devildog

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 5:39 a.m.

What a mess! Who gets to evaluate DB, and you all thought RR was the problem, well he was the problem, but now we have a new and bigger problem - DB. I have said before - UM cannot get Jim, he can see the mess at UM. Now you have a problem with the administration AGAIN

aakapoic

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

Make a FU*&!ing decision, for God's sake! This is the football program with the most wins and we look like idiots...again! If David Brandon doesn't have RichRod's successor in place when he fires him, then he shouldn't fire him. If he does, then we should fire David Brandon. Show some FU*&!ing leadership!!!!!!!

heartbreakM

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

Why we should all support our current (and soon to be ex-) coach (Paraphrasing from real quotes) RR: What do you expect, we had 6 freshmen playing? Even Lombardi could not fix this. The Vest: I'm so proud of our guys. 3rd and 4th stringers in there knew that they had to play the position and they came out with a win against a very tough SEC team.

truebluefan

Wed, Jan 5, 2011 : 12:35 a.m.

You don't hold a four hour meeting with the guy you're going to fire. No way. RR will be retained through the remainder of his contract with the stipulation that the defensive staff is cleaned out. Watch it happen on Wednesday. Go Blue!

Oscar Lavista

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 11:49 p.m.

I always wondered, why "Rich Rod"??? Never Bo Shem, or J-Har, D-Bran, Bray Ho, or Mair SuCo. I guess if you're named Rodriguez and happen to be famous, web posters tend to copy the original, A-Rod. It doesn't happen much with other names, and seems disrespectful to me. I propose that Rich Rod and other "Rods" should be nominated for LSSU's banished words for 2011.

BlueOtis

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

Sally and 3 & out, you're barking up the right tree, I believe DB gave RR two options: 1)Leave gracefully OR 2) We'll make sure your next BEST job will be a Jr. College offensive line coach! Told him to "sleep on it and we'll talk tomorrow" I'm sure DB has seen 99% of the skeletons in the closet and called RR out on the others.

Jim

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

Harbaugh would be a good deal for Michigan if he was paid twice as much as RR. He is honest, has character and can relate to players, all things RR was not capable of. The only fans that want RR kept are at other big ten schools.

mun

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

Why is the Detroit Free Press saying Rich Rod is out? http://www.freep.com/article/20110104/SPORTS06/110104047/1321/Michigan-decides-to-fire-Rich-Rodriguez

GoBlue13

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 11:28 p.m.

frustrated GOOD NIGHT! hope tomorrow is better!

GoBlue13

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 11:25 p.m.

Maybe Michigan should drop out of the Big 10 and join the MAC. Sorry just a little frustated.

mun

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 11:25 p.m.

For those who are slamming Brady Hoke, I have 4 words for you: AUBURN COACH GENE CHIZEK.

ShadowManager

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 11:14 p.m.

I have a hunch that Brandon called Richrod in there today, threatened he'd fire him if RR didn't fire Greg Robinson, and then gave RR one day to think about it and to give the bad bad news to Greg Robinson. Yes, I think the generally (unanalyzed) media opinion that David Brandon knows what he is doing...is in fact fallacy. He doesn't. He's as clueless as RR. If not...why let it get to this level...and why, dear God, let the "You Raise Me Up" song be played a football banquet? Ever. Tomorrow, RR comes out at the team meeting to sorrowfully inform his team that they are going to lose their dear, dear Defensive Coordinator, and that's it. RR and Brandon just shut up and are coy as if nothing happened and it was all just "rampant speculation" that RR was ever close to being fired "so soon" and the Harbaugh thing was "all just talk in the media". "RR is a Michigan Man, you see." Just a hunch.

Marvin Face

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 11:14 p.m.

Only one real choice for the next Michigan coach: Dana Holgorsen.

dale

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

RR would make a great offensive coordinator. I wouldn't mind if they sacked the defensive coaches and got rid of the 3-3-5. If not, who will they hire? Is it going to turn into a turntable of coaches and schemes? They'll have to get new athletes to run a different scheme, etc.. When do ADs like Martin and Brandon become accountable?

Mick52

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 11:08 p.m.

81wolverine, I watched the video from your link. What's the problem? There is nothing in it that indicates Miles is dirty. It's within the rules. The whole SEC does it and according to your video, the Big Ten does it too, only at a lesser scale. I agree it is a nasty thing to do, but it is within the rules. This came up earlier in the season in conversation I had. It was news to me then, I did not know a school could yank a scholarship unless a player gets kicked out of school for some behavior issues. But the video doesn't imply this is inappropriate or against NCAA rules. So to say Miles is dirty is not at all true, at least not based on this video. I prefer him over Hoke in that he is tied to Michigan and is a winner, not a loser, record wise, and coaches in the SEC, not the Mountain West, which is like choosing a coach from the Big East.

GoBlue13

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 11:03 p.m.

Whats with the reports that DB took the jet to Florida today?

ellipsec01

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:59 p.m.

South's Crawford de-commits to Michigan http://www.abc-7.com/Global/story.asp?S=13783392 "Fort Myers - NBC2 has confirmed that South Fort Myers senior standout quarterback-defensive back Dallas Crawford will inform the University of Michigan that he is going to pull his verbal commitment to go to the school. "

Holmes1

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:53 p.m.

"we should stick with RR." Isn't that what RR and DB are working out: A new "package" and how to "spin" it to people who aren't going to like the "product"? Like "new and improved" Dominos pizza?

GoBlue13

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:47 p.m.

@3 and out I agree with you. Hoke is not the answer. Les Miles would be great, but with that said if we can't get him we should stick with RR. Maybe another Head Coach will become availiable in the future. I think the boosters will "pony up" whatever it takes to get it done.

Mick

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:47 p.m.

@BorninA2 I know the family personally and can tell you that he needs to straighten out his academic situation first before he's able to play again. He might have to transfer for his own sake if he wants to continue playing. But please don't freak out, it still remains to be seen what is gonna happen with that.

ellipsec01

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:47 p.m.

The Mess At Michigan Will Be Hard To Clean Up By PETE THAMEL Published: January 4, 2011 http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/05/sports/ncaafootball/05michigan.html

BornInA2

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:40 p.m.

Off the RR circus-wagon for a moment... Anyone hear anything about for former #1 er #2 QB, Tate the Great? The RR thing has wholly overshadowed the fact that we appear to have lost our #2 QB on whom we were quite dependant this season.

Holmes1

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:37 p.m.

Exactly, Ben. And "evaluate" means precisely that, including many possible outcomes, including what truebluefan wrote: "RR will likely be back next season with a new defensive staff and a public announcement from Brandon that RR will be the coach for the remainder of his contract (or maybe with a new contract lasting only one year and with new provisions?)" ESPN reports? They have been WRONG all day long. Harbaugh? His brother and everyone else who knows him say he's not headed to UM. Les Miles? Get real! He's refused UM once before (in a fiasco just like this), repeatedly denied he's coming here, and LSU just reported that UM has not attempted to contact him. It's EXACTLY as GoBlue wrote: "Three years ago names like Les Miles, Bryan Kelly, and Gary Pinkel were thrown around as replacements. This year the best we can do is B. Hoke. WOW!! says alot about where this program is!!" As Blueman Rick wrote: My alma mater, the laughing stock of college football? YUP! Ketchup-flavored cardboard anyone?

LSUWolverine

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:35 p.m.

The people down here in Baton Rouge are getting nervous about Miles leaving, especially with how poorly they've treated him despite the consistent winning that he has done in a very tough conference. The fans down here are basically upset with the fact that Miles produces 10 win seasons and wins respectable bowl games on a consistent basis while in a good year he would win the team would be part of the SEC championship and a shot at a BCS bowl. I really wish the LSU fans would see what we've gone through and be grateful for a competent coach that fields a respectable team.

Mick

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:34 p.m.

I don't know 3nOut, Miles, like you said is up there in age while Hoke is 52. The jobe he's doing at SDSU is amazing, I have many friends here who are scared to death that Hoke might leave. He's very respected in so many ways, trust me. We need to hire someone relatively young IMO. Now, don't get me wrong, I want JH hands down, especially after that gem last nite. How impressive was that? Even the MGoBlog cool peeps(in their own minds anyway) over there are into the JH possibility where before they were drinking the RR kool-aid.

3 And Out

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:24 p.m.

the bleeding that RR caused needs to be stopped immediately and hiring a no name lower level assistant, would not be the answer for that and IMO Hoke is not ready for that firestorm...it takes a bigger than life coach to handle the Michigan pressure...and very few coaches have that...Harbaugh has that...Miles has it... we need a guy like that to get us through this fire...no more mamby pamby raise me up... need a strong willed force to come in and rebuild it...stabilize the regime.

Mick

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:22 p.m.

Sorry, I mispelled Golder, not girder, oops

Bluefire

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:22 p.m.

