missionbrazil

Fri, Jan 14, 2011 : 1:59 p.m.

When BH and his OC put together an offense with even more weapons than just DRob, DRob is going to be an even greater threat because the D will not be able to key in on just one guy. I believe the big area of improvement in the future for the O will be less penalties, less turnovers, and a much better Red Zone efficiency (good coaching will greatly improve these things). Even though we averaged alot of yards per game, our Red Zone efficiency was not good (last in the BT) and we missed alot of good scoring opportunities. Plus we should once again have the option to kick a field goal once in awhile, which will take some pressure off of DRob and the O. DRob may not get the total yards he had this year, but I believe his TD numbers will go up and his INT's will hopefully go well down also.

truebluefan

Fri, Jan 14, 2011 : 11:39 a.m.

johnnya2 -- The point is, Denard's passing numbers are as good as our traditional drop back passer of the last 15 years. And, oh by the way, he also rushed for over 1700 yards. The kid is one of the best athletes to play at Michigan in a long time. Last I checked, in order to get passing yards, you must pass to someone else, which means that another person besides Denard is involved in a passing play. The numbers are right there in front of you! Navarre, Henne and Griese had the opportunity to pad their stats against the non-conference cupcakes too. And we're talking about accomplishments of these quarterbacks IN COLLEGE. Certainly, Denard does not have the arm strength or visibility those other guys have and he is likely not an NFL QB. But unlike the drop back statues, Denard is always a threat to run, which makes the safeties bite and opens up passing lanes. If given the choice between a great drop back QB or a great dual threat QB, I'd take the dual threat guy every single time. Again, we're talking about the COLLEGE game.

johnnya2

Fri, Jan 14, 2011 : 9:34 a.m.

"Denard will flourish in an offense that requires him to run much less and actually has a downhill attack and running back threat" Actually Denard ran up his stats BECAUSE of this. Stats are blown up when you only have ONE person doing the heavy lifting. If you want a comparison on why it is a problem. Last season the basketball team had ONE go to guy and was not a very good team. This year, the offense is spread out to more people and they are a better team. Any person quoting stats on Tom Brady versus Denard Robinson is just plain silly. If there is a GM in any league anywhere EVER that would take Denard Robinson or a Michael Vick over Tom Brady, I can assure you they will be unemployed soon. Finally, I think a more telling stat is what Denard did in the Big Ten, not in the silly games where the teams are as small as he is. Denard is nowhere near as strong in any phase of the game as Cam Newton, or Michael Vick, and physically is not even in the same ball park

GoblueinNE_PA

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 8:50 p.m.

DRob is great, I repeat, GREAT college QB, but he's not going to make it in the NFL at that position. "How you possibly say that goblueinNE_PA? You're just a hater!", you're probably thinking to yourself. Well, let me tell you, it's got nothing to do with his arm strength or accuracy or completion %, it does have everything to do with the fact that he's probably luck to by 6' tall. That equation doesn't work for your average NFL QB. You have to be crazy good at throwing the ball like Brees is to make it at anything approaching that size. If he some how magically grows 4" or 5" between now and his senior year, he'd have a chance. At his current size, not so much. That's the difference between him and a guy like Josh Freeman. I'm sorry folks, that's the way it is in the League.

GoblueinNE_PA

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 8:50 p.m.

DRob is great, I repeat, GREAT college QB, but he's not going to make it in the NFL at that position. "How you possibly say that goblueinNE_PA? You're just a hater!", you're probably thinking to yourself. Well, let me tell you, it's got nothing to do with his arm strength or accuracy or completion %, it does have everything to do with the fact that he's probably luck to by 6' tall. That equation doesn't work for your average NFL QB. You have to be crazy good at throwing the ball like Brees is to make it at anything approaching that size. If he some how magically grows 4" or 5" between now and his senior year, he'd have a chance. At his current size, not so much. That's the difference between him and a guy like Josh Freeman. I'm sorry folks, that's the way it is in the League.

rico2458

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 6:20 p.m.

Denard Robinson is staying brady said it at the huge show

rico2458

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 6:20 p.m.

Denard Robinson is staying brady said it at the huge show

rico2458

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 6:17 p.m.

Denard Robinson is staying brady said it at the huge show

rico2458

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 6:17 p.m.

Denard Robinson is staying brady said it at the huge show

missionbrazil

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 6:08 p.m.

