lawrencelaundry

Mon, Nov 29, 2010 : 1:38 a.m.

Michigan will make a huge mistake if they give home another yr. The only way is if Harbaugh declines the offer to coach the best program in the country.

Tony

Sun, Nov 28, 2010 : 12:52 p.m.

6-18 conference play 0-11 vs conference teams with winning records Home losses to Toledo and Utah " Vince Lombardi can't fix this defense " " At least we are fun to watch " No accountability for his scheme's ineffectiveness Stubborness drives plethora of players to leave, including soon top 10 draft pick Ryan Mallet Players ratting him out to the NCAA for practice violations when we all know this goes on at every program 109th nationally in total defense in 2010 102nd in points against nationally in 2010 0-6 against OSU and MSU Fewer wins in Michigan Stadium than Jim Tressel Inability to develop Denard as anything but a Running Back Statistically in 2010, they were the worst defense in Big Ten history RROD is done as a head coach. Those defending him are ignorant. He has done more to degrade this program in 3 years, than the carousel of coaches in East Lansing over the past decade. There is no accountability with him. Too many freshman, too undersized, not enough experience, the worst is behind us - it never ends with him. He doesn't truly get the in-state rivalry like Danantonio. He is smug and unlikeable, and the alumni want him out. From the second he stepped on as a head coach, his speech brought up red flags. Talking about "building something" at the winningest program in NCAA history. The fact that he changed the captain tradition, something that has been implemented forever. He needs to go to a weak conference to beat up on bad teams to inflate his stats. His scheme will never ever work in a legitimately competitive conference.

modeltim

Sun, Nov 28, 2010 : 12:20 p.m.

OK, Rich Rod needs to go. He is a selfish, negative role model and let him collect his payoff. I have problems with Harbaugh though. First of all, is he really such a good coach? and...... Does M really want to hire someone who bad-mouthed his alma mater so classlessly just a few years ago thereby exhibiting some of the same qualities of Rodriguez? I say look elsewhere.

TIGERS68

Sat, Nov 27, 2010 : 7:10 p.m.

Dave Brandon, it is now your turn to play Don Canham and do what he did back in 1969, bring in a real coach that'll put us back at the top of college football for decades to come........Please do not disappoint us as Mary Sue and Billy did by bringing in (as Joe Tiller called it) this snake oil salesman from the backwoods hills of Virginia.

GoblueinNE_PA

Sat, Nov 27, 2010 : 3:58 p.m.

@GoblueAlways, maybe you should go back and reread my post. Point out where I said the prior coaching staff ran an imaginative offense. I'll wait... (taps foot)... oh wait, you can't, because I didn't. Maybe you didn't realize this but Lloyd doesn't coach this team anymore. He hasn't for 3 years. I'm criticizing the current staff. Understand now? And I stand by my assertion that RichRod's offense is unimaginative. People complain about the "3 yards and a cloud of dust" but this offense isn't any different, just that the QB is in the shot gun. I'll bet if you did the analysis, you'd see that 30% of the plays are QB keepers, not read options but straight keepers. Another 20% or so is probably run off tackle out of the read option (which is a misnomer since we don't read anything). Another 10 to 15% is the slant throw and another 10% is the bubble screen. It's not that hard to figure out his offense.

Mick52

Sat, Nov 27, 2010 : 2:41 a.m.

I just watched Boise State, rated 4th overall get booted by Nevada. I think goofy Gordo Gee is a nut job but he has is right, teams like Boise State and TCU should not crack the top ten in rankings. I saw nothing about Boise State that supports the over ranking. So no to their coach coming in here. It would be akin to what we did when we hired RR. The arguments here are boiling down to anti RR and those of us who use stats and facts to show that the team is improving and the problems are due to the youth of so many players. Those of you who keep demanding his removal are still not promoting anyone who could have done better other than the constant chants for Jim Harbaugh and the facts on his performance do not show much real success either. He is in his fourth year at Stanford and Michigan will do as well or better next year. If not then it would make more sense to let RR go. With the talent on this team during the last two years, I could not image anyone could have done better. So bringing in a new coach is silly, especially with the amazing performance of the offense. For that alone he deserves another year.

mgobluealways

Sat, Nov 27, 2010 : 12:47 a.m.

Where there's smoke... there are idiots.

lawrencelaundry

Sat, Nov 27, 2010 : 12:39 a.m.

What improvement are RR fans talking about? Conference play is worse or the same in three yrs of RR. He will be judged on that cause winning the big ten comes first. Harbaugh will be announced next week. Wait and see.rumours says he is gone. And where there is smoke, there's fire.

lawrencelaundry

Sat, Nov 27, 2010 : 12:37 a.m.

What improvement are RR fans talking about? Conference play is worse or the same in three yrs of RR. He will be judged on that cause winning the big ten comes first. Harbaugh will be announced next week. Wait and see.

"We" not "Them"

Sat, Nov 27, 2010 : 12:27 a.m.

