Sean T.

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 2:29 p.m.

I'll take that bet.

Justice4all

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 9:01 a.m.

Give me a break all of the nay sayers out there. 2 Interceptions because of poor passes in the endzone and a wide open TD over thrown. It looked like every other game we've played so far except Denard made mistakes. Iowa has a better defense than state and I've got money on Denard having a monster game. Any takers?

The OSU

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 6:32 p.m.

"A wise man learns from his mistakes. But the wiser man learns from the mistakes of others." I'm a Buckeye - alum & fan. Many years ago OSU bought the myth that gimmicks work. We hired Cooper because he beat Michigan in a Rose Bowl. What a disaster. He never understood OSU/UM, the Big Ten or the quality of FB play we expect. OSU regrouped and hired a coach based on integrity and skill. Michigan made the same mistake we made. You lured a moderately successful coach from another somewhat overrated program. Michigan needs to do 3 things: Fired RR, apologize to Carr (he really wasn't as bad as you guys think) and hire a promising young coach who understands the importance of Michigan FB. You guys would have to eat humble pie, but the guy is at Stanford. Frankly, the significance of OSU/UM only occurs when the teams are reasonably equal.

Alexander John Migda

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 6:26 p.m.

They didn't just fall apart. Michigan State tore them apart.

Howard the Duck

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 5:20 p.m.

A house divided against itself cannot stand!

Wayne Stowers

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 4:34 p.m.

pay harbaugh what he wants. we need a michigan man.

Wolverwing

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 3:19 p.m.

Hopefully DRob will use this game as learning and added motivation to improve. He has earned the right to correct the mistakes. The defence... well not much to say except do your best and get better until another Dcoord comes in. I waited until this game to join the comments and i admit i thought Mich was ready but cleary if Drob has an off day Mich will probably lose. It was NO magical State defence that did much at all. Our Qb palyed badly period. I give State some credit for playing OK defence and putting Mich in a few bad plays. Iowa is next and i am glad the team has vowed NOT to feel like last year but to come back out fighting! GO BLUE!

heartbreakM

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 1:28 p.m.

If we are to compare RR to Bo, let's just say that Bo's 3rd loss to MSU was something like his 11th or 12th year as coach. Bo's 5th big ten victory? His 6th Big Ten game. RR's 5th Big Ten victory? Hmmmm. Maybe 10/16/10 (3rd year coaching, 19th B10 game, or later). 3rd loss to MSU? 3rd year as coach. That's quite a comparison. And BTW, for those who say that Bo was not a Michigan man--yes it's true. He did not play or coach at Michigan. But he was raised in the rivalry and coached in the rivalry, and I don't think at this point in time, that a coach at Michigan should be hired who did not play or coach in the OSU/Um and MSU/Um rivalry. RR has shown that he does not embrace the rivalry and does not get what losing or prepping for these rivalry games means. (Sort of like Coop at OSU).

Skipit3

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 12:50 p.m.

No point to continue having this discussion with you, Ghost! You either don't get it or you're simply trying to twist my argument because perhaps you realize that I have effectively made the point that faith can have substance. Of course, you will never concede that, but that's fine with me; I'm not trying to convince you. FYI, I was a Marine for eight years and I have been in some precarious situations where faith in God, my country, and the men around me mattered. I would never dare to compare the case of a millionaire to a servicemember in combat. Faith is faith! You either have it or you don't. You trying to demean faith in your argument, that's really what I responded to.

Yelmonian

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 12:41 p.m.

Skipit, Your dire warning of I may get what I wish, just makes me smile. Next... tressel coached real football and adapts to his personnel. rr has already proved he can't. Rr will only run the spread... and has yet to have a serious defense anywhere he has coached. Lastly.... name any Big East team over the past 5 years that you honestly think would beat the best Big Ten team over the last 5 years. RR won because of a system in a weak conference. Greasepaint won because his teams play strong fundamental football. Big difference.

Skipit3

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 12:28 p.m.

One argument that you complainers frequently present is that RRs system WILL NOT and CANNOT work in the Big 10 because that gimmick High School offense can only work in an inferior conference like the Big East. When Tressel was hired at OSU, many complainers like you were nagging about him coming from an inferior team (a 1-AA team) like Youngstown State. They were saying the same nonsense about Tressels coaching not going to get him that far in the Big 10. I wonder what those folks opinions of Tressel are these days. The point is, you guys are driven by your misinformed opinions more than anything else, to try to convince anyone that RRs system will not work in the Big 10.

Skipit3

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 11:58 a.m.

