missionbrazil

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

It seems RR supporters are taking the news that LM is not coming to UM as yet another opportunity to take a shot at the guy who fired their losing coach. Many of you were ripping DB even before he fired RR, then you ripped DB when he fired RR, then you ripped him when JH didn't come, now you rip him when LM doesn't come. Plus some rip him because he flew to Baton Rouge instead of calling on the phone??? Plus RR supporters all scream that their guy didn't have enough time (3 years is plenty of time to see what was happening), and yet 6 days into the process it's time to fire DB? RR is gone folks and he's not coming back... get over it already!

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:18 p.m.

Thanks armchair! HOKE IS IT!

bluemax79

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

from wanting the job to i am happy where I am. somebody screwed this up. one thing that could have bene an issue is assitant coaches pay. have read that 6 of Miles assistants at LSU make more then the highest paid assistant at Michigan. you want top talent you ahve to pay for it if you don't you get a second level coach like Hoke as your coach and your fighting the giants inthe football world with handcuffs on.

Ddipiazza

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

Post on the Michigan Football Facebook page says that brady hoke is the new Football coach.

XTR

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

There was no surprise that Les Miles stayed at LSU. If Dave Brandon really believed that Les was hirable at this stage, then Dave got duped. When he won the NC and started to earn 3.75M, he is "out of the market" to go elsewhere. Last year JH with a 8-5 Stanford team and a salary of 1.25M, was still in the market, when the 49ers offered 5M, he is out of the market. Miles is a coach who is coasting for retirement and is not thirsty for more challenges. That guy already won the NC and is earning too much money. It would have been a losing deal for Michigan to pay too much for a coach who has not won anything at Michigan yet and is ready to retire in a couple of years. Miles is not the best deal out there, Jimmy was. But who would have known that Jimmy would be offered 5M by the 49ers? Who could blame him for taking 25M for 5 years and not move from the Bay area? No choice now but to get an unproven prospected ace coach for a reasonable price with a contract that will favor UM. Brady Hoke is one hungry coach willing to show the bigtime what he has and UM will give him the chance to prove himself just like when Jim was given the chance to show his stuff at Stanford. I still read RR's name, RR is a failure at UM. His records are below.500 and lost all of the important games in the sched for 3 years. Get over the fact that RR failed and is now gone.

discgolfgeek

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

Told you previously it would be Brady Hoke -- somewhat unheralded but a very good football coach. Now pay some good money for assistant coaches and we'll be back in the top ten in 2013. And let's lose the arrogance, time to be humble and build ourselves back up.

rightmind250

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:09 p.m.

Tater, Get over the freakin spread already. Did you watch the NC game? Your beloved spread got its butt kicked once again. Oregon ran the spread much better than your king and the UM, but it was no match against a solid defense. Did you see Oregon's futility trying to score from the one yard line? When you have pro-level athletes on defense the spread offense is worthless. UM needs to get the athletes and build a defense, then it will be able to compete in the B10. The spread offense is almost as weak as that blog of yours. What a joke.

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:06 p.m.

Sorry fellas, This Mlive server are overwhelmed and it reposted my old posting twice. RudeJude, I was doing a "Bo" pep talk on Brandon and it is kinda hard to say, "You will never play another down for Michigan" as Bo often hollered at JH and others. I know my input is absolutely worthless and I am mostly grandstanding. But my predictions are often on the mark than not. Enjoy the RR free seasons, 2011 and beyond. GO BLUE!

LANDS

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 4:06 p.m.

U of M has always depended upon a good D, last time we had a good D was just before RR w English. Why not ask if he would come back?

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:57 p.m.

RudeJude, Don't hate AD Brandon but it is kinda foolish for them to fly all the way (wasted $$$) as Brandon can just pick up the phone or he decided to help Les out with trying to get more $$$ and/or perks from LSU. I am just telling Brandon to man up. My point is validated with Les staying at LSU. Not because I wanted Hoke but because I know Les ain't a Michigan Man, period. Good luck to Les and LSU. YES, I TOLD YA ALL SO THAT LES AIN'T COMING TO MICHIGAN.

KeepingItReal

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:53 p.m.

You know, Bo came from a lowly program in Ohio and look at how revered he is in this town and state. Jim Tressel came from a I-AA program and M has not been able to beat OSU since. I believe that M would be much better off, getting a winning coach from small program who is hungry, with good coaching skills and the ability to handle the press, alumni and student body. The problem with getting these super star, million dollar babies for coaches is that if they don't win right away everybody becomes disenchanted with them and it creates more turmoil.

