johnnya2

Sat, Jan 8, 2011 : 11:14 a.m.

" he earned through his contractual obligations" His contractual obligation also addresses MAJOR violations. Seems those were ignored by this money sucking coach, who spends more time with lawyers because of lawsuits than he does coaching.

GoBlue1984

Thu, Jan 6, 2011 : 8:12 p.m.

Blu-n-tpa... 3-9, 5-7, 7-6 = progress every year. Almost everywhere you will be told that the way you measure a program is by its wins and losses. Every year under Rodriguez we had more wins than the year before. I fully look forward to critiquing the new coach like all of you did to Coach Rod.

Heardoc

Thu, Jan 6, 2011 : 7:47 p.m.

@dextermom Why would he ever give any of thqt money back-- he earned through his contractual obligations. Leftist thought process in thinking he should give his money back in order to be a 'Good Guy'. He is a good guy and he should keep all the money and UM should actually give him a severance bonus. Your equating giving money with being a good person just smacks of far leftist propaganda.

Heardoc

Thu, Jan 6, 2011 : 7:43 p.m.

This was a mistake -- just ego here on Brandon's part. Now we will be in another transition period. New recruiting schedules and more losses for next year. This is a first time AD trying to act as if he knows what is going on. The same people that hired RichRod hired brandon -- maybe they made two mistakes.....

dextermom

Thu, Jan 6, 2011 : 9:10 a.m.

As a non-football person swept up in this mess: "Brandon told former Michigan Heisman Trophy winner Desmond Howard on Tuesday night that he hadn't yet made up his mind of Rodriguez's future." What an odd dangling sentence. There's no f/u so why do I care other than name dropping? I suspect he told other people, too. I guess if "Rich Rod" were such a good guy, he might consider forgoing some of the buy out.

Blu-n-Tpa

Thu, Jan 6, 2011 : 8:33 a.m.

RightMinded "my 'kind' in Ann Arbor"? Sorry, but I didn't comment on how DB looked/dressed on TV, you did. And, I don't need you permission to visit AA. 3&O/Steve H. Don't forget the $2 Million for legal defense of NCAA charges. Cash OK, please let me know how many time Coach Jackson has applied for a HC position anywhere, including UM. Are you speaking for FJ or are you his agent because you are not dealing with what is the reality of college coaching. You start small, work your way up, become a head coach at a smaller school, establish a record, and if successful with all of that, interview with the big time football schools. Now, has Coach Jackson done all that? What's with the baiting race words? "Token"?! 1984 Hope you have a good time. Just remember bring the data to support your views like a lot of people did vs RR. I look forward to the dicussions.

George Houchens

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 10:50 p.m.

Assuming what DB said was really how it happened, then DB traded the result of one Bowl game for at least one full season of losing football. Future recruits have been lost, recruits still considering Michigan must wonder who will be their coach, and the assistant coaches (if they are smart) will be actively seeking new jobs. One has to wonder, also, if all the existing football team will choose to stay... probably not. All of which means that if the new coach is anything other than a miracle worker, Michigan is facing at least two, probably three more losing seasons.

Holmes1

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 8:26 p.m.

Wow! Even with the GREAT news, the bad persists -- as well as the nonsense speculation, which should have ended with the following: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/05/sports/ncaafootball/05michigan.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=rich%20rodriguez%20michigan&st=cse Not to mention: http://detnews.com/article/20101126/OPINION03/11260389/U-M-has-enough-evidence-to-fire-Rich-Rodriguez http://fwix.com/detroit/share/f29eb3f1c3/lynn_henning_waiting_to_decide_rich_rodriguezs_fate_could_backfire_for_michigan All one has to do is READ. Nah! WHO wants to do THAT!

GoBlue1984

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 8:20 p.m.

It's kind of fun to come into the bees nest and shake up all the bees... I see why you guys liked it so much;-)

3 And Out

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 7:51 p.m.

More Bad News for Rich Rod. This guy attracts lawsuits like flies on cotton candy in a carnival parking lot. Attorney sues Rodriguez over sale of home 1/5/2011 2:00 PM By Chris Dickerson -Monongalia Bureau Rodriguez MORGANTOWN - A Weirton attorney is suing former West Virginia University and newly fired Michigan football coach Rich Rodriguez over problems with the purchase of the coach's Morgantown home. http://wvrecord.com/news/contentview.asp?c=232356

truebluefan

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 7:29 p.m.

I just saw this story on ESPN. Once again, Michigan is beaten to the punch. "Manny Diaz will accept the job as Texas Longhorn defensive coordinator as early as Wednesday, sources close to Longhorn football has confirmed. Diaz spent the 2010 season running the Mississippi State defense. MSU (9-4) improved from being ranked 71st in scoring defense last season to 22nd this year. Its SEC ranking went from 11th to third. The Bulldogs also improved under Diaz against the run, going from 62nd nationally to 17th."

truebluefan

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 7:25 p.m.

3 and out -- Forget the "Bo Tree". JH is off to the NFL. Yet another "Michigan Man" tells us to take a hike. Come on, Brandon, let's be smart about this. Go pull Dan Mullen and Manny Diaz away from Miss St. Mullen is offensive savvy being the OC at UF, he recruited Denard, he runs the spread option O, emphasizes defense, great X's and O's guy, he's young and energetic, he's from the north. This makes a ton of sense.