I imagine one day we will be able to have a debate on Ann Arbor.com when alternate view points aren't reduced to being called names (Koolaid drinkers) and alternate opinions labeled as "sophomoric", but just as Rome wasn't built in a day, so to will it take time to make civil discourse a rule rather than an exception on this site. As I stated in one of my earlier posts, which "Jay" and "Ghost" reiterated, a more reasonable criticism of the current coaching staff may be the transition from 07 to 08. There have been numerous well thought out counter arguments to this point, but at least that's a good place for the debate to reside. My point was to say that isolating individual elements of the team as evidence of failure to improve without acknowledging the most relevant statistic, the overall record, seems to be evidence of very little. Quick, anyone know what Oklahoma St's defense is ranked? How about Nevada's? If you care their fans sure don't because their teams are both 10-1. Now, please don't read this and say, "Oh my GOD! Is this guy REALLY trying to defend this defense?" The answer would be an overwhelming "No". But arguments that dismiss overall records as a primary focus of team evaluations do not seem to be in accordance with how most people nationally evaluate teams. As to comparing RR and Harbaugh, I would be the first to admit their initial situations weren't identical (although I disagree that a coach from Michigan can't be compared to a coach from Stanford simply because Michigan is more storied. By that logic RR could only be compared to 10-12 other situations in the entire country). My point was more to say Harbaugh's initial season in Stanford would be similar to his first season in Michigan following the logic that many have put forth that RR has recruited no talent on this team. I know not every RR critic agrees with this, but I was specifically attacking the position of those who do. A couple of small items to add that I often see attacked but rarely clarified. The place kicking has been horrendous, to say the least. People are quick to point this out as a flaw of the current coaching staff. I presume they believe this to be an indication of RR's failure to be able to recruit. Brendan Gibbons, however, was a 3 star army all-american kicker coming out of H.S. I have NO explanation what the deal is with him, but I think it's safe to say every coach and pundit in the country believed him to be capable of kicking a 30 yard field goal. The conspiracy theory, of course, is that RR is so inept as a coach that he has turned a capable kicker into a pee-wee football kicker. I don't have the exact numbers, but I believe it is common practice for D1 coaching staffs to not have dedicated kicking coaches. I know pointing out things like this gets me labeled as a RR lover (which is not completely accurate but I don't mind) and a Koolaid drinker (whatever), but I just think a lot of unfounded criticisms are getting mixed in with valid ones and it is making the critics look like an angry mob a la Salem 1692 instead of the educated fan base I believe UM fans to be, whether they are for or against retaining RR. Less than 12 hours til THE GAME and I can't wait. Go Blue.

mgobluealways

Fri, Nov 26, 2010 : 11:56 p.m.

@ GoblueinNE_PA I normally hate to just pick out one comment and focus on that... but you said there was unimaginative play calling on offense? Did you ever watch Michigan football before Rod? Every team, every game, would say they knew EXACTLY what we were going to do. And we did it, every time. With a little more creativity, Lloyd could have been contending for national championships every year with his talent (think Cap One Bowl against Florida - that was the first imaginative play calling I saw in years). Rod can only be so imaginative before he just starts throwing out backyard football plays. But by comparison to a Lloyd/Bo baseline, he is very imaginative.

mgobluealways

Fri, Nov 26, 2010 : 11:51 p.m.

For all the ridiculous, one-sided comments on this board that I've seen (and unfortunately come to expect - whatever happened to reasonable discussion?)... does anybody really think that Rod will be fired if he looses to OSU? I mean do any of you really believe this is even a possibility? I don't think he should be fired, for the record, and I think there is about a 5% chance that he could get fired. That 5% chance would mean he looses something like 100-0. It is good, however, to be able to so easily separate true Michigan fans from fair-weather fans these days. To quote Bo: "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 don't see many people sticking by the team these days... rooting for OSU to win, regardless of your feelings about the coach, is completely unacceptable.

GoblueinNE_PA

Fri, Nov 26, 2010 : 9:49 p.m.

Fataly flawed in 2 out of the 3 phases of the games. Flaws that are due to a lack of fundamentals. Flaws that have repeated themselves for the past three years. Flaws that even show up on the offensive side of the ball (bad penalties, missed assignments, unimaginative play calling, etc.). These are NOT the signs of an improving team. There is no reason to believe these coaches will suddenly get smart (to borrow a phrase from RichRod) and get these problems fixed. As a matter of fact, based upon his track record, there is every reason to believe these problems will persist. I believe Brandon is a smart guy and sees this as well. Rich is in trouble.

Blueman Rick

Fri, Nov 26, 2010 : 8:23 p.m.

Ed Murrow: Very telling stats on Michigan's D ranking over the past four years. It's amazing to me that so many believe that if RR is given just one more year we'll be in the running for the national championship. Forget the offense and look at RR's D stats for the past three years. They tell the whole story. There is an inherent lack of discipline, leadership and vision in RR's approach to Michigan football. Maybe he'll succeed somewhere else. I hear Eastern Michigan might be looking for a new HC.

RudeJude

Fri, Nov 26, 2010 : 7:43 p.m.

@ Dusty From the moment he cheated and defiled the program, putting Michigan in crosshairs of the NCAA, gaining the program its first probationary penalty and tarnishing Michigan Football's uneclipsed reputation as the cleanest major program, he could coach the team to the National Championship next year and I'd still want him gone. I'll cheer and support the team to the end, rain or shine, win or lose. I will not support the swindler and con artist that is Rich Rod. Maybe the "true" fan like you and the other kool-aid drinkers can brush the messes he's created under the rug, but us "haters" won't put on the blinders for winnings sake. Michigan wins with integrity. Go Blue (not Go Rich)

Dusty

Fri, Nov 26, 2010 : 7:06 p.m.

So when Michigan is 10-1 heading into OSU week and Denard is a runaway Heisman favorite next season are all of you Rich Rod haters still going to talk about how you want him gone because he can't do the job?

PatrickB

Fri, Nov 26, 2010 : 2:42 p.m.

Far too much wind has been spent on this RichRod guy. He doesn't have the class to restore U of M football and athletics to its former days of true national respect and even envy. He hasn't demonstrated to me the leadership our players deserve and need to become leaders of tomorrow. I say it's time to cut him loose.

Blueman Rick

Fri, Nov 26, 2010 : 2:07 p.m.

Jay, I was going to make exactly the same point. "We not Them"'s comparison is ridiculous and sophomoric. Stanford is a great school but has never been a football powerhouse like UM. Simply put, Harbaugh's tenure started at the bottom while RR's tenure has ended at the bottom.

Blueman Rick

Fri, Nov 26, 2010 : 1:57 p.m.

"...with minimal improvement on defense, RR has Michigan poised to start 9-1 or 10-0 before the back-to-back Nebraska and OSU games next year." Minimal improvement on D? Hah! This is a dreamer's forecast of UM's chances next season; certainly w/ RR as HC. I like to be optimistic, but I can't see it. Completely unrealistic. Why waste another year? Give him his ticket out of town on Saturday.

