all saying thank goodness Lloyd is our coach, he can't beat a D2 team but he hasn't been ACCUSED of any violations recently so it's all good? Lloyd was a great person and still is, but we hired him to be a great coach, not a great person.

nineblock

Sun, Nov 22, 2009 : 12:25 a.m.

Well, I can't speak for the rest of the folks "mgoblu" but it sure makes me feel great that a discussion about our football coach suddenly went from wins and losses to whether or not he violated NCAA rules "on purpose" or not. As long as he violated the rules "unwittingly" and continues to deliver the results he has thus far, i assume you are happy?

mgobluealways

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 11:52 p.m.

I will wait for Rodriguez, but if he doesn't make marked improvement next year then I will start questioning the hire. Until then, everything is premature. Also to the point I see often about past coaches not having these records... while I value the past of Michigan football, the game is different now. In the past Michigan could hire a new coach and just roll over people because few other schools cared about football. Now everyone cares about football and its just not as easy as it used to be. Everyone needs to take things into current context and slow down for a few minutes before throwing all this negativity out there. While you are all entitled to your opinion, think about how it weakens the family. I remember on the BTN early in the season when the free press story first broke they interviewed all these student parents who just went on and on about how Rod embarrassed the university and so forth... I would like to remind you all that people are supposed to be innocent until proven guilty, and so far nobody (aside from rumors and internal paperwork issues) has proven any kind of conviction or guilt for Rod. If its proven that Rod broke rules ON PURPOSE, I will change my tune, but until then he has done nothing wrong and is making improvements although they may be hard to see. Also - if I'm not mistaken Rod created this system based on an acute understanding of defenses, determining what was most difficult for defenses to stop. So, and I admit this is somewhat contradictory to my earlier post, it's not as if Rod doesn't know anything about defense. This guy may not be a great public speaker but by no means is he a bad coach or some kind of moron who has miraculously failed his way to success.

nineblock

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 11:43 p.m.

That's great "mgoblu"...you just "keep believin." The rest of us will just sit back and keep waiting for RR to "get his program in place."

mgobluealways

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 11:33 p.m.

I would like for one person to explain to me exactly why the problems that Michigan has right now can be contributed solely to Rich Rod. The offense, which was until today (I think State took that crown statistically) the most effective in the Big Ten with 2 true freshman quarterbacks, a slew or injuries to some of the best players (Minor, Brown, Molk, Odoms, etc...), is still very young and should only continue to get better in the next few years. The defense, well there is no questioning that has been a disaster... but it was a disaster BEFORE Rodriguez was the head coach. Does anyone remember App State, Oregon, Juice Williams, or Troy Smith when Lloyd was the coach? I certainly do and I see a pretty similar defense right now. Given the walk ons and other young players on the field right now, you could almost call it in an improvement when factoring in the youth factor and constant scheme/DC changes. The fact is that Michigan brought in RIch Rod knowing exactly what they were getting, a great offensive coach and someone who routinely put the defense in the DC's hands, and that is exactly what he has done so far. He has turned a bunch of young players into one of the best offenses in the Big Ten, and once the defense can get a few players in the secondary aside from Warren I think we can expect a significant rebound there as well. Finally, and I know this is a long post but I've been holding my tongue all year, all the "Michigan fans" who are calling for Rod's head should be embarrassed. I remember many of you posting early when we were 4-0 how great a coach he was, etc, etc... Now that he has hit some hard times you turn on him and the entire program like a bunch of fair weather ND fans. I think Bo said it best... "When your team is winning, be ready to be tough, because winning can make you soft. On the other hand, when your team is losing, stick by them. Keep believing" I, for one, am going to keep believing...

university brat

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 10:18 p.m.

InRichRodWeTrust- Time reveals all Truths... 2 years in the Big Ten is a LONG time.

a2phiggy

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 9:38 p.m.

is that his mother in the picture? it must be.

nineblock

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 9:16 p.m.