3 And Out

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 7:18 p.m.

Goblue1984...sorry 3 And Out is trademarked here but it may be available on whatever school's message board that Rich Rodriguez ends up as the OC at. Just follow the money trail to Rich and register it there. Go Blue!

missionbrazil

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 7:13 p.m.

GoBlue 1984 "I can't wait to spend all day criticizing the new coach like so many of you did to Rich Rodriguez. What fun!" Only someone who has had too much RR Kool-Aid would think that would be fun. We have had absolutely no fun these last 3 years. RR is gone. Get over it.

missionbrazil

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 7:09 p.m.

Terrin Bell "I agree with the whole Michigan doesn't need to grab a big name coach argument. Ohio State hired Jim Tressel from Youngstown State University! The keys there were Tressel demonstrated he both understood football and Ohio State traditions (based on being from the area)." At first Tressel could have been considered a risk since he did not have any top level NCAA experience as a HC, but the man proved he was a winner... he led YSU to 4 NC 1-AA championships and went to the NC game another 2 times but lost... that's 6 NC games in 14 years. Plus he was an assistant at OSU for 3 years, so he knew OSU and the BT well. It turned out to be a great hire for OSU, not so great for us. I believe DB will make an equally good hire this time around. Hard to say if it will be a big name or not,

GoBlue1984

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 7:05 p.m.

3 and out... I may steal that nickname for one of my alias on here once U of M gets the new coach. The countdown to his firing begins on day one. I may even buy a website for it;-) Come on David Brandon... bring on Brady Hoke! I'm salivating at the opportunity to spend every waking hour insulting him (like so many of you did to Rodriguez). It's like Christmas morning for me :-)

3 And Out

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 7:01 p.m.

lol@ One guy off the Bo tree just put up 40 in a BCS game which was par for the course because his team averaged 41 all year which is a full TD better than your defeated saviour Rich Rod...ha ha read it and weep RR drinkers. Bo Tree RULES!

GoBlue1984

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 6:58 p.m.

Here's hoping Michigan hires Brady Hoke... I can't wait to spend all day criticizing the new coach like so many of you did to Rich Rodriguez. What fun! 3rd and 6 yards to go... what would Bo do? 3 yards and a cloud of dust... 4th down. Yeah, let's get someone off that coaching tree! I seriously can't wait guys -- it will be so nice to switch places with you;-)

Nick

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 6:55 p.m.

good day for Dave Brandon

WVU & OSU

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 6:38 p.m.

I sure am gonna miss that guy

HENRYK

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 6:38 p.m.

The math Steve Hendal put forth is staggering. 4 million to get him here and 2.5 to get him out of here. 7.5 million for what? In a state where many people are struggling is just wrong.

3 And Out

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 6:29 p.m.

Steve Hendel...your figures are pretty accurate, but add in RRs incentives, the overhauling cost that Barwis demanded for the weight room + most important lost potential revenues from Bowl and BCS games in years 1 and 2 and the total is well over: $20 million. Thanks "Rich" man.

Sallyxyz

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 6:29 p.m.

Brandon thought he had Harbaugh in the bag, until last weekend. That's why he waited until after the Orange Bowl to make his announcement. DB decided to fire RR after OSU, but of course, he'll never admit that, since he would have had to pay RR the full $4 mil for termination, having made the decision well in advance of Jan 1. Unfortunately, Brandon put all of his eggs in one Harbaugh basket, and it has not worked out. For whatever reasons, JH has decided not to come to UM, perhaps because of this mess, or perhaps because expectations would be so high, he (nor anyone else) can meet them. So Brandon waits until after the Stanford Bowl game to make an announcement, plays the "process" game to protect the $1.5 mil, JH backs out last weekend, and DB has no plan B. The idea that a decision had not been made on Tuesday night is just ludicrous. Does anyone actually believe that? Two sentences in the article above: "Brandon told former Michigan Heisman Trophy winner Desmond Howard on Tuesday night that he hadn't yet made up his mind of Rodriguez's future." "Brandon said he made the decision to fire Rodriguez late Tuesday night." So, what, an hour after he talked with Desmond Howard, he made up his mind to fire the coach? Come on. Who really believes that nonsense. That makes a nice story line to save #1.5 mil, but it was about legal wrangling, and that RR wouldn't quit. DB had to fire him, and in the end, pay out another $2.5 mil to get rid of him, in spite of the NCAA violations that RR brought down on the UM.

3 And Out

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 6:22 p.m.

BTW... a writer for the pro football news and UM alum last night said on ESPN Radio in Chicago that Michigan had an offer on the table to Harbaugh to be "the highest paid coach in college football".... however 1) Harbaugh's wife does not want to uproot and move to Ann Arbor 2) Jim Harbaugh is very uneasy with the management at the 49ers This writer said he is a good friend of Harbs and talks to him all the time...so take that as what it is worth... PM me if you want the link to that conversation

3 And Out

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 6:20 p.m.

Rude Jude: Excellent point regarding Tressel's hiring date. People tend to panic and forget that. Brandon will hire a great coach and Michigan will be fine. Recruiting suffering? well not so much since small, low ranked FL guys wont be on the recruiting radar for the new coach in most cases.... everything will work out and we will get back to being Michigan Football.