@Ben -- I agree, partly. The other part is this: DB HAD to have known about the "news" reports flying around after his meeting with RR started. UM should have been out in front of those reports stating no decision had been made, rather than waiting until late in the day to do so. Sallyxyz is right. Regardless of the outcome, DB has handled PR management of this event poorly. Since this is his first big decision as UM AD, I can cut him some slack. On the other hand, he should have anticipated that things would be different than they were while he was at Domino's when making a decision of this perceived magnitude.

3 And Out

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:21 p.m.

Mick...I agree Hoke is a good coach, but his record is still under.500 and he has never done it on a national stage... eventually he may be ready for Michigan...but Im not convinced of that now. What we need now is a big hire, who can get this thing turned around fast... talent is the key and Les Miles can recruit like a crazy foo.. Miles remained at Michigan through the transition from Schembechler to Gary Moeller, but when Moeller resigned in 1995, Miles left to become offensive coordinator at Oklahoma State. Even though it was a promotion, he had a hard time leaving. I cried like a baby, Miles says. Thats how much I enjoyed that place. Twelve years later, during LSUs national championship season, rumors circulated that Miles would return to Michigan as head coach. Just hours before LSU played in the SEC championship game, Miles held a legendary impromptu press conference to deny a report by ESPN commentator Kirk Herbstreit that he was set to leave for the Wolverines. At the time, Miles says, he had not talked to Michigan officials about the job. But when LSU officials intensified negotiations to extend his contract after winning the SEC championship game, he told them he felt obligated to talk to Michigan. I spent hours trying to do that and never really got a return call until much later, Miles says. By then, Miles was preparing his team to play in the BCS title game against Ohio State and had agreed to a contract extension with LSU. I dont know that its in the cards, Miles says of a return to Michigan. Not every Michigan alumnus gets the opportunity to go back and coach at his alma mater. Down the road, if Hoke is the guy after Miles would retire than so be it...but right now it needs to be done right and Les Miles would get the support of most of the alums and former players and he would take this job in a heartbeat.

Mick

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:15 p.m.

3nOut, no way man, not Miles. I'm telling you if JH doesn't take the job and I'm still hoping he will, we shall see. I think Hoke is really being underestimated. Look at OSU, they hired Tressell who was nobody from a big stage stand point. I'm really upset with the way this whole thing is going down, I'm really unimpressed w/DB so far, I hope he proves me wrong. Do something great DB, please. @Joe Girder, hey if we don't get JH, maybe you can use those speedos in a Miller Lite Ad, why not, or you could go to Europe and hang out with Euro Trash, Lol!!

treetowncartel

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:09 p.m.

RR is not getting fired, in the corporate world they do all their firings on a Friday. He is of course a former CEO of Valasis and Dominoes..Anybody know how many Satellite trucks are parked down at Schembechler hall right now?

3 And Out

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:09 p.m.

Good post Sally.....you make some interesting and probably valid points. Rich Rod reportedly had only 200K in assets when he came to Michigan in 07 (according to records from that WVU lawsuit at the time)...he then became involved with 2 lawsuits regarding real estate loans that he allegedly signed for and then defaulted on... both worth over one million.... then he agreed to pay WVU back for some of the buyout... Even though he has been compensated at nearly 10mil for 3 terrible seasons, and would walk with 2.5 mil, it would not be surprising if RR and his agent Dave Brown are not angling for more from Michigan...as his history of terrible financial acuity has been shown over and over.

The Ben

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:06 p.m.

Isn't David Brandon doing exactly what he said he'd do? I'm not sure what all the hubbub is about. Imagine this scenario: David Brandon says he will evaluate RichRod at the end of the season. Everyone waits for an official announcement and doesn't speculate at all. Would there be any "embarrassment" or "circus"? No. Any negative image that comes from this can be blamed on the media, bloggers, and fans. If everyone would just shut up and wait, this would be a non-issue.

3 And Out

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:04 p.m.

I almost hate to say this....but the BEST option at this point for Michigan is: Les Miles. Guy has flat out been a successful coach at OSU (not that OSU) and LSU...he has conference championships, a National Championship and has succeeded in the best conference in college football. Guy LOVES Michigan and can flat out recruit like a motha. Yeah he is almost 60 but Les would jump at the chance to coach at his Alma Mater... and would give us at least 5 years of stability, rebuilding and excitement.... and yes trolls...Bo would approve of Les. They were close.

joe golder

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 10:04 p.m.

Stay tuned!!!! Is their really any Michigan men out their??? Or is it a myth. I'll donate it to any one of rich rods charities. I believe he's the next BO and the next Meechigan man... and will back it up if given the chance. good night!

Sallyxyz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:57 p.m.

At 9:45 pm, from espn.com: "One source close to the situation said Brandon may have been hoping Rodriguez would quit, but he won't. Another source said 'contractual considerations' could emerge as a factor. Rodriguez would be owed a $2.5 million buyout if his contract is terminated. But Rodriguez has admitted to some NCAA violations. Also, Rodriguez paid $1.5 million out of pocket in three payments to West Virginia as part of a $4 million buyout when he came to Michigan. One key question is whether some of that money might be recouped." Yup. I think this delay is about cash and legal wrangling. Of course RR won't quit. He is playing hardball to get every dime he can out of UM. This is an employee who is not going away quietly. Also, read the Bleacher Report by Dave DeBlasio, "Rich Rodriguez to Pitt Rumors: Why Panthers Alum Mark May Has It All Wrong." It is a scathing indictment of RR.

belboz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:52 p.m.

I hope RR stays for 2 reasons. 1. Only with Harbaugh will MI be better in 2 years compared to RR staying and polishing his creation for the next 2 years. I believe RR can deliver a 10 win season in the next 2 years, playing in the Big 10 championship. Hoke would not attract recruits like Harbaugh and his NFL connections. If not Harbaugh, which it seems not, then RR is the best 2 year plan. 2. I want RR to stay so the media can eat crow and be seen to be the fools they are. They are so eager to jump all over anything they can to crush RR. They believe big money boosters want RR gone, so they do this in an effort to brown nose like the sycophants they are. I hope someone is fired out of this, regardless of what happens with RR. I listen to talk radio and get sick when I hear a new coach is needed to bring the mi family together because so many boosters and supporters don't like RR and never wanted him. These people are the problem. Maybe if they cut the egotistical crap and did everything they could to be a part of the family, and not make it clear a new coach is needed for them to be on board, this mess would not be going on because, just maybe, RR would have a bit more success.

GoBlue13

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:47 p.m.

Three years ago names like Les Miles, Bryan Kelly, and Gary Pinkel were thrown around as replacements. This year the best we can do is B. Hoke. WOW!! says alot about where this program is!!

belboz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:47 p.m.

I hope RR stays for 2 reasons. 1. Only with Harbaugh will MI be better in 2 years compared to RR staying and polishing his creation for the next 2 years. I believe RR can deliver a 10 win season in the next 2 years, playing in the Big 10 championship. Hoke would not attract recruits like Harbaugh and his NFL connections. If not Harbaugh, which it seems not, then RR is the best 2 year plan. 2. I want RR to stay so the media can eat crow and be seen to be the fools they are. They are so eager to jump all over anything they can to crush RR. They believe big money boosters want RR gone, so they do this in an effort to brown nose like the sycophants they are. I hope someone is fired out of this, regardless of what happens with RR. I listen to talk radio and get sick when I hear a new coach is needed to bring the mi family together because so many boosters and supporters don't like RR and never wanted him. These people are the problem. Maybe if they cut the egotistical crap and did everything they could to be a part of the family, and not make it clear a new coach is needed for them to be on board, this mess would not be going on because, just maybe, RR would have a bit more success.

obama from kenya

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:44 p.m.

How long did Pitt negotiate the termination of the alleged wife beater that they had hired in Hayward? Seems like they were able to fire him rather quickly with only one alleged situation, not three years of poor performance. Maybe you guys are right, but this seems more than a simple termination in my eyes.

Jaxon5

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:35 p.m.

This is speculation, but I believe Brandon or the University has decided it cannot financially afford a new coach. It would cost the University $2.5 M to buy out Rodriguez and it would have to pay a new coach more than it currently pays Rodriguez. That's a budget breaker. Lloyd Carr was making far less than Rodriguez when he left. Rodriguez's hire created a huge increase in expenses to a point beyond which the University is unwilling to pay. The 2-day meeting to discuss Rodriguez's future is not to fire him. Nobody holds a 2-day meeting to terminate someone's employment - terminations are always short and to the point. Brandon and Rodriguez are discussing the imperatives for the 2011 season - what must happen in order for Rodriguez to continue his contract beyond 2011. One of the imperatives will be a radical change in the defense.

hroad

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:29 p.m.

In three years the Michigan football team maybe in the same situation as they are now, if B. Hoke is brought here. He will divide the fan base. Many UofM fans dont want him here. Dj vu all over again. The University of Michigan and the Big Ten needs a better coach than him to be hired here.

