tzgoblue

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 7:48 a.m.

UM1984 Please take your embrassment to another team and site. True fans of MI football would never make a comment like that about a person that they know nothing about. Every person that has ever had any contact with BH has nothing but good things to say about him. I for one am "proud" to be a MI fan and have been for over 40 yrs.

Sallyxyz

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 5:52 a.m.

@Stratton: "DB is the kind of AD that will give his coach all the support and assets needed to get the job done. I think the only downside could be the way he hovered on the sidelines, practices and film room meetings with the players. That could bother many coaches." I agree that if DB continues to behave this way, most top level coaches would wonder why their boss is hovering and find this restrictive, to say the least. No one likes to be micromanaged. However, I think DB was hired specifically to fire RR, and this was DB's way of doing an ongoing "evaluation" when the time came to give him the ax. That way, he protected the UM from a lawsuit by having gathered the evaluation data firsthand. A good boss knows better than to hover over their employees and micromanage them. I seriously doubt DB will hover over Hoke. If he does, then he needs to be fired. That is no way to run an elite football program. That said, my prediction is that DB won't be at UM very long. I maintain my position that he was hired to fire RR, and now that the mission has been accomplished, DB will move on. He doesn't even need this job, as a multi-millionaire ex-CEO. He'll be gone in another couple years.

microtini

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 4:16 a.m.

First Bo, then Mo...now Ho?

beanie wells

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 1:25 a.m.

can we now blame richrod for the cupboard being bare?

Steve

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 1:03 a.m.

Welcome Brady, looking forward to the return of Michigan power football. Lets WIN!! GO BLUE

GoBlue1984

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 12:45 a.m.

Wow. I'm actually embarrassed to be a Michigan fan today. How could David Brandon be so stupid?

a2citizen

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 12:40 a.m.

@ #58ontheroster: Mr. Zuganelis, I have always heard that it was Joe Paterno that recommended Bo. Can you please reconfirm that it was George Allen, and not Joe Paterno? Thanks

Joseph

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 11:28 p.m.

.....Rich Rodriguez was the guy. I still have no doubt in my mind that he would have had great success at Michigan if he would have been given more time. He would have turned Michigan into an Oregon-like team and they would have competed for Big Ten titles and BCS bowls. He was a young coach who could have stayed with us for 20 years. I'm pretty bitter about the whole thing. ------------------------------- My goodness. My, my goodness is all I have to say. Shaking head feeling bad for many people that still feel this way. Wake up. It is 2011, welcome to reality.

Chris

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 11:05 p.m.

I will have an open mind about Hoke. I know next to nothing about him but I do know he's not going to bring some gimmick in and completely ignore one side of the ball. He's going to return a sense of physicality to the team and they will hopefully be a powerhouse in the conference once again. He doesn't have to have BCS head coaching experience in my opinion. He's just got to have been a head coach somewhere. As for the process, I'm not so sure it played out the way the University is telling us it did. It seems like a disingenuous charade. They could have run RR out after the Ohio State debacle (part 3) and had Hoke in in time for the bowl and recruiting season.

mookienation

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 11 p.m.

I'm behind Brady Hoke 100%. I'm excited for him to be the new head coach of the Wolverines. That behind said, Rich Rodriguez was the guy. I still have no doubt in my mind that he would have had great success at Michigan if he would have been given more time. He would have turned Michigan into an Oregon-like team and they would have competed for Big Ten titles and BCS bowls. He was a young coach who could have stayed with us for 20 years. I'm pretty bitter about the whole thing. I just hope the same thing doesn't happen to Hoke. Even if he loses to Ohio State AND Michigan State each of the next 3 seasons, don't fire him! Be patient and good things will happen. Be impatient and we'll never get this thing fixed.

Joseph

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 10:33 p.m.

Who could we expect to get? Not a lot of experience, big name coaches want to work under an athletic director who is in his first year, ever, with no experience as an A.D. anywhere. We could expect to get someone for whom it is a big, big step up, making it worth the risk. ---------------- DB is the kind of AD that will give his coach all the support and assets needed to get the job done. I think the only downside could be the way he hovered on the sidelines, practices and film room meetings with the players. That could bother many coaches. But it is like I always said, if the boss is working that close to you, chances are you will not be around long. Hopefully DB will not have to perform his little 'evaluation' routine anytime soon.

1st Down

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 10:22 p.m.

Again, Ive made this point before, but Id like to make it again...Hoke's overall record in the MAC was brought down by the fact that his team often played BCS, SEC etc. teams in non conference...which usually resulted in losses due to lack of talent. Ball State was every big team's non-conference schedule darling...including ours.... those games certainly pushed his overall record under.500

tegel

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 10:13 p.m.

Wow! If DB doesnt work out as AD, its good to know we have so many experts out there that can step right in (end sarcasm font). For those who think DB is an idiot or should be fired, lets review his options: Option 1: Fire RR after OSU and (publically) begin search. Pros: DB is decisive. Extra time to find a coach/recruits. RR gets time to look for another gig. Cons: Best candidates are in bowl games. Poaching (JH, LM) risks repeating the debacle from 3 years ago. Coaching fraternity is small, so not letting RR finish the season turns away potential candidates. Option 2: Fire RR after OSU, hire BH. Pros: Same as 1 + Michigan Man satisfies base. Cons: Later reports from sources say JH/LM would have taken the job if offered. Disgruntled fans/media complain that DB acted too rashly and should have waited. Coaching fraternity is small (see Option 1) Option 3: Wait until after bowl games to fire RR and meet with JH/LM, then hire BH. Pros: DB gets his man. Other prospective coaches see that DB (and UM) is true to his word and treats people with respect (unlike many who contribute to this forum) Cons: Fans/media complain that the national search was a sham and DB should have chosen option 2, after which they would have also complained (see cons for Option 2) Other Options(Rumors): Interview Gruden, Peterson, Patterson, Dungy etc Pros: Fans are satisfied we did a nationwide search Cons: None seemed to be serious candidates, so why waste everyone's time? DB obviously chose Option 3. He has been consistent and has acted rationally throughout this entire process. In the end the success on the field will determine if he made the right choice. People who know football are high on BH and that should be good enough for any of us. As we saw with RR there are no sure things, even when choosing the hot coach. Congrats and good luck to Brady Hoke! Go Blue!

Somewhat Concerned

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 10:12 p.m.

Who could we expect to get? Not a lot of experience, big name coaches want to work under an athletic director who is in his first year, ever, with no experience as an A.D. anywhere. We could expect to get someone for whom it is a big, big step up, making it worth the risk.

Joseph

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 10:04 p.m.