3 And Out

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 6:17 p.m.

To quote former President and UM Captain Jerry Ford: Our Long National Nightmare is Over! 3 And OUT!!! Go Blue. The clouds just cleared over Ann Arbor today. A new beginning will bear great fruit for the Maize and Blue. 3 And Out.

DonBee

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 6:08 p.m.

Why I would not want to be the next coach at Michigan: 1) Program expectations - win all the time, every time 2) You get 1 year to start the engine, after that there is no forgiveness with the fans 3) Recruiting will be hard, the program just went through 3 bad years and the NFL is looking elsewhere 4) It is a complete reset on the playbook on both sides of the ball 5) Unless you are running the spread, many players are too small on the offense to play at conference level 6) The whole defense is a do over, there are a few players who fit, but nothing else remains 7) Next year there will be few players who remember a real Michigan season 8) The press is going to be on you from day 1 9) Everyone will be second guessing the selection, the press, the fans and the opponents 10) The only thing that will keep a coach in the program for more than 3 years is a win at Ohio State and in a January 1 or later bowl 11) Three years at most to back in the BCS 12) The recruiting class for 2011 is already jumping ship 13) The most explosive players from 2010 are not sure they want to come back with a new coach Good luck to who ever takes the job!

Blueman Rick

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 5:34 p.m.

BULLETIN: Just released secret phone conversation between Brandon and Harbaugh: "What is it you want, Jim? What do you want? You want the moon? Just say the word and I'll throw a lasso around it and pull it down. Hey. That's a pretty good idea. I'll give you the moon, Jim."

leaguebus

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 5:29 p.m.

The team is in good hands. That was a very thoughtful news conference and I am confident that a good coach will be emerge from the process. Good luck to RR in his next endeavor.

tim

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 5:24 p.m.

You would think that Brandon would hire someone before he fires the coach-- he's lying or taking a foolish risk by waiting this late into the recruiting process

tim

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 5:21 p.m.

You would think that Brandon would hire someone before he fires the coach-- he's lying or taking a foolish risk by waiting this late into the recruting process

mookienation

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 5:21 p.m.

Also, let's not count Harbaugh out yet. I'm not buying any of these rumors until it's all said and done. I'm have a hunch that Brandon's comments about Harbaugh going to the NFL were just a psychological tactic intended to persuade him. If Brandon had said "I've been calling Jim Harbaugh. I'm trying here, folks! I just don't know what he's going to do!", Harbaugh would probably be unimpressed. There's a lot of psychology at work right now and comments aren't always what they seem. And look at the Lebron James free-agency situation, for instance. Everyone THOUGHT they knew where he was headed but almost everyone was wrong. Let's face it: we really know next to nothing.

Blueman Rick

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 5:18 p.m.

Oh, and GP. You need to get your facts straight. Bill Martin was the athletic director when Rodriguez was hired. Brandon's been AD for a exactly one year today. Where have you been? Happy one year anniversary Dave.

Huron 74

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 5:17 p.m.

I think the fans and alums should let Mr Brandon do his job, (however longwinded he might be). He said (not a direct quote here) "We now know how long these decisions last." He's not going to make a knee-jerk decision, that's what got us into this mess. Sure, Harbaugh would be great, but everybody wants him and it's his decision. I have to agree with The Ben, it's not how famous or in demand a guy is, but does he fit? Does he understand the history of Michigan football and have a stable plan to move forward?

beanie wells

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 5:14 p.m.

@Andy Jacobs: how about (winning percentage * max_buyout) - ($1M * number_of_ncaa_infractions)? could actually end up being a money maker!

Blueman Rick

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 5:13 p.m.

While watching Brandon's solid press conference, I couldn't help recalling a Bo interview where he talked about Fielding Yost's "Point a Minute" teams and how they were built on Defense first. Bo went on to say Yost was the most important figure in the development of football in the 20th century. Bo's entire coaching philosophy was built upon the foundation that Yost laid. Thus, I was particularly gladdened when Brandon stressed defense in the rebuilding of the Tradition. We are in good hands. Brandon is right on the beam. Martin never was. Nautical pun intended.

mike from saline

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 5:12 p.m.

Brandon Knows what he's doing! Harbaugh we'll be here as soon as they get the details ironed out. It's nice to have an Athletic Director again....not a caretaker.

Soothslayer

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 5:09 p.m.

Hi, can we get a performance disclaimer on the next agreement. Something like if the situation doesn't improve or gets worse you get no buy-out (i.e. if you suck, go home).

rightmind250

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 5:03 p.m.

No thanks Blu-nTPA, but I am sure you can find what your looking for In Ann Arbor. It's filled with your kind.

beanie wells

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 5:03 p.m.

@glacialerratic: so, do you think richrod was just trying to keep his averages up?

glacialerratic

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 4:58 p.m.

With $10 million in total direct compensation under his contract, Rodriguez' DPPS (dollars per points scored) is $9,775, and his DPW (dollars per win) is $625,000. Maybe U-M should spin off the football team.

Terrin

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 4:54 p.m.