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:52 p.m.

jcj, This is an excerpt from espn: Although Alleva did not object to Miles meeting with his alma mater, he also said LSU was committed to working with Miles to ensure he remains in Baton Rouge. He did not go into details about what adjustments might be made to Miles' contract. Didn't go into details?...that is a dead giveway right there.

joe golder

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:51 p.m.

When I hear someone is coming here to interview and DB isn't flying somewhere to talk to them we may have our next coach.

joe golder

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:50 p.m.

When I hear someone is coming here to interview and DB isn't flying somewhere to talk to them we may have our next coach.

ChelseaBob

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:50 p.m.

I believe DB is doing this right, and although I am impatient, I support doing things right. It's been a while since we've seen that. Keep at it DB.

RudeJude

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:47 p.m.

D21, I understand the criticism, but to call for the man's job? I think he's fighting for the program, and we are assuming he offered the job to Miles. Maybe it's a small assumption, but the speculation on this board is nauseating for people with little knowledge about what is and isn't happening. I know you don't like him, but without him, then who else will find the next Michigan coach...Mary Sue Coleman? I agree with you, though, in regards to Brady Hoke. I think he would be a great fit at Michigan.

LRF

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:47 p.m.

Hey I think Dave Wanstadt is available. How came he is not on the list of possble replacements HELLLLLOOOOOO

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:44 p.m.

reknedrog36 Easy! Chiznik ain't honest (Cam Newton). Wouldn't touch Chiznik or any other corrupt SEC coach with a 10 foot pole.

Terry

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:42 p.m.

Well, did anyone really expect Les Miles to come to Michigan? He had to good at LSU and right now the university is not much more than a sideshow act on a Saturday night. I hate that the players on the team are going through this; they deserve better! Perhaps RR should have been given one more year. I don't know much about Brady Hoke; but if thats who Brandon wants, just go out and hire him and open up the check book to get the best assistants in the country. And please Mr. Brandon, don't attend game films anymore. Let the coach do his thing whoever he is.

cnorman

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:40 p.m.

the man with an ego the size of texas is doing it 'his way'. so he screwed up the evaluation / the firing / the search / and now will offer a 3rd rate coach --------and we begin yet another rebuilding scenario with a guy no one outside of brandon's office has heard of. this job isn't selling pizzas.

IheartYpsi

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:38 p.m.

Put Lloyd Carr in as interim for a year, rebuild the program and take some time to identify the right coach. The current process looks desperate.

the other guy

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:35 p.m.

That 'player' meeting should be a 'prayer' meeting instead!

reknedrog36

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:34 p.m.

While many disparage DB and the likely hiring of Brady Hoke, how many of these armchair pundits would hire a coach with a record as follows? Two years at a secondary conference where he compiled a record of 2-14 and 5-19 overall. His name: Gene Chizik, prior head coach Iowa State University; presently head coach Auburn U, 2010-11 record 14-0, National Champion. So give Dave Brandon the benefit of any doubts and hopefully Michigan will be equally successful.

jackson72

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:34 p.m.

@Terrin, while I agree with your thinking on the process, Brandon never "played under Miles". Dave Brandon is a year older than Les Miles and was on the Michigan football team in 1971, 72 & 73. Miles lettered on the team in '74 & '75 and wasn't an assistant under Bo until 1980-82. (most of that information is from Wikipedia, so you can take it for what it's worth).

Keiffer

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:32 p.m.

Maybe the equation is this. Former Pizza exec. + U of M AD = A double crusted, cheese filled soggy national sports progam. : )

JW

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:30 p.m.

Just as I predicted when I saw in the Detroit News yesterday that his wife did not want to move back to Ann Arbor. Brandon could have saved a trip and lots of money if he had paid attention to that. Just like Harbaugh's wife did not want to leave the West coast.

P U MSU

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:29 p.m.

It's been Brady Hoke all along. I said this what, 6 weeks ago. Michigan is appearing to do their "due diligence" to keep the fans satisfied. Brady Hoke will be the coach. Get use to it now.

the other guy

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:28 p.m.

Les isn't more, and we're better off without him (ask Gary Moeller...or maybe, Moeller's wife???). If we weren't such snobs we would have hired Brian Kelly (GVSU,CMU, Cinn, NDU) and now be a contending program. Too bad every other University in our state, and anyone associated with it, is considered inferior. And now sadly, DB knows how it feels to walk in Bill Martin's shoes (I think he's finding the fit a little too tight).

braggslaw

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:27 p.m.