Is it just me or isn't it easier to go from the spread back to more of a pro-style offense than from the pro-stlye to the spread? ------------------------------------------------------------- It depends on the players that stay. Hopefully Hoke has the ability to devise a scheme based upon the strengths of his players instead of forcing them into a systme like someone we used to know.

kidmich

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 10:02 p.m.

rico2458 says... "BRADY HOKE is going to be a good coach his hart is in michigan thats a plus and the player are going to love him.give him 3 years you see." rico, many peoples "hart(s)" are in Michigan. But isn't Deer hunting season over?

Joseph

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 9:51 p.m.

After reading these posts I realize the contingent that held-out hope for RR and called us 'haters' are in fact the new 'haters'. Well, a message to you rookie haters, many of us gave RR a chance in the beginning. But after 3 wins and losing to Toledo things did change. Let's give the Michelin Man a shot, huh?

man of bluue

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 9:43 p.m.

Brady Hoke: 5 seasons of 8 were losing seasons, as head coach. Big Ten 0-5 on New Years day, Wisconsin beaten by 9000 student college in Rose Bowl, MSU blown out by SEC and Sabin. Rich Rod was taking us in different direction. He needed two more years. I thought we learned from Applachia State and Oregon in 2007. Big Ten Football is a laughing stock. Hoke is going to lead us out of this? Brandon caved in to whining alums and former players. Look for a long period of mediocrity at best.

bossfan23

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 9:42 p.m.

@Jonny Spirit, I'm a little confused in regards to your post that mentioned me. Did you mean that I copied someone with my name, which is actually "bossfan23," not bossman as you wrote it? Or was there something else in my post that you were referring to? As for my moniker, it is in reference to Bruce (the Boss) Springsteen and the #23 is for the number that Pete Maravich wore in college. #58ontheroster, thanks for coming back to shed a little light on the circumstances of Bo's hiring! Greatly appreciated!

GoBlue13

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 9:19 p.m.

I'm glad to see the passion. The fact is nobody knows how good or bad Hoke will be. I personally like the hire. I'm glad to have a HC who views UM as his dream job. He won't always be looking for something better. Hoke has been here and knows what is expected. Keep writing negative things, He already has the fire you're just fueling it. To all the season tickets holders, If you don't like the hire or you plan on spending your Saturdays at home, Please call me I'll take your tickets to any game! As Always, GO BLUE!!

obama from kenya

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:45 p.m.

"Those who stay will be champions," unless they leave, and end up coaching in the SEC or NFL, then those who leave will be champions, unless they go on to coach in the MAC only to return, then those who come back will be champions, as long as they get some decent coordinators.

A2guy

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:40 p.m.

Congratulations Brady....Welcome back to Ann Arbor. No questions we have one of the best programs in the country...for many years we had the be THE best program in the country. Let be patient support our coach, learn the lessons, let's do not make the coach life harder than already is....So.. in 20 years or so when Brady retires (with a national championship ring on each finger)we will not forget what we did to Rich, from day one, we pushed him all the way to the edge of the cliff. Yes there are many talented Michigan Men, we like them, but not all of them like us, as much as we like them.... if you think Brady is not a pure blooded Michigan Man....let support him, Michigan Men are shaped at Michigan....for some of them the shaping starts earlier than for others...the end product should be just as good.... so Let's re-group and GO BLUE....MICHIGAN FOREVER!!!

maizeblueNY

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:38 p.m.

This is a good hire people! You complained about the spread, gone! You complained about RR not being a MICH Man, gone! We have a man who WANTS this job above all others. That means serious motivation and a desire to succeed! The big name coach is great, but the guy with ties to the school and always wanted to come back to coach is even better. JH wants the NFL, he got it, he would have left us anyways for that dream if he came. Miles is readying for a Naty champ run next year at LSU, plus........he's 58! Hoke is ready, he knows big ten football, he knows what the last game in NOVEMBER means. We are on our way. I'm not sayig we beat OSU next year, but I can bet you we'll be more darn competitive. HAIL TO THE VICTORS, GO BLUE!

mun

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:22 p.m.

To those who are slamming Brady Hoke, I have 4 words for you: AUBURN COACH GENE CHIZEK. Check out his record at Iowa State.

#58ontheroster

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:20 p.m.

Jeeze, reading the comments of some of you is really revolting. Brady Hoke hasn't even stepped on campus yet and you're complaining. I'd use the word for female dog, but that would get me kicked off of this site. To inform all of you non-quals (a Marine Corps term for the non-qualified) Bo was Michigan's 3rd choice in 1969. Don Canham went after Joe Paterno, and George Allen. Allen recommended Bo, and the rest is history. How do I know this. I was a senior on Bo's first team at Michigan. Go ahead and look it up. I was #58. Hoke will be an excellent coach for Michigan because he believes in Bo's concept of "If the other team can't score, they can't win." Bo told us in January of 1969 that the most important part of the team was the defense. Offense sells tickets, defense wins championships. Always has been that way, always will be that way. So quit your moanin' and groanin' and enjoy the wins.

a2chrisp

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:18 p.m.

The cupboard isn't bare. RR just didnt know how to use the players he had. I am glad to have someone coaching michigan who is excited to coach at michigan. Neither JH nor LM seemed to be. Go Blue, and good luck coach Hoke.

Jonny Spirit

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:06 p.m.

Hokey Dokey, Good luck and welcome aboard. Glad you could come back. I hope you do well, but you have got a lot of work to do. The last nut job messed up everything. I hope he didn't leave your cupboards bare :) @bossman23 you can't copy somebody, that's as bad as giving yourself a nick name, like "bossman" ha ha ha (JK). He needs to come up with something better. Hope it's good.

upman01

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:58 p.m.

Is it just me or isn't it easier to go from the spread back to more of a pro-style offense than from the pro-stlye to the spread?

Jaxon5

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:58 p.m.

I first learned the news of Brady Hoke's hire on AnnArbor.com. Congratulations to AnnArbor.com on covering the story from the beginning.

bossfan23

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:57 p.m.

Though no coach's contract will ever contain the words, "till death do us part....," the relationship between a college and it's football coach is very similar to a marriage. The marriage of RR and Michigan was doomed from the start. No matter how long he was given to right the ship, it was destined to end in an ugly divorce. If you have ever been in that situation, you understand that you do not wait for a better replacement to come along, but instead end one relationship before starting another. That is the way that DB handled this very messy divorce and hiring. I don't have any problem with that. Many have made much noise regarding Brady Hoke's record at previous stops but that isn't the issue here. Brady Hoke was not hired because of what he has done in the past but is here because of what he will do in the future. He is here because he embodies that which this university holds dear! For proof, you need only to look at Auburn. Gene Chizik was not hired because he was the most attractive candidate for the job. Certainly it wasn't because of his many previous accomplishments. In his only head coaching stint, he had gone 5-19 at Iowa State. Still, in a very short time, he was able to rebuild the once proud Auburn program and today he is on top of the college football world. The same can happen here at Michigan and I hope that everyone will embrace this coach and his program, and we'll see if history can repeat itself. I am willing to bet that it can!