Sorry...typo...Bo was 28-5 in his first 3 seasons...not18-5

InRichRodWeTrust

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 9:08 p.m.

PEOPLE!!! First of all he coached in the big east at the pinacle of it's success. Second of all let's say the big east is weaker, so is WV. I believe going from WV to Michigan is a bigger step up than going from the big east to the big ten. So it is actually an easier transition because Michigan has had more success in the big ten than WV had had in the big east.

nineblock

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 9:01 p.m.

I cannot believe the RR loyalists actually believe the past two seasons under "your man" are something that was both predictable and acceptable because we are in the middle of a "coaching transition." The great programs transition leadership with little disruption to their results and one need look no further than Ann Arbor. 1947 - Fritz Crisler's last season - UM goes 10-0 wins Rose Bowl and National Championship 1948-1950-Bennie Ossterbaan's record in first 3 years is 21-4-2. Beats tOSU twice and ties them once. 1958- Oosterbaan's final season UM goes 2-6-1 and loses to tOSU. 1959-1961 Bump Elliott's record in first 3 seasons is 15-12. Beat tOSU once and lost to them twice. 1968 - Elliott's final season reslts in record of 8-2 - lost to tOSU. 1969-1971 Bo Schembechler's record in first 3 seasons is 18-5 and 2-1 agains tOSU 1989 Schembechler's last season - UM is 10-2 and beats tOSU. 1990-1992 Gary Moeller's record in first 3 years is 28-8 and 2-0-1 vs tOSU. 1994 - Moeller's last year - UM is 8-4 and lost to tOSU 1995-1997 - Lloyd Carr's record in first 3 seasons is 29-8 and 3-0 vs tOSU. 2007 Carr's final year - UM is 9-4 and lost to tOSU. 2008-2009 RR's record in first 2 years is 8-16 and 0-2 vs tOSU NOW...TELL ME AGAIN WHY I SHOULD BE PATIENT!!! This isn't just any program. It is Michigan. We don't rebuild...we reload. Or at least we did until RR.

swimbikerunner

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 8:48 p.m.

I say the mark of a truly great leader is how well they can lead a group of people that was not HAND-PICKED by them for their "System". What do Bob Stoops, Jim Tressel, and Urban Meyer have in common? They each won National Titles in their SECOND year on the job with mostly talent from the last administration. You didn't hear them talking about inheriting an "empty cupboard".

HENRYK

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 8:30 p.m.

I have never been able to come to terms with the fact that the university paid Rich Rods old school a extra 4 million dollars to get him from that contract.There was no other coaches around? Just hard to believe, that money could help feed hungry children in this country. What a waste. The coach over at Pioneer could do as good as this guy.

eldegee

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 8:10 p.m.

Anyone remember Sam McGuffie and how much punishment he took last year? Forcier's year has gone much the same, plus he and Rodriguez don't get along. I think he's history, just like Mcguffie. Maybe even Robinson, too, as he's been mishandled the whole season. I wouldn't blame either one for leaving.

bokes

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 7:57 p.m.

RR has to go - worst two year record in almost 50 yrs. His excuse is cupboard was bare! U of M had top 10 recruiting classes through class of 2007 (look it up). Carr's last yr he beat FLA in bowl game was ranked #4 pre-season. Thats why RR left W. Va He didn't fight to keep Mallet since he wasn't "the right style" and instead went after Pryor who turns out is very average. Again next yr you will have no #1 QB with the kid from Inkster coming in - so I suspect some more transfers RR inherited 9 starters on D last yr and was terrible - worse this yr after he threw his coordinator overboard for his NFL guy who ruined Syracuse. Next yr will be just as bad - they will beat up on MAC and finish with IU at the bottom( who they beat this yr by 3pts on a bad call) Your first loss is your least loss- bring in Harbaugh and start over the RR experiment did not work.

blue50

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 7:38 p.m.