Keyser Soze... That would be great to see, for the team and for him. If Denard can keep improving like he did between 2009 and 2010 he could be a great.

missionbrazil

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 6:08 p.m.

Keyser Soze... That would be great to see, for the team and for him. If Denard can keep improving like he did between 2009 and 2010 he could be a great.

KeyserSoze

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 5:36 p.m.

I hear you mission Brazil, Cam put up good numbers with a conference schedule much tougher than Michigan's but Cam is also older and more seasoned than Denard. Let's also not forget the fact that he has received infinitely better coaching from the like's of Meyer and Chizik. I wasn't trying to say that Denard should have won the Heisman instead of Cam but that Denard is young, getting better, and talented enough to one day earn the praise at QB as the likes of Cam Newton.

KeyserSoze

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 5:36 p.m.

I hear you mission Brazil, Cam put up good numbers with a conference schedule much tougher than Michigan's but Cam is also older and more seasoned than Denard. Let's also not forget the fact that he has received infinitely better coaching from the like's of Meyer and Chizik. I wasn't trying to say that Denard should have won the Heisman instead of Cam but that Denard is young, getting better, and talented enough to one day earn the praise at QB as the likes of Cam Newton.

Mo the Educator

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 4:22 p.m.

As I consider tings from the team's perspective, I understand that you can't dictate what the team does based upon one athlete. At the same time, going into next season with Devin Gardner and Jack Kennedy as your QB's may be an infinitely worse problem than "catering" to one player. From Denard's perspective, he should do what's best for him. I don't know if he wants to play in the NFL or not, and whether he wants to be an NFL QB or not. I do know that he is a phenomenal spread-option college QB, and there are numerous college programs that he could lead to doing some real damage. So unfortunately, his best choice is probably to leave. And I feel kinda bad fan-wise for hoping that he stays at U of M (to his own detriment)

Mo the Educator

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 4:22 p.m.

As I consider tings from the team's perspective, I understand that you can't dictate what the team does based upon one athlete. At the same time, going into next season with Devin Gardner and Jack Kennedy as your QB's may be an infinitely worse problem than "catering" to one player. From Denard's perspective, he should do what's best for him. I don't know if he wants to play in the NFL or not, and whether he wants to be an NFL QB or not. I do know that he is a phenomenal spread-option college QB, and there are numerous college programs that he could lead to doing some real damage. So unfortunately, his best choice is probably to leave. And I feel kinda bad fan-wise for hoping that he stays at U of M (to his own detriment)

missionbrazil

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 4:20 p.m.

Portage "Coach Brady's inheritance will probably prdictably need at least 3 years to take on the Buc's and Brady knows it." I don't think BH knows any such thing. A man like BH does not even come close to thinking anything like that... that kind of thinking is your old guy RR, making excuses in his own mind ("the cupboard was bare") way before he actually loses a game (which to him was like any other game). BH is going to work hard, then work some more, and then scrap and work some more to make sure we are competitive asap, especially against "that school in Ohio". BH is much more tough minded than RR ever was or ever will be. Don't pretend to know what BH is thinking or what he knows.

missionbrazil

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 4:20 p.m.

Portage "Coach Brady's inheritance will probably prdictably need at least 3 years to take on the Buc's and Brady knows it." I don't think BH knows any such thing. A man like BH does not even come close to thinking anything like that... that kind of thinking is your old guy RR, making excuses in his own mind ("the cupboard was bare") way before he actually loses a game (which to him was like any other game). BH is going to work hard, then work some more, and then scrap and work some more to make sure we are competitive asap, especially against "that school in Ohio". BH is much more tough minded than RR ever was or ever will be. Don't pretend to know what BH is thinking or what he knows.

missionbrazil

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 3:18 p.m.

Ben... good comment & comparison to other UM QB's with stats to back it up. Keyser Soze "Denard had numbers on par with CAM Newton who won the Heisman and National Championship." DRob may have had rushing yards and passing yards that matched Cam Newton's, but Newton had 20 TD's rushing to 14 for DRob and Newton had 30 TD's passing to 18 for DRob. One of the biggest differences between them is the TD to INT ratio: Newton had 30 passing TD's to 7 INT's... DRob had 18 TD's to 11 INT's. I am definitely not a Cam Newton fan at all, but his numbers were really good, and he delivered in many clutch situations. Don't get me wrong, I think DRob had a great year and is a great player. BH was interviewed yesterday after the presser by the BT Network and he said "I see no reason why Denard cannot run our offense next season". A lot can happen between now and then, so we'll have to wait and see. If he does start at QB, I think BH will have an offense that can use his great talent & strengths, and protect him better than this past year. DRob is great to watch, but it was hard to watch him get banged up in alot of games too.

missionbrazil

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 3:18 p.m.