Terrin

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:53 p.m.

1st Down makes a very good point. Schools like Ball State and SDSU usually play much harder non-conference games then their conference games. The reason is money. Take EMU for example, it makes big bucks when it plays a University like Michigan or Ohio State because it takes home a portion of the Gate. EMU made five hundred thousand for playing Michigan and like eight hundred thousand for playing Ohio State. It doesn't make five hundred thousand in ticket sales all year. So, that is big money for these types of schools. SDSU also doesn't make much from ticket sales and tends to schedule harder non-confernece games with big schools like Michigan just to make money to fund the program. Typically, the lessor conferences don't expect to beat out the bigger conferences, but the money is necessary. So, looking at Hoke's record in the conference games is more fair. If EMU won all of its conference games, nobody would fault it for losing to Universities like Michigan, Notre Dame, or OHio State. Schools like SDSU and EMU simply don't have access to the same talent level.

TrueBlueinOH

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:46 p.m.

Congratulations Coach Hoke! Looking forward to many successful years at the helm of the greatest football program in the country!

Terrin

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:37 p.m.

1st Down makes a very good point. Schools like Ball State and SDSU usually play much harder non-conference games then their conference games. The reason is money. Take EMU for example, it makes big bucks when it plays a University like Michigan or Ohio State because it takes home a portion of the Gate. EMU made five hundred thousand for playing Michigan and like eight hundred thousand for playing Ohio State. It doesn't make five hundred thousand in ticket sales all year. So, that is big money for these types of schools. SDSU also doesn't make much from ticket sales and tends to schedule harder non-confernece games with big schools like Michigan just to make money to fund the program. Typically, the lessor conferences don't expect to beat out the bigger conferences, but the money is necessary. So, looking at Hoke's record in the conference games is more fair. If EMU won all of its conference games, nobody would fault it for losing to Universities like Michigan, Notre Dame, or OHio State. Schools like SDSU and EMU simply don't have access to the same talent level.

EVRYBDYZGT1

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:29 p.m.

@Boss. Goosebumps!

bossfan23

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:21 p.m.

The stage is set. Tomorrow night at halftime of the M-OSU basketball game, Brady Hoke is introduced. The sold out crowd at the "House that Cazzie built," gives him an enthusiastic welcome. When he takes the microphone to address the crowd, he says, "In 318 days, Nov.26th, the Ohio State Buckeyes will be next door to play us in the Big House. Earlier today I met with our team and we began to prepare for that game. If you are proud Michigan alumni, welcome back! If you are a top prospect that would like a chance to play for the winningest program in NCAA football history, be watching! If you are the players that will be taking the field that day, be ready to make history!"

tzgoblue

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:19 p.m.

I would be interested to know how many of you that are already trashing Hoke know him, have ever talked to him, have ever seen him coach a team in practice, recruit an athlete. You are condeming him without even knowing him. On the other hand everyone that has been actually associated with this individual either as a fellow coach or a player are absolutely sold on him as an outstanding coach, recruiter and person. I'll take their opinions over the BS you guys are spreading. I wish those of you that are already singing doom and gloom would refrain from actually calling yourselves true MI fans and supporters. RR made his bed and he must lie in it. He didn't embrace the tradition, he didn't embrace the former players, he committed NCAA violations that cost MI tons of money and embrassment and he did not make any progress in 3 yrs. He was only good at making excuses. Through all of that I continued to support the team and try to make sense of what RR was doing. I have been a true fan for over 40 yrs

Mo the Educator

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:17 p.m.

When Rodriguez came, I was excited. I believed that he could bring Michigan back to national prominence, and would get us competing for mythical National Championships. I was wrong. Three years later, we're worse off. Hoke? I feel the exact opposite. I feel like we're on our way to becoming SMU, needing decades to fix what we've done to ourselves. Three years from now, I could be as wrong as I was about Rodriguez. Either way, I'm still cheering every Saturday for my home team... up the mountain or off the cliff. Welcome to Ann Arbor, Coach Hoke. I'm skeptical as (heck), but I'd be infinitely happier being wrong about you than right about you!

stunhsif

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:16 p.m.

Who? Never heard of him!

PortageLkBlu

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:15 p.m.

@lu lu be nice. Like it or not these are our guys from top to bottom we might as well treat them with dignity. Whether we like it or not their our boys from DB to DR, let's embrace them.

lulu

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:13 p.m.

Good Luck Coach Hoke. You will need it. Your athletic director and assistant athletic director are idiots.

Ellen

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:08 p.m.

Ok, so we've been graced with Bo Had Mo Then lucky again with Lo Then Rut-Ro So is Brady Hoke's nic "Ho" or "Bro"???

Dalex64

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:52 p.m.

So, for all of you who are upset with them going with their "third choice", would you be any happier with the 4th pick?

PortageLkBlu

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:44 p.m.

Who the heck can really predict at this point in time. I detect a relief in many fans I hope that's not why this guy was hired, to get it over with. At this point he sounds like an okay to decent guy and coach. I hope he's got enough sense to mix up the offense, a little pro set and a little spread. If he goes back to the LLoyd Carr style we're doomed to go back in time to what many wanted to get away from. I for one will support him as I did RR from beginning to end. It is my belief if we go back to old traditional style Mich. football we are not going to beat Ohio State. Who knows, maybe this is what is meant to be to continue the rich tradition of Mich. football. With Brady Hoke (nice name) based on his record we will have to wait and see.

townie54

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:41 p.m.

no mookienation your wrong Rich Rod didnt need our help to fail.He did that all right on his own.

fasteddie2009

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:37 p.m.

To those who are not happy with Dave's selection.. just to bad.. To those who are happy that this all is behind us great and we now can start on the road to recovery. Lets all give Coachy Hoke a chance and a few years to get us back up to a winning and respected Big 10 + 2 again. GoBle and happy.. I will support Hoke 100%.. Hope you will too.

YpsiBronc

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:34 p.m.

All of the Hoke Naysayers need to get over it. I'm sure Bo had his detractors at the time he was hired. Bo himself was roundly criticized by "fans" for his bowl record. The same negative patterns followed with Moeller and Carr, not to mention RR. Not surprising that no one else wanted the job now. Hoke needs strong support and patience to resurrect the program.

misti3k

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:33 p.m.