I agree with the whole Michigan doesn't need to grab a big name coach argument. Ohio State hired Jim Tressel from Youngstown State University! The keys there were Tressel demonstrated he both understood football and Ohio State traditions (based on being from the area). Michigan's mistake last time was going for the big name coach. That isn't an automatic key to success. Michigan should have been looking at people like Brian Kelly. Namely, somebody who demonstrated he understood how to coach the game (Kelly's record at Grand Valley State was amazing), and who had strong ties to the Michigan area, which he did. A football coach doesn't need experience coaching in the big leagues to do well. A winning approach works on all levels as the higher up you go the more access you have to quality recruits. A proven track record at lower levels is more impressive for the same reason: coaches have less resources.

beanie wells

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 4:52 p.m.

@steve hendel: you HAD to bring math into this, didn't you!?! this is supposed to be a happy day! you're right, though... that's a sobering figure. maybe all that gator bowl money will cover the bill.

mookienation

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 4:46 p.m.

Brady Hoke would be an outstanding coach for Michigan. Those of you who cite his unimpressive winning percentage as a head coach are missing the point. I'm from Michigan but attended Ball State when Brady Hoke was coaching there. The Ball State football program was one of the sorriest excuses for a football program in the country. Nobody really cared about the team, including the students and alumni, and Brady Hoke brought them to relevancy. They were on the brink of a BCS bowl. If you were from Muncie, Indiana you would realize how INSANE that is! As soon as Hoke left the program went to shambles and nobody really expects it to improve anytime soon. Maybe never. If Hoke stays with San Diego State, they will probably be one of the "BCS Buster" teams next season. Before Hoke arrived, that team had only been to 3 bowl games in the past 40 years and were on the losing end in all of them. Yeah, historically, it's a pretty bad football program. Hoke changed that. To judge a coach based purely on career wins and losses is myopic. Hoke is a master at turning around crappy programs. That's exactly what Michigan needs right now. Because--let's face it--we're sort of a crappy program right now. So many of you have said how Michigan "must hire a proven winner!". Really? That's your criteria? There's a lot of great coaches out there who haven't played in a BCS bowl and Dave Brandon knows about them. And you probably don't. Lloyd Carr had never even been a head coach before he got the Michigan job. That's right. Zero head coaching experience. We brought Schembechler in after coaching for six years in the MAC. That being said, Jim Harbaugh is the ideal choice. But with Brady Hoke I would be VERY satisfied.

BlueGator

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 4:39 p.m.

I trust Brandon got rid of Barwis also? If RR was a snake oil salesman, Barwis brewed, bottled and labeled the stuff.

InsideTheHall

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 4:32 p.m.

Coach Hoke will retain Fred. It is customary to fire all the assistants so the new guy can pick his staff.

GoblueinNE_PA

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 4:32 p.m.

@KeepingReal I agree with you. My point about Jackson is whether they'd give him an interview for HC, much like they did Ron English 3 years ago, in order to satisfy the NCAA's version of the Rooney Rule. IMO, that's the worst kind of tokenism. Go out and look for some real minority candidates, not some one to satisfy some quota. BTW, I think Coach Jackson is fantastic coach. You hear nothing but good things about him.

Steve Hendel

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 4:32 p.m.

So: $4,000,000 (including taxes) to get him out of his contract with WVU; $7,500,000 in salary over 3 years; and now $2.500,000 to buy him out. Total = $14,000, 000. Thank you, Bill Martin & Mary Sue Coleman.

John

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 4:26 p.m.

Don't worry, Michigan Man Brady Hoke will be the next coach at Michigan! It only took him 5 seasons at Ball State before his first winning record (7-6), so just be a little patient, OK?

garrisondyer

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 4:18 p.m.

@The OSU Little trivia fact of the day: Michigan was the first state to abolish the death penalty. Kudos to Dave Brandon on restoring sanity to the process. The media (Fox and, the night of the Orange Bowl, ESPN) who stirred up yesterday's pot of nonsense should be ashamed. Go Blue!

Blu-n-Tpa

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 4:11 p.m.

Coach Jackson was the Assistant Head Coach under LC. Also the backfield coach and a great recruiter. If his position/salary was diminished, it was under RR, NOT DB or the University. Show some style and class like Coach Jackson and his family. Token what? Please don't bring that 60's, 70's being held down by 'the man' race-baiting card. This is a professional who has been at the same school for two decades. He was the longest tenured coach on the staff. Jeez, give it a rest.

InsideTheHall

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 4:02 p.m.

Brady Hoke is comin back to the town and he's gonna rustle up the boys....Hermann, Moeller, Soup Campbell, Vance Bedford, Stan Parrish, Scott Loeffler. Back to actually coaching football NOT "you gotta make that play".

Cash

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 3:57 p.m.

beanie wells, I'm guessing they already knew and were supporting their dad/husband.

GB in Blacksburg

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 3:53 p.m.

GP --- Ah, Dave Brandon was hired last March --- 2010/

beanie wells

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 3:47 p.m.

@Cash: when i heard about rita and the kids being there yesterday, my first thought was, "why would anyone in their right mind have their family anywhere near that circus?". questionable judgment all around.

GP

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 3:36 p.m.