Ben... good comment & comparison to other UM QB's with stats to back it up. Keyser Soze "Denard had numbers on par with CAM Newton who won the Heisman and National Championship." DRob may have had rushing yards and passing yards that matched Cam Newton's, but Newton had 20 TD's rushing to 14 for DRob and Newton had 30 TD's passing to 18 for DRob. One of the biggest differences between them is the TD to INT ratio: Newton had 30 passing TD's to 7 INT's... DRob had 18 TD's to 11 INT's. I am definitely not a Cam Newton fan at all, but his numbers were really good, and he delivered in many clutch situations. Don't get me wrong, I think DRob had a great year and is a great player. BH was interviewed yesterday after the presser by the BT Network and he said "I see no reason why Denard cannot run our offense next season". A lot can happen between now and then, so we'll have to wait and see. If he does start at QB, I think BH will have an offense that can use his great talent & strengths, and protect him better than this past year. DRob is great to watch, but it was hard to watch him get banged up in alot of games too.

Charles Frey

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 2:43 p.m.

I hope QB Denard Robinson will stay at Michigan. He's a great quarterback, and HC Brady Hoke knows that, which is why Hoke will build an offense which will the make the most of Robinson's skills and talents. In addition, I like the way Michigan AD Dave Brandon conducted the firing of former HC Rich Rodriguez and hiring of new HC Brady Hoke; thorough, professional, and right on target. Brady Hoke is an excellent choice, and he's a great fit for Michigan. While many fans are disappointed that neither Jim Harbaugh nor Les Miles will be leading the Wolverines next season, I'm glad that Harbaugh is going to the 49ers and Miles is staying put at LSU. Why? Because neither one expressed any interest in coming to Michigan. In fact, after Harbaugh was hired by Stanford a few years ago, he made some disparaging remarks about Michigan's athletic department: "Michigan is a good school, and I got a good education there, but the athletic department has ways to get borderline guys in and, when they're in, they steer them to courses in sports communications." As for Les Miles, when speaking at a Cotton Bowl press conference where LSU was preparing to play Texas A&M, he said: "I have received no contact from Michigan. I'm really here to speak about no other school. I'm here to speak about LSU. Michigan will be fine. There will always be Michigan." His indifference toward Michigan is obvious and should be disturbing to any Wolverines fan. By contrast, Brady Hoke has always demonstrated unwavering dedication, loyalty, passion, and support for Michigan, and he will represent the football team with enthusiasm, honor, pride, professionalism, and a commitment to win.

lawrencelaundry

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 2:01 p.m.

If anyone knows how to get a hold of DB or Hoke, tell them they have to go after Dick Bumpas from TCU for the DC. This would be huge. If they could land him or maybe Randy Shannon for that spot, we could have somthing special in a few yrs even this yr. What u think 3andout?

truebluefan

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 1:37 p.m.

The Ben -- excellent QB comparison! And shame on those that don't care what Denard decides! Denard Robinson was just as effective passing the football in his first year as our highly touted drop back passers of the past 15 years despite being at least 3 inches shorter, running the ball at least 15 times per game and not having a productive running back. You want to know why we cannot afford to lose Denard? THIS is why! On top of all the statistics, Denard is the consummate team player and his personality and work ethic embody everything Hoke has been preaching about the team above individuals. Denard will flourish in an offense that requires him to run much less and actually has a downhill attack and running back threat. I won't be so bold to predict a Heisman next season but I can guarantee you that if he stays healthy he will be in New York.

blusage

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 1:09 p.m.

I'm not a big "running QB" fan -- and learning that Denard was hurt since September only convinces me more. Denard could be even MORE formidable in a Hoke offense. He has the ability to be a pass-first QB with the added big play threat should the pocket break down or on designed, but strategically and sparingly used, QB run plays. Most coaches didn't think he should even be playing QB in college, yet last year there was Heisman talk about him. He has everything it takes to succeed at QB at the college level.

KeyserSoze

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 12:52 p.m.

