Fans hail Brady Hoke's hiring as a return to 'The Victors'
(Editor's note: This story was revised to correct the location of Ball State University.)
Peg Canham, the widow of former University of Michigan Athletic Director Don Canham, says bringing Brady Hoke on as the new head football coach could help Michigan return to Big Ten prominence.
Like many other fans, Canham expressed excitement at today's announcement that Hoke would lead the team.
“Hoke understands the Michigan tradition, and I’m delighted he was chosen," said Canham of Lodi Township. "We needed someone who would dedicate himself to returning Michigan football to its former national prominence, and his love of U-M is apparent."
Michigan fans are hoping they'll have more reasons to cheer next season with Brady Hoke at the helm of the team.
File: Melanie Maxwell I AnnArbor.com
Hoke is the 19th head coach in the 131-year history of Michigan football. He was a mentor for U-M’s defensive line for eight seasons, including 1997 — the last time the Wolverines won a national championship, according to information from U-M.
William Graves of Ann Arbor, a long-time U-M fan, said he was somewhat hoping Athletic Director David Brandon would keep former head coach Rich Rodriguez because “the program was on the way up.”
But he said people he knows trust Brandon "to the utmost."
“You get the idea that the former players like him, and my hunch is they talked to Brandon about him," Graves said of Hoke.
Brandon fired Rodriguez last week after three seasons and a record of 15-22.
“Welcome, Mr. Hoke,” said Craig Maier, a U-M fan from Lima Township. “It’s nice to see a fresh Michigan face back at U-M.”
But Hoke isn't a household name for all U-M football fans.
Nancy Jennings of Dexter Township, who has been a U-M football fan for many years, said she hadn’t heard of Hoke until her drive home from work today when she learned about his hiring on the radio.
“We really need a defensive coach, so that’s good. I’m excited for next year," she said. "Can’t wait to see how everyone plays. Go Blue. ”
James Bollinger of Chelsea said he was surprised it took this long to find a new coach.
"I’m surprised there wasn’t someone in place before Rich Rod was fired," he said. “Michigan’s always been known for its strong defense and we definitely need a defense-minded coach. The offense is there already. My only concern — is he here too late to do any recruiting for next year?”
Hoke returns to Ann Arbor from San Diego State University. The Aztecs finished this season with their first bowl game in 12 years and a victory over Navy in the Poinsettia Bowl.
From 2003-2008, Hoke was the head coach at Ball State University in Muncie, Ind.
Lisa Allmendinger is a reporter for AnnArbor.com. She can be reached at lisaallmendinger@annarbor.com.
Comments
aftermac
Wed, Jan 12, 2011 : 9:53 a.m.
@Txmaizenblue ">>"personally I miss winning 10+ games on a regular basis." You actually think Brady Hoke is going to produce 10 wins at Michigan in a Big Ten that is getting more and more competitive [and modern...not going backwards, I might add] and adding Nebraska to the mix? Haha...that is funny. BTW, when was it that Michigan was winning 10 games on a regular basis?" Yes. If UM had anything close to resembling a defense *this* season, they would have won 10 games - and this seasons abomination was (IMO) the 3rd worst team they have ever put on the field. In Lloyd's 13 years, UM won 10+ games, 6 times... that seems pretty regular to me. He also averaged 9.4 wins per season... just shy of a 10 win average in his career.
ClearedToPlay
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 11:27 p.m.
What an underwhelming hire. MediHOKEr at best. Pizza CEO is now quoted as saying no offers were made to Harbaugh or Miles, so he just went to the next "michigan man" in line. Guess if that didn't work out he would've made a run at Ron English or seen what Scott Loefler and his patented underhand release are up to. What a self-limiting inbred way to make a critical coaching hire. Maybe some of RR's hillbilly ways did rub off after all. If Hoke was the man all along, DB should have just fired RR after another Ohio State debacle and hired Hoke. Hoke is a decent man, who does love Michigan. DB should have given him some kind of a running start on assembling a staff and making a run at salvaging a dwindling recruiting class that will probably will probably tank outside the top 35. If you think the huge hole one year's blown class won't dog Michigan in 3 years you're whistling past the graveyard where Michigan's national prominence is buried. Gullible Lloydistas will eat it up just like the flavorless cardboard pizzas w. taco sauce from Domino's. DB sure served it up to you.