Holmes1

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:28 p.m.

Some of the words used in the above posts: laughing stock; Legacy; 3-ring circus; MESS; Fiasco; media-driven hype; soap opera; Larry, Moe, and Curly; ain't delivering; weak/bland AD; too corporate; CEO tactics; Badly managed; Debacle; Spin; Grim PR management; public relations nightmare WHO said David Brandon would EVER deliver ANYTHING else? THAT is who he is and what he does! Ketchup-flavored cardboard anyone?

riverraisin

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:28 p.m.

I would have to agree with those that are saying negotiations are taking place behind closed doors. Maybe DB slid a termination agreement across the table for RR to sign that included certain monies owed to the university (read WVU buyout, etc.). RR says "no way am I paying that back and leaving here with no money". negotiations go back and forth, leaving no time to meet with players and make an announcement. It's better to bring this to a definite close and do it right than to make a premature announcement to appease the crowd, all the while turning the situation into an even bigger circus.

breadman

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:27 p.m.

O.k. What's the truth? Do I keep my season football tickets or do I turn then in too outdoor hockey and wedding tickets. Might get more action............

BornInA2

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:27 p.m.

"As a graduate of The Ohio State University, I have to say that, with all due respect to tradition & no false indignation, the University of Michigan, its fans, & alums all need to sack up & honor the commitment the UofM made to Rich Rodriguez, & which he made (at great professional cost & insult to his character) to the Wolverines. Give him at least the full term of his contract to make it happen in the big house, & quit whining & undermining him. It's undignified, and beneath you." Just like you did for Cooper and Bruce?

blueinwestpenn

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:23 p.m.

What a day. My gosh. Before I sign off and go to bed, and we start a new day tomorrow I'd like to a) thank annarbor.com for its rare but excellent journalistic integrity. b) not believe a word I hear about Jim Harbaugh unless I see it come from Jim Harbaugh's mouth c) not believe a word I hear about anything Brandon did or does, unless an official from the university confirms it d) let a day pass. What do we M fans lose? nothing. e) ignore the reports in the pittsburgh press about RR taking over the Pitt program f) do my job tomorrow and not check in on the newswires until all my meetings are over. everyone rest up and lets give it 2-3 days, and chill.

Jean-Marc O'Connor

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:16 p.m.

As a graduate of The Ohio State University, I have to say that, with all due respect to tradition & no false indignation, the University of Michigan, its fans, & alums all need to sack up & honor the commitment the UofM made to Rich Rodriguez, & which he made (at great professional cost & insult to his character) to the Wolverines. Give him at least the full term of his contract to make it happen in the big house, & quit whining & undermining him. It's undignified, and beneath you.

ellipsec01

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:16 p.m.

@Richard Wayne Patten "Why don't they bring Lloyd Carr back!" You may get you wish - BH!

ViSHa

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:15 p.m.

Strange he was meeting at DB's house---why take a photo of his wife outside of Schembechler? http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/slideshow/photo//110104/483/urn_publicid_ap_org7ac1776878ca4df4856cccba7ea8e41d/ A2D2, i'll take B for $200, lol.

Richard

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:04 p.m.

I feel so bad for Coach Rich Rodriguez. He doesn't deserve this kind of treatment, what kind of treatment is that. He is a human being, not a rat. I hope whoever they hire, they had better do their homework and not hire someone just to have a winning coach. I feel sorry for the new coach because he is going to be under so much pressure. Why don't they bring Lloyd Carr back!

ummsw

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 9:01 p.m.

On Sunday Brandon said " a decision would come the back half of the week" to me that means Thursday or Friday. I will withhold judgment until then...

ellipsec01

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:58 p.m.

Are here come the Brady Hoke welcoming articles.... Don't fret if Brady Hoke, not Jim Harbaugh, becomes next Michigan football coach source: http://blog.mlive.com/ottoman-empire/2011/01/do_not_fret_if_brady_hoke_becomes_the_next_michigan_football_coach_instead_of_jim_harbaugh.html "The biggest piece of evidence is probably this. I spoke to a media outlet in Detroit that covers Michigan football closely. Their take on it is, "Brady Hoke is the anointed one. Harbaugh has made it clear he's going to the NFL, so Hoke is the one that they want." That apparently comes from inside the Wolverines athletic department, which could very soon have Brady Hoke as a member again."

tim

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:55 p.m.

Brandon needs another coach before he fires RR ---- I think thats the holdup.

Bluefire

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:54 p.m.

There's a BIG difference between firing someone who holds an at-will employment position, as most do, and firing someone who has an employment contract, particularly one that pays seven figures. No, it doesn't take that long to make a decision to fire someone but, heck yeah, it can take a long time to make that termination official.

A2D2

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:54 p.m.

Blue Fire is correct. It takes an hour at the most to terminate an employee, probably less. On the other hand, it can take days to work through a severance agreement and a non-compete. I wouldn't be surprised to see this last 1-2 more days.. There are two unexplained issues: 1. Why has it been such a public, drawn-out process? That benefits no one, especially UofM. DB's experience is as a CEO. Since that is the case, this scenario is "worst case". If this is indeed a termination, then DB has an employee who is not going away quietly, and DB is coming close to losing control of the situation - absolutely the worst possible outcome for the school and DB.. 2. Why have the meeting at DB's home? The clean, professional termination would have been done in an office setting - quick, to the point, and business-like. Move it to a personal setting, and the action becomes relaxed and personal. If there is one thing that DB knows, it's that you can NEVER let a termination become relaxed or personal. If this is a termination, then it's being handled with poor judgement.. So in closing, my opinion is that one of three things has occurred: a. This is not a termination, never was intended to be, and doesn't look like one because it's not one. Pretty bad decision! b. This is an attempt for DB to make it truly look like he is going though the process. He is simply playing this charade out before reaching a "logical conclusion" to release RR. Pretty cold-hearted! c. This really is a termination gone woefully bad. If that is the case, then the luster is all the way off DB's star, because he royally screwed this up, and he knew better. Pretty unfortunate!

GoblueinNE_PA

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:53 p.m.

OK, I've stayed out of this because, well, there's nothing to talk about. However, what we have is a media fabricated story based upon apparently nothing. DB said he was meeting with RichRod, just as he planned. Now, since he isn't doing what the media fabricated, he's some how at fault? Settle down people, let it play out.

truebluefan

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:52 p.m.

What happened for four hours today during this meeting? It sounds to me like Brandon is not so resolute on firing RR. How else can one interpret a lengthy meeting like this with no outcome? That said, I believe if Harbaugh told Brandon that he wanted the Michigan job, Brandon would immediately fire RR and hire Harbaugh. HOWEVER, if JH doesn't want the job, RR will likely be back next season with a new defensive staff and a public announcement from Brandon that RR will be the coach for the remainder of his contract.

Sallyxyz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:52 p.m.

Having worked at UM for many years, I can tell you that it is an institution that fires very few people, and usually in those cases it was "for cause" such as embezzlement, etc. UM is very concerned about litigation in personnel decisions, and many incompetent people have been retained instead of fired out of fear of lawsuits, IMO. They were put into other positions around the UM, in some cases, lower level positions or hollow positions that were even created for clear incompetents to "lateral them off" instead of facing a potential lawsuit after firing them. I think firing RR is a clear decision, but who knows what arguments RR is making and what litigation he might be threatening? Whatever is happening, this mess is being handled poorly from a PR standpoint, and continues the embarrassment that RR brought upon UM starting 3 years ago.

BornInA2

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:51 p.m.

"@joe golder: If what you said actually comes to pass, and Harbaugh does come here, and you actually DO stand outside in your speedo for 15 minutes, and show proof....I will donate $100 to the charity of your choice." Count me in on that action with the following stipulations: 1. Speedo only. No down jacket or furr coat or hand warmers, etc. 2. Full 15 minutes. 3. Story with pic in the A2 Observer (bonus $25 if the pic makes the cover).

ShadowManager

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:48 p.m.

I heard Ringling Bros and Barnum Bailey's might be hiring if David Brandon needs a job as a PR guy after this. I think I've dumped girlfriend's with more class and clarity than this guy does (or does not) fire coaches. Geez...what's that unprintable expression..."___ or get off the pot"?

heartbreakM

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:41 p.m.

And who is going to discipline Brandon for screwing it up this badly? Not the Regents. Not his buddy the President. I think unless he has something up his sleeve that none of us know, he is creating a fine mess, indeed. What do they say? Absolute Power Corrupts Absolutely. Where is President Mary Sue? And according to John Harbaugh, Michigan is completely out of the Harbaugh sweepstakes.

Sallyxyz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:39 p.m.

obama: Maybe you are correct that RR didn't blindside DB. But, I have to think this delay is about legal wrangling. I don't believe for a minute what DB said to espn.com at 8 pm tonight that he had not made a decision yet.