Mr. Hoke, I am absolutely rooting for you 100%. I wish you nothing but the best, and I hope you are treated better than your predecessor. Congratulations on the job, and please convince Denard Robinson and Devin Gardner that those who stay will be champions. Mr. Brandon, thanks for not hiring Les Miles, but if Brady Hoke was your first choice this whole "search" was a charade and you should have hired him six weeks ago. If he wasn't, Michigan just got rejected by at least 2 more candidates. Neither scenario looks good for you or the University. Don't forget that perception is reality, especially to young men making one of the most important decisions of their lives. You've put Brady Hoke and Michigan behind the 8-ball with this hiring process.

dexterreader

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:32 p.m.

OK, the deed is done. Time will tell. But he will be under a lot of pressure to live up to expectations. Then again, I'm no football expert, so I guess that's why they pay him "the big bucks".

txrosegirl

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:32 p.m.

Welcome back to AA Coach Hoke! I was there when we won the national championship in 1997 (no matter what the Nebraska fans say, we would have kicked their butts!) and remember how good our team (especially DEFENSE) was. Please UM fans, rally behind him! Hoke is exactly what we need right now - a spark and energy and love for UM football that we have been missing. GO BLUE!

southernblu

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:31 p.m.

Did everyone see all of those 4 and 5 star recruits Ball State had when Hoke coached there got them a #12 national ranking? Me neither.

1st Down

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:29 p.m.

BTW...Gene Chisik was a terrible coach at Iowa St. and Auburn fans hated the hire...but in year 2...he gets the Crystal. Yes, I know it helps that he paid big money for his players... but it does show that prior record doesnt necessarily matter...talent does.

ThoseWhoStayUofM

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:29 p.m.

Hoke was the man David Brandon wanted all along. Harbaugh was persuaded to go to the NFL by Michigan and never given a legitimate offer. Les Miles was offered a contract for less than what he makes at LSU and thus was intentionally averted. Brady Hoke was the man all along and it's sad that this whole charade had to occur just to get the same old, typical Michigan guy in here.

loco123

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:26 p.m.

RichCall: "Brady wants the position - that means a lot" I hope someone wanting the job is the absolute minimum requirement on DB's list. Although I generally agree that it's not a good idea to take a job that you actually "don't want." I 'want' the job as President of Quality at Budweiser but they didn't offer me the job. And...I'm good at drinkin' beer.

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:26 p.m.

"Coach Hoke Reflects on his successful decade with UM". by Theo 212 & Tater Jan. 12, 2021 ANN ARBOR - After winning his 3rd Crystal trophy with Michigan Wolverines routing Les Miles and his hapless LSU Tigers by 42 points, 56-14, in the highest rated ever BCS title game, Coach Hoke was asked by a horde of reporters to reflect on his first ten years at UM as the head coach. Hoke: Man, this is as sweet as our first 2 BCS titles and AD Brandon has been after me to sign a hugely astronomical salary extension but like Woody Hayes, I am thoroughly satisifed with what I make and am enjoying myself at this greatest university of em all. Denard Robinson, the 3 time Super Bowl MVP, for the Detroit Lions pops up in and had this to say about Hoke. DENARD: I easily would have transferred outta of here if not for Coach Hoke and I am grateful for Coach in making me a better player and look where I am now with my Lions. DENARD: When we won the first ever BCS title for Michigan when I was a senior, I'll never forget how Hoke masterfully told us at halftime (UM down by 10) not to give up and win it 4 BO by playing a tape of Bo's famous "THE TEAM" speech to the team. We knew we would come back and win the game (UM 35 Alabama 24 in 2013 BCS title game). TO BE CONTINUED! That was a glimpse of the near future, everybody. HOKE IS IT

1st Down

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:25 p.m.

Regarding Harbaugh and Miles... both would have been great here...but also both were potential negative powderkegs based on their quirky and explosive personalities and questionable pasts.... the program needs stability now and getting back to its Bo roots. My only concern about Brady is recruiting... it does help that he was at Ball State for years so he should have good relationships with HS coaches all over the midwest...but can he recruit on the big level? I think he will and do it passionately...

Bluefire

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:23 p.m.

I read (somewhere) that he was described as someone who "looks and sounds like Yogi the Bear. " I wish him all the best and hope we can turn that description into our term of endearment for him!

1st Down

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:22 p.m.

Hoke's offense was #16 overall this year, hopefully he brings his OC with him.... btw, AA's Jen Eyer: cute pic!

Larry Weisenthal

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:20 p.m.

Brady reminds me not a little of Bo, only he's actually got a Michigan background. Brady is 12 years older than Bo, when Bo got the job. He's also about as much overweight as was Bo, when Bo got the job. Bo's record at Miami was 40-17-3 -- better than Brady's but Bo's schedule at Miami wasn't as formidable as SDSU's under Brady. Harbaugh would have been a temporary hire. Les Miles was 5 years older than Brady. All in all, I'm very happy. Relieved, and happy. Welcome to your once and hopefully long term present and future home, Coach!

glacialerratic

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:20 p.m.

Great choice. Might AA.com be facilitating this division among fans by fueling speculation and divisiveness? Reader comments are a cheap substitute for paying reporters to practice journalism. The invective that appears here is the cost we all pay.

riverraisin

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:19 p.m.

1stdown... That's exactly what I was thinking. Hoke reminds me of Moeller. He struggled at UI because he couldn't get the recruits or support there. He was just fine at UM. Hoke will be just fine here as well. Just give it time. Watch the team improve fundamentally his first season. The big recruits will follow. Soon enough we will be on top of the conference once again.

aareader

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:13 p.m.

@Jeff Richard I like your post! Sadly you may be speaking a lot of truth. Hoke should be "OK" but we could have done so much better. Go Blue

townie54

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:12 p.m.

c'mon Theo and Tater,annoint and welcome our new "KING"

packman

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:11 p.m.

I skipped to the end to avoid all of the inane comments and commentary. Go Hoke...Go Brady!!!

mookienation

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:10 p.m.

Anti-Hoke Michigan fans: You are the reason RichRod failed. A new head coach needs our support. Anything less is just counterproductive to the success of our team. Fortunately, I think Hoke will be able to handle the pressure better than Rodriguez was able to. Since Hoke has Michigan ties, the fan base won't be QUITE as divided this time, so that helps. But I think he's up for the challenge regardless. And stop citing his career overall record. It doesn't really mean a whole lot. He had a losing record his first four years at Ball State for a couple reasons: First, he started his tenure with someone elses players. And, rest assured, they were NOT good players. That was a dreadful program when he took it over. One of the worst in the nation. Second, he had never been a head coach before. Ball State hired a DL coach from Michigan to be their head coach. He had never done it before. He had to learn "on the job". This takes time to get used to. You don't just become a good head coach overnight. Obviously he became a better coach with time and eventually did the unthinkable by bringing Ball State football to the brink of a BCS bowl. I'm extremely satisfied with this hire. Hoke was Dave Brandon's #1 choice all along and justifiably so. Les Miles and Jim Harbaugh were never really options and Brandon knew that. I was so happy today when I found out we were getting Hoke instead of Miles. Let's rally behind this guy!