Jay

Fri, Nov 26, 2010 : 9:09 a.m.

@ "We" not "Them" What is the deal with comparing UofM with Stanford? Placing RR progress report along with JHarbaugh is slander... The Pac 10 is a helluva lot different than when Ty Willingham was there. What RRod inherited may not have been a top 10 program - or even a top 25 program; however, it was not the situation that Jim got when he arrived at Stanford. We've sunk a lot of money into new facilities and when Lloyd was there Michigan was one of the lowest paid coaching jobs (from head on down) in the Big Ten. RRod and his staff are one of the highest. How can you keep making 'excuses' for type players? Did Mississippi State have great players when Dan Mullin went in and won 5 games his first year? NO! But let us not compare UofM to Mississippi State yet they are doing better. While I believe we did need a change because as good as we were somehow the sweater was better. His entire defensive staff needs to go, they needed to go. I can understand losing some games during a "transition" many of us thought we'd never see but how many more game/YEARS will we willingly watch: Poor tackling, being careless with the football, stupid penalties, poor special teams, and error after error? What are the answers to these questions? Under Lloyd we thought we were mediocre but I ask you what are we now? When MSU can say they slap us in the face and make us like it and we have no retort? UofM fans sound like the MSU of old - "We almost beat you guys" or "We beat ourselves" (we did)How many times did people hate on Mike Gittleson? Barwis was supposed to make us "fast" AND "powerful" in all my years of watching a Gittleson team I never saw us get pounded in the face like Wisconsin did. That was MEN VS BOYS. I could go on and on and on...

samebadlions

Fri, Nov 26, 2010 : 8:02 a.m.

I'm not so sure there would be much of a transition if (say) Harbaugh came to town. When RR took over, the roster was pretty bare. Now the O-line has plenty of 300 pounders who could thrive in any style. The same holds true with the receivers and backs. There's enough depth and skill at those spots where it wouldn't matter too much, if at all. I think another Hopkins-esque back or two would be nice, but they would be fine in the short term. The new regime would easily figure out how to get the most from both QBs since they both have experienced a full season starting and another sitting in the wings. Schematically, it wouldn't be as pretty as year four in RR's system, but it certainly wouldn't be a horrid mess like everyone seems to think it would be. No commento on the other side of the ball other than to say I trust Harbaugh (or anyone else) more than I do RR going forward.

David

Fri, Nov 26, 2010 : 6:21 a.m.

Wow! Would that be great!!! Jim Harbaugh...Michigan Man, great Coach!!

"We" not "Them"

Fri, Nov 26, 2010 : 3:05 a.m.

Denial that UM has shown growth over the past 3 years seems to be denying an undeniable truth. It would at least be logical if people attempted to reference the 2007 season as a measuring stick (which some have) but that argument has been countered by many simply acknowledging can carnage was likely to occur following the 2007 season. 3 to 5 to 7 is an undenialable fact. To put asterisks by each number is to revise the entirety of collegiate football history. Colorado's win vs us shouldn't count because it was a lucky play. MSU isn't really a top 10 team because they've only beaten Wiscy. OSU doesn't really have a national title because the refs cheated. This may be what we wanted to have happened, but "what could have happened" is a dangerous and untenable argument to make. By that same logic, RR supporters could claim we should be 10-1 because we were within 2 scores of every team in the second half and we just needed to make 1 less turnover. (please don't quote this as my opinion. I'm just trying to illustrate how flawed the dection can be). Every team plays cupcakes. Those wins count just like all the rest. If your point is to suggest that we aren't beating the best teams in the conference, I don't think you're going to get an argument from many people. We aren't one of the best teams yet, so it is no revelation when average teams lose to very good teams. Argue that we shouldn't have fallen. Fine. Argue that the team hasn't shown progress since it's inception under the current staff, well that's revisionist history at it's finest. Go Blue this Saturday

Dusty

Fri, Nov 26, 2010 : 2:17 a.m.

How can people say there hasn't been progress? Do you not remember 2008? This team, even with the horrid defense, would beat that 2008 team 55-7. You can't possibly argue that there hasn't been progress. MAJOR progress. And if you want to talk about the year prior to Harbaugh and RR taking over, you have to maybe remember that in 2007, Michigan's defense was so inept vs. spread offenses that they lost to App State in the Big House, then got absolutely lambasted by Oregon. Rich Rod hit the reset button on the entire football program and started from scratch. It has taken 3 years to get back to winning, and now that they have, it's nothing but blue skies from here on out. I wonder what you turds will be saying about RR 2 years from now when we open the season with a win over Alabama and end it with a Big Ten title. Will you still say he's the wrong guy for the job? Just like you said the spread offense would "never work in the Big Ten". ROFL, how'd that turn out?

johnnya2

Fri, Nov 26, 2010 : 1:17 a.m.

Ok, to all of you comparing Harbaughs record at Stanford to RR's at the same point int he careers seem to be missing TWO major points. 1. What was the record the year BEFORE they got there. One had to build from NOTHING, the other destroyed what he had. 2. One program was found guilty and admitted to FIVE major rules violations, the other did not. End of discussion. Coat it any way you want. Violations are reason enough to fire Rich Rod. If he went 13-0, he should still be fired. I have no problem with Harbaugh saying players should have a more diverse major than 90% in kinesiology. If you think saying that is wrong, then I think you are a delusional fool to call yourself a Michigan fan. Why not go back to rooting for the pro teams, and stay out off the college game

ThoseWhoStayUofM

Fri, Nov 26, 2010 : 12:49 a.m.

Oh my goodness Tater... listen to the type of people you are arguing with. Because your comment doesn't meet their 420 character limit, they will refuse to acknowledge your argument entirely. Isn't that sad? Moving on, I fully agree with what Tater had to say, His analysis of what Harbough would bring to the table and what Rich Rod already has and is poised to do is entirely justified and well thought out. I agree that, logically, keeping Rich Rod is a wise move. I just can't keep myself from questioning his character however. I think people who want him gone aren't responding to logical arguments because the root of their position lies in personal animosity rather than one that is grounded in what is best for the team and the program. On one hand, RR has shown consistent improvement since year one and induction tells us this will continue into the future. On the other hand, Rich Rod leaves a bad taste in your mouth. You get a gut feeling that he isn't always honest, has a fake personality with the media, makes hot-head decisions, and is prone to letting emotions run rampant in high pressure situations. the prudent question: Is our own personal bias enough to justify terminating his coaching position?