Urban Sombrero

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:39 p.m.

@joe golder: If what you said actually comes to pass, and Harbaugh does come here, and you actually DO stand outside in your speedo for 15 minutes, and show proof....I will donate $100 to the charity of your choice.

obama from kenya

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:39 p.m.

MY greatest fear is that after going through this entire "wait until after the season to evaluate" process, David Brandon APPEARS to be unable to come to the conclusion that most fans had reached long ago, that RR is not working here. It is a DECISION, not a NEGOTIATION. RR goes, or he stays. I'm not concerned about, losing recruits or not having a replacement in place. My concern is that Brandon is taking so long to come to a DECISION that should have been easy to make.

aajeff

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:35 p.m.

I'm not at all impressed with DB and this is "another fine mess" this and the last athletic director has gotten this University into. I'm a graduate of the UM and work in the Corporate world and can tell you when someone is let go they are let go...period. The negotiations may continue on severance, etc. but you no longer have a job and if that's the case then DB needs to man up and get on with it. DB has has all but vanished the last few weeks. He's left the coach, the players and the fans hanging out to dry for six or seven weeks now. We've lost recruits and are have lost an enormous amount of respect. Like the Freep said, DB has blood on his hands too. I've had it....folks it will be years before we recover from this crap.

obama from kenya

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:30 p.m.

@ sally - Sorry but I just cannot believe that UofM's attorneys could have been blindsided by RR. The only way this would be possible is if Brandon did not talk to any attorneys, walked in to the meeting today, and told RR that he's terminated. This too seems unlikely given that Brandon is from the business world and should be able to figure out how to terminate someone. Even if RR threatened to sue or wanted different compensation, that would not change the course of Brandon's decision to fire him. It simply makes no sense.

ellipsec01

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:28 p.m.

John Harbaugh on Jim: 'Michigan is done' I dont know what hes going to do, John said. I think the Michigan thing is done now. I dont think hes interested in doing that, which is hard for him because he loves Michigan. But it says a lot about Stanford and well just see what happens. http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/blog/2011/01/john_harbaugh_on_jim_michigan_is_done.html Say hello to BH IMO.

Blueman Rick

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:26 p.m.

Just slummin' eh Sooz? No need to qualify your post. We're all raving lunatics here.

Ben

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:24 p.m.

Okies, I'm sorry, but this charade proves one thing: That there needs to be some MAJOR house cleaning at Michigan, President -> Lackey coaches, everyone must go ASAP

Susie Q

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:20 p.m.

I rarely post anything at annarbor.com because of the ugly nature of many of the comments. They are usually not very thoughtful or informative or entertaining, but joe golder got my attention with his "sure ain't delivering in 30 minutes" comment. That was very funny. Also @ 3 & out: valient is spelled valiant.

Sallyxyz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:18 p.m.

This from espn.com at 8:08 pm. "Brandon told ESPN's Desmond Howard that he has not made a decision on the future of Rodriguez. Brandon and Rodriguez met Tuesday afternoon for four hours at Brandon's house and, according to a source close to Rodriguez, are set to meet again Wednesday to discuss the embattled coach's future." They met at DB's house and not at the UM in an office? Something doesn't sound right about that. And at 8 pm tonight, DB hasn't made a decision about RR? I find that hard to believe.

Blueman Rick

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:17 p.m.

This lyric from the folk song Hangman seems very appropriate: "Slack your rope hangman, slack it for a while I think I see my mother comin' ridin' many a mile Mother have you brought me hope or have you paid my fee Or have you come to see me hangin' from the gallows tree? I have not brought you hope, I have not paid your fee Yes I have come to see you hangin' from the gallows tree." Brandon's just slacking the rope a bit so we can all watch RR can twist a spell longer.

buckeyebob

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:16 p.m.

With tongue in cheek, I report: NEWS FLASH!! John Cooper was named head football coach at the University of Michigan this afternoon. Said Dave Brandon, Michigan AD, "No one has been more popular here in Ann Arbor than John Cooper.He brings years of experience with victories over many major programs, except the U of M.. In addition the players will have little difficulty understanding Coach Cooper as he speaks a language similar to Coach Rich Rod. Uunfortunatley it's not English"

heartbreakM

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:15 p.m.

This whole process is embarrassing the university and tainting our football program immeasurably. Shame on David Brandon for screwing it up so bad. And Andre Weathers comments speak volumes about RR

Sallyxyz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:11 p.m.

obama from kenya: This is a high profile firing, and it may have been complicated by a curve ball or two from RR today. I wouldn't put anything past him. UM will go to great lengths to avoid lawsuits. However, the PR mismanagement of this entire matter is inexcusable.

Blueman Rick

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:09 p.m.

Meeting again tomorrow? I'm really sick of this. My alma mater, the laughing stock of college football? Say it ain't so Bo.

ViSHa

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:09 p.m.

joe golder, you're on fire tonight, lol.

sh1

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:03 p.m.

The AP is reporting that no decisions were made and they are meeting again tomorrow.

Blueman Rick

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:03 p.m.

Some have suggested that RR might actually be retained as HC. In my opinion, that scenario is completely unworkable. The vote of confidence needed to have been made before Penn State. Unfortunately, Brandon's CEO tactics are unclear. (Serpentine one might say.) The bottom line is that RR and company have broken nearly every record in Michigan history for under achievement. What a legacy.

Det/Mich Fan

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8:02 p.m.

DB is turning this into a 3 ring circus... The way he has handled this MESS is wrong. I can see him taking his time waiting then making the decision after THAT bowl game, but after that game and the LAST 3 SEASONS, he should've been able to make up his mind by now.

joe golder

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8 p.m.

He sure ain't delivering in 30 min.

obama from kenya

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 8 p.m.

I must disagree with those saying that the length of this meeting was due to negotiating terms of the firing. I've never been fired, but I have a difficult time believing that had I performed at such a poor level over such a long term as RR that my employer would come to me and sit there and spend the better part of a day negotiating my termination. I have the feeling that the company's lawyers would have known what, if any, legal rights I would have, and would have drafted any type of compensation document for me to sign. They would tell me of the the termination and that would be that. I heard somewhere that UofM had some pretty good lawyers. You mean to tell me that they could not coordinate an employee termination?

JimB

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:56 p.m.

Looks as if DB might be too corporate. Can't get the situation over in a quick manner. I hope he doesn't turn out to be a weak/bland AD; just like his pizza.

Sallyxyz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:54 p.m.

I agree with DB in Blacksburg: "This is a public relations nightmare." Badly managed by DB and only adding to the entire debacle. I suspect that DB didn't anticipate some of RR's demands today during the severance discussions, and thus needed to postpone the "final announcement" while RR talks with his lawyers. However, coming from corporate America, pizza man should have anticipated this kind of response and planned accordingly. I don't know who was in the meeting today, but lawyers from both sides should have been present, and the entire matter could have been settled expeditiously. Beyond money, part of the issue is, I'm sure, how to spin this firing to the media so RR doesn't look as bad as he is. But the PR management of this entire situation has been grim, and pizza man is responsible.

MjC

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:51 p.m.

I imagine we have to wait for a ruling from the Spreme Court...

recordhound

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:51 p.m.

Didn't DB say a decision would be announced by the end of the week? Those of you being sucked in to the ridiculous media-driven hype of this dumb story are the real fiasco.

BornInA2

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:45 p.m.

This has become a fiasco, again. Strike one on Brandon, in my opinion. If RR is fired, then fire him. It doesn't take four hours to say, "My conclusion is that you've failed to meet acceptable standards and you are thereby dismissed as coach." RR is a litigous sort and if he's going to sue over his firing the length of meeting won't be relevant to his decision.

Blueman Rick

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:45 p.m.

This three year old debacle just won't die. Now it's a national soap opera. Can't anybody make a clear decision? Annoying.

zip the cat

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:42 p.m.

Guess what all you arm chair wanna be quarterbacks. I'll bet he gets to KEEP his job with tons of new assistants. Bet on it. You don't take 3 1/2 hrs for a meeting if your going to fire someone. He stays.

joe golder

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:39 p.m.

I put it on when the beach gets to crowded. Scares everyone away LOL

Andra

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:39 p.m.

It is a done deal- where have you been? Rodry is gone! YAYA

GB in Blacksburg

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:38 p.m.

This is a public relations nightmare. Brandon has not impressed me with the manner in which this whole affair has been handled. I hoped for more from someone who supposed to be savvy from what he learned in the corporate world. In my opinion, this is simply another black eye for the University of Michigan. The headlines are there, but the impressions are going from bad to worse. If there was a plan, then it sure wasn't clearly thought out. As always, GO BLUE, but I am embarrassed as an alum and for the University of Michigan.

Sallyxyz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:37 p.m.