Brandon was hired to do one job and he has failed on a colossal level. WE should start thinking about the new coach that will be hired 3 years from now

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:22 p.m.

Hello rr kool aid drinkers, RR is gone forever, deal with it! Weeeeeee, am so glad rr ain't around no more.

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:20 p.m.

iCraig, Your comment speaks volumes about Brandon: Dave, would you mind stopping by my job and expressing interest in me. I think I'm due for a raise. I can see it now "Mr. Big, Mr. Brandon is here to see you"... iCraig, good one!

applehazar

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:20 p.m.

Hayden Fox is available

Keiffer

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:19 p.m.

It didnt take a Ph.D from U of M to know that Les Miles was not and never even considered coming to Mich. Look at his success at LSU and his 2011 recruiting class. His family is happy were there at and he would be foolish to take a job a Mich. Having said that, unfortunately, Brady Hoke seems to be the remaining alternative and I would be very skeptical of him truly leading Michigan back to National prominence. DB needs to make a decision ASAP though because NCAA recruit committments are due in 3 weeks.

captainrock39

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:09 p.m.

Mary sue didn't like JH for his comments.LS is going to have recruiting violations shortly.BH is the sexy name everybody wants its time to reincarnate Bo and Don Canham to right this ship andkick LC to the curb for undermining the football program.

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:09 p.m.

RudeJude, Don't hate AD Brandon but it is kinda foolish for them to fly all the way (wasted $$$) as Brandon can just pick up the phone or he decided to help Les out with trying to get more $$$ and/or perks from LSU. I am just telling Brandon to man up. My point is validated with Les staying at LSU. Not because I wanted Hoke but because I know Les ain't a Michigan Man, period. Good luck to Les and LSU. YES, I TOLD YA ALL SO THAT LES AIN'T COMING TO MICHIGAN.

D21

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 3:04 p.m.

RudeJude, Don't hate AD Brandon but it is kinda foolish for them to fly all the way (wasted $$$) as Brandon can just pick up the phone or he decided to help Les out with trying to get more $$$ and/or perks from LSU. I am just telling Brandon to man up. My point is validated with Les staying at LSU. Not because I wanted Hoke but because I know Les ain't a Michigan Man, period. Good luck to Les and LSU. YES, I TOLD YA ALL SO THAT LES AIN'T COMING TO MICHIGAN.

michboy40

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:41 p.m.

The people commenting on this board represent less than.2% of the Michigan fan base...I hope they arent all as bad as us!

johnnya2

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:41 p.m.

@hortonGOBLUE What was RR's "winning" record at UM? How about in the Big Ten? One thing that you people do not seem to realize is part of college football is being competitive. UM is NOT with RR at the helm. Name one BIG IMPORTANT game that UM was even close in this year. Games that SHOULD be blowouts (Illinois, Indiana, Purdue, UMAss) are close, and games that should be close (Iowa, Wisconsin, and OSU) are blow out losses. The only games that RR has a blow out in is against inferior schools like Bowling Green or Delaware State. The fact you do not understand that, shows how out of it you really are.

superbuck

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:35 p.m.

Michigan Men not wanting anything to do with Mich. Imagine that

michboy40

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:34 p.m.

As far as I know, Rich Rodriguez is still available.

truebluefan

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:33 p.m.

marlon glenn -- I totally agree. This dog and pony show is stupid and causing a lot unnecesssary negative press. If Hoke (or whoever!) was always DB's #1 guy, just hire him and be done with it! People would've been over it in a few days. Now it looks like UM is a second rate program on our hands and knees doing anything to lure back coaches who supposedly love Michigan.

Terrin

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:32 p.m.

Some people think Hoke would be settling. Hoke is better then Harbaugh and Miles combined. The guy knows how to coach football especially defense, he loves Michigan, and he is passionate. He publicly stated this is his dream job, Brandon probably would get him cheaper then some other names. Harbaugh clearly used the University to get a good deal from San Francisco, and Miles is happy were he is at. Give Hoke a shot already.

devildog

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:31 p.m.

Well, how long have I been saying - the problem is in administration at UM. Do not get angry at coaches turning down the job, look at why. Would you have ever imagined a few years back that people would turn down this job?? Take a look at that, as that is where the problem is. This is disappointing and discouraging for those of us who remember UM as tradition and class -- long gone now.

Cash

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:28 p.m.