Why isn't Dave Brandon the one being fired for U of M's poor football program? Wasn't he the one who chose Rodriguez? Maybe if Brandon took his job a little more seriously in choosing a coach and had his job on the line too, Michigan might have a better program. Maybe if Brandon was fired then Michigan could finally move forward. What goes around comes around Brandon.

A2comments

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 3:32 p.m.

I'm glad the decision has been made. Whether you think Rich Rod did a good job or not (and I don't), his family is like any other family with a parent that just lost their job. Whether you get no severance, $5,000, or $2.5 million, you have lost your job and your family (and in their case the public) knows that. I wish him and his family well and hope that his wife and children understand that in his profession these things happen, and it's time for him to move on. Hopefully the children can finish the school year successfully here in Ann Arbor.

breadman

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 3:32 p.m.

DB just did a tough thing in his life... I just hope he will itch his head, and really think hard, talk to whom his next pick that he his able too turn Michigan football back around. This all started before DB got too MIchigan!!!!!!!!!! Its been going on for the past two years now its third not yesterday......

Bill

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 3:18 p.m.

$2.5 million for performance below expectations. I wish I had a clause like that in my job! I'm glad to see RR out and do hope that Michigan will quickly regain their status as a leader. I am disppointed to see the money wasted by the U of M Athletic Department in the past three years including this latest buyout.

Cash

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 3:17 p.m.

Keeping it Real, Especially when after 20 years Fred was the 2nd to lowest paid assistant coach at Michigan. I posted the link an hour or so but I don't think it's here yet. Salaries were listed in the Detroit News.

Cash

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 3:15 p.m.

ummsw, Excellent point about the kids. I thought the height of rudeness yesterday was the media swarming Rita and the kids and asking if he had been fired yet. Unbelievable.

KeepingItReal

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 3:13 p.m.

@GoblueinNE_PA: Fred Jackson is not even a token and any attempt to include him in the pool of prospects would be a complete slap in the face to Black coaches. It is obvious that Black athletes are primed to play the game but excluded from running the game. Eventually these black athletes are going to wake up and realize their importance to the game and their exclusion from the "big house." Everybody is making such a big deal about the selection of a coach. Have we forgotten that its the athletes that play the game not the coaches.

ummsw

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 3:06 p.m.

Do you really THINK they just started looking...Still think Harbaugh is a possibility.. Brandon plays it "close to the vest" thought he did a great job... I wish RR and his family the best..If anyone out there has contact with his kids, or has kids who do..Cut the kids some slack and be kind

stevieboy

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 3:06 p.m.

RR has been Doomed since he got here! They never wanted this guy in the first place. As soon as DB came he already had him fired. I'm sorry but time has changed. It takes a lot longer to build football programs. Michigan is no different from any other elite programs out there. USC, TEXAS, UCLA, Nebraska, Oklahoma all been through this before. It took them a while to get there programs back. I thought Michigan was a little better than that. They Let fans and Alumni's run the program. Wow! I thought we were better than that, but we're not....Well I hope a lot of you are happy you got what you wanted. Which is what?! This program has been going down for years. But I understand people are not ready for change. Well let's get ready for a few more years of pain!!!

Stephen Landes

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 3 p.m.

I'm only reading these comments for the entertainment value. So many writers are still trying to tell us that Dave Brandon doesn't know what he is doing, the program is a disaster, he's got to do something immediately, etc. Dave Brandon runs enormous corporations for a living and he has run them very well. He hires and fires people all the time. He develops plans and he works his plans. I mean no offense to anyone commenting here, but it seems to me that most commenters here are looking at this from their own very narrow perspective and trying to decide what should be done on the basis of what they would do if the task were theirs. In my opinion you just need to realize that this kind of management decision is something different from anything you know and that it just won't go the way you think it should. I am reminded of Jennifer Granholm trying to tell Steve Wynn (billionaire developer and global casino operator) that he doesn't know how to create jobs. She was speaking from her position in government about how she would do it, but with no frame of reference for the real world. I suggest everyone just cool off, site back, and enjoy watching Dave put the athletic department into proper working order.

The OSU

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 2:53 p.m.

MissionBrazil: You're right, I am still fuming about 1969. Frankly, I hope you get a decent coach and restore/rebuild your program. NOTHING beats a good tOSU/UM game. Sadly, this past year's edition really wasn't much of a game. We're looking forward to next November. See you at the big house.

Dukdust

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 2:51 p.m.

Word on the street is Don Dufek is the next coach!

DonAZ

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 2:50 p.m.

@rightmind250... Domino's has 9,000 corporate and franchised stores, operates in 60 international markets and all 50 states. It has revenue in excess of $1.5 billion and more than 150,000 employees. I'd say running that would be quite a task. Your credentials... beyond merely eating the pizza?

Cash

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 2:48 p.m.

Twenty years of loyalty to the program and Brandon fires Fred Jackson? He was out recruiting all week (imagine that a coach out working) and gets called in. http://www.detnews.com/article/20101224/SPORTS0201/12240431/1131/SPORTS0105/U-M-football-a-Jackson-family-business Nice little article about how the asst coaches are paid! http://www.freep.com/article/20101221/BLOG14/101221045/1054/SPORTS06/Wolverines-assistant-football-coaches-lag-in-pay Fred, thank you for your loyalty to Michigan. After 20 years almost the lowest paid UM coach. I am sorry that your loyalty was not appreciated or rewarded.