Yelmonian: "I'm a Spartan....and I say keep RR!" Well, Little Brother, you may in fact get your wish. But be careful what you wish for!

johnnya2

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 11:52 a.m.

"RR is doing what he does and see as his best chance to win. I'll bet all the folks on here who talk about Tradition, The Big House, Michigan Man, etc..... would have a fit if a guy came in here and ran the 3 yards and a cloud of dust offense and a bend but font break defense that BO ran." If he ran three yards and a cloud of dust, won, and did things right, I don't think a single person in here would complain. Would you care to compare Bo's record versus Rich Rod? His record over MSU? His record versus OSU? You realize if it were possible at the time Bo would have never missed a bowl game. The rules were such that in the beginning he could only go to one bowl. This is a major reason to discount his supposed poor bowl record. Rich Rods success came against a very weak conference. This was not the Big East of Miami and BC. This was UConn and South Florida. I do not blame R2 for taking the job (though it shows the kind of guy he is in that he won't honor his contract, kinda that those who stay will be champions is lost on him), and I put this as the Biill Martin legacy. He did great things for the department financially, but his hiring is on par with that of Tom Goss and one Brian Ellerbee.

Skipit3

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 11:38 a.m.

Ghost, Twist the meaning of my post all you want. There was no comparison being made between the Chosin Reservoir Marines and RR. When I noted on a previous post that Michigan may still surprise all of you of little faith, you arrogantly as usual tried to devalue my statement by posting a definition of Faith as: "a belief not resting on logical proof or material evidence." My response to your illogical approach was to present two cases in which faith, while intangible, has made it possible to bring about tangible results. You bringing up how much money RR makes as compared to what the 1st MarDiv Marines made back then has nothing to do with the conversation. Bringing up that point is actually senseless.

Yelmonian

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 11:04 a.m.

A thought for everyone here. ND perceives their program as UM sees UMs program. They believe they are entitled to win. MSU has beat ND something like 7 of10. Sorta sounds similar to what I am reading from the RR defenders. A mediocre coach can turn a proud program mediocre quickly. MSU is taking full advantage of that. I'm a Spartan....and I say keep RR! dantonio and team are not intimidated by him.

win

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 11:04 a.m.

If you are going to be upset with anyone, then be upset with Martin who hired RR. RR is doing what he does and see as his best chance to win. I'll bet all the folks on here who talk about Tradition, The Big House, Michigan Man, etc..... would have a fit if a guy came in here and ran the 3 yards and a cloud of dust offense and a bend but font break defense that BO ran. Most of you wanted Carr out of here and begged for a coach who would bring us into the new century. Well, we have one. It will take time. THE SEASON IS NOT OVER!! If we end up 5-7 and they fall apart, then you can say what you will. But what happens if MSU really is that good and OSU is really that good. Michigan goes 10-2. Better than any of us expected? You would be a bold faced liar if you expected this team to be 10-2 this year. This is year #3. Duke and Carolina fans wanted Coach K and Dean Smith fired after three years..... And we know what's been going on there that last 30 years. I hope all of you are as critical about your performance at work as you seem to be about RR's. I bet you guys get it right every time!

Yelmonian

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 10:02 a.m.

Let me give you all a stat... Big Ten wins in the Big House... RODRIGUEZ.....2 DANTONIO.....2

GoblueinNE_PA

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 9:54 a.m.

Skipit You do realize that the examples you provided actually support the firing of RichRod, don't you? Alabama tried to remake itself with a string of bad coaching hires and then Saban came in and took a bunch of "losers" and IMMEDIATELY turned them into winners. In year 2, they ran the table in the regular season in the SEC. Looking at Nebraska is like looking at a red tinted mirror. They brought in a coach to "bring them into the 21st century" who abandoned all of the old traditions and the team IMMEDIATELY floundered. They brought back a guy with ties to the old traditions and look, they IMMEDIATELY improved (any one beginning to see a pattern here?). RichRod is a mistake. Any coach that would take a program like Michigan's and turn it into a bottom feeder in the Big 10 would be a mistake. While I wanted Carr out of here, I can tell you with absolute certainty, that if he were still here, this team would not be the failure that it is today.

RudeJude

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 9:51 a.m.