John, Gary Patterson just now signed a 2 year extension running through 2018. He's not leaving TCU. Missouri coach Gary Pinkel announced yesterday he wants no part of th Michigan job. As an aside: Les Miless defensive coordinator, John Chavis, makes $700,000, according to USA Today, and his offensive coordinator, Gary Crowton, is also up in that stratosphere. And Michigan's own 20 year veteran asst coach Fred Jackson made $178,000. Who would want to fight for that salary???

hroad

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:26 p.m.

The OSU hire of Jim Tressel from Youngstown was an exception to the rule. That does not guarantee it will happen again for Michigan if Brandon brings in an untested coach.

Terrin

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:26 p.m.

Some people seem clueless. Brandon is not dumb. He already knew both Harbaugh and Miles weren't likely coming to Michigan. Brandon played under Miles, and for all we know didn't want either of them back. He, however, was smart to talk to Miles. Now the public will understand Miles wanted to stay at LSU. Harbaugh made the choice to go to the NFL. The new coach will have a greater chance of being accepted. Brandon knows all of this. He will pick a good coach.

heartbreakM

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:24 p.m.

John Wayne airport is also near Anaheim. Maybe Brandon is going to interview Goofy or Mickey!!! I think job hires are tough particularly at this point. There is never a good transition time, but this is the toughest point due to recruiting. And DB is going after successful coaches at big programs, and not easy to get those people to come. Especially when they have roots planted and enjoy the players and community. Who knows why Les didn't come, but it is our loss, regardless of what people are saying. I for one wish him well and will continue to enjoy watching his team. For those questioning whether it was smart to fire RR: I answer, unequivocally yes. Even with the uncertainty. If there was any doubt, the bowl performance, following up 2 big ten blowouts, erased any of that. Could he have improved in a fourth year? Possibly, but he showed no 'facts on the ground' to prove that he could improve his own decision making. DB did the right thing, even if it's temporarily tough.

superbuck

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:23 p.m.

Well here you go settleing again. The fan base in Mich. on these blogs run down the coaches and the players if they aren't winning. Your not in the 80's & 90's anymore there is to much talent in these schools now. Ten years ago you didn't hear about half of these teams you hear about today/ Boise State/ Stanford / etc etc The glory days of the Big 10 are fading. Looks like the SEC is going to rule for a while. Quit dwelling on your past because it is the past gone, finished, gone, done, over you should have left RR alone and backed him. If you noticed he did win more and more every year he was at Mich. Now you'll start all over again and wan't whoever the new coach is fired in another 3 years. The NC game last night was real football game and did you see all that talent? MY GOD

marlon glenn

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:21 p.m.

Total dog and pony show. If you wanted Hoke from the beginning, you should have hired him in November! You have lost time, recruits, and the support of fans. Somehow, I do not think the UM really cares. Let the domination of OSU continue. Prepare for Lloyd Carr the Sequel.

Joe

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:19 p.m.

Yes GoBlue1984, you are absolutley correct that firing RR was a genius decision. Glad to see that you have seen the light!! :)

Chase Ingersoll

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:16 p.m.

John Wayne airport (south side of Los Angeles metroplex) is within 90 minutes of North part of San Diego.

cmhawks99

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:14 p.m.

Life has a way of highlighting the fickle nature of human beings. This didnt start with RR, it started way back with LC and the way an ungrateful fan base forced him out. Its not just Michigan fans either, Iowa fans are constantly lambasting Kirk Ferentz, Oklahoma fans are constantly complaining about their great coach, so are tOSU fans and quite frankly1 out of 2 LSU fans cant stand Les Miles. What a travesty these fans bases have become, and honestly they reap what they sow Now for the record and in my opinion they never should have hired RR, UM used to be NFL QBs, Wrs and O-linemen in an NFL offense, but a faction of the fan base called for the spread (very, very silly) when what they needed was a little tougher more hardnosed D! Now they have an even worse D, and less NFL talent than Iowa, who replaced them as number talent wise and in wins since 2001. Now with that said, firing him now (although maybe needed) sets the program back even further. That NFL talent is no longer on UMs roser and the best bet to QB a Pro-set, (Forcier) is looking slim! Why these bozos are so enamored with thr spread is beyond me.it is even more reliant on having a dominant QB than a Pro-set offense. If you dont have Vince Young, Cam Newton or Tim Tebow you have problems. College football is still all about running the football and stopping the run. If you have a strong O-line and a above average D you can win a lot of football games. Honestly Brady Hoke may even be the answer but I hope he spurns these ungrateful fans as well. Selfishly I wish RR was still the coach that was best for Iowa..LOL Chad

Joe

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:13 p.m.