The Black Stallion3

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:09 p.m.

Congratulations Brady....Welcome back to Ann arbor.....Go Blue

shane smith

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:09 p.m.

This could be a great hire,if you small thinkers will let him do his job.Because of all this outside pressure you video game football fans,have almost turned THE MICHIGAN JOB INTO A MID MAJOR JOB.This is your last shot at gaining back some RESPECT IN THE WORLD OF COLLEGE FOOTBALL.If you don't things have changed in COLLEGE FOOTBALL the last 5 years.Look at the final Polls.TCU number 2,Boise State was there for a while,look at Nevada.You pick anyone of your teams in the Big Ten,these 3 teams would beat any and every one of them.TCU took care of the Chesse Heads.They were supposed to be the hottest team in the country.Everybody can play now GUYS,AND GIRLS.Support Brady and hope for the best.Peace Out.

Craig Lounsbury

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:06 p.m.

I wish him all the best. There are no guarantees in this sort of thing. I just wish his head coaching resume looked a little more promising.

rocco

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:06 p.m.

Michigan fans, let's be honest about this. For Brady Hoke, the Michigan job was a giant step up. For Jim Harbaugh and Les Miles it was a giant step down.

missionbrazil

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:05 p.m.

D21 "Hoke is naming you as his special teams coach." Nowhere to go but up with that.

southernblu

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:05 p.m.

Hoke is smart enough to know the situation he's getting into. We fans need to be realistic and we need to be patient. Hoke certainly has enough personnel for Michigan to win as many games as it did last year. I do not see a Big Ten championship next year, but who knows after that?

Rich Call

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:03 p.m.

Harbaugh and Miles didn't want to come back to Michigan - please let it die. Brady wants the position - that means a lot. I'm an alum of Ball State and he did one heck of a job there with no where near the talent that Michigan has. Brady will get the job done- just don't expect miracles the first year. Go Blue

Tony

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:02 p.m.

RRod was a flashy choice and people complained. Now they complain that Hoke isn't flashy enough. If Hoke brings his coordinators with and adds some Big Ten experienced asst's, he will do great. Tressell was at Youngstown St, Meyer was at Bowling Green and then Utah, Kelly was at Grand Valley and CMU. Bottom line is those guys can coach and so can Brady. His record is skewed because he took over horrible programs, lost the first year or two, turned the programs into winners and moved to a better job. Ball State has been at the bottom of the MAC since he left, but were #12 in the country while he was there. Due to this recruiting class being shaky, it will take him awhile, but UM will be back. He convinced Tom Brady to leave CA and come to UM, so he can recruit. If players don't leave and Woolfork and Floyd come back healthy, it won't be a big step backward before getting back to the top. Only concern is I believe SDSU ran a 3-3-5 defense also, but they played it much better. Give him a chance

AAmom

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 6:02 p.m.

"The Brady Bunch!" Go Blue!

tim

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:57 p.m.

I'm glad they hired Mr Hoke--- give the guy a chance he's had to work with some really really bad teams and has turned them around-- he's hungry-- he's ready-- he's do. Those other guys don't have his passion-- just wait you'll see

oldblueypsi

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:56 p.m.

For those who are asking Brady who?: I recall that, when we hired another MAC coach forty plus years ago, a lot of people were asking Bo who? (And "Bo who" had never spent any time coaching here prior to his hire. Yes, he'd been here before - as a member of Dr. Strangehayes staff.) Brady understands the system and the Big Ten. Give Denard and Devon an animal in the backfield (5 yards and a cloud of dust), and they'll run wilder than Denard did this year, and against everybody. Brady will find a couple of Big Ten gorillas to shore up the defense, and then watch out. Looking forward to Brady v Les in a national championship game.

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:55 p.m.

loco123, Brandon wanted to leave a bigger carbon footprint.

aareader

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:53 p.m.

As Carla stated in a Cheers episode "LOOK EVERY BODY I GOT DOOR #3!" when referring to her blind date. It may be the same for MIchigan. ( Why did DB waste our time and cause unrest in recruits?? ) Is this the guy that does not care for the spread type offense at all. ( It has been reported thinks Oregon's offense does not work) Does that mean we lose the players like Denard, Roundtree etc. If so the program goes back 3 more years??? The "big game last night did not feature the type of offense Hoke runs.... so will our best finish be????? The AD has disappointed a lot of MIchigan fans by not looking ahead to the next level. I will be "fun" to watch another rebuilding sequence as noted and when we are "there" we can be content to see old time football that may net a big ten (12) title once in awhile but not much more... But as always GO BLUE!

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:53 p.m.

Thank you MissionBrazil, Hoke is naming you as his special teams coach.

Jeff Richard

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:52 p.m.

Sadly, we take a coach with only 3 winning seasons out of 8 in second tier leagues. I'm sure he will conduct himself as a Michigan man, but the likelihood of a return anytime soon to prominence as a football powerhouse is low. We just did the equivalent of hiring a struggling, small town pizza store owner as the next CEO of Domino's just because he got his start at Dominos. Would any other top 20 school have hired Hoke? Not a chance... we placed too much importance on his Michigan pedigree while numerous other available coaches have a far superior coaching pedigree.. including Rich Rodriguez who prior to Michigan, at least coached a more prominent team that Hoke's to a national championship game, not an 8-4 season and Poinsettia bowl. Let's hope Hoke is a diamond in the rough, because he certainly doesn't have a lot of shine coming into the position.

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:51 p.m.

Hula Lola, Duly noted;) Theo212, Ye shall be restored back to the Ring of Honor and the exclusive Crystal Club once you renounce RR and embrace Hoke in your poem that puts the rest of your all other poems into shame. Do the hokey pokey, Theo212. GO BLUE!

missionbrazil

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:51 p.m.

Brady Hoke's SDSU team lost 4 games this year: at Missouri (by 3) (# 18) at BYU (by 3) at TCU (by 5) (# 2) Utah (by 4) (#25) They were in every one of these games and were not blown out by anyone. Plus they beat 9-4 Air Force and 9-4 Navy. The year before he took over they were 2-10. Seems like he did a great job in his 2 years at SDSU.

Rob Pollard

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:49 p.m.