BillMK

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 11:39 p.m.

Keeping Calvin Magee would be a wise move - as Bo did with Jim Young.

BillMK

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 11:34 p.m.

My guesses: 1) Brandon will NOT replace RR - the cost of doing so at this time will be deemed too great. If it were to be done, it should have been done a long time ago. Too far into the new system now. Mybe Pederson could do it. Keeping Calvin Magee would be a wise move - as Bo did with 2) GRob and the 3-3-5 are toast. 3) Significant improvement in defense and special teams next year, leading to 9 or 10 wins, will be expected - and delivered. If not, then a complete change of coaching staff will ensue. 4) RR will NOT be succeeded by Harbaugh. He is much too much of a wise-a$$, and would be a pain for the administration. 5) Herbstreit will continue to shoot off his mouth, exhibiting his unique blend of malice and ignorance. He is far more annoying than Harbaugh, who is merely an arrogant ex-great-quarterback. Herbstreit was not nearly as good a quarterback, either. If my guesses are wrong, which is entirely possible(except for Herbstreit), I will wish everyone involved good luck and Go Blue! If my guesses are right, and the speculations of tater, Jim N, 57-43-6, chipmaja et al. are affirmed, it would be gracious of the Walmarters, rabid RR haters, and the other assorted trolls to skulk away quietly. My final guess is that this will not happen, regardless of what Brandon does!

lawrencelaundry

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 11:07 p.m.

Are all of u that want RR to stay rdy for another Decade of poor football. Let's say Brandon keeps him. HARbaugh goes somewhere else and Peterson want nothing to do with Michigan if RR sucks another yr. Then what, recruiting plumments to garbage since it already is falling. GOODLUCK finding a quality Michigan coach then. Now your looking at ten yrs instead of 2-3 yrs with Harbaugh.

Kory Nichols

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 11:05 p.m.

To all of you people out there that think JH runs a prostyle offense you must have not watched any Stanford games this year. JH runs a pistol option just like Indiana, Auburn, Nevada and Boise State, and I know this as I am a Stanford season ticket holder. Yes JH will be the coach at UM next year and that is why he still has not signed his extension that he was offered at the end of last season....

UMFanatic

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 10:53 p.m.

simple question. All the people on here saying RR needs the boot. and Jim needs to replace him. are you all ready to watch 3 more years of what we saw the last 3? that is what will happen if we have to transition back to a pro style system.

Skipit3

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 10:25 p.m.

Just because Harbaugh is having success at Stanford doesn't guarantee he will be having success at Michigan. Ty Willingham had success at Stanford. Did it translate to success at Notre Dame? Heck, if your arguement is about taking a bad Stanford team and turning it around, then the same can be said of RR at West Virginia. As one poster pointed out, RR had to do a complete overhaul to this team. A new Pro set coach will have to do the same, which will result in yet at least two more years of disappointment. I guess you haven't learned anything from the Notre Dame experience. Instead of being driven by frustration and impatience, you people need to make better use of your gray matter. I will not buy into any of that garbage unless it comes directly from Brandon himself.

win

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 10:06 p.m.

3 And Out I have come to respect and agree much of what you say in your posts. I just don't see Harbaugh coming to Michigan. I think Brandon will choose Pederson from Boise State because it is going to be a smoother transition and a quicker fix. And Pederson (from all accounts) is a character guy who will run a clean program. I'm not claiming to have inside information or anything like that, but I have heard his name being mentioned by people close to the athletic department. When I say mentioned, I mean explored.

lawrencelaundry

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 9:59 p.m.

If Brandon fires RR and Harbaugh comes to town, then me, 3 and out, and Kubrick66 NEED TO MEET UP and celebrate. What these RR fans don't understand is RR makes dumb decisions and always blames the kids and not himself. He is not a players coach. 3 yrs and he can't coach a team all year to be slop free, including a kicker. Harbaugh will turn this team into a monster in yr two. RR may do well next yr, but there is no excuse for squeaking by some of the worst teams in the big ten in your 3rd yr. Come on down Mr. Harbaugh, we need u back home!!

tzgoblue

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 9:31 p.m.

To all There is not a bigger UM fan than myself. For those that say progress has been made, show me the number of quality wins!! We are 6-17 in the B10 soon to be 6-18. We have beaten on decent team in the B10 in 3yrs - 2008 against a "young" Wisconsin team, that by the way grew up and kicked our asses the past 2 yrs. I bleed Michigan Blue, I travel 600 miles round trip to watch every home game, I travel to watch MI play on the road. I'm embarassed by the product on the field and the comments that continue to come out of RR's mouth. Not once has he stood up and said "the program is not where I thought it would be in year 3 because we as coaches need to do a better job" It is always, we didn't realize there was no talent here until we signed our contracts. Well that no talent was 9-4 the year before he got here. We had 40 winning seasons in a row under out belts until he got here. We don't need to rehash the NCAA violations, that by the way will be proved at WV while under RR's guidance. Going from 3 to 5 to 7 wins against second tier competition doesn't consitute progress my friends. Losing to MSU, PSU, OSU, Iowa three years in a row doesn't show progress. I have attended many OSU vs MI games in Columbus during my 40 plus years of being a die hard, I couldn't bring myself to endure the punishment both the players are going to take as well as the fans sitting in the sea of scarlet and gray at the horse shoe as OSU again wraps up another B10 Championship.

"We" not "Them"

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 9:09 p.m.

Its not accurate to say the team has made no progress, or to suggest the team is moving sideways. The team has gone from 3 to 5 to 7ish wins. I don't understand what evidence people are using to assert that that trend will not continue. The fact that the defense has gotten worse does not change the overall improvement in the team.