I'm very curious, regardless of who the next coach will be, what are your expectations over the next three years?

GoBlue1984

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:11 p.m.

Genius move firing Rich Rodriguez. Pure genius. David Brandon should be up for a MacArthur Award. A just punishment for an unjust firing. GO BLUE :-p

missionbrazil

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:11 p.m.

Reading the many conspiracy theories here is better entertainment than reading the funny pages.

ALinGR

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:09 p.m.

What's so great about being a "Michigan Man"? Harbaugh and Miles have shown it doesn't have anything to do with loyalty. Ditto Carr and his minions, who did all they could to sabotage his successor--and the program. Bo wasn't a "Michigan Man" until he was hired.

jcj

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:03 p.m.

If Les Miles decided to stay at LSU without a raise, I have all the respect in the world for him. If it is revealed that he received a raise to stay... I am glad we don't have him.

81wolverine

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:02 p.m.

Let's not panic people. Miles was certainly no prize as many seem to think. He has shown questionable ethics in his recruitment practices, is reckless on the field, and has a screw loose -IMO. There are more VERY good coaches out there than most of us think. Auburn won a national title last night with a coach who had a losing record at his previous gig AND who most of the fans hated at first. Let's let Brandon find the right man - but hopefully quickly before recruiting is a total loss.

ShadowManager

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 2:02 p.m.

The sky has really fallen if Michigan fans are using OSU's behavior (hiring Jim Tressel from the little Youngstown U) to justify their own. Have some respect for the process, people. lol.

jackson72

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:58 p.m.

Dave Brandon is going about this search process in a correct, organized and professional way and is interviewing potential candidates before making a decision. Just because he spoke with Les Miles, didn't mean Miles was interested in the job or that it would be offered to him. Brandon is doing his due diligence and had he not spoken with Miles, the same folks on this thread would be complaining that he wasn't doing his job. The last thing that I want is to have this search process be as poorly done as it was last time. I don't know about all of you, but before I hire someone for a key position, I research and interview as many qualified candidates as I can. THEN I offer the position to someone. And just because someone doesn't want to make the move to the University of Michigan, doesn't mean that being Head Coach of the Michigan football team has any less cachet. Just because we like it here, doesn't make it a good fit for everyone at this point in their lives. Harbaugh wanted to go to the pros and I believe that he has family obligations that keep him in the San Francisco area. Les Miles is doing very nicely at LSU, thank you and I believe that he has a family to think about also. Would he have come to A2 a few years ago? Also keep in mind that whoever is our next coach doesn't mean that they are the "third" choice. I know that it won't happen, but to me it would be nice if everyone (especially the media and self-proclaimed expert bloggers) would just back off and quit running to the airport to track down Dave Brandon's flights. It would probably make the process much easier for Michigan if there wasn't so much constant attention and speculation. In my opinion, there is no one with better all-around qualifications to make this decision than Dave Brandon. I am confident that he will find the best candidate available...but then we really won't know that for a year or two, will we?

John

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:56 p.m.

Here comes Hoke! Brandon better hand him a blank check and let him hire the best assistants money can buy! We had a better coach than Hoke in Rodriguez. Too bad we didn't keep him with a new Defensive Coordinator. RichRod had a great recruiting class lined up for 2011... will any of them want to stay committed and play for Hoke???

hortonGOBLUE

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:56 p.m.

All I can say is I told you so. Its funny how peoples tune changes when things dont work out the way they had anticipated. Good thing we fired Rich Rod right? Everyone wanted his head, well hes looking pretty good right about now. Coaches think of this job as such a joke they use the University to get a raise. And who is Brady Hoke? Does he even have a winning record?

treetowncartel

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:55 p.m.

Jimmy Johnson or bust!

Dennis

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:48 p.m.

If Brandon didn't get Les a man who absolutely loves Michigan and has a "Michigan out" clause in his contract then he is completely inept just like Bill Martin. He flew to LSU only to offer a courtesy call, to look good....... see Les turned us down. Brandon and Martin should go into business together selling pizzas out of Real Estate Developments. I am tired of this goat rodeo. Bring in the wet behind the ears Hoke.... DB. I'll be staying home. This was your one chance to do the job RIGHT!

David Vande Bunte

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:47 p.m.

Just a reminder...Nobody had heard of the vest either until Ohio State hired him...so if Michigan does hire someone less "nationally prominent" than what you expect, just remember, spending a good number of years at a smaller school does not mean you aren't a great coach. Ohio State fans had the same grumblings when Cooper was fired, and its worked out pretty well for them, hasn't it?

truebluefan

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:44 p.m.