Joseph

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 2:34 p.m.

@MC5A2: What part of which post doesn't make sense to you? Please clarify. I can try and type slower, no problem.

missionbrazil

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 2:34 p.m.

rightmind "This guy resembles a used car salesman... That face looks like a deer caught in the headlights. UM's ad's have destroyed the tradition of UM football..." You just described RR, not DB. DB is the guy trying to fix the RR mess. Let the man do his job.

missionbrazil

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 2:26 p.m.

The OSU "Don't bring up 1969. We're still burned up about that!" Something tells me that you are going to be burned up about alot of things that will be happening in the future too. We are going to get this right this time!

Blu-n-Tpa

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 2:25 p.m.

RightMind-What planet? His clothes? His look? Are you intersted in a date? Did you actually listen?

D21

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 2:24 p.m.

SdParrothead, Nice try! Hoke is too good for your Aztecs! Deal with it.

beanie wells

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 2:17 p.m.

@The OSU: isn't man-genius hated everywhere!?!

SanDiegoParrothead

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 2:14 p.m.

Trust me, you don't want Brady Hoke. He doesn't know what he's doing. He'd be no good for your program. Go after Leach, or Gruden, or... Just stay away from Brady Hoke. Please!

rightmind250

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 2:12 p.m.

Donaz, It's pizza dude and crappy pizza at that. Not rocket science. How much is the cheese? How much sauce? It hasn't changed in 30 years. It was known as the crappiest pizza you could order 30 years ago. Nothings changed, even with your pizza expert. Now running a mojor college athletic program takes a few more decision making skills. Brandon is finding this out quickly. Those of you who said he looked classy at the news conference must love crappy pizza. This guy resembles a used car salesman. Look at the freakin haircut. Whats up with that? DB is the face of UM athletics. That face looks like a deer caught in the headlights. UM's ad's have destroyed the tradition of UM football and basketball. They are a national joke. No coach with credentials wants to come here and clean out the catbox.

The OSU

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 2:11 p.m.

Beanie Wells: I already suggested Eric Mangini from the Browns. He's immediately avaiable, runs a pro offense and is hated in Ohio. Tru2Blu: Don't bring up 1969. We're still burned up about that!

D21

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 2:08 p.m.

Happy Days are here again as predicted! Happy Maize n Blue New Year to you all including this tater tot fella, too.

beanie wells

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 2:05 p.m.

anyone have thoughts on viable candidates other than harbaugh, hoke and miles?

The OSU

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 2 p.m.

Good thing Brandon isn't the state's governor. The prisoners on death row would have a cruel wait for execution. "I'm gonna flip the switch." "Wait. No I'm not. Don't worry." "Only kidding, yes I am." "It's getting late today. I promise I'll decide tomorrow for sure." Now Brandon can start searching for a head coach. He'll probably botch that up as well. Like RudeJude said, you've got time. But you'll rush anyway. "The Ben" is right. You don't need a "big name" to be successful but you'll probably try to steal one from another school and end up with another version of RichRod. Brandon probably feels he saved 1.5 milliion that he can now use to pay another WVU penalty. Ahh... Good times are ahead for the Buckeyes.

Blu-n-Tpa

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:53 p.m.

Why does it seem that the same people who were for RR and now vs DB? No matter what DB said or says, those RR fans will call the AD out. DB said it took two days to FINISH the discussion and arrive at a FINAL decision. He didn't say he STARTED yesterday. I could shop for a car for weeks, checking online for features, pricing, deals, and all the rest, but eventually I would have to make a choice. Keep my old car or get a new one. DB is going with a newer, hopefully much beter model.(You know one that doesn't go backwards) So save your misplaced angst and anger over a perceived slight of hand by DB. He told you the truth, as clear as he could and if you don't understand, then that's your problem. The why I look at it, Michigan's COACHING staff just got better. Special teams just got BETTER! Defense just got BETTER! Michigan football's future just got BETTER! Addition by subtraction, and, if DB nails the pick for the next HC at UM, then it's improvement by multiplication. GO BLUE

MC5A2

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:51 p.m.

@Joseph Stratton How does any of what you say make any sense whatsoever, and how close are you to any of the main players to make such wild declarations? I sense you are a conspiracy theorist sir.

glimmertwin

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:51 p.m.

Very commanding at the press conference. I was surprisingly impressed. He strikes me as a very analytical, dominant personality. I'm sure he will do what is right, but I worry about timing now. But the recruiting class for next year is shot.

Joseph

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:45 p.m.

I am laughing at most of you calling a self-professed public relations master a 'liar'. Do you remember the trial balloon he floated out there earlier this year that the OSU/Mich game would come to an end? Later, he sheepishly admitted it was to gain public reaction. I think the biggest sham was this 10-month evaluation study that was taking precedence over everything. He must have been banging away on his laptop last weekend throwing something together for yesterday's sham, constructive meeting. Which according to DB resulted in his decision last night to fire RRod. That is absolutely laughable as DB made up in his mind to fire RRod after the Penn State loss.

BlueGator

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:42 p.m.