True_Wolverine_Fan

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 8:48 p.m.

I hope and pray Michigan isn't stupid enough to get rid of Rich Rodriguez and bring in Jim Harbaugh. It would be nothing short of complete and utter stupidity.

3 And Out

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 8:28 p.m.

Larry, Wojo makes a good point in his column...if Brandon decides to keep RR...he then becomes Brandon's choice...and "his guy"...if there continues to be no progress with the team and they continue to get embarrassingly blown out at home, lose to all rivals and all good teams...and continue to be terrible on defense...and that is after/if Brandon decides to bring him back...dont think for a moment that Brandon is not aware that he would be sanctioning this continued debacle....

Larry Weisenthal

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 7:56 p.m.

O.K. This is all speculation. No one knows. But I think the biggest tip of the Brandon interview was the big point he kept making about the importance of football to the overall program. Reading between the lines, I think he was saying that he might make a decision about a football coach which he might not make for the coach of another sport. He was saying that there is no margin of error, when it comes to decisions involving the football program. I think he was insulating himself from criticism in not giving RR another year.

Reed

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 7:48 p.m.

I'm with Rich Rodrigues, Tater and Dusty. Attn: haters, you can jump on the bandwagon when you see how very wrong you are. Regardless of what happens Saturday, Michigan is on the rise! Go Blue, represent baby!

GoblueinNE_PA

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 7:33 p.m.

RichRod's in trouble. If there wasn't a chance of him getting canned, Brandon would be everywhere making the point that the Hack was going to be retained. It would be in everyone's best interet to put the rumors to bed. The fact is, Brandon hasn't done that. Tweeting it ain't cutting it. RichRod's job depends upon the team performance this Saturday. If we get blown out, bye bye Rich. It's that simple. While I'm hoping we win, my realistic side says we're going to get our heads handed to us. RichRod's done.

Dusty

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 7:11 p.m.

tzgoblue, if the rumors were true, Brandon wouldn't have said anything at all. Tweeting that the rumors were "rubbish" means they're rubbish. Rich Rod is here for at least another year. I'm sorry you don't like it, but people much smarter than you are making the decision to keep him.

Dusty

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 7:08 p.m.

People talking about what Harbaugh inherited compared to what Rich Rod inherited are forgetting a very big part of it all: Rich Rod gutted the team and started over. New phylosophy on both sides of the ball. On top of that, he inherited the worst returning team in the modern Michigan era. Every single big name on offense was gone, and the defense wan't that good to begin with (the defense lost to App State, got embarassed by Oregon, and needed 35+ from the offense to beat Floria). If you don't think there has been major progress in 3 years, you weren't actually paying attention in 2008.

"We" not "Them"

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 6:34 p.m.

As I've said before and will continue to say all week, You don't have to be full of Koolaid to draw the conclusion that RR should be retained, nor do you have to be a hater to think he should be fired. That being said, you're right when you say the situations were not identical, but going forward, Jim would be stepping into a similar situation. I've spent the past 3 months listening to people exclaim how this defense is void of all talent. That would be similar to taking over a talentless Stanford team. Admittedly, there are a few of you who believe the talent here is fine and that the only thing ailing this defense is "coaching", but I think it's fair to say most people agree the talent level here is lacking on the defense. While no UM team was 1-11, Stanford teams had 4-5 wins for an 8 year period (both before and after Harbaugh's arrival), so the 1-11 record suggests a team that quit on it's soon to be fired coach more than having 1-11 talent. Regardless of how similar their starts were, bringing a new coach to perform yet another overhaul of the personnel and philosophy will certainly come with it's fair share of disgruntled players, transfers, and players who don't fit the new coach's system (where do you think all of those 300 lbs line are going to come from?). That will almost certainly take time and wasted seasons to change. When I look at our immediate future I think it is more certain that a coaching change will result in poor seasons than I am that RR won't continue his pattern of improving the win total every year he's been here. I'd be happy to revisit people's arguments as to why this team will not win more games this year, but I can't point to any argument that I've heard yet (such as "RR is morally bankrupt", "RR took the program backwards", or "RR hasn't turned things around quickly enough"). I'm disappointed the turn around hasn't happened sooner, but I think the quickest return to 8+ win seasons is with the current staff, not making a coaching change.

3 And Out

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 5:56 p.m.

ohiowolverine...??? check your facts pal: Jim Harbaugh lead Michigan to Wins vs you people in 1985 and 1986. I know because I was at both games. Any questions?

ohiowolverine

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 5:45 p.m.

JH never beat the Bucks as a player so what makes you think he can do it as a coach? I say one more year with RR and see what happens. In the mean time be looking for a new coach who can step in and use the players that are there now. Go Blue!!!!

Mick52

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 5:42 p.m.

I am with tater who is right on. There was a good discussion the other day on a local radio show on the rumors and negative opinions on RR. The commentators, who sound like they really know football had differing opinions but made some interesting comments. One was that with so much negativity here and the extravagant expectations of Michigan fans, who would want to come here? Well we do have the third ranked offense in the country, but that certainly is no reason to keep the coach on, right? Describing the atmosphere as a "hornet's nest" one commentator even said coaches have made that remark. Perhaps that is why it took Bill Martin so long to find a coach. And asst coaches get run out of town for non performance, Carr, Jim Herrmann, Deborg, and others I cannot recall. Also in re to Jim Harbaugh, someone noted that even though Harbaugh is doing well at Stanford this year, it took him four years to do so. Stanford was next to last in Pac 10 defense last year. Not as bad as near the bottom nationally but still an interesting point. Also nobody has to start so many freshmen on defense. If any of you know some coach, some team loaded with as many freshmen that did better, lets hear who. And who is going to come in here and make this team as it is any better? Nobody. There is no coach out there that could instantly take this team and turn it around any better than RR can. If so name them. Herbstreit made a very bad undocumented comment three years ago, on the day of the national championship, announcing just before the game that Les Miles was going to leave LSU and come to Michigan. That comment created a big problem with LSU players and LSU demanded Miles deny it prior to the game. As far as I know Herbstreit never attributed that comment to anyone and it was said to be false anyway. I thought it was unprofessional and unethical for him to do that and now he is doing it again. Brandon can do whatever he thinks is right, but it make no sense at all. It is so foolish to change programs right now I am thinking those of you in favor are not Michigan fans but are MSU, OSU, ND fans or anyone else wanting this program to fail. Giving RR another year to shore up the defense. The offense will be better. Also two losses were by only ten points, one by 17 points. Those games could have been won minus turnovers and a defense making just a few more stops. To to the historically inferior teams like WV and Stanford, they are just that, history. Since the changes in scholarship numbers a lot of teams that were historically unknown, have become prominent teams. Too many people are stuck in the 70s and think it is still that easy to wrack up lots of wins. Boise State for crying out loud. I am not promoting myself as an expert but I cannot see a benefit making a switch this year.