BorninA2 -- the Michigan job lost its luster before RR arrived. Otherwise, Miles or Schiano or any other coach worth their salt would've jumped at the opportunity back then.

timeatwork

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:44 p.m.

its nice to see uofm fans back down on earth. you've now realized that the job is not as glorious as you thought.

ShadowManager

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:44 p.m.

Let me get this straight: Jim Harbaugh "wasn't offered the job"; now Les Miles "wasn't offered the job", and next Db is flying out to San Diego to, what, "not offer" the job to Brady Hoke?

Joe

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:43 p.m.

tater...just curious...what type of offense does Hoke run?

joe golder

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:43 p.m.

Hello MR Rodriguez this is David Brandon I'm on my knees here. I found my medication and I'm thinking strait now. I now realize how badly I screwed up. I should have never listened to anyone and realized you were the right coach all along. If you come back I promise to stay out of the business of football. If you come back you and your coaches can have all the free pizza's you want and the jet is available for your recruiting needs. Please Mr. Rodriuez please come back.

lulu

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:41 p.m.

When some reporters (yes, there are still a few of them) found out that what DB was saying about Harbaugh was totally inaccurate (he never offered the job to him) - it forced Brandon to actually look like he was pursuing Les Miles. Miles has a job he likes and doesn't want to be involved in this mess. Hence, the plane ride to Baton Rouge - even if it was futile. I kind of hope Hoke feels the same way. It will prove that Brandon is all talk and is in hopelessly over his head. Look at his past jobs - he came in when the companies were in trouble and left them in far worse shape. I see the same thing happening here.

Macabre Sunset

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:41 p.m.

Brandon outlined quite clearly what he was looking for in a new coach. Unfortunately, his description matched only two coaches, and one of them just declined the job. K.C. Keeler has done some nice things at Delaware. Purely on record, he can't touch what Tressel did at Youngstown State. He hasn't been all that great there, but he does teach a spread variant (not as gimmicky a one as Rodriguez used) and has a nice record in big games (two of his three I-AA championship game appearances have come as a complete surprise). But he doesn't have any connection to the Midwest. He's also quoted as saying Delaware has a world-class academic program, which means he's on some fairly significant medications.

truebluefan

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:40 p.m.

Can we now please eliminate the term "Michigan Man" from our collective vocabularies? What a bunch of bunk. "Michigan Man"...LOL. Rich Rod was a Michigan Man and we tossed him to the curb. May God have mercy on Michigan Football.

BornInA2

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:37 p.m.

Let's not rewrite recent history: RR wasn't building anything other than a giant mess. He took a program with 30 straight years of bowl games and winning seasons and never a single NCAA infraction and destroyed it. The wreckage we currently have is on him. And it does look like the job has lost its lustre; the obvious first and second as well as some lower-tier choices have declined.

skfina2

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:36 p.m.

Just a thought - what do you think the OSU faithful thought when they hired their new head coach from that 1-AA powerhouse, Youngstown State? Think that worked out for them? All good head coaches have to start somewhere, and I'm guessing that somewhere is not necessarily as the head coach at another premier program. Let's hope that Dave Brandon can find that one special person who can restore Michigan football to what it once was, whether it is a known name or not. And for those of you who are against hiring Brady Hoke: If he can turn around not one but two football programs, who's to say he can't do the same at Michigan? Just sayin'....

A2D2

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:35 p.m.

I guess the thing that surprises me the most is the mixed signals LSU pushed out to the media.......first it was "we'll even waive his buyout".......now it's "he's gonna be our coach for a long time"....... Go figure and stay tuned.

riverraisin

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:34 p.m.

This is sad news, in my opinion, Miles could have turned the program around a little quicker than most of the other candidates. I just don't think a name like Hoke, etc. makes the best talent think 'Michigan football.....hmmmm'. There is some good names still out there that would be a pretty good fit, it just may take longer to convince top recruits to come here. Interesting that Peterson turned down Stanford...remains to be seen what's behind that story. Some of you posters are regurgitating the same arguments I heard during the coaching search 3 years ago. Don't be haters.

ShadowManager

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:33 p.m.

Is it too late to unfire RR? lol.

Pam Wilson

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:32 p.m.

Has anyone here even thought about the possibility that he was not offered the job? Take your time to hire the best coach for the Maize and Blue, Mr. Brandon. Go Blue!

heartbreakM

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:29 p.m.