I agree with Ben. Denard is perfectly capable of being Michigan's QB. Denard had numbers on par with CAM Newton who won the Heisman and National Championship. He had numbers on par with other Michigan QB's who had way more talent around them. The Michigan offense in 2010 began and ended with Denard. Teams keyed on stopping him and that's all they really needed to prepare for. I think he with another year under his belt at QB and all the spring/summer practices that he will be a fantastic QB. Will he go to the NFL as a QB? I don't know and I don't care. If he does amazing things at QB than the NFL will have to give him a shot. Andrew Luck runs and no one here is complaining about that. He had 13td's and 4INT his freshmen year and you can equate Denard's 2010 season as his freshmen year at QB.

Art

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 12:32 p.m.

Denard, get your you know what out of town before they ruin you too!! Save yourself from all the alumni that only care about themselves. "Michigan Man" what a joke.

PortageLkBlu

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 12:31 p.m.

I give Brady Hoke a B+ for smarts. That is, willing to talor his offense around DB. For this year at least the win column probably depends a great deal on Denard. Also, B+ for not grabbing the mike at the basketball game and predicting a win against Ohio State like Tressell did a few years ago at a basketball game. Tressell inherited darn good established talent his first year. Coach Brady's inheritance will probably prdictably need at least 3 years to take on the Buc's and Brady knows it. If this coach is decent and with the great tradition and recruiting power of Mich. I think he, Brady could become a decent to good coach. If he can recruit in the top 10 year in and year out I could be going to the Rose Bowl for games and not just the Sunday Swap meets. (Which are pretty cool)I haven't been to a Rose Bowl game since the last time when USC predictably cleaned our clocks.

bigfella

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 12:17 p.m.

D Rob has nowhere near the arm strength Mike Vick has, or even had in college, so all comparisons of the two are only relative to the speed both possess at the college level and should stop there..That said, DR is the best player on the team hands down (sorry MR. Mike Martin.. BEAST) so the TEAM does benefit tremendously by keeping him in the program. Should make for an exciting fall!! Go Blue!!

KrissyK

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 12:12 p.m.

As a Mom, I have thoroughly enjoyed watching Denard and witnessing his positive attitude every single game! He almost exudes gratitude just for being in the game, yet we as fans should be grateful that he and the rest of the Wolverines gave us hope every week that they played. Denard's family can be proud and I would like to thank Denard and his family as he is truly a gift to U of M!

The Ben

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 12:05 p.m.

Former Michigan QB passing stats in first "full" year as starter: Brian Griese, 1997 Championship Team 193/307, 62.9%, 2293 yards, 17 tds, 6 int Tom Brady, 1998: 214/350, 61.1%, 2636 yards, 15 tds, 12 int John Navarre, 2001 207/385, 53.8%, 2435 yards, 19 tds, 13 int Chad Henne, 2004 240/399, 60.2%, 2743 yards, 25 tds, 12 int Denard Robinson 182/291, 62.5%, 2570 yards, 18 tds, 11 int Where is the evidence that Denard needs to switch positions? I don't get it. And Denard accomplished that with zero help from the running game, and less receiver talent that any of those other guys had. Some people have a very narrow-minded view of what a quarterback must look like and play like, and aren't going to accept Denard no matter what he does on the field. I'll say it again... if you watched the championship game on Monday, you SHOULD realize that an athletic QB is a huge advantage in college football. Last time I checked, Michigan's schedule is played against college teams, not NFL teams.

XTR

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 11:56 a.m.

We all saw how the good teams defended the Denard QB-led offense. In all of those games, Denard sputtered and in the games they scored high, Tater was the QB like in the Iowa and Illinois games. Denard is good but teams clogged the lanes preventing Denard to run and when they did, Denard was regular. The offense will be more effective if Denard runs exclusively and let the tall, better passing Gardner as the QB.

Dusty

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 11:37 a.m.

The kid breaks team, conference, and national records in his first year starting, and you want to move him to a different position? You're all daft.

mrd

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 11:15 a.m.

Denard won't be a success at quarterback in the pros because he doesn't have the poise, intelligence, instincts. Not saying he can't learn a lot, but I think he'll never rise to that level. Athletically, he has few peers. Not having him return punts and or kicks is a mistake. it would be different if they had a great returner or no backup quarterbacks. We saw what desmond howard could do in that role -- HELLO! Desmond, where are you! Sell Denard on being a slash type of player like you were! DRob wants to win the Heisman because that will guarantee him enough money for a LOOOONGGG time. How can you blame him. And it is definitely within his grasp. Just craft a plan for him and start promoting it NOW!!! Just tell him we want him to win a heisman trophy and a big ten championship next year -- that kind of says it all, doesn't it?