tzgoblue

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 4:50 p.m.

Dusty, Brandon didn't defuse anything. What do you expect him to say? Yes the rumors are true. That would make no sense during the week of the OSU game. Actually he kind of tipped his hand during the interview with the Detroit News last week. He said you look at the program, if progress is being made you continue to invest in the program, if the program is moving sideways with no clear cut path to success, you have to think about making a change. If you really break down the last 3 years under RR, it isn't hard to make a strong case for the sideways to backwards scenario for the direction of the program. I am trusting Brandon to do the right thing in his position as AD. I am sure he will also have some other highly influencial people to answer to regarding his decision. It is my bet those that fit into the highly influencial, are not in RR's corner.. I can't wait to hear Jim Harbough's initial comments after he becomes or next coach. I bet it will be alot different than the trash that came out of RR's mouth. He will talk about the B10 and the importance of the rivalary games and the tradition of Michigan football. He can speak to these things because he actually has been part of all of them.

3 And Out

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 4:43 p.m.

BTW...the latest "defense" of Rich Rod by the Koolaid Crowd is to bash Harbaugh. LOL>....I guess the old Rich Rod "defense" of Bashing Carr has worn thin? So now you are bashing Harbaugh and he has nothing to do with the failure of the Rich Rod Error. Amazing how some people think. I supposed you have to rationalize it some way...but taking shots at a guy who is at Stanford is pretty cheap.

3 And Out

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 4:41 p.m.

Did Sam Webb actually say that about Harbaugh's Record? Wow, first of all I thought that Sam Webb may be smarter than that...guess not...it appears that Sam is WAY full of Koolaid. If you are reading this Sam, remember to save some room for the Turkey. Jim Harbaugh took over a program that was 1-11 the previous year, and had not had a winning season for the previous 5. He was working with BAD Stanford talent.... For a great coach, which he is...to get that program to a winner in 3 years, including wins over USC, Cal and Oregon... and to a GREAT program in 4 years...9-1 this year is simply an amazing coaching and recruiting feat at STANFORD. Rich Rodriguez took over a 9-4 Michigan team, that had not had a loser in 40 seasons...and dismantled it, and ground it in to the dust. Sam Webb, there is no comparison. And you know it... not a very good, sound or accurate "argument" there Sam.... What Harbaugh has done at Stanford is astounding, and is 100000 times better than what Excuse Maker has done at Michigan.

"We" not "Them"

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 3:25 p.m.

I personally am a HUGE Jim Harbaugh fan, but I believe RR deserves 5 years. Sam Webb on WTKA addressed the Harbaugh rumors by pointing to Harbaugh's record at Stanford. 4-8 his first year. 5-7 his second. 8-5 his third. 10-1 his 4th. Many fans, such as RudeJude have suggested that that timetable would be perfectly acceptable. Then Sam pointed out that RR is on pace to replicate that exact same timeline (3-8,5-7,7-4) yet people are calling that unacceptable. I agree with Sam that while people often use RR's record as the reason for firing him, it seems odd that those same people would lobby for someone with the exact same track record. If it's truly a matter of firing RR simply because of the violations, I guess to each his own, but I think the fact that the NCAA investigation found that RR indeed DOES promote an environment of compliance has to count for something. If not they should (and I believe would) have fired him last year. Like I said earlier, I have no problem with Harbaugh, but I think RR is due the same patience people seem so eager to extend to Harbaugh. The "Michigan Man" argument doesn't fly. If that were the case we would never have hired an ex-OSU grad back in '69.

58-44-6

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 3:22 p.m.

Roy Roundtree is amazing, he isn't that big or fast but that little rascal always gets open and makes things happen... be patient my babies...

BlueGator

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 3:19 p.m.

While I do suspect RR will be allowed back for one more year (perhaps sans GROB & cohorts), I do not believe Brandon has guaranteed that. I think the only part of the rumors he debunked so far is regarding any big announcement on Monday. There will be none.

Skipit3

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 3:04 p.m.

RR will be Michigan's Head Coach for at least the next 20 years regardless of some haters' ignorant speculations. I just hope I will live long enough to witness the great things that will be happening with the Michigan's football program in the next few years. It's funny how the enemies of Michigan (MSU & OSU fans) tend to see eye to eye with the likes of 3 & Out. If 3 & Out is indeed a Michigan fan, the light should have come on when the enemy is siding with him/her. The enemies of Michigan DO NOT and will never have Michigan's best interest in mind. Can you imagine the likes of Ahmadinejad and Kim Jong-il trying to advise/convince us Americans on what is best for our country?

Dusty

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 2:25 p.m.

I really don't know why people are still writing these stories. Dave Brandon diffused the rumor already. Rich Rod isn't going anywhere, haters.

win

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 2:04 p.m.

While Herbsteet is nothing more than an OSU hack, he is right. If OSU embarrasses Michigan Saturday, it may be lights out for RR. I'm still cheering for our team and our coach for one more game!!! GO BLUE!!!!!! Harbaugh is NOT the answer! Bring in Chris Pederson from Boise State. Much smoother transition and most players would stay to play in his system.