We drove from upstate ny to aa for the penn state game. Today, we watched from the comfort of our living room. The same empty, hopeless feeling we felt while sitting in the rain for the penn state game was experienced again today. The hopelessness is well founded. Teams take on the personality of thier coaches and leaders. Bill Martin, RR and staff are responsible for what we saw on the field today. The excuse, "We have to give the new system time to become effective" is now worn out. Basics are being missed in assignments such as the repeated fake right and run left performed so well by the buckeyes today. How many basics were missed in the category of tackling? Let's see, we now have experienced 22 games, months of practice, endless hours of conditioning but yet Big Blue can not perform on defense beyond the 1st half. Who is at fault? The answer is Bill Martin who oversees the operation. Shame on Martin's arrogant red smudgy.

elhead

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 7:34 p.m.

daizedandblue - i hope that all of our openers from here on out are UCONN or better. Don't you??? GO BLUE!

elhead

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 6:59 p.m.

Jaxon5 - hope that you don't mean play with the consistency that MSU showed against Penn State today. I think most of us real Wolverines, the players and - yes - the coaches, are looking forward to something much better than that!

Blueman Rick

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 6:47 p.m.

Why wait for more of the same next year? Geez. Can him. Never thought UM could get this low. Lloyd's tenure was weak but this is beyond belief!

chosen1

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 6:45 p.m.

inrichrod....its time for you and your boys (tater and theo) to just silence your delusional talk. Show me whenRich had 10 win seasons when his league was competitive when he was at WVU? The way UCONN played today makes me nervous with them coming here next year.

daizedandblue

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 6:40 p.m.

"Be patient Michigan fans....maybe not next year but possibly the year after or for sure the year after that Michigan will make a bowl of some sort." Are you kidding me??...."a bowl of some sort"??....in three years?? How many coaches in major programs except Weiss gets 5 years to 'get their guys' in there? We'll be lucky if that bowl is the Motor City Bowl.

StinkLips

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 6:39 p.m.

LLoyd was a good coach...and a good man. Harbaugh can bring you guys back...you need a true Michigan man to do it...

tomhagan

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 6:37 p.m.

No doubt that OSU fans love Rich Rod... so do MSU, Purdue, Ill etc. fans as well. Unfreakingbelievable the blind Koolaid sucking support for this guy. Nothing he has done has gone well at Michigan. It is a TOTAL Disaster. Wake UP People. Damn.

StinkLips

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 6:36 p.m.

I can't believe this team, this university, this program...has sunk so low. But I'll take it.

StinkLips

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 6:34 p.m.

100% of the players this year or five years hence won't beat OSU...enough said.

Jaxon5

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 6:32 p.m.

It's comforting to know that we traded in a program which was a Big Ten title contender every year for 40 years running for a program which will compete every 6 or 7 years, if that. Great job.

Man in the Mirror

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 6:29 p.m.

You have at least four more years Jaxon5 before you can expect a high level of play. RR has to get his talent in place because Carr left him with NO talent. Be patient Michigan fans....maybe not next year but possibly the year after or for sure the year after that Michigan will make a bowl of some sort. Keep RR and GO BLUE, it will be alright....

StinkLips

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 6:29 p.m.

Hey, great job UM...we OSU fans love Rich too...

InRichRodWeTrust

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 6:27 p.m.

70% of the players are underclssman. enough said,

profdavid

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 6:26 p.m.

The answer is, never as long as RR is the coach. You should aspire to be as good as Indiana, since they got cheated out of beating Michigan in Ann Arbor this year. Face it, UM has become the doormat of the Big Ten. Get used to it there, and start talking-up that rivalry with the Hoosiers!!! GO BLUE!!!!!!!!!!

Jaxon5

Sat, Nov 21, 2009 : 6:18 p.m.

Question for coach... when can we expect Michigan to consistently play at a level of say a Northwestern or a Michigan State? When can we look forward to that day?