My money is on Bluefire's take on the situation: "My supposition, based on some experience with these types of (albeit much smaller) situations is that DB presented RR with a severance agreement that included terms to which RR was to agree, and it's those terms that are currently under negotiation and/or review by RR's attorneys. I bet they've been going back and forth on these items all afternoon." Yup. RR is going to fight for as much cash as he can get out of UM and probably is spending the entire evening on the phone with his lawyers. The fax machines in the athletic offices today and in RR's home office tonight were probably smokin'. Speaking of RR's place, I hope that "Two Men and a Truck" are still parked outside the RR home, loading those boxes. It's really absurd to think RR would be staying at this point.

15crown00

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:35 p.m.

Bye Bye Richy Rod

ellipsec01

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:33 p.m.

"I don't know what he's going to do," Harbaugh said during his weekly WBAL radio program tonight. "I think the Michigan thing is done now. I think that's over. I don't think he's going to have anything to do with that. I think that says a lot about Stanford." - John Harbaugh source: http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/John-Harbaugh-doesnt-expect-Jim-Harbaugh-to-go-to-Michigan.html 58 minutes ago

David Briegel

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:32 p.m.

joe, you still have a speedo?!

ViSHa

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:30 p.m.

that sounds like the most logical thing i've heard, Bluefire. LOL @ joe golder and his Bo's ghost comment.

obama from kenya

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:27 p.m.

Was Brandon waiting for Donald Trump to show up to tell RR he's fired? Why does the timetable for firing someone need to be dragged out for so long?

ellipsec01

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:25 p.m.

@Bluefire Now THIS makes sense. The coach-in-waiting situation is still an unknown, but negotiations on buyouts, terms of agreement, etc. makes complete sense. I cold see 24 hours to discuss final packages.

joe golder

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:22 p.m.

If Harbaugh takes the job hear I'll stand at main and stadium in my speedo on feb.14 for 15 min. He ain't coming. Here's his chance to show he's a Meechigan man.

D21

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:20 p.m.

Matt Millen: RR, welcome to the club. RR: Huh, Matt, what are you referring to? Millen: Man, I'm speaking about the exclusive Millen club. RR: Oh no, it ain't that bad as I have many many supporters on my side. Millen: (laughing hard)...Geez, RR, who else besides Theo and that little tater tot...Actually, I'm about to offer you the club presidency since you are the most vilified man in the state of Michigan besides West Virginia. RR: Sorry Matty, gotta run as you see this crazed mob running after me (zooming off himself) Matt: Hey hey RR, these are just the reporters...oh, never mind, fellas, wanna interview me?

ellipsec01

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:19 p.m.

At this juncture of the circus.... DB is either... 1. working the phones for JH based on stories leaked today. 2. finalizing coaching staff with BH. 3. identifying how to explain to alumni and fans RR is back. 4. working on an yet "unknown" candidate that has entered the fray. Place your bets.

David Briegel

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:18 p.m.

There was NEVER a story today. There was only speculation of the potential for a story. The STORY is that the Lawyers are haggling over the secrets, the corpses, the buyouts, the families, and the story going forward! Remember, these guys know where the bodies are buried at our once proud and sacred institution! NOW Rich decides that "losing is not an option"! Funny! And the lawyers are making a ton of money as we dither here! And all you U of M fans Mocked Harbaugh when HE tried to tell you!! You guys at A2.com have missed EVERYTHING! Please, cover the REAL story. PLEASE! And Mary Sue and your Regents, Does Institutional Control mean Anything at our once proud institution??

recordhound

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:14 p.m.

The amount of attention paid to Michigan football makes me embarrassed to live here sometimes.

D21

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:12 p.m.

Yeah PorgyLakeBlu, California is flushing itself down the toilet. I wouldn't be surprised if Harbaugh becomes the next coach at UM and if not, it's cool.

PortageLkBlu

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:10 p.m.

Another thing, where do you draw the line? Calif. is having some financial problems but Mich. according to the news is suffering, horrible unemployment, folks abandoning cities(Detroit)large scale forclosures. How much can you morally pay a coach amidst all the poverty not to mention who's going to pay the cost of an upscale coach? You!

D21

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:10 p.m.

Yes Bluefire, that is what's going on now. People, rest assured RR is gone and RR is negotiating with Brandon on behalf of Pope Theo (but not Tater) which is the main sticking point as RR wants to take Pope Theo along with him but was told by Brandon that Pope Theo is UM property. Happy Days Are Here Again, woooooooooooo

townie54

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:06 p.m.

Joe you have to talk to Steelman about Bo's ghost.STeelman has seances and Bo talks through him.Maybe he can reach Canhams ghost and Canham can convince Harbaugh like he did Red

Bluefire

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:05 p.m.

My supposition, based on some experience with these types of (albeit much smaller) situations is that DB presented RR with a severance agreement that included terms to which RR was to agree, and it's those terms that are currently under negotiation and/or review by RR's attorneys. I bet they've been going back and forth on these items all afternoon.

D21

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:03 p.m.

Pope Theo CCXII, So long and happy trails with your king (RR).

HL2TheVictors

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7:03 p.m.

Who broke the big story? Oh yeah, Faux News. Faux2Detroit.

MWH

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7 p.m.

U of M should give up on football. They can just use the big house for hockey games and... weddings.

PortageLkBlu

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 7 p.m.

townie50 that, "blood is thicker than water" quote went out the window in this recession. These coaches are AKA business men now and the name of the game is money. In the first place, coaches believe their overall value as a head coach is based on who can get the most money. You won't see bargain deals much and if you find a coach that will work for a fair wage folks will wonder what's wrong with him. No my friends, we're going to pay through our teeth if we go after a highly successful coach.

joe golder

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:55 p.m.

A Harbaugh failure here would be a coaching death sentence. Its a lot easier to recruit in sunny cali. than cold broke MI. Only a fool would back step at this point. I don't even think a visit from BO's Ghost would get him to come here.

truebluefan

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:53 p.m.

WVU1981 -- I love how you use the word "us" in your post. Right...as if you'll see a dime of that money. LOL.

ViSHa

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:53 p.m.

I just cannot imagine a scenario where he stays----AWKWARD. So were the "leaks" planned or will there be some people looking over their shoulder in Schembecler Hall? I would think the higher-ups would be furious how this is going down. Definitely not "respecting the process"

PortageLkBlu

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:48 p.m.

Shades of 3 years ago. Boys and girls is this starting to shape up like the situation that brought RR here? We know one thing for sure, nothing much. We are about to embark on a journey to find out what kind of an AD Mr Brandon is. This whole current situation is starting to smell spooky but then again we really don't know much more than we did yesterday and that appears deliberate unless something has backfired. I find this very entertaining and I detect panic in some of you hey, some of you wanted RR fired and you may get your wish, we have to live with whatever these guys decide to do. I can live with it even if this goes badly can you?

truebluefan

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:48 p.m.

Why does every coaching hire at the University of Michigan need to end up in a media clusterf**k? The athletic department needs PR people that know how to handle the media and big events like this. It's sort of embarrassing.

townie54

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:45 p.m.

well if big mr ceo of large companies didnt have a plan in place (which I cant believe)than he's no better than Bill Martin.Everybody is trying to break the story so dont believe anything about this until it actually happens.My gut feeling is former teamates and other Michigan players have allready talked to Harbaugh and told him he needs to come here and fix this thing..Michigan football is a fraternity.Blood is thicker than water.

LSUWolverine

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:32 p.m.

@ Eric, I think that you are underselling what harbaugh did at Stanford. First, Standford was never known as a powerhouse program and yet here they are, fresh off of an Orange Bowl victory where they handed Frank Beamer-a very respected coach-a beat down. Second, Harbaugh has created a winning program in college football while also satisfying the academic requirements of Stanford, which is needless to say very rigorous. Third, his record has proved dramatically over the three seasons that he has been at Stanford, and those improvements aren't over cream-puff teams like the wins that Rich Rod had this year. My final point is one that many people don't understand; Greg Robinson wasn't the problem, it was Rich Rod. Yes, he was the defensive coordinator, but he was not allowed to impliment his system and he could not hire his own coaches. Rich Rod rammed the 3-3-5 defense down his throat knowing that he was weak at DB because of the lack of experience. Also, Greg had a proven track record as a defensive coordinator at both the college and pro level. I'm sorry, but a coach doesn't just get stupid overnight. Look at the success that Scott Shaffer is having at Syracuse. Shaffer was the DC in the first year Rich Rod was at Michigan and was fired after the first year because Rich Rod used him as a scape-goat to cover up for his incompetence. I would take Harbaugh over Rich Rod any day of the week. He doesn't throw anyone under the bus, he's intense, smart, and his kids would walk through hell for him. He can also do something that I NEVER saw Rich Rod do during his tenure; make halftime adjustments. Just look at the Orange Bowl footage of the second half. The game was close at the half and then Stanford came out and blew the doors off of Va. Tech. The players knew what they had to do, the coaches put them in position to win, and the kids executed the plan against a very respectable team. That's something that we never saw under Rich Rod.

joe golder

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:30 p.m.