Txmaizenblue
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 11:23 p.m.
@aftermac "personally I miss winning 10+ games on a regular basis." You actually think Brady Hoke is going to produce 10 wins at Michigan in a Big Ten that is getting more and more competitive [and modern...not going backwards, I might add] and adding Nebraska to the mix? Haha...that is funny. BTW, when was it that Michigan was winning 10 games on a regular basis?
byron
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 11:02 p.m.
guys guys settle down. All of us had the initial emotional response of wanted Harbs and then Miles. When you sit back take a deep breath and analyze this it makes sense. Harbs wanted the NFL to be with his bro and he played in the NFL. He was NEVER in the mix. Miles in my opinion is somewhat slippery. I dont like what I am hearing about the practice of signing more recruits than you have scholarships, then kicking people to the curb with no remorse. I want somebody who wants to come here. With Miles I felt you need me. Dont like that attitude. HOke is 52 hungry, trying to prove himself he belongs. He was there when UM was number one in 97 on defense. Hello, thats what we dont have currently. This was the only reasonble pick in my opinion. Now as for the current team. Chris Spielman said earlier this year when he broadcasted one of our games, quote there isnt one guy that would start for OSU except for Martin I think is what he said besides DR. The roster is filled with 3 star athletes. You thought LLoyd left the cupboard bare, its worse, Rivals has UM as the 38th best recruiting class, 38th! Wow, If we go 6-6 next year that would be great. 2012 schedule is ugly NB, Alabama and OSU at Columbus, that year will tell us some thing. DR swallow your pride use your talents at RB, WR, DB, bulk up your are a stud, just not in a pro style offense. The defense will be better next year, then a complete turnaround for 2012, 9-3 my prediction.
heartbreakM
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 10:45 p.m.
We all have no idea how Hoke will do. But for those who claim that the defensive problems did not start with our former coach, that's fine. Defense was not up to speed in the latter Carr years. But they were sure not fixed under RR, something he was absolutely hired to do. PLain and simple, he failed. And not just failed, but got smaller, got worse fundamentals, and regressed statistically and results wise. So Hoke has more work to do than former coach had to, but optimist in me says that next year will be a big bump up, helped at least in part by injuries which hurt former coach and helped more by fundamentals.
D21
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 10:28 p.m.
The Heart Break M Kid (good postings), I am pretty sure Hoke will outdo Tressel by doing something simple and dignified. You and I know the fans will scream for Hoke and do let me know how it goes. Man, we will never know what really transpired behind the scenes and am so glad that the RR mess is over with. It is more important for us to support the current players who want to stay on and good luck to those who will leave. GO BLUE!
vi4mi4
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 10:24 p.m.
..no more shotgun formation on 1st and goal from the 1..no more wvu colors in the closet..no more "just another game" comments.. no more kiddie tantrums..no more consecutive bubble screens..no more tears..no more losing seasons..no more missed bowls.. and no more RED wristbands! Hail To The Victors! Those that Stay Will Be Champions! GO BLUE! v..
Do Better
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 10:22 p.m.
Nobody knows what type of coach he will be over the next for years! I believe he deserves everybodys support as the next coach of michigan football. However Michigan's problems on defense to did not begin when Rich Rod showed up! Go back and look at the osu, usc, app st., oregon, and florida games. That defense was big but it was also slow and in order to compete against the SEC you need both to win. Unfortunately by the time rich rod address his problems on defense with recruiting it was too late. I am not a fan so i do not care if he was fired or not but i think every coach should at least get four years espeically if you are going to ask him to make a change in systems like that.
macjont
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 10:04 p.m.
tater seems to say it all.
macjont
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 10:01 p.m.
It's not the hire, so much as the way it took place.
heartbreakM
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 10 p.m.
Hey D21: How much you want to bet that tomorrow night at halftime of the M-OSU game, we see Hoke pull a "Tressel, circa 2001" and throw the first gauntlet his way? The crowd would go nuts!!
D21
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 9:24 p.m.
maizenbluenc and doubters, Brady Hoke will have you doing the Hokey Pokey within a year from now especially after that 27-24 victory over the Buckeyes. Take some chill pills and chill out for time being!
riverraisin
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 9:21 p.m.