D21

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 1:45 p.m.

Haywood, Nice revisionist history! Harbaugh or bust.

truebluefan

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 1:20 p.m.

Ty Willingham had 8-4 and 9-3 seasons at "lowly" Stanford. Maybe we should hire Ty? LOL.

Haywood Nelson

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 1:02 p.m.

Jim Harbaugh just can't becoome our coach!! Not when he bad mouthed Bo and accused the U of M of cheating while he was here!! As I recall, this all happened a few years back when he thought Michigan was over looking him to replace Coach Carr. I'll bet you all recall this also. Rodriguez has to go regardless of the result of the OSU game. Let's get Les Miles, the guy we wanted three years ago and went after him with absolutely no class at all. We had no business going after him while he was going for a National Championship. Wait for season to end. Please use some class this time, whoever we try to get. Go Blue

58-44-6

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 12:37 p.m.

chapmaja- good analysis of next years schedule...

clarklaker

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 12:09 p.m.

Rich Rod may deserve another year,my opinion is no. This may be the one opportunity to get Jim Harbaugh.This guy understands Michigan he understands rivalrys.I bet he can get the right players for michigan. Not to mention popping of at the sweatervest,and fraudtonio.As bill king says they will build a statue of him on the 50 yardline and make them play around it.Happy turkey day and go blue!

D21

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 11:38 a.m.

Nazium, you forgot to add something: Year 4: RR free zone strictly enforced at UM for eternity.

Alex Migda

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 11:28 a.m.

Things are still not looking up for you, wolvervines. The future does not look bright.

WWBD?

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 11:13 a.m.

Throwing out a false and distracting rumour just before the Big game may be fun strategy but will only inflame the wolverines, especially when they see those clown suits and forget they're supposed to lose and beat Chucky to save their coach and their dignity.

GoblueinNE_PA

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 11:12 a.m.

Mallet ran a spread in high school... just like he's doing at Arkansas now. What he didn't want to do is run this QB killer offense.

GoblueinNE_PA

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 11:05 a.m.

This can't be!!!! Not Rivals!!! They are one of the "trusted" sites, not like the silly banter that goes on here. OMG, I simply don't believe it!! LOL Anyway, the problem with Herbstreit is he's also the one that blew the Miles story. While I too think the Hack's last game is this Saturday, I'm not convinced it will be Harbaugh that replaces him. I'd love for it to happen, but I also think he'll be heading to the NFL.

Jim Nazium

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 11:03 a.m.

Remember Year 1 - NO Quarterback ( Mallet was an immature baby, the team didn't like him and he wasn't going to play the spread ) Sheridan wasn't qualified to play for Eastern Michigan let alone the Big Ten. Year 2 - Freshman Quarterback, a TRUE Freshman, if you know anything about college football, it is extremely rare to have a True Freshman start the whole season and have success, regardless of the team around him, ( in Most cases ). Year 3 - Sophomore Quarterbacks, what you need in this system, at least 2 qualified QB's, now we have that. And a First time Starter who is Nationally Recognized for his incredible talents and will be a Machine for the Next 2 years. Ya gonna blow that up? Really? Not Gonna Happen. Patience is a Virtue, Not a Weakness. Go Blue!!!

D21

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 10:43 a.m.

The main key is that some of the UM administration who are disappointed with RR for causing the first serious NCAA inquiry into UM's football program which will be the underlying reason for RR's dismissal for it brought nothing but eggs all over their faces. UM (Moe) will boot RR and his small band of deluded supporters (the football) thru the uprights and out of the stadium soon after the OSU game.

58-44-6

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 10:14 a.m.

Fred Jackson brought in two great runningbacks in one year, wait until they get into RichRods offense, i think we can average 50 points a game next year way to go Fred!!!!!!!

RudeJude

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 9:58 a.m.

Tater is right. Dave Brandon is NOT firing Rich on Monday. It's actually happening on Sunday. As long as Harbaugh does not cheat and defile the Michigan program, I'd be happy to give him his five seasons, like Rich deserved before he "forgot the rules." In regard to the wins, seeing what he did with a 1-11 Cardinal team, I have no doubt he'll win, win soon and win big. I have to admit, as happy as I am reading this, seeing the Herbstreit name as one of the "experts" makes me doubt it, after he stuck his nose in our last coaching search, most likely changing Michigan football history. Mind your business, Kirk. Go Blue

chapmaja

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 9:57 a.m.

So far this morning I have read 2 articles that say Herbstreit says Michigan WILL fire RichRod. One of these articles even went so far as to say that David Brandon doesn't know what he is talking about. I have some advice for the media. Post a story when Michigan does fire RichRod. Stop using speculation as the basis for your story. This is at best pathetic news reporting and at worst a complete scam by the media. I have to agree with Tater on next year as well. Michigan's schedule next year is as follows. (My projections next to the opponent) WMU (Win) Notre Dame (Push) EMU (Win) SDSU (Win) Minnesota (Win) @ NW (Win) @ MSU (Push) Purdue (Win) @ Iowa (Push) @ Illinois (Win) Nebraska (Loss) OSU (Loss) It is very possible Michigan could be a 1 or zero loss team going into the Nebraska game. I think even as projected losses, Michigan could beat both OSU and Nebraska if they were not back to back weeks. My breakdown of the games is as follows. WMU and EMU are not even close to Michigan depth wise. Michigan will run all over them. Notre Dame is going to be a good football team, but I think once again Michigan can pull it out. BK (if the filming death doesn't cost him his job) should have that program much improved next year and Michigan hasn't fared well at night vs ND in the past. SDSU I am predicting a win, but don't expect this to be a blowout. SDSU is a much better team this year than they have been in the past and they should continue to improve. 3-1 or 4-0 in the non-conference schedule. Minnesota is not a good football team. Even if they improve, they will not be good enough to beat Michigan next year. @ NW: I think Michigan wins this game because of the offense. NW's defense hasn't been as strong as expected this season and I don't see them getting good enough to stop and even more explosive Michigan offense next season. @ MSU: Rivalry games are tough to judge. Certainly the recent history goes to MSU, but none of the games have been total and complete wipeouts. This game should be close ad Michigan returns almost everyone while MSU suffers some substantial graduation losses next season IIRC. This game is a push. Purdue: Purdue will be much improved next season just based on getting players back from injury. Michigan's defense looked great in this game in large part due to the ineptitude of Purdue's offense (I heard the term barftastic to describe that offense). Michigan's offense will play better than they did this year as well. @ Iowa : This is another team that suffers some heavy graduation losses from what I understand. A road game at Iowa will be tough, but it is not impossible to win this game. @ Illinois: Hopefully not a repeat of this years game. Both teams have quality offenses and defenses that aren't as good (Illinois' Defense isn't as good as was advertised). Nebraska and Ohio St: Both of these games look like losses on paper right now, but the ned of next season is a long time away. Let's see what happens at both schools prior to next season. The Nebraska game could be for a spot in the Big Ten Title game and Ohio St is Ohio St. I think Michigan needs to hold onto RichRod for one more season. If it becomes apparent that he isn't going to work out midway through next season then cut him loose then, replace him with an interm coach for the rest of the season, then go get a quality head coach. If Michigan does have the type season I expect next year, RichRod may prove he is a good coach and prove the doubters wrong.