@ MattBramemr (whose post has been deleted) Well go ahead, stop being a fan of Michigan. Clearly, you never were one to begin with. I loathe Rich Rod and believe his leadership, or lack thereof, is hurting Michigan Football, but I would never give up on the team, ever. You might as well say you're a fan of "#1," whether it's OSU now or some other team next week. Regarding the alleged comments by Ohio State's AD regarding the quality of the Michigan Football program and his push to have The Game moved elsewhere in the season for Ohio State's prestige, give me a break. Post a link or tell us what radio station he said this on. As much as I hate OSU, its AD and the ADs of all the Big Ten schools have class and do not mix themselves up into this kind of stuff. Also, if he did say this, do you think it wouldn't have made the blogs or newspapers? It would rile Michigan fans up. Please, Matt, do us all a favor and go jump on another team's bandwagon.

GoblueinNE_PA

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 9:44 a.m.

I'd like to ask those folks who say things like "its only one game" and "we have 6 more games to get us in a bowl" or what have you, what about yesterday's game in any way makes you optimistic? The defense was once again run out of the building, quite literally this time. The failure of the defense yesterday had LITTLE to do with the inexperienced secondary. The defense got manhandled up front, where we have a much more experienced crew of players. So no, it was inexperience that got us whopped, it was the fact that the scheme is awful(coaching), the reads were horrible (coaching), and the tackling was abysmal (coaching). Second, as I'd said months ago, all you had to do was contain DRob and the team would flounder. DRob got over 300 yds of offense, yes, but didn't have that great game. Others on the offensive side of the ball had to step up and well, guess what, they didn't or couldn't. Shaw and Smith are both too small to play in the Big 10, frankly they are too small to play anywhere as they weren't that good in the non-conference schedule either. And when a receiver HAD to make a play, it didn't get done. So, we have both sides of the ball owned by a good, but not great, MSU team. I give credit to the Spartans, they played a good game and showed what will happen the rest of the way. But that's the point, what happened yesterday is what will happen going forward. UMass wrote the script and the rest of the league will act it out. IU wanted to, but their defense was just a LITTLE bit too bad to make it happen. I keep in touch w/about 20 folks who were friends of mine while we were at Michigan (I'm a grad of '88). I've also made friends with about 10 other UM grads through various stops in my work life. Not a one of the alumni like this hack and all of us think he should go. I'm beginning to think that if you have any true connection to the univesity, you want RichRod thrown out on his keester. It's only RichRod fans and those that can say "well, ya, I like Michigan but I also like team X" that want him to stay. He needs to go and what we saw was the beginning of the end of this 3 year nightmare.

heartbreakM

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 9:42 a.m.

@Getting Bluer: Nice summary.

Skipit3

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 9:34 a.m.

GettingBluer, Those of us that support the coach do feel the same pain that you anti-RR folks feel. Watching your team lose, especially to rivals, is never an easy pill to swallow. I fully understand that we all want results and we want them fast, but what has happened to teams that have rushed to fire their coaches without really giving them a chance? On the other hand, look at teams like Nebraska, South Carolina, NC State, or even Alabama. Although they never got so deep to the bottom like UM did, still they were somewhat slow at making progress at the pace that fans desired. Nonetheless, with a little patience, look at those teams now! The fact of the matter is,none of us has any way of knowing for certainty that a new coach in 2011 will immediately fix everything. Be careful what you wish for, people!

ChelseaBob

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 9:32 a.m.

RR should be fired now. His punt late in the game is reason enough. There are plenty of other reasons. Jim Harbaugh, please come home.

Richard

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 9:25 a.m.

I already have commented but the more I think about it and watching the Big Ten Network talk about the game, the whole conference is equal except Ohio State and who knows when they Penn State, that could change. The Wolverines need to regroup and regroup fast especially the Defense. I am reading the comments and I don't know who to blame, however if I were a member of that team, I would rally the troops and show the fans that we are not the team of 2009. I thought well it is time to watch hockey, No, it is still football season and I can't believe the players will allow any more defeats, defense grow up,and show that you are winners and lot losers, stop by Santa Claus. Be the stingiest Grinch you could ever be.

Skipit3

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 9:18 a.m.

It was faith that pushed Brock Mealer to walk on his own when "logical proof or material evidence" suggested that would never be possible. It was faith in God and Country in addition to Honor, Courage, and Commitment that pushed the Marines outnumbered at least two to one at Chosin Reservoir to stand up to advancing Chinese Soldiers when "logical proof or material evidence" suggested that they would be doomed. Whether you believe it or not, it was faith in your mental and physical abilities that allowed you to accomplish whatever you may have accomplished in life.

GettingBluer

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 8:46 a.m.