Great job, Dave Brandon, on the RR decision process and the press conference. Now continue to take your time and make a good decision regarding our new head coach.

lawrencelaundry

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:38 p.m.

They need a coach with a.history of winning. Not Brady Hoke. They already passed up Kelly and Harbaugh when they had their chance. Let's just hope they don't screw up this again with a.similar hire of RR. Peterson, patterson or les Miles all have history. IM willing to bet Miles might come.

MC5A2

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:37 p.m.

@Mick52 I don't know what shining utopia you are living in where the media and the public would see it your way. First of all, you pretend that the media is only speaking to the officials who they should be speaking with. Brandon has basically been saying "No comment" all along. It's the "unnamed sources" (who may or may not know what they're talking about) who the media are speaking with, in the hopes of breaking the story. (Look at the over the top feeding frenzy yesterday.) So "no comment" doesn't always work. Secondly, yes, truth is always the best policy, but as someone who works in the PR industry, there is a saying that we deliver "the truth well told". Brandon promised Rich a fair hearing at the end of the season, after the bowl, and that's what he gave him yesterday. Like he said in the press conference, it wouldn't be fair or ethical (your cherished truth) for him to go into that meeting with his mind already made up. But even though he hadn't officially made up his mind, no one is saying he didn't plan on every contingency. If you think he hasn't had sources unofficially querying Jim Harbaugh's interest since December, you'd be crazy. But that doesn't mean he had decided to fire Rich in December. If Michigan had turned in a better performance in the Gator Bowl, and Rich made a compelling case in their meeting yesterday, who's to say he wouldn't have been given another year? Lastly, are we really that late in looking for a head coach? Maybe, if you look at recruiting. But let's say Brandon had fired Rich immediately after the OSU game. First, he wouldn't have been giving the best chance of winning the Gator Bowl to his players. And second, I personally think it would have rubbed Jim Harbaugh the wrong way to see an AD treat the head coach that way. Plus, he wouldn't have responded to any official request from Michigan in December, because he'd say he was focusing on preparing Stanford for the Orange Bowl. And any distractions from that would probably have pushed him even further away. This is the long way of saying that Dave Brandon played it pretty well here, and now it's up to him to get the right head coach, Harbaugh or not.

Joseph

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:36 p.m.

More like DB is starting his national search after his one and only candidate stiffed him on his verbal commitment. Business 101: it isn't a deal unless it is in writing and signed by both parties. We all expected DB to learn on the job but we assumed that he had the basics of business down-cold. Did you see his eyes tear up when pressed for a direct answer on if he spoke to Harbaugh directly? That was very telling and no doubt in my mind that DB got punked by JH and agent. How many times did DB mention that JH is going to the pro's? At least 4-5 times. Do you think the Stanford players appreciated hearing that from him? Was that DB's payback to JH? Unbelievably entertaining. The good news is that DB wanted RR gone. For that he deserves some credit.

RudeJude

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:34 p.m.

Slow your horses. Tressell wasn't hired until January 17th and he was winning the title his second season. Take a deep breath and let's wait until a candidate is hired before we bury Dave Brandon. We've realized how fallible the media is, so don't believe them until the candidates take themselves out of the running. There are quality candidates out there, both well-known and hardly-known. Let's see what Dave Brandon finds. Go Blue

truebluefan

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:29 p.m.

The only thing that would save DB's reputation in my eyes is an incredible hire along the lines of Patterson, Petersen, Meyer, etc. But something tells me we'll end up with Hoke or Fitzgerald.

GoblueinNE_PA

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:27 p.m.

Terrin and J.Dean are right. Brandon can't say he's already got a list or already started a search. He claimed he just made the decision to terminate RichRod last night. My guess is part what took so long was working out the $2.5MM vs $4MM buyout and saying anything that would indicate he'd actually made the decision before 1/1/11, would put us in a pickle. My gut tells me that Brandon already has a list of folks that he's vetted and wants to talk to about the opening. There are probably the usual suspects (Harbaugh, Hoke, Miles), but I think you might see some unexpected names come up, such as coordinators out of successful programs. I wonder if Fred Jackson is the token?

DonAZ

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:25 p.m.

Of course he's been looking already. He's been doing that at least informally since the Ohio State game. The trouble is there's a host of restrictions -- contractual as well as business ethical -- that limited him, and his prospective new hires, from committing or commenting earlier. This whole process has been a challenge because some of the prospective new hires had their own bowl games to work through. Had Brandon fired Rodriguez after the OSU game we would have seen Harbaugh close the door on the Michigan job earlier. Harbaugh is not the kind of guy to be backed into a corner. He has plenty of options. He didn't and doesn't need the Michigan job. But he might have gone for it given proper time to finish up at Stanford and weigh his options. Which is why, I believe, Brandon waited. By various accounts it didn't work out. It was a smart gamble. Brady Hoke, of whom I know little, is there and will wait. From what I gather Michigan is his dream job. He was apparently willing to stand in line behind Harbaugh. So again, Brandon waited. I don't know who Michigan will get, but I am quite confident that retaining Rodriguez for another year -- or another several years -- would make no difference. He would have won games, and perhaps even an occasional MSU or OSU game. But there was absolutely nothing I saw -- and apparently Brandon saw -- that suggested long term Rodriguez was the answer. I wish Rodriguez well. If he finds his way back to the Big East he'll do well. Probably get killed by TCU, but otherwise he'll do well. If he could land OC at, say, Florida or LSU where he could get the crop of recruits his system needs, he might even do very well if matched with a DC who did well on that side of the ball. PS -- to those who imply Brandon is a poor businessman because they didn't like Domino's Pizza... what y'all don't know about business is a lot. The product matters of course, but sometimes there are more urgent issues of short-term cash flow and tactical survival. None of us know the issues Domino's faced on other business fronts.

truebluefan

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:23 p.m.