"Defence wins championships." Dustin...good point. Someone has been on here whining about the fact that both teams in the championship game last nite played the spread. What really won the NC?...Defense. Both teams played outstanding defense and scored well under their season average.
Dustin
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 9:05 p.m.
Unlike the past 3 years of arrogance under RR, at least Brady Hoke understands the importance of Michigan tradition, He has lived it. Secondly he realizes Defence wins championships. I think he will re-energize the players, recruits and fans.
racer
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 9:02 p.m.
We need "The Ghost" to step in and talk a little sense to the RichRod faction. They are very disturbed tonight.
riverraisin
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:55 p.m.
Apparently the RR contingent are living in the disgraced coaches basement and sharing one computer. Tater...quick hogging it!
riverraisin
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:50 p.m.
"This is the worst hire in the history of University of Michigan football." Tater...your email was sent 3 years too late...lol...
aftermac
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:43 p.m.
After the last 3 seasons, I'm cautiously optimistic that we can get back to playing Michigan Football. I don't know about the rest of you, but personally I miss winning 10+ games on a regular basis.
amaizenblueballs
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:42 p.m.
Wow Tater, I always thought your defense of RRod was because you were a true to a fault fan. Glad you cleared that up. Hokes our man. I for one am very glad we have someone who wants to be our coach as opposed to someone with a big name who can be bought. Let's give Hoke our support and give him a chance.
racer
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:38 p.m.
Tater, Don't sugar coat your feelings. Tell us what you really think. Theo!!! Come help Tater! Long Live The King!
Jaxon5
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:32 p.m.
The dismantling was accomplished 3 years ago. The record speaks for itself. It was the most dismal time in Michigan football history. That was the real embarrassment, not this hire. I am dismayed at how some posters here are not supportive of the university's selection. The new coach needs our support. Let's stay positive and witness Michigan return to its winning ways.
2bluebyu
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:31 p.m.
Time for all the crying and hand wringing to end. Let's give this guy a fair chance and fully support him. WELCOME HOME MR. HOKE!!! We're damn glad to have you!!! GO BLUE!!!
Jaxon5
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:27 p.m.
I am surprised at the negativity from some supposed UM fans (meaning RR fans). Get with the program, please. Here, here, (said while wagging index finger). We must not be divided; we must stand behind the new coach. We must give him a chance, and not stack the deck against him. We must support our coach, after all. (Same words said by the Lloyd Carr antagonists and RR protagonists during the last 3 years.)
David Briegel
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:18 p.m.
It doesn't matter what anyone thinks. Hoke is our guy. A month ago, a week ago, it doesn't matter!! We need to get on board and restore the pride. Get the recruits. Keep 'em in class! Follow the rules. Coach 'em up! It won't hurt to have a defense! GO BLUE!!
racer
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:17 p.m.
Guess you can't expect U of M football fan Nancy of Dexter to know who Brady Hoke is when Lisa of AnnArbor.com doesn't know where Ball St. is.
maizenbluenc
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8:16 p.m.
This hire is a national embarassment. We're all supposed to blindly come together behind coach who? What has his record been, against what competition? We've all been sold down the river in the name of cronyism. Hope they surround him with a very good staff, who can recruit their tails off in very short order. I'm sorry. There is a sizeable contingent of Michigan fans who think this is a BIG mistake. I hope I am wrong, but I'm very disappointed and underwhelmed.
aftermac
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 8 p.m.
Whatcha gonna do when Hoke-a-mania runs wild on you?
Somewhat Concerned
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:56 p.m.
Check out the column by Jason Whitlock at Fox Sports. I don't know Hoke but I know that Whitlock knows college football. If he is half right, we are going to grow to love Hoke. http://msn.foxsports.com/collegefootball/story/brady-hoke-not-jim-harbaugh-is-perfect-coach-for-michigan-wolverines-010711
tulsatom
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:44 p.m.
I'm cautiously optimistic about the hire but we'll see how things go.
marlon glenn
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:41 p.m.
The spin machine is in full swing...
john n
Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 7:16 p.m.
There's a Ball State in Ohio too?