Dusty

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 10:44 a.m.

Ryan Mallett was going to transfer even if Carr had stayed. RR didn't run him off by not being flexible. Mallett, who enrolled in January at Michigan, was talking about transferring even before the season started (the 2007 season). So please, stop talking about things you don't know about.

Dusty

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 10:41 a.m.

I don't quite understand all the guru's who say there is "NO WAY" Denard plays QB in the pros. Why? Because his accuracy needs improvement? He's a friggin' sophomore. He had a QB rating this season higher than Josh Freeman ever did at Kansas State, and I believe Freeman is starting for the Buccaneers. Maybe he has peaked as far as his passing skills are concerned. But judging by the progress he made between his freshman and sophomore seasons in this area, and his reputation as a worker, I don't think I'd bet on that being true.

P U MSU

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 10:35 a.m.

"I'll take a Big Ten championship over a Heisman any day of the week." The talent on this team is not Big 10 championship ready. Let's be honest. So do not be so quick to write off the importance of Denard to this program. When ESPN covered Michigan who did they cover. Denard. He had a special on him. Huge focus goes on the Heisman by the media. Who see this? High School players. That leads to recruits. Great recruits lead to Big 10 Championships. Michigan needs Denard. It's that simple.

Pete S.

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 10:26 a.m.

One of the most important things Hoke has said in the past few days is this: I think that when you have talented players, its your job as a coach to mold that into whats best for your football team, As much as I supported RR the past 3 years, he wasn't willing to do this when he came in. Subsequently he lost some players (mainly Mallett) and has to start his first yr with the poo poo platter of Sheridan and Threet.

P U MSU

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 10:26 a.m.

"I did notice you didn't put anything in about how COACH Hoke might use him next year or how a different scheme would take a lot of pressure and pain off DR." Fair enough. If he stays, it will be because Hoke has told him that he is the QB of Michigan's football team. So there should be no talk of moving him to a different position. We have seen this kids work ethic with our own eyes. Is he the most dynamic passer in the league? No. But his improvement as a passer has been remarkable. The OC has stated that he can adapt his offense to any system that fits his players. This is obviously a great thing. A big knock on RR is they he is a system coach. I see the offense going to something like Nebraska has currently. There is some standard option, read option, and pistol. I think the problem last year was that there was too many designed runs for Denard last year. With more roll out with the option to run, I think this would preserve DR's health. I don't feel we have a great runningback right now. We have some good ones but no one who is great. Originally it was rumored that Hayes would be converted to a slot guy. I think it may be better to keep him at RB and see how he does. Will be interesting to see what Hoke does with him. Bottom line is that needs to run less. He needs to take less hits. He is a great player, but worth nothing on the sidelines.

michigan7011

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 10:20 a.m.

This 3rd string QB everybody seems worried about just happens to be a 5 star QB who is going to be a redshirt freshman this year. I wouldn't be real surpised if Gardner actually beats out Denard for the QB job. But believe me I want Denard on the field for every dang play if possible. I am worried about the depth at QB with Forcier gone. Hoke will need to recruit someone for this problem.

johnnya2

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 10:11 a.m.

A guy with Heisman written on him? Interesting that there were those who were ready to give it to him in October and January, but not when it matters. I also wonder why Heisman matters to people? I thought the goal was to win CHAMPIONSHIPS. I'll take a Big Ten championship over a Heisman any day of the week.

Blu-n-Tpa

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 9:41 a.m.

PU I just re-checked this thread and except for people stating where DR would play in the pros, nearly everybody wants him to stay, including me. I did notice you didn't put anything in about how COACH Hoke might use him next year or how a different scheme would take a lot of pressure and pain off DR. We have heard from BH. DR was the only player mentioned by both the COACH and the AD at the PC. (Mike Martin was the only other named player at the PC) I look forward to you insight on the matter. Go Blue!

David Vande Bunte

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 9:36 a.m.