Not the way I would have gone, but I wish him luck and success. I hope he and Michigan do well. It certainly a possibility, but he'll have a tough road. For all those feeling he'll "restore" things next year and wanted RR gone, I hope everyone realizes he'll need to do it for the next two years with all RR's players, unless you're keen on starting true and RS freshmen again. Luckily for Hoke, he has 19 starters coming back (assuming he can keep them). Hopefully, Denard and others don't go to Pittsburgh, but that will be up to Mr. Hoke. I'm not looking forward to a possible Jack Kennedy at QB era.

loco123

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:48 p.m.

Dear Domino's Pizza Shareholders, Thank you for letting our AD fly around the country for the last two days in your $50 million Falcoln 2000 private jet. Nice ride. You must know that UM Football is SO important that there is no other way for us to hire a coach. It was an important part of our 'hiring process'...or was your jet already booked the week after the OSU game? Sincerely, The guy who orders your pizza and now has to pay for this

Gwhizz

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:47 p.m.

Some of the comments I have read from individuals masquerading as Michigan fans sicken me. Mr. Hoke deserves an enthusiastic welcome and a legitimate chance to return Michigan Football to the top. Jim Harbaugh obviously did not want to be here, and if memory serves, he did not want the Michigan job before Rich Rodriguez was hired. Les Miles was never a serious candidate, especially after the fiasco encountered during the last coaching search. Brady Hoke wants to be at Michigan, so instead of speculating on whether or not he was first second or third choice; accept it and hope it translates as success on the field, which is the ultimate goal. GO BLUE!!!

Blueman Rick

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:46 p.m.

RudeJude: Great post.

Cash

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:44 p.m.

You put Harbaugh in, You put Les Miles out; You put Pinkel in, Brandon shakes it all about. You do the Hokey-Pokey, And you get yourself a coach. That's what it's all about! Good luck Coach Hoke!

Lola

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:44 p.m.

D21, A) I think my chant is more cleaver than yours;-) and B) I have nothing against Hoke. I wish him well and hope he can turn the program around. It was intended to be more of a statement about some of Michigan's fair weather fans.

EVRYBDYZGT1

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:42 p.m.

Theo212, Meet your new King. Arise loyal subject.

lugemachine

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:41 p.m.

I have zero qualms about this hire. If they are being honest, those in Columbus and East Lansing have qualms-a-plenty... sleeping giant and all that. A meager ray of light is shining on Michigan football today. It's just the start. Welcome back to the Big House, Brady!

goodthoughts

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:40 p.m.

When I first heard about him I wasn't sure. This article gave me food for thought though.. http://msn.foxsports.com/collegefootball/story/brady-hoke-not-jim-harbaugh-is-perfect-coach-for-michigan-wolverines-010711 Go Blue!!!

RudeJude

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:39 p.m.

A quote from Charles Woodson: "I'm excited for Brady Hoke and even for Michigan," Green Bay Packers and former Michigan star Charles Woodson wrote in a text message to The Associated Press. "I'm glad this process is over and we can begin to restore the tradition and respect that was once Michigan."

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:39 p.m.

Buckeyes, You all better strap on your helmets and get prepared to get pancaked and manhandled all over the field all day long against Hoke and his Band of Blue Brothers team this late fall. UM 27 OSU 24 Stoic Tressel finally pulls a Woody and tear down the yard marker...Priceless!

southernblu

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:38 p.m.

I, for one, am going to support Brady Hoke. Dave Brandon made a good point about Jim Tressel's history (coming from a less prestigious school) and how well that's worked out for Ohio State (especially against Michigan). This is a great case of UM fans getting what they need as opposed to what they think they want. Also, it really doesn't matter whether other coaches want to come here or not. What matters is the coach WHO DOES WANT to be here. Yes, Michigan is down and is not as attractive a job as in years past. So what? If Hoke brings that program back up, it will be as attractive as ever. Bo had to restore Michigan to national prominence when he arrived. He did and we basked in his hard work for decades. Honestly, do the people on these boards actually know UM football history?

1st Down

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:36 p.m.

Well... in a way, its good that we hired him since we play SDSU this fall...and id rather have him on our sideline than theirs lol... Seriously though, lets see how this all plays out before casting judgement on Coach Hoke. He may do very well here. Remember that Gary Moeller was 6-24 at Ill and a total failure there but because a good HC here after his assistant to Bo Stint...it can happen.

BMZ

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:35 p.m.

These are Brady Hoke's answers from an interview at San Diego. BH I told the team the first time I met with them, Were going to play for our seniorsso our seniors can leave a legacy. And then, obviously, recruiting is a big part of it, because when you have pretty good players youre a pretty good coach. Whats your offensive style? BH Its about two thingsoffense and defense. Were going to be multiple in what we do offensively and defensively. Where a lot of guys make a mistake is forgetting youve got to have a system thats going to fit your personalities. So were going to take advantage of what we do well I hope DR and the rest of the team gives him a chance.

John

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:35 p.m.

Great. Hire him during the recruiting dead period. Hoke can't have ANY contact with recruits until the 14th. Great job, Brandon. At least that gives committed and potential recruits time to look up "Brady Hoke" in wikipedia.

blusage

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:34 p.m.

Just heard on ESPN that Hoke brought Tom Brady to Michigan. Not a bad judge of talent.

Nick

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:33 p.m.

good day for Brady Hoke

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:33 p.m.

Hola Lola, Your comment: I think gyre is correct. They only hired him because Harbaugh and Miles turned them down. How long before we start hearing the fans chant "Hoke is a joke" from the stands? Counterpoint of the day: How long before we start hearing the fans chant, "Hoke 4 President" or "Hoke Is It"? That will happen after the final game of next season against Teflon Tressel and his Buckeyes. Hoke, welcome back to A2!

wpm

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:31 p.m.

Wouldn't have been my choice... Will create immediate challenges with recruiting & with the current players (read Denard). I am a bit sick to my stomach. BUT - with that said - I HIGHLY ENCOURAGE EVERYONE (myself included) TO PUT THIS SEARCH IN THE REAR VIEW MIRROR AND GET BEHIND COACH HOKE!!! If we don't we are doomed. WELCOME ABOARD COACH! Let's roll up our sleeves and make some good things happen. Go Blue.

The Black Stallion3

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:29 p.m.

Congratulations Brady....Welcome back to Ann arbor.....Go Blue

1st Down

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:29 p.m.

SDSU S&C video... kids working hard, old skool http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5TftXReVoQ&feature=related

1st Down

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:27 p.m.

When looking at Hoke's record, it is important to consider his LEAGUE record vs. overall. Coaching at schools like Ball St. and SDSU, the non conference schedule will typically be tougher than the league schedule, playing teams that those schools would typically be overmatched in talent (Big Ten non conference etc). Therefore his record in the respective leagues to my eyes is more telling....and there has been some improvement there for both programs. Seems like a good guy, former players like him... would like to see him lose some weight though at his age to carry that much weight is not a good thing. Hoke's S and C guy is supposed to be one of the best in the country...

garrisondyer

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:27 p.m.