Great, so Brandon is either a liar, or he's clueless. Which is it?

Mick52

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:20 p.m.

I expect the truth from the Athletic director, not veiled lies to cover up what he has been doing as some seem to be implying here, like Ben and Bluefire. No offense meant to you two, it is just that I prefer the truth and no lying and no justification for lying. If he has been searching then he is lying because today he said that he just made the decision. I like the saying, "you lie, bye, bye." When you lie, you are condoning unethical behavior and it is not good if it is coming from the top. Is that why RR was not fired immediately for the NCAA violation, because unethical behavior is okay? With the press if you do not want some information released, the proper response is "no comment," or something akin to what Harbaugh said when he was repeatedly asked about his future. It's really nobody's business. Officials release what they want to, they are not required to release information when asked. I agree with truebluefan, it is very late to start this. Because of the delay and the hype about how volatile the atmosphere is here, who is coming in now has a chance to ask for the whole farm. Michigan's next coach may set a record for a college coach compensation and will get a lot more payout if he is booted in two or three years than 2.5 rocks.

J. Dean

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:18 p.m.

@The Ben, I care about one thing: that the next coach knows how to WIN. Everything else is just details for now.

MC5A2

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:18 p.m.

I hope Harbaugh was watching the press conference because he'd have to be impressed with the professionalism Dave Brandon just showed. He gave a top notch performance, and settled a lot of nerves about the future of Michigan football (for the time being). Regardless of what the haters are saying, Brandon played this completely right. Now let's hope he can seal the deal with the right choice for head coach.

blusage

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:14 p.m.

Just watched the press conference. i was impressed by Brandon, even though I've been skeptical of his actions on this matter. He's aware of all the issues and he's doing what he thinks is best. It was classy to have a long meeting with RR and let everybody have their say before he made the final decision the next day. I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt. As Brandon said, he's in no shortage of advice from all sides. He's a smart guy. I have confidence he's going to make the right decision. Ultimately, a few weeks of discomfort now is a small price to pay to turn the program around. I think he'll find a new coach very quickly. (I do think his opinion that Harbaugh is going to the NFL is a message to Harbaugh to "sh*t or get off the pot." I'd like Harbaugh to come to Michigan, but have never felt he's the only choice.) Go Blue!

81wolverine

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:13 p.m.

It's very disappointing that Brandon is not closer to picking someone now that RR is gone. Maybe as others have said, he is not playing all his cards. But, this search can't be dragged out over weeks like the last one. We need our guy VERY quickly. Brandon seems like a guy who follows protocol pretty closely, but in today's competitive coach market, he better be willing to act aggressively.

Dankston Hughez

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:12 p.m.

I told you MIstake...

The Ben

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:11 p.m.

To all of you who are concerned with getting a Big Name Coach: Do I really need to name all of the great coaches who weren't Big Names before they became successful? Really? Every Big Name Coach was a no-name coach at some point. Fans who are only happy with Big Names = shallow. I don't give two craps about getting a big name. Get a good coach who is a good fit, please. That is all.

Blueman Rick

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:10 p.m.

Great press conference by Brandon. He played it exactly right. Reminded me a bit of old Don. The program is in good hands.

a2citizen

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:09 p.m.

...Brandon said the connections to Michigan are plentiful and he said he has talked to Harbaugh and will continue to talk to Harbaugh because he's a Michigan Man...

J. Dean

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 1:04 p.m.

I agree with Terrin. Brandon was probably being a little less than truthful about starting the search for a coach. If he's half as smart as he ought to be, then he's already been looking around.

Terrin

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 12:59 p.m.

truebluefan: DB can't say he has been working on the replacement before today. First, that'd make him appear a liar. Second, Michigan would have to pay RR more money because that would have meant Michigan really fired him earlier.

NoBowl4Blue

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 12:55 p.m.

Who knows what you can believe from DB? He used to sell cardboard and call it pizza.

Bluefire

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 12:47 p.m.

@truebluefan I thought the same thing, but if he said "I'm going to continue my search" (that I started weeks ago...), it would give the lie to his comment that he made the decision about RR only last night. So I, personally, am just adding a "wink wink, nudge nudge" after that comment.

Ben

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 12:47 p.m.

^ I would take that statement from Brandon with a grain of salt. There's been too much coaching traffic elsewhere for there to have been NO "seeking" for a next coach. Especially if Brandon had used any of that month to be researching candidates. By saying he was BEGINNING the hunt, he tacitly avoided any questions about the "short list".

truebluefan

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 12:41 p.m.

Wait a minute, Brandon is starting a national search now? It's January 5 for crying out loud! What the heck is DB's malfunction? I am not so sure that DB knows what he is doing.