Any coach that doesn't tailor his offense based on the players he has is an idiot. You cannot fit square pegs into round holes. From the sounds of it, Brady Hoke understands that he can't hamper Denard Robinson, and is perfectly willing to adjust his plans to accomodate him. Too many coaches let their own personal egos get in the way of making good coaching decisions, its good to see Hoke doesn't. If I were Brady Hoke, and I wanted to implement a more pro style offense, you know how I would reassure Denard Robinson? I would remind him of Steve Young. I would remind him of Michael Vick. I would remind him of Randall Cunningham, Fran Tarkenton, and all the other fantastic mobile QBs who were NFL successes. Then I would remind him of Tom Brady. I would point out that a pro style offense can teach Denard how to be a better thrower, at the same time allowing him to do what it is he does so well. I would convince Denard that he can learn to be both Brady and Vick at the same time, and if he can do that, he will be unstoppable. A special talent like Denard Robinson doesn't need the spread option to be successful, any offense should be able to accommodate a gifted runner at the QB position. When it comes to someone like Robinson, you find a way to let him do his thing. There is no reason why he can't scramble out of a bootleg or a PA fake. There is no reason why Michigan can't call plays that allow him to run from under center, instead of the shotgun. A truly gifted player like Denard Robinson can be successful in any offensive scheme. Brady Hoke's job will be to get Denard to understand that.

P U MSU

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 9:27 a.m.

I've never seen so little support for a guy with Heisman written all over him. Some of you trolls have reached a new low.

81wolverine

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 8:52 a.m.

I have confidence Hoke will build an offense around Robinson's skills. Hoke is no idiot. I think he will find a QB coach to work with Denard to improve his passing skills. I'm sure Denard will welcome that move. And he will be glad to run the ball fewer times too. Hoke will need to build a better running game that doesn't depend on Denard. That will be a big key next year. But I strongly believe Denard will be back. Michigan will now need to find another QB to replace Tate. Go Blue!

johnnya2

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 8:49 a.m.

Where do people actually think Denard can go and be a QB? Rich Rod has no job, and if he goes to another program we know how long it takes him to install his "system". That would be two years of not having blockers. RR would still be behind since he is already a month behind where he was when he was hired at UM. I will also point out that going to college is not just about football. I know this is hard for some to believe, but getting an education will be important. Please keep in mind the longevity of an NFL player. For every Peyton Manning and Tom Brady there are far more Ryan Leaf's and even those taken further down the list. Denard has the chance to POSSIBLY be a Hines Ward or Randel El in the pros, but one hit from Ray Lewis, James Harrison, or Vince Woolfolk and he'll break like a twig. I think the Denard situation goes right to the heart of the problem with system football. Recruiting should be about finding football players. As I recall UM recruited a QB at one time named Jay Riemersma. He ended up playing tight end in college and in the pros. He was a football player, not married to his position. He learned things from his QB experience that likely helped him become the TE he was. It got him drafted and a career.

rightmind250

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 8:46 a.m.

Donaz, Give me a break dude. Did you watch the NC game? A good defense will "kill" a speedy offense. Until UM learns how to play defense it doesn't matter who the qb, rb or wr is.

Blu-n-Tpa

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 8:39 a.m.

1984 "Idiot?" "Urban Meyer?" What's next, "When the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor!" How many games did Shoelace finish using the offensive blueprint by the worst coach in Michigan football? Last season DRob played with a archery target on his uniform. I'll bet you EVERY DC told his guys, HIT HIM, HIT HIM, HIT HIM! If you really care about DR and want him to lead a long term successful college career then having a COACH that will build a offense around him and NOT on TOP of him is in DRob's best interests. 1984 you said you were going to be negative but try to make it a more thought out discussion. You don't have DR's or Michigan's best interests in play here at all. Staying at Michigan means DRob will be on TV every weekend come next fall. That wont happen ANYWHERE else. Go BLue!

timeatwork

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 8:22 a.m.

so he'll either transfer, and mich will have to go to last years 3rd string qb. or he'll play a few games, get hurt, and mich will have to go to last years 3rd string qb. i'm not sure i see the difference.

Smart

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 8:11 a.m.

Most importantly is that he stay to get his liberal arts degree to be an assitant shift supervisor at Starbucks. Don't worry about going pro Denard. Get a degree in the social sciences like me and easily make $28,000 a year and all the free coffee you wan't.

tzgoblue

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 7:55 a.m.

goblue1984 Apparently you know these two men, how? Everything you post is anti michigan. You need to change your name from GoBlue1984. It makes my day to read your posts just to see how ignorant some people are and actually put it out for everyone else to see as well.

tulsatom

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 7:43 a.m.

If Denard stays, the offense may have a banner year next year. If he goes, it will probably have a so-so year. I sure hope he stays and that Hoke can formulate an offense to maximize the skills of the team. I think he will.