Nice to have a head coach again! Here's to hoping Hoke makes the haters choke! :) I'm excited to see something new, when compared to the last few years of "build-up let-down". Seriously, GO BLUE!

Blueman Rick

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:26 p.m.

The Carr conspiracy talk is ridiculous hyperbole. Grow up.

Blueman Rick

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:25 p.m.

The Carr conspiracy talk is ridiculous hyperbole. Grow up.

Blueman Rick

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:25 p.m.

The Carr conspiracy talk is ridiculous hyperbole. Grow up.

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:24 p.m.

Brandon, let's schedule more heavyweights like LSU in addition to Alabama. One game is gonna be very interesting next season and no, it ain't even those little brothers (msu) but Hoke's former team, SDSU Aztecs.

georgegoright

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:23 p.m.

tater: Great. The Carr-tel has won. They have been rewarded for their sabotage of RR's tenure by seeing one of their own named head coach. Could not agree with you more! More of the same

Blueman Rick

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:23 p.m.

Numbering 1st, 2nd 3rd choice is a waste of time. It's all conjecture. I never thought for a minute Les would return after the Martin fiasco. That train left the station 3 1/2 years ago. Why would he come now? He's 57 and has a great program, recruits and a NC. Hoke's our man. So let's git 'r done. Go Blue.

chill out

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:22 p.m.

Hoke was the first choice of a huge portion of the fan base. He was my first choice. I think he's a better choice than Harbaugh or Miles - frankly both those guys are just flat out weird, and who wouldn't have success with Andrew Luck and SEC recruits. Hoke is a solid guy who gets the most out of his players, and he will have a lot of success for a long time.

GoblueinNE_PA

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:21 p.m.

I think Coach Hoke will be a good game day coach, an x's and o's guy, that will not get outcoached on Saturdays. I also think he'll teach fundamentals, something that was sorely lacking during the RichRod era. However, I don't know how he's going to do on the recruiting trail. Out here in PA, I've got folks asking me, "Who's Brady Hoke?". I can't believe that's good for recruiting when you are an unknown. And as is obviously demonstrated here, he won't heal the split in the fan base. He's the right guy, just has the wrong name.

DenardedGOBLUE!

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:21 p.m.

David Brandon completely failed on this hiring process. Is this really an upgrade from Rich Rod? The answer is NO it is not. Should have kept Rich Rod, now we are stuck with a NEVER WAS in Brady Joke..... I mean Hoke!

rico2458

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:20 p.m.

BRADY HOKE is going to be a good coach his hart is in michigan thats a plus and the player are going to love him.give him 3 years you see

Art

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:19 p.m.

See ya Devin & Denard. At least Gardner can transfer with four years of eligibility (waiver for medical) but Denard may have to lose a year. Hoke is a joke! I'm sure the high power recruits (4 &5 ) will knocking down our door as he is so well know. I forgot it's Michigan, like it matters.

WolverineWhisperer

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:18 p.m.

Hiring Brady Hoke: from this vantage point, all the makings of a complete and utter disaster. A 46-50 record, no experience in recruiting Big 10 level talent in the last 8 years -- this is the best Brandon could come up with? I'm disgusted. Of course, we have no choice now but to wait and see, but my expectations are for nothing good to come from this. This could really be the final nail in the coffin for the Michigan football tradition.

EVRYBDYZGT1

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:17 p.m.

10 negative comments 2 neutral 23 positive comments

Blueman Rick

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:14 p.m.

I'm good w/ Hoke. As a former UM D line coach he has an understanding of the defensive side of the ball. 1/11/11 the date Michigan football begins it's climb back to prominence. Let's get moving. Go Blue!

Yelmonian

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:13 p.m.

Tater, You will evenentually support Hoke? Weren't you one of the many that the fans were supposed to support UM no matter what? If you weren't going to follow RR blindly, then jump off the bandwagon because you and UM did not need them? But you will "eventually support" Hoke?

blueinwestpenn

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:12 p.m.

As history shows, this is the beginning not the end. Brady Hoke needs to bring in the best assistant coaches and coordinators* he possibly can bring in. We need to stay united. After all, exactly what choice do we have not to? Go Blue and welcome Brady Hoke! Let's beat state and OSU! *these guys do 95% of the recruiting, 100% of the player development

Yelmonian

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:12 p.m.

Tater, You will evenentually support Hoke? Weren't you one of the many that the fans were supposed to support UM no matter what? If you weren't going to follow RR blindly, then jump off the bandwagon because you and UM did not need them? But you will "eventually support" Hoke?

hroad

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:11 p.m.

Lets all drink the Hoca Cola!

KeepingItReal

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:10 p.m.

Denard and Devin. Please explore other options.

The OSU

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:10 p.m.

Hoke's skills (or lack of skills) isn't what will kill what remains of Blue's FB program. It's your divided fan base. You guys are pathetic. Go Bucks! Let's Beat Michigan Again!

heartbreakM

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:10 p.m.

LOL @loco. Though the process was frustrating for all of us, and did not make MIchigan look good, I personally feel much better about this hire than that RR hire a few years ago. Hey, Hoke has not only been in our state before, but he has seen the lockers, doesn't view this as an escape, and knows the victors. He will not have to read Bo's book to learn about Michigan. Certainly, we all hope he has success and hope he can transform these players from raw talent into coached up disciplined players. Good luck, Coach Hoke. What does LC have to say?

heartbreakM

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:07 p.m.

LOL @loco. Though the process was frustrating for all of us, and did not make MIchigan look good, I personally feel much better about this hire than that RR hire a few years ago. Hey, Hoke has not only been in our state before, but he has seen the lockers, doesn't view this as an escape, and knows the victors. He will not have to read Bo's book to learn about Michigan. Certainly, we all hope he has success and hope he can transform these players from raw talent into coached up disciplined players. Good luck, Coach Hoke. What does LC have to say?

johnnya2

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:06 p.m.

There is no evidence that Miles was offered the job. I believe Brandon was wary of Miles from the start, but knew he needed to at least interview him. In an ideal world he would have picked Harbaugh if Jim had given him an indication he wanted it. Harbaugh did not turn down Michigan to stay where he was. He went to the NFL. I wonder if Tom Izzo had gone to the NBA would MSU fans say they were stuck with a second choice? I had reservations about Miles from three years ago and still do. Harbaugh was always going to be an NFL coach eventually. Hoke has landed the job he wants. STABILITY is what keeps programs great. MSU went from Heathcoate to Izzo. Wisconsin went from Alverez to Bilema. Hoke will bring stabilty and won't be the Larry Brown or Nick Saban always looking for what else is out there.