Well, that was not totally a surprise. Is Hoke next? A name nobody has considered is the Delaware football coach. Same division that Tress came from, and they have won championships and most recently were runner up this year. He is a solid coach, gets a lot out of his talent, and would be worth a look. And wouldn't have to get used to new helmets either.

Chris

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:29 p.m.

Knock Knock Who's there? Brady Hoke Brady Hoke who? ABSITLUTLY EMBARRASSING THAT THIS IS WHAT ITS GOING TO COME DOWN TOO BRADY HOKE. PAY LES MILES WHAT HE WANTS MICHIGAN,TALK TO HIM AGAIN FIX THIS DAVID BRANDON.OR THE ONCE PROUD MICHIGAN BRAND IS NOT COMING BACK TO RELIVANCE.

Txmaizenblue

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:27 p.m.

Yipee...like we are all surprised. At this point I don't want to watch the rest unfold...

Aditya Ezhuthachan

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:26 p.m.

I think Rich Rod is a good man... but holy cow! He completely destroyed our program in 3 years... and we're looking at 3 more years of mediocrity at best because of him. And some people refuse to blame him for any of it! Amazing!

belboz

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:25 p.m.

Generally, this is what happens when Your opinion of yourself is higher than Others opinion of yourself. Michigan does not seem to carry the brand recognition they think they do. Not that I can blame the other coaches. I can't see ANY "outsider" wanting to come into the Michigan program after the faith and commitment people put into giving RR a 4 year plan - none. People couldn't wait to bail on him. What message is this sending the next "new" guy? We'll only put up with your struggles to mold the program if you are one of us? RR is more of a Michigan Man than Hoke right now. Hoke= Assistant, RR=Head Coach. It seems that giving RR one more year would have been the right move based on the first and second choices for the job not wanting to come here. Michigan Football is now officially on the Michigan Basketball path - years of mediocrity. Couldn't this have been figured out before firing RR? Fail!

hroad

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:24 p.m.

Hiring Brady Hoke could have Brian Ellerbe type results on the Michigan football program!

localyokel

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:20 p.m.

The Domino's jet is in the air again headed to John Wayne Airport (Orange County, CA). Geez; I wonder who he could be headed to see? Curiously near San Diego.......

Macabre Sunset

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:19 p.m.

Looks like the MSU and OSU fans here are quite happy. I just wish they would quit pretending they were Michigan fans. I don't think any program in the country could attract a coach who has multiple NFL offers or is already producing national-championship caliber teams at another major school. Perhaps Brandon set his sights a little too high. Bill Belichick had better not be his next stop.

The Fan

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:19 p.m.

Michigan football is in a coma and I don't think anyone knows when there coming out of it.

John

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:16 p.m.

It will be interesting to hear what comes from the 4:00 PM players meeting today. Will he just tell them to be patient while he continues to scour the country? I'm still holding out hope for Gary Patterson. Hoke may unite some old alumni factions (Michigan "tradition" lackies), but I'm not sold on his abilities yet.

shane smith

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:15 p.m.

You guys just ran off a pretty good coach.I don't care if you liked Rich or not,but these Coaches talk to each other.I'm sure Rich talked to les.and told him what a mess it is up there.Michigan Man or not,not to many Coaches want to jump into this MESS.You saw last night in the Bowl game.Both of those teams ran alot of Stuff that Rich has been doing for a long time.Rich knew what he was doing on the offense side of the ball.He hired the wrong DC.So good luck on whoever you get.

Forever27

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:14 p.m.

This is the fault of all of those people who ran Rich Rod out of town after 3 years. Rather than be patient and let him build the program like what was initially planned the administration acquiesced to the ranting fanbase. reap what you've sown.

GoBlue1984

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:13 p.m.

Hmm... "Michigan Man" Jim Harbaugh turns down Michigan. Then "Michigan Man" Les Miles turns down Michigan. You "fans" were right... Michigan needs a "Michigan Man" --- hahahahahahahahahaha! This is a fair punishment for firing Rodriguez. Thank you - Thank you - Thank you!

Txmaizenblue

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:12 p.m.

Brandon is a business man. He knows exactly what he is doing. Its been Hoke ALL ALONG folks. He's simply making sure the public has seen him extend the olive branch to Harbaugh and Miles, so when Hoke is announced as the head coach it will be more readily received. If Hoke was announced without the public perception of going after JH and Miles, then DB would have the same divided mess that happened with the RR hire. It's lame, but I really believe that's whats been happening. Prepare for another 3 years of sub-par football from Michigan...if not more.

golfer

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:12 p.m.

who wants the michian job. not to many. i still think we should have kept rr. get a defense coord. hoke is a safe bet? should do it soon

iCraig

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:05 p.m.