Who's the biggest disappointment Brandon or defense? Only success will bring in recruits. Brandon has put the brakes on rich rods progress.... this started early on in the season. Maybe a AD search is needed.

BornInA2

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:26 p.m.

RR's last broken streak at Michigan: How many years has it been since a football coach was outright fired?

Sallyxyz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:25 p.m.

espn.com reports that RR is fired. However, their site states the following: "Michigan officials denied the reports, saying in a statement, "This is media speculation at this point. The definitive voice on this matter is Dave Brandon and he has not and will not speak publicly until a final decision has been made."

BlueGator

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:24 p.m.

Sure looks to me like RR could be staying. You don't drag a firing out over a two day period. Could it be that DB has told RR he can stay if he replaces the entire defensive staff, cronies and all, and RR has asked for time to think abut it?

racer

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:23 p.m.

THEO212...TATER...PLEASE REPORT IN!!!! Where are you 2 at???? Who is out there to defend the KING??? A coup d'etat is taking place...The King needs you!!!

eric

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:17 p.m.

Do we really want Harbaugh? He was 15-20 in three seasons with Stanford. RR was 17-22 in three. So either we are waiting three more seasons being bad or we give this guy another shot with a new defensive coordinator? And a possible 12-1 season?

LSUWolverine

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:16 p.m.

@ 3&Out, No, I don't think that Rich Rod would do a bad job at Pitt, not like the unmitigated disaster he presided over here in A2. I think that he would fit in perfectly in the Big Least, as long as he doesn't have to play TCU. Really, it doesn't matter because I'm just happy that this joke will no longer be walking our sidelines. GO BLUE!!!

Sallyxyz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:15 p.m.

A2jo: Or, on the other hand, RR might have some legal stuff he's throwing at DB...... There was an overwhelming consensus earlier today that RR was going to be fired today, and maybe something happened during the meeting to stall that process. The only thing I can think of is a lawsuit, maybe RR is threatening to sue UM. No idea what the grounds might be....Can't imagine any other reason for DB to continue this coaching debacle. Channel 4 news just called it: UM's "coaching confusion." I sure hope DB doesn't back down.

Marshall Applewhite

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:11 p.m.

Now it looks like Rich Rodriguez will be brought back for another year as Michigan Head Coach. The media really blew this one.

Lou

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:09 p.m.

So, the new coach was supposed to be all signed and ready to go for the 7 oclock team meeting. The deal hit some snags, now tomorrow. RR gets to sit around as the "head coach" until the new guy signs, unless everything falls through and then RR gets to stay by default.

Craig Lounsbury

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6:01 p.m.

Ann Arbor.com: your revised story removed the opening part where you said YOU had a source close to the situation who said the firing was coming. Has YOUR source backed off? When you "revise" a story and remove significant information you were on the record for it doesn't look good.

A2jo

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6 p.m.

Actually, I think Coach Rodriguez is asking AD DB to spare him, let him go, "set me free" from his contract, don't make me go through anymore of this... "Uncle.. Uncle... I give.." Am sure he is asking to be let out of his contract so he can coach at Pitt or somewhere else.

Sallyxyz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 6 p.m.

Why was the player's meeting postponed until tomorrow?

WVU1981

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:57 p.m.

Hey UM - was "Fraudriguez" worth the $2.5 milion you paid us. And was it worth the embarrassment. BTW - we have put the $2.5 million to good use and "Fraudriguez" still owes us $500,000 and it is due 01-31-11. Hurry and pay his severage to him so he can pay us!!!

Yelmonian

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:56 p.m.

Thought you could all use some humor. A link to an old MLive article. I love the part about how RR would not have to build from scratch but just reload at UM. Made me laugh reading this. http://blog.mlive.com/hugeblog/2007/12/miles_who_rodriguez_the_right.html

Chad Williams

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:56 p.m.

So RR is out like it or not, so who's next? Maybe the Harbaugh not likey to come is a decoy or maybe not. Les miles isnt leaving for less money and to clean up a mess. Brady Hoke doesnt even coach the best team in his conference. So we get rid of RR for who thats the question. All this we need a michigan man stuff is garbage. We ignored Harbaugh 3 years ago and now we are praising. Here is a hint, if he is a good coach now he was 3 years ago but his alma mater didnt want him when he was 4-8 but now 12-1 and he's our savior. Brady Hoke had a good run at ball state, but once again wasnt good enough to coach michigan then. Hoke seems to be the one that will take this job if offered. Harbaugh has options and plenty money ahead of him. Les is in college footballs hot spot for winning and recruiting, maybe the fact that bama and auburn have bumped lsu down a few spots from the top would get him to leave. I dont want a coach coaching "michigan" football, but winning football. Michigan football is extinct now and it will only give us 9 wins a year but no championships. I say les is the best choice he has the scheme to work with what we have on offense and he can put a defense together. but will his sec country recruits come to michigan if not be prepared for disappointment.

Sallyxyz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:53 p.m.

So, this RR/DB meeting has been going on since 2 pm, for 4 hours? In another hour, the player's meeting is supposed to take place.

talker

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:51 p.m.

The news that RR has been fired flashed on the bottom of the Bloomberg business news screen about 20 minutes ago.

magnumpi

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:47 p.m.

sorry Rude Jude, should have said aka Rivals. are all NCAA coach firings as big a fiasco as this has been?

joe golder

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

AD.Brandon Who do you think you are...Mosses. Get out of the way and let Coach Rod. finish the job.

Sallyxyz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:42 p.m.

Rivals.com reports that: "Rodriguezs wife, Rita, left the building shortly before 5 p.m. and told reporters she had been told nothing about her husbands job."

lorayn

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:40 p.m.

btw -- i love how A2.com ran what is essentially a "non-news" news story...

aareader

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

WHOA!!!!!!!! Not fired??? Players meeting moved to tomorrow at 4???? Talk about a mess. Maybe not the athletic department but the news outlet(s) Fox news??? I saw a neat cartoon not long ago with the caption... "We get our news from the Comedy Channel and we get our comedy from Fox News" Must be true. LOL

lorayn

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

what is this michigan culture you keep referring to? as a UM faculty member I can tell you that when RR became coach the players were actually expected to be in class and do their work. Under Carr they missed a number of classes due to last minute practices. Isn't the UM supposed to be an educational institution?

RudeJude

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:36 p.m.

@ magnumpi Isn't wolverine.com the website for wolverines boots? I got one for ya. According to fakeinformationaboutmichiganfootball.org, Charlie Sheen is the next Michigan coach. Next football season will be called Major League 3: College Daze What a joke. I cannot wait until this is official so everybody can stop playing news maker.

David Briegel

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:36 p.m.

The Lawyers are really earning their dough today!! Must be a lot of animosity, dirty laundry, inside knowledge and trade secrets to protect. A large number of assistants who bought homes, moved families and such. Wonder who has the upper hand in these negotiations?

mookienation

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:35 p.m.

If we can't get Harbaugh, it HAS to be someone else with ties to the program. Probably Brady Hoke or Les Miles. Those guys aren't necessarily the best coaches available but if we bring in a Chris Petersen or Gary Patterson (both great coaches with no ties to U of M) they will be doomed to failure just like Rich Rodriguez. You guys do realize that the Michigan fans never gave Rodriguez any chance to succeed, right? If he would have had the Michigan fan base behind him he probably would have performed better. Let's not do the same thing to our new coach--no matter who he is.

SAB

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:30 p.m.

Michigan has laid bigger eggs in bigger bowl games with more experienced teams. This wheel's still in spin, and the fortune tellers cut n' run? What happened to 'Those Who Stay Will Be Champions'?

Townie John

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:29 p.m.

If Brandon is a great marketer what better time to make an announcement just before OSU plays its bowl game so that everyone will be talking about Michigan's coaching change not OSU's game.

David Briegel

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:29 p.m.

Marshall, Ron English? hehe Imagine what Alabama would have done to us?! Imagine what they WILL do to us. IN TEXAS!!

Marshall Applewhite

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:25 p.m.

I'm now seeing a report that Rich Rodriguez was not fired during the meeting today. This is on the front page of the Rivals site. Fox 2 News has some explaining to do.

magnumpi

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:25 p.m.

why is wolverine.com reporting no firing today??? their website says player meeting postponed til tomorrow---this is getting ridiculous!!

3 And Out

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:23 p.m.

LOL Mark May on College Football Live and Pitt Grad says that Pitt should Hire Rich Rod! LOL...the Pitt Program will be torn down too?

stunhsif

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:21 p.m.

Oh, the humanity!!! A very very sad day for MSU fans as perhaps Michigan may claw its way back to being a respecatable team in several years. Highly doubtful though as many recruits no longer look at the Michigan program as one they would like to be a part of.