BlueGator

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:02 p.m.

It'll be extremely interesting to see who Brady selects as his assistant coaches. I hope he packs some bags and shows up tomorrow ready to start contacting recruits.

EVRYBDYZGT1

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 5:01 p.m.

Denard, I'd like you to meet your new coach.

umgoblue47

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:59 p.m.

i hope we can all come together and support the new coach and the young men that play football for michigan... welcome coach hoke... GO BLUE...

missionbrazil

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:59 p.m.

Congrats Brady Hoke. I believe he is going to surprise alot of people, and he will get our D straightened out. He seems to have great passion for coaching at UM, and I think that is one reason why he got the job, plus he has the ability to turn a program around. Go Blue!

A2comments

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:58 p.m.

Welcome Coach Hoke! Let's let the man do his job without critiquing every decision.

Lola

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:56 p.m.

I think gyre is correct. They only hired him because Harbaugh and Miles turned them down. How long before we start hearing the fans chant "Hoke is a joke" from the stands?

loco123

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:54 p.m.

Used the latest technology to tap into the following conversations over the last 17 hours: Monday, January 10, 2011 11:45 PM Les Miles: Dave, its Les. Thanks for flying your wife down here today. Enjoyed you seeing our new kitchen. Dave Brandon: You bet. You going to be our coach? LM: No. Cant. Just got a big new contract from LSU. Been winning too much down here. DB: Any recommendations then? LM: Maybe a head coach with a bad record? Seems like youre having a hard time finding a guy who wins a lot. DB: Good point. Thanks for your time and well talk again in 3 years. Off the phone: DB: holy cow. Now I know why Bill Martin looked so bad doing this. Tuesday, January 11, 2011 9:00 AM Dave Brandon: Brady, Its Dave. Hows the weather in sunny CA? Brady Hoke: Probably a bit warmer than Ann Arbor. Read that you were with Les yesterday afternoon. How was the weather in Baton Rouge? DB: Sticky. Cant believe Les is staying there. Assume you got all the details from ESPN on that? Brady: Yeah. So whats up. DB: You want to be our head coach? Brady: Do you expect me to have a kicker who can make field goals? DB: Didnt think about that. I just know that youre a Michigan Man. But yes, field goals are good. Brady: Im in... if you come pick me up in the Dominos plane. DB: Sure. Im leaving after I pick up some Zingermans. You and everyone and their brother can track me on the internet. Be there tonight.

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:53 p.m.

Hoke will help erase RR forever from the fragile and ineffectual minds of those RR kool aid drinkers with a needed shot of GO BLUE into the football program. Let's do the Hokey Pokey.

RudeJude

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:53 p.m.

I'm excited for Coach Hoke! I believe Dave Brandon and Michigan have made the right decision. I'm happy to have a coach that sees Michigan as the pinnacle job, even if the rest of the country doesn't. A fresh start with a coach with integrity. You have my full support, Coach Hoke. Go Blue!

MjC

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:53 p.m.

Party at Fraser's!! Let's GO BLUE!

BornInA2

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:44 p.m.

Really? A bunch of RR Koolaiders whose theme song was "give him one more year" now dismissing Hoke as he's announced? I don't know much about him, but things can't get much worse and even if he's 6-6 next year it will be an improvement if he does it without major NCAA violations. Beat Ohio State!

blusage

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:39 p.m.

I'm good with the pick after reading this and this. Let's give the guy a chance. GO BLUE!

1174141376

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:38 p.m.

Congratulations to coach Hoke! Best of luck to you and the team. GO BLUE!

dk

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:37 p.m.

I think Hoke will do a good job if given full support from the UM community...........something Rich Rod did not have. That said, hard to believe Brandon would butcher this recruiting class (and most likely next) as well as impede Hoke's ability to put together a first class staff by waiting so long. If this had been done after the OSU game the program would be in MUCH better shape.

BlueGator

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:37 p.m.

Hoke was obviously the third (at least) choice, but so what? I like this selection better than Les Miles with all his baggage. Harbaugh was just a pipe dream. Welcome, Brady!

Marshall Applewhite

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:34 p.m.

Welcome Coach Hoke!!!!! GOOOOOOOO BLUE!!!!!!!!!!!!

beanie wells

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:32 p.m.

@PU MSU: agreed. i think hoke was in brandon's sights the whole time. so why the "charade"? for one, i don't think it was a total charade. i think it was worth the risk to make a decent run at harbaugh. i still think he was the first choice, even if brandon realized that harbaugh was NFL bound. imagine how nutso the fan base would be if brandon grabbed hoke early and completely ignored the pleas to get harbaugh or miles. no, this is a good hire. michigan folks should be happy about this one. of course, time will tell... but i think brandon got it right in the end.

upman01

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:27 p.m.

Lets give hoke a chance look at auburns coach chizik when he was a iowa state there record was horrible, and he just won the national championship. Lets see what hoke can do with the resources he will have at michigan. lets go blue

P U MSU

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:26 p.m.

Don't believe he was their 3rd choice. I think he was the guy all along. DB seem to know Harbaugh was going to the NFL. Sure enough he made that leap. If it was really Miles who turned the job down, then you are assuming that Hoke took the job without an interview? No. He was the guy all along. Welcome him please.

Keiffer

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:19 p.m.

It just goes to show you that you dont take a "pizza man" to make U of M Football decisions.

marlon glenn

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:16 p.m.

I agree Jason.Totally fake search. He hired Hoke a long time ago. All these lies about Hoke not being "contacted" and the next day after Miles he is named the coach? How stupid do you have to be to believe that line?

mcflies

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:16 p.m.

If UM did indeed settle they settled on the right man. Support this man. Don't run him out of town yet.

clarklaker

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:12 p.m.

welcome back brady.I bet this guy will a fire in his belly to get michigan on the right track. I for one feel with the right staff he will do well here. go blue

Jason

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:11 p.m.

I think Brandon was shady about this all a long. He needs to go.

grye

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:11 p.m.

Guess U of M settled for their third choice.

treetowncartel

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:11 p.m.

Welcome Mr. Hoke. I wish you nothing but prosperity. I hope everyone can now look forward and quit talking about the past few hours, days weeks, years and decades.

John

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:11 p.m.

Yay? It's nice to have the suspense over... but only time will tell if Brandon made the right hire. Go Blue

braggslaw

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:11 p.m.

David Brandon... colossal failure

P U MSU

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:10 p.m.

Told you all to be careful what you wish for. Please give Hoke a chance. I don't want another RR situation.

marlon glenn

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:10 p.m.

Fakest search in the history of searches. You could have HAD him MONTHS ago! Total complete joke. I mean Hoke...:(