Dave, would you mind stopping by my job and expressing interest in me. I think I'm due for a raise. I can see it now "Mr. Big, Mr. Brandon is here to see you"...

Ignatz

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:05 p.m.

Mr. Hoke is underrated. He has a losing record bcause he turns around bad teams. This is what I want. He burns hot for The Blue. I want that, too. I don't want an NFL retread.

pkwasnik

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:05 p.m.

Good thing - we dodged one. Now while we are at it lets not settle for Hoke either! Broaden the scope - how about? Kyle Whittingham - Utah Gary Patterson - TCU Chris Petersen - Boise Chuck Heater - Florida Les and the rest had storylines that felt safe - but we need more! GO BLUE!

Jason

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:05 p.m.

I suspect Les was just leveraging UM to get better job security at LSU. Personally I think the answer is going to be a Bo like step up instead of a lateral move by a head coach in a major program. It's only been a week. Give it some time. Give it some time??? We are losing recruits. The University is becoming a joke. People are starting to laugh at how pathetic this situation has become.. Sure lets give it some time.

dading dont delete me bro

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:04 p.m.

forgot to mention that MANY lsu fans are not happy w/him..so what to believe?

gr8st8

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:04 p.m.

The pressure placed on the UM program by its unrealistic fans, alums and boosters to win immediately is the problem. The Walmart Wolverines have pushed the program into impatient reactionary decisions. Top-tier coaches recognize that there is no way to succeed, even with an 11-1 season. Too much input and pressure from factions that should not be given one whit of acknowledgment is scaring away all quality candidates. Get another second- or third-tier patsy, toss them out before they get a chance to succeed and start the futility again.

ypsidog

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 1:02 p.m.

How fast can DB get to Pioneer High School!!! I'll bet that coach can be talked into taking the job!! the dog

dading dont delete me bro

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 12:59 p.m.

never know until there's a press conference announcing the new um head coach...period. i'm not so sure it's over. there was reports last night that lsu would consider lowering or even waving lm's buyout. so what do you believe? i still believe in santa claus and the tooth fairy i guess. why not get it over with and name miles or hoke. dading!

1174141376

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 12:59 p.m.

I suspect Les was just leveraging UM to get better job security at LSU. Personally I think the answer is going to be a Bo like step up instead of a lateral move by a head coach in a major program. It's only been a week. Give it some time.

joe golder

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 12:58 p.m.

DB who's the next guy you're gonna play agent for. Gee... before you get someone every coach in college football will be getting a big raise. Sorry you have to go. YOUR FIRED!!!!!

Txmaizenblue

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 12:58 p.m.

Don't blame you at all Les. I would not touch this job with a 39'-6" pole. Michigan is clearly not the premier coaching job it used to be. Sadly.

FRED

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 12:55 p.m.

Dj vu all over again. I'm sure Miles just got himself a raise, again, by having Brandon flying down to meet him. When will Michigan learn that going after a high profile coach is not the answer to the current problem. These coaches will always want 'time' to get his type of players before winning. It may help with recruiting in the short run but the ultimate solution is to win now. They need someone who has the mentality to do more with less. Winning against rank teams is the best way to improve recruiting - and the bottom line for the athletic program.

Jason

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 12:55 p.m.

Brady Hoke? He does not even have a winning record as a head coach.

bluenuts

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 12:55 p.m.

This is getting painful. Our prestige as a program has lessened. We're turning into Notre Dame, or so I fear.

Papabear151

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 12:54 p.m.

gutted not a single respectable coach will even come to michigan. JH and Miles just used their Alma to mooch more money out of other programs.... brady hoke and Notre Dame mediocrity forever here we come....

John

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 12:53 p.m.

Phew! That was close. Glad we aren't overpaying that clown!

truebluefan

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 12:52 p.m.

Now DB needs to somehow convince Brady Hoke to take the job. Now I wish we would've kept RR and simply hired a new defensive staff. Man, this looks really bad.

The Fan

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 12:51 p.m.

So, is it going to be "Last Resort" Brady Hoke?

Jason

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 12:51 p.m.

It is clear this University is clueless. They are turning a once great program into a joke. DB and everybody involved needs to go.

Jason

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 12:45 p.m.

Stay on it, Mr. Brandon GO BLUE!

MjC

Tue, Jan 11, 2011 : 12:41 p.m.

Now what??