88Chill

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

You guys know the story about Don Canham hiring Red Berenson? Canham essentially drafted him. Told him his school needed him to take over the hockey program and turn it around. DB needs to do the same with JH. Our once-proud program is hurting. It needs someone who knows the standards to which we aspire to come in and help us regain what we've lost over the past few years.

81wolverine

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:16 p.m.

Mick52: You've got to be kidding about Les Miles. The guy is dirty. If you don't believe me, watch this piece from ESPN: http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=5935634 Michigan didn't pursue him before for a reason and they aren't going to touch him with a 39 1/2 foot pole now. Plus he's a kook who's too rough around the edges for a school like Michigan. Most likely, barring a major coup by Brandon, we're going to see Brady Hoke as our next coach.

3 And Out

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:16 p.m.

Its Official! Woot!!! No more Excuses. He was not fired because he was not a "Michigan Man"...he was fired based on a) his coaching performance and b) his character and all the issues that he brought. Please join me in singing the greatest fight song in college football: "Hail To the Victors Valient....Hail! To the Conquering Heros! Hail!!! Hail!! to MICHIGAN the Leaders and Best!" Go BluE!!!!!

heartbreakM

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:15 p.m.

Portage: You and I have not agreed on whether RR should stay or not, but I agree 100% with you about Tressel. It seems like he has this squeaky clean image (and I support OSU except when we play them because I like them strong), but I am noticing a pattern down there. It's almost like the Vest is too squeaky clean, to cover for his not so clean players. My friend says that he thinks OSu is the dirtiest program in America, and while I would not go that far, I don't know that he's wrong. I have said before, I think OSU should sit these guys and discipline them NOW. If it's deserving of punishment (selling these things), then it's wrong now. Not next year, but now. And Tressel should have the nerve to stand up for what's right, even if it costs his team a victory. But I think OSU is more about wins than what's right, and that is a shame.

Daniel White

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:15 p.m.

Good Luck RR. Too bad you wrecked our program but I honestly tried your best. Unfortunately your best was no where good enough.

ypsidog

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:12 p.m.

@ The OSU You mention hinor then talk about your OSU Football Team. That is a good one, think Tyrell Pryor!!! HAHAHAhaHAHAHAHA THE DOG

Sallyxyz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:08 p.m.

I would not be surprised if RR will argue that DB has known for some time that RR was going to be fired, that this "evaluation" timeline to wait until after the bowl game was a sham to save $1.5 mil, and therefore, RR is entitled to the entire buyout amount of $4 mil, even thought the announcement is coming after Jan 1. Someone else mentioned that lawyers for each side were probably arguing as well. Does anyone know who was expected to be in the meeting besides RR and DB? A lot of cash is involved, and RR is likely going to try to get every dime he can out of UM. Who knows what is going on behind closed doors, but this is a high profile firing.

Bluefire

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:07 p.m.

Just to add to the rumor mill, Ryan Ermanni of ESPN just "reported" to "look for Brady Hoke to be announced as the next Michigan coach in the next couple of days."

Marshall Applewhite

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:04 p.m.

Oh man, now I'm hearing from my inside source that Ron English has agreed to become the next head coach. Welcome back, Coach Ron English!

Ddipiazza

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5:03 p.m.

IMO Dave Brandon would really be risking his legacy if he really has fired RichRod. He could very easily sit back and say "We honor our contracts at Michigan and think it is important to give Coach Rodriguez a full recruting cycle." And to be honest, not one of you could fault him for that. If his new hire goes 3-4 years without winning the fault is all on DB because at times this offense looked special. However, if his new hire wins a NC in 3-4 years they'll be naming buildings after him. Regardless of the Coach, I'm all in for Michigan.

bluenella

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

If you are reporting news, then wait until it's official, please.

W

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 5 p.m.

Brandon has, apparently, finally gotten to the right result. But he should have fired RR when the NCAA sanctions happened, and saved the payout amount. And he should pay whatever he has to to get Chip Kelly of Oregon to come to A2. Brady Hoke is a dreary choice.

Mick52

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

Get this: On ESPN.com, under Rumor central they have a headline: "Rich Rod to Pitt" Only a headline, not paying for any further to ESPN

PortageLkBlu

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:57 p.m.

I'm sure folks are laughing at us as I speak. Ohio State has some real issues that are being discussed right now on ESPN and I wouldn't take those issues lightly Mr Tressell your wings are on crooked and it's getting noticeable to the rest of the country. Go Blue and good luck Mr Brandon a lot of folks are counting on you.

BlueGator

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:55 p.m.

For what little it's worth, Kirk Herbstreet (sp?) reported on ESPN about an hour ago that he thought RR honestly had a slim chance until the Gator Bowl blowout. (Hey, I'm just killing time waiting for an official announcement like the rest of you!)

ummsw

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

eric...I would agree with you...A2 is not a good fit for Rich Rod...but it doesn't just apply to football. Ann Arbor Schools have had Superintendents and Principal's that just didn't understand the dynamics of Ann Arbor...

David Briegel

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:50 p.m.

Their lawyers are still negotiating!

heartbreakM

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:49 p.m.

Now, if everybody wants a laugh, go to the freep site and read Snyder and Rosenberg's article about the firing. They have undergone criticism by many for their investigation that led to the NCAA violations, but my criticism is nothing of this sort. The writing is horrible, juvenile, and sounds like a fifth grader. I know, I know--people say what do you expect...But really, this article needed to be proofread and the editorializing removed.

Mick52

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:47 p.m.

I would image the U won't announce anything official until after the team meeting. They should be the first to know. The news services probably have good sources in the dept and are getting leaks.

Sallyxyz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:46 p.m.

MyOpinion: That UTube Evaluation video (with RR and DB) is hilarious! Thanks for posting the link! It has had over 22,000 hits.

heartbreakM

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:46 p.m.

aareader: I agree with you about Brandon. His management style seems cautious on this RR thing which may be fine, but he comes off as arrogant and know-it-all on quite a few things. And I have posted that it bothers me that his bosses, i.e. Coleman and the Regents, are his colleagues (from his time on the Regents) and will do nothing to keep him in line. I personally think that RR should have been hooked several years ago when it was evident he did not fit into Michigan's culture, even if it was embarrassing. But Brandon wanted to wait until the ducks were in order which is the right thing to do for potential candidates. There is no good time to hire and fire. Brandon, though, has given the impression of leaving RR hanging in the breeze which is tough. ANd I can understand why you would criticize that.

Mick52

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

Well I hope DB has an ace up his sleeve. Brady Hoke is not it. Not with an overall loosing record. It better be Harbaugh, Miles, or Meyer in that order of preference. Hoke, what a joke.

Mark

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:43 p.m.

There has not been one single story with a cited source that confirms the firing. Not one. Not the Free Press, not Fox2, not ESPN. If fact, the Free Press (freep.com) cites absolutely no source, as if Michael Rosenburg's name on the story is sufficient.

johnnya2

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:43 p.m.

Drew Sharp's "opinion" matters not one bit to me. I have not seen anywhere that Brandon did not give RR his entire support. The fact is RR did not support the school. He failed in every metric given to him. Wins and losses? Before Rich Rod we were winning 9 games a year. This year people said 7 was an improvement? Not in my book. Any CEO would be fired with that performance. Brandon was upfront from DAY ONE, on saying all coaches will be evaluated at he end of their season. Most people love that their boss does what he says they are going to do. Brandon also supported Rich when he really should not have. Once the NCAA came down with their final ruling, i would have IMMEDIATELY fired RR for cause, and tell his agent to sue me for it if he thinks he can get it from him. It would not be a good fight for RR to get into if he ever wants to coach again. Bosses tend to avoid hiring people who sue former employers. If Drew Sharp or anybody else thinks Dave Brandon didn't "support" Rich Rod, I would love to hear ONE example.

PortageLkBlu

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:42 p.m.

Does anyone know, are they still lining us up to play Alabama? I think our team is gonna need Obama Care and then some.

West MI

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:40 p.m.

Chris Peterson

PortageLkBlu

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:35 p.m.

Brady Hoke, I knew of RR's success before coming to Mich, don't know much about Hoke I guess he's down at San Diego. Hard to tell about that job except it's a beautiful town, absolutely great weather and a recruiters paradise. Most anyone that is fair to okay should be able to get kids to play there it really is a wonderful town I go there often. Now as far as this guy coaching at Mich. I would rate that a crap shoot. I will find it hard to believe that Mr Brandon would fire RR without a replacement in place. I agree it's time to open the check book and we better have a big fat account if Harbaugh is to come. Don't forget Harbaugh has drank his share of Kool Aid so if we get him people better be aware of the whole package. I think Les Miles knows he has to keep winning cause LSU has already had about enough of his act. Les knows one bad year and he might be on the bread line with RR. I imagine there are some good ol boys out there like Tressell when he was at Youngstown was it? I would hate to think Mr Brandon has not come to terms with someone, that is bad business and that can bite your butt.

aareader

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

to jonnya2- Thanks for the input. We each have our opinions. Regarding number #2 I refer you to the Drew Sharp opinion article Sat, Jan, 1, 2011 - "Rodriquez doesn't deserve to stay" HIs last sentence is - "Rich Rodriguez will take the fall, but hes not alone. The blood of this programs worst bowl day is on Dave Brandons hands as well." As you may guess I concur with that opinion.

eric

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

Rodriguez may be a bad fit for Michigan but a bad coach he is not.