The Ben

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 6:30 a.m.

@DonAZ: "Two words: Devon and Hester Denard Robinson will never be an NFL quarterback. Never. But he can a great receiver, a great returner, a great pistol QB. He's got loads of tools. Can you imagine Devon Gardner and Denard Robinson lined up with some power/slashing runner? Holy crap, how do you defend that?" This point of view drives me crazy. If Denard can't make it in the NFL, he can change positions when he gets there. If he was able to learn the QB position in college, he will have no problem "learning" to be a slot receiver in the NFL. Anybody who watched the national championship game should realize how much of an advantage it is to have an athletic quarterback at the COLLEGE level. Michigan is a COLLEGE football team, right? What difference does it make if Denard is an NFL QB or not? Oregon's QB isn't an NFL prospect either, but he's good enough to take his team to the championship at THIS level. I remember watching Ball State when Brady Hoke was there. Seems like he used a pretty athletic QB in Nate Davis. Denard actually might fare better in a more traditional offense. If he has a power running game to help him out, he will be almost impossible to defend. Denard can throw the ball.

lawrencelaundry

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 6:16 a.m.

If anyone knows how to get a hold of DB or Hoke, tell them they have to go after Dick Bumpas from TCU for the DC. This would be huge. If they could land him or maybe Randy Shannon for that spot, we could have somthing special in a few yrs even this yr. What u think 3andout?

Sean T.

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 1:10 a.m.

"Auburn was ranked 53rd in defense" and held the high-octane offense of Oregon to 19 points. This isn't basketball!

Dusty

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 12:39 a.m.

Which RR recruit "left for prison"? Cissoko was a Carr recruit.

Captain Dave

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 12:36 a.m.

Watched the Press Conference today and was impressed with new coach. I think he will improve the team immediately. He seems to have the interest of the players first and he looks for character in his players. RR choose some questionable people to recruit at times. Some that left for prison and some that were not even allowed to enroll. I have no doubt that Brady Hoke is about doing things the right way and those that stay will be champions on the field and in life.

Dusty

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 12:16 a.m.

"Defense wins championships" huh? Auburn is ranked 53rd in the nation in total defense.

Dusty

Thu, Jan 13, 2011 : 12:11 a.m.

Actually, he would NOT lose a year if he transferred. You don't lose eligibility by transferring, you just have to sit out a year. And since Denard still has his redshirt available, he wouldn't even have to miss a year of practice. It'd be exactly the same as Ryan Mallett practicing for a year without playing down in Arkansas.

JimB

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 11:39 p.m.

DR might like the new offense. Not getting drilled on every play.

XTR

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 11:38 p.m.

The offense will be more potent if Gardner and Denard plays at the same time. Use the most talent that is available for the team. I thought Tate was just suspended, I did'nt know he was out of the program.

1st Down

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 11:30 p.m.

They can definitely use D Rob's skills in a more traditional offense. Roll him out, get him on the edge, run when the play breaks down or receivers are covered, do some designed runs maybe 10 or so a game so he wont get so dinged... most importantly: Get our RB's back in to the fold. The last 3 years of "Michigan Football" our RBs have virtually disappeared from being big impact players.... we need to get them more carries, more constant threats and a bigger part of the offense... the talent is there but the emphasis has to be on developing a true running game... D Rob can continue to develop as an accurate passer and they can have something good

Ben

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 11:08 p.m.

I think Hoke will at least reunite the fan base. He's got the charisma the last coach showed and he's MUCH better received. I am stoked about next season! I cannot wait.

michboy40

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 11:01 p.m.

Love the good carma! D Rob looked pretty happy at the game tonight, and I hope he finishes what he started. Hoke seems like the kind of coach that has this team really excited and ready for the new challenge. I fell that he has a good chance of saving this recruiting class, which seemed in serious doubt during the week. As for Tater Tot, he turned out to be just like his brother. Not good enough to start, so it's time to go elsewhere. How stupid! If Tate did not want serious competition on the field and in the classroom then why did he come here? He did some good things on the field, and sucked it up this year, but it all looks like an act now that he is outta here.

treetowncartel

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 11 p.m.