58-44-6

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 9:49 a.m.

We need a new defensive scheme and coordinater, I think we can have an average defense next year (24 points a game) and the best offense in the history of mankind, and then... Michigan 77 Western Michigan 3 Michigan 45 Notre Dame 31 Michigan 87 Eastern Michigan 0 Michigan 52 San Diego State 24 Michigan 66 Minnesota 14 Michigan 45 Northwestern 17 Michigan 41 Michigan State 24 Michigan 59 Purdue 6 Michigan 38 Iowa 17 Michigan 45 Illinois 24 Michigan 35 Nebraska 31 Michigan 38 Ohio State 31 Michigan 41 Ohio State 34 ( Big Ten Championship) Michigan 41 Alabama 27 I have never seen a Offense with this many underclassmen and a first year Quarterback move the ball so well, next years offense will be incredible...

7718

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 9:45 a.m.

There are always people in the media trying to make some headline news, whether it's true or not, they don't seem to care. They just want to get their name out there. Will these people offer a retraction or apology if it doesn't happen?

58-44-6

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 9:44 a.m.

If Donovan Warren didn't foollishly go pro ( who told that boy he was an NFL cornerback) and Woolfolk didn't get injured we would be undefeated next year 14-0 has anybody heard how Cullen Christian is progressing/

Jim Nazium

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 9:40 a.m.

@ tater Well said my friend. I personally enjoy Sam Webb every morning and think he is becoming a Michigan Treasure for his insight, thoughtful arguments, enthusiasm for the State and the School, sense of humor, and dignified persona. I can't stand all the Rumor Mill haters ( MSU, OSU fans, Detroit Papers, and especially " The Ticket". Those folks are supposed to know something about Sports and are Wrong 70% of the time anyway. I know I give RR a longer rope than he may deserve but after meeting Calvin Mcgee and few other coaches on the Golf Course this summer, I have Long Term Confidence in this Program. They have a plan and our Offense if Proof of that. The D will come around and in 2 years we will be a top 5 program and start a winning streak against our rivals. Remember we are Still Michigan and Can't recruit Criminal Talent like MSU, OSU, Florida, Auburn, Alabama, USC, etc..... I still get mad when I think we had a guy like Bubacar Sososo ( misspelled on purpose to describe his talent level on the field ) on our team who now sits in Prison. Other above mentioned programs are probably used to the Criminal Element and forget about it after a year until the next one. Anyway, whiners have your fun now, it will end soon enough and you'll be saying that we won games by cheating or something, we know your "Type".

madblue

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 9:30 a.m.

New coach, lose recruits and most of team. New recruits, more freshmen, less experience with same results. As Russell Crow said in Gladiator, "Is this what you want, are you amazed"!

rensational

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 9:20 a.m.

Tater, most people here are not interested in reading all of that, okay? All I know is I have no clue why people keep comparing Michigan to historically inferior programs such as Stanford and West Virginia. It's not comparable. And saying RR "had" to start first-year starters all three years is laughable. Michigan's defense should actually have been good his first year at Michigan BECAUSE he didn't "have" to start all these inexperienced players. And after he had that year to recruit good defensive players and last year to do the same thing. So, I could maybe have understood Michigan's D being young last year and being the worst out of the three years he's been at Michigan, but I don't understand all the first-time starters this season and why our D is the worst THIS year. Bring up injuries if you want to, but frankly, I wonder why at least one Michigan player gets injured every single week and even before the season begins. The amount of injuries are ridiculous, in my opinion, and it should be a red flag. Don't respond talking about transfers and injuries and players being smaller as if none of those things have anything to do with RR. A lot of 3 And Out's comments this week have been right on.

rensational

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 9:11 a.m.

The link to the "MSU can't root for Michigan" article is wrong.

riverraisin

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 8:20 a.m.

3 and out... I fear we won't even hit the 20 point mark in this game. But I think your OSU score may be accurate. Wonder if Herbstreit got his info from reading these comments?

InsideTheHall

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 8:03 a.m.

Always remember, Herbie never beat Michigan!

3 And Out

Thu, Nov 25, 2010 : 7:57 a.m.

Rodriguez made another smart aleck comment this week about "we didnt become stupid overnight..didnt win the lottery blah blah blah..." once again making EXCUSES and INSINUATING that he was dealt some kind of Raw Deal when he got the 3 million dollar job to coach THE University of Michigan 3 years ago. Enough of this clown. Each week his comments and terrible draw myself, and many many more EDUCATED people in to hating this guy even more. Enough Already Brandon. Please cut this worthless clown loose. Go Blue but OSU 50, UM 23.