Pilgrim

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:33 p.m.

"Oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive"

FromVikingStock

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:33 p.m.

Is the story here that Fox News manufactured news? Because that isn't news.

Phil Dokas

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

Makes me wonder if the delayed meeting is indicative of a certain Athletic Director frantically placing cross-country phone calls after reading this morning's Free Press.

Macabre Sunset

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:31 p.m.

Darn those Bulldogs. They're really running up the score now. Against 10 true freshman and an 12-year-old free safety named Bobby.

ChillyBlue

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

This just in... Mississippi State has scored again.

HL2TheVictors

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

So this is real: The door closes at 2PM. Nobody goes in or out. Fox 2 has mysterious knowledge of something that took place. Here it is: "Rich, you're fired." "No kidding? Let's chat for a few hours." Maybe, just maybe, this is a DEWEY DEFEATS TRUMAN scenario.

Greggy_D

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

"I'm waiting for the Phoenix city council to make an official announcement." LOLOLOLOL.....that made me laugh. Well played.

BornInA2

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:24 p.m.

I thought major NCAA infractions were cause for firing without paying the $2.5MM buyout.

MyOpinion

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:24 p.m.

Maybe this person got an advance copy of the conversation taking place: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZvoZCYUehY&feature=player_embedded By the way, the Detroit News has an appropriately cautious headline: David Brandon meets with Rich Rodriguez amid reports of firing http://www.detnews.com/article/20110104/SPORTS0201/101040423/1131/sports0201/David-Brandon-meets-with-Rich-Rodriguez-amid-reports-of-firing

2000Blue

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:23 p.m.

This has NOT happened yet. The Wolverine. com is reporting the same and so is Chengelis on Twitter. All other news sources are claiming a leak from a 2PM meeting, but that meeting hasn't happened yet (It's supposed to be at 4PM). FOX News is incorrect here. Kudos, AA.com for sticking to the facts.

David Briegel

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:23 p.m.

Are they still negotiating over the Hush money, dirty laundry, secrets and recommendations?

Macabre Sunset

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:20 p.m.

So far, everyone's been quoting Fox-2, but there's no confirmation. Smilovitz at NBC-4 says Brandon and Rodriguez are still meeting, but he's hearing from multiple sources all sorts of rumors.

oldblueypsi

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

With tongue in cheek, I report: NEWS FLASH!! Tom Monaghan was named interim head football coach at the University of Michigan this afternoon. Said Dave Brandon, Michigan AD, "Tom built a pizza empire out of nothing. At one time, he didn't even have a building. At least we have a building." Monaghan was quick to announce that off-season conditioning would consist of the football players delivering pizzas on foot (no motorized delivery) and that all pizzas would arrive within 30 minutes. Monaghan recently signed an outsource pizza delivery contract his old firm, Domino's. For the delivery service in the greater Ann Arbor area and other unspecified responsibilities, Domino's will pay the University Sports Department an annual fee of $2.5 million. Brandon glowed as he introduced his former mentor. Asked about the "interim" designation for Monaghan, Brandon replied: "One of Tom's responsiblities will to assist in hiring the next permanent head coach. Tom brings a personal fortune to the table. If the person we want as head coach is unwilling or unable to leave his current employer, we'll simply buy that corporation and reassign the individual."

Marshall Applewhite

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

Welcome to Ann Arbor, Coach Brady Hoke!

johnnya2

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

1. He did not let him "twist in the wind". Brandon wwas cleear he would meet with and evaluate his performance AFTER the season 2. What do you consider no support? This is the silliest statement ever 3. The "leak" is always going to happen. Maybe you do nto understand how the process works, but when you are firing a person of that level it is usually sent to lawyer and higher ups (possibly Mary Sue or some regents). The problem is, many people know before the person who is getting fired that they will be fired. Administrative assistants, student managers, etc, may hear or find things out. Or if a football player is told about the 7 PM meeting and he tells the press, that pretty much lets everybody know. Especially if RR was NOT told about the meeting with the players. Having fired several people in my career, I can assure you, the fired person knows well before he is officially told. The process has been handled in a good way. There are plenty of things I do not like about Dave Brandon, but his handling of this is the way things should be done. He also has now had a chance to look at things like OFF FIELD performance (grades) that he did not know about back in November.

dexterreader

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

Why "speculate" at all? Why not just wait until an official announcement is made? Or does that take all the fun out of it? I agree with LSUWolverine. There is no news... yet.

The OSU

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

LSUWolverine: Good point. Nothing has happened is NOT breaking news. Everyone else: The sites you are quoting are saying "it has been reported that RR is fired." There is a BIG difference between an event happening and someone SAYING something has happened. Subtlety is not a Wolverine strength. FYI: All this press about RR and UM is very distracting from tonight's big Sugar Bowl featuring the Buckeyes, as they defend the Big 10's honor.

Nick

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

49ers reportedly chase Jim Harbaugh

sbbuilder

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

I'm waiting for the Phoenix city council to make an official announcement.

MyOpinion

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

Not on the UM website or the MGoBlue website as of 4:09pm. Give AnnArbor.com credit for not reporting on something that may not have happened quite yet.

Bob Needham

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

Just to clarify the situation as we know it - So far, all the outlets that have "reported" the firing are all based on one, unattributed report from Fox 2. As this story states, although the firing appears to be the likely outcome, our understanding is that the Brandon/Rodriguez meeting hasn't ended yet.

Babonx

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

If you read carefully many of those news outlets are simply quoting Fox News as their source, so essentially it's just the Fox News story regurgitated.

aareader

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:07 p.m.

If RR is going to be fired "but it has not happened yet".... is the real news..... then who in the Athletic Department is really in charge and why did the information get out early? Not a good way to treat any employee to have him read about it in the press before he knows?????? Guess I am a little disappointed by the whole ( I was a CEO of a big Corp and know what I am doing") process. 1. Let the head coach twist in the wind for many weeks, 2. give no support to the team for the Gator Bowl, 3. and then this "leaky" process of the firing. Let us hope he does have a good plan for RR replacement.

ummmm......

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

Breaking News...But it hasn't happened yet. Ummmmm.....at 2:30 SI, CNN, ESPN seemed to think it had happened.

LSUWolverine

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:03 p.m.

BTW, I have a problem with someone labeling nothing happening as "breaking news."=/

glimmertwin

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 4:01 p.m.

If this all is true, than Brandon gets an "F" for his performance in this debacle. Talk about someone enjoying his 15 minutes...

LSUWolverine

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

From what ESPN, Fox News, MSNBC, Fox 2 Detroit, and multiple other sources have written, it seems as though RR is gone. What the heck, AA.com?

rm

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

"... AA.com's desire to wait for an official announcement rather than constructing an entire story around hearsay." It's not hearsay, whatever that is supposed to mean in the newsgathering business. It's reporting. They should wait until there is an official statement?? Do you feel the same way about business corporation or government "news".

Macabre Sunset

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 3:58 p.m.

It's a relief, but far from a celebration. What he's done to the program in three short years will take many years to repair. I'm just glad there won't be a fourth year, as the damage a poor coach causes becomes exponential.

aareader

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 3:56 p.m.

Plan A = unload RR hire JH, (Press states JH not coming and others not contacted or interested ), Plan B Keep RR, ( he is fired), What is Plan C DB?

MyBoyBlue

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 3:56 p.m.

I think ann arbor dot com is waiting for it to be put in lights in the night sky next to the bat signal.

Craig Lounsbury

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 3:55 p.m.

I've learned breaking news comes from places other than Ann Arbor.com It appears Fox 2 was the first with the report.

Ben

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 3:55 p.m.

So, does this mean that Tater and Theo are leaving also?

Babonx

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 3:53 p.m.

I appreciate AA.com's desire to wait for an official announcement rather than constructing an entire story around hearsay.

Ignatz

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 3:50 p.m.

ESPN reports that Fox 2 Detroit and The Free Press say he's gone. I'm waiting for tweets from Sarah Palin and Lady Gaga.

David Briegel

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 3:48 p.m.

The Michigan Daily says he's gone!

BleedMazeNBlue

Tue, Jan 4, 2011 : 3:42 p.m.

ESPN seems to think it has happened already.