I am writing without reading a thing, but I hope Denard is realistic in his future prospects of making a career playing football. Go back to Dreisbach, heck Wrangler for this purpose, and look at the quarterbacks who had a carerr, one season counts, in the NFL. College is about making you a person who can get paid for your work in the future, Denard can learn all the theory he wants, but he will not be gainfully employed as a quareterback in the NFL. Let the coaching staff make you into a dual threat, let them give you some time under center, but for the benefit of you as a student at the U of M, make them give you some time handling the ball from a position other than quarterback. Heck, at 6' 190 and the speed we have all seen, safety is probably a position that will offer you a lifetime of gratitude. Defense wins championships at every level.

tresselowns

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 10:38 p.m.

Denard, you look too damn cool in blue to leave. You won't look nearly that good in another color.

aareader

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 10:35 p.m.

Denard was at the Basketball game tonight with big smiles. Got great cheers and a standing ovation. Hoke was there too in a different area.. He got a standing ovation earlier. The appearance is he will stay... if confirmed... a very good thing for Michigan.... truly a team player... BTW goodbye Tate.

ThoseWhoStayUofM

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 10:33 p.m.

Denard Robinson was never red-shirted. When a student athlete transfers, he loses a year of eligibility. Since Denard never received a red-shirt year, can he use his lost year of eligibility as a red-shirt, allowing him to maintain two full years of eligibility in a new program? I know for a fact that there is nothing in the rules that says a junior can't be red-shirted however since he is transferring they might say the lost year can't be considered a red-shirt.

Jim Nazium

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 10:14 p.m.

Denard will do fine in Hoke's system. He is a smart kid and a Team Player, they will find a way to use his talents to help the team the most and hopefully keep him healthy. There is no question that Denard will be playing in the NFL one day and playing for Coach Hoke who has recruited and help shape the careers of so many NFLer's out of Michigan so far will only help him more. Will he be too small to play QB in the NFL? Probably, but you never know, Drew Brees is only 6' and Doug Flutie was only like 5'9" or something. Antwan Randel El started out as a QB and turned out to be a decent Reciever, among other guys. I hope he stays, he could go down as one of the all time greats before it's all over.

azwolverine

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 10:02 p.m.

If Hoke can get DR half as fired up as he had me today, there's no way Robinson would leave! Seriously though, I believe Borgess ran some form of spread in the past, and I'm sure he would find a way to incorporate Denard into the offense in a major way. I think he would find that he would enjoy playing in a more balanced offense that didn't allow defenses to key on just him every single play. A more balanced attack would, in fact, allow him to become even BETTER.

deagle

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 9:57 p.m.

Geez, one poster says he's a idiot if he stays and one says he's an idiot if he leaves. Guess, Denard's an idiot, then.

DonAZ

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 9:27 p.m.

Two words: Devon and Hester Denard Robinson will never be an NFL quarterback. Never. But he can a great receiver, a great returner, a great pistol QB. He's got loads of tools. Can you imagine Devon Gardner and Denard Robinson lined up with some power/slashing runner? Holy crap, how do you defend that?

jalittle12

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 9:20 p.m.

If he stays, he will be great!! Chip Kelly has his QB, Urban Meyer is retired. His old coach RR doesn't have a job......If Denard wants to make it in the NFL, he needs to show off his arm more. He needs to be more versatile and show a balanced attack. Borges will provide that. He can introduce the West Coast offense to UM (which McNabb, Favre, Young, etc. ran very successfully). The West Coast offense if SUPER QB friendly and will allow him to showcase his talents to the NFL, while still incorporating some spread looks to allow Shoelace at least 10 plays per game on the ground. If he stays, he WILL be a champion (and an NFL prospect). Go Blue!!!

Engineer

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 9:06 p.m.

Please stay Denard. You can get a degree here that very few states can match anywhere in the country. And yes Hoke will uutilize and showcase your football skills. There is no other place in the world where 110,000 plus people will be able to watch you live every game. You are a leader and best and fit in right here. I have a Michigan degree and it has opened doors and served me well for almost 30 years now. GO BLUE!!!

GoblueinNE_PA

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 8:46 p.m.

If he leaves, he's an idiot. He'll lose a year sitting out and will have no guarantees about starting no matter where he would go. If he want's any chance of actually making it at the NFL level as anything other than the next Josh Cribbs, staying at Michigan with Coach Hoke is his best and only option.

GoBlue1984

Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 8:40 p.m.

If he stays he's an idiot. He needs to find a coach like Chip Kelly or Urban Meyer... those are the kinds of coaches who can really showcase his talents. Brady Hoke and Al Burges are NOT the kind of coaches who can showcase the Heisman abilities of Shoelace.