"I can't believe all you Naysayers! This is football! You win some and you lose some. Nobody on this blog (except for Theo) has ever claimed that this team would have a perfect season this year. Most people predicted or anticipated 3 to 4 losses this year. We just lost one game on our 6th game this season. So why all this fossing and complaining? I really don't understand you people! You were just waiting for any loss to vent. The season is not yet over. You could at least wait until November before you start complaining about anything. Michigan may still surprise all of you of little faith." Read what people are saying and you will understand why people are complaining. There are many reasons: Some don't like having a coach who is getting sued and investigated and having our team sanctioned for HIS actions. (sorry, I meant RR, not God) Some don't like seeing zero improvement on defense over 3 seasons. The D has actually gotten worse. Some don't like seeing NO effective half-time adjustments on either offense or defense. Some don't like seeing close games changing from OSU, PSU, and Iowa to Massachusetts and Toledo. Some don't like winning ZERO rivalries in three years. Some question coaching decisions and clock management decisions. Some question the coach's ethics and values. Some wonder why he is the very first Michigan football coach to be totally unsuccessful with the players who were here when he arrived (couldn't even get a.500 season, drove off the best of them...Bo beat OSU with "what was left", the same players who OSU score 50 on the prior year). Some wonder why Michigan continues to throw money down a rat-hole with this coach...AND delay success.

stunhsif

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 8:38 a.m.

As a Sparty I do feel sorry for Michigan fans at this point. What I don't understand is how the program got so bad so fast. The football team has more money than they know what to do with, they pay the coach a "kazillion" dollars and they flat out stink. This program should never ever have a losing season with all the coin they have. Michigan is to college football as the New York Yankees are to pro baseball. Guess it does come down to the coaching, pure and simple! Coach D at MSU has almost no money compared to RR but beats him fair and square!

Skipit3

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 8:25 a.m.

I can't believe all you Naysayers! This is football! You win some and you lose some. Nobody on this blog (except for Theo) has ever claimed that this team would have a perfect season this year. Most people predicted or anticipated 3 to 4 losses this year. We just lost one game on our 6th game this season. So why all this fossing and complaining? I really don't understand you people! You were just waiting for any loss to vent. The season is not yet over. You could at least wait until November before you start complaining about anything. Michigan may still surprise all of you of little faith.

lefty48197

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 8:24 a.m.

As a Spartan fanatic, I would like to nominate Mike Hart as "Motivational Speaker of the Decade". I'd also like to extend Rich Rod's contract for another ten years. Playground offense couple with no defense whatsoever yields a team that cannot compete on a football field. Massachusetts? Connecticut? Bowling Green? Welcome to Big Ten football Rich. Enjoy your stay as we Spartans enjoy your "Point a minute defense".

GettingBluer

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 8:22 a.m.

"Yeah....but in BCS era Michigan football has been average but maybe you was happy with that. I have a very good friend who is a NFL scout and he has told time after time Michigan just does not have elite talent. I was at the USC game in 07 and it was not even close. But i guess you were happy that season?" Much happier with that season than this one and the last two. Now, getting beaten by "that team down South" means Toledo.

sedroc98

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 7:55 a.m.

I'm pretty sure that after every rivalry game Bo lost the fans felt the same way. Only now theres a platform for everyone to say it. championships, Bo=0.

Jaxon5

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 7:44 a.m.

Skipit is correct, I did not post as much during the first five games of the season because they were not all that impressive. Narrow wins over UMass and ND and Indiana - not much to write about there. Skipit is incorrect - I do not root for MSU. I respect MSU. They have surpassed my favorite teaam, Mich. MSU is better in all aspects of the game and has been better for the last 3 years. I fully expect next year will be another beat down in East Lansing. I see positive things happening at MSU. At Mich, I see a defense actually worse than 2008. And,on offense, I see a one-man show that is seriously flawed and beatable. On another note, Purdue is no patsy - they beat Northwestern, a team that Michigan has failed to beat recently. Northwestern is a better team than Michigan and has been for the last 3 years. The Michigan program is suffering. The prognosis is Michigan is destined for bottom half of Big 10 this year behind OSU, MSU, Iowa, Wisc, Illinois, and Northwestern. And getting to a bowl will not make things right.

win

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 7:25 a.m.

wow, I'm seeing post from 4 and 5 hours ago. People, get some sleep. put the alcohol down. It's just a game. A good MSU team beat a young and improving Michigan team. 6 games to go for both teams. Michigan can still go 8-4 and play in a new years bowl game, Which we all would have liked gong into the season. MSU can actually go 10-2 or 11-1 and finally play in a Rose Bowl. Good for them. Why don't people just give credit where it is due. MSU was the better team and they deserved the win. Let's pick up the pieces and BEAT IOWA! I sure hope the players and coaches are more resilient that their so called fans.

A2lover

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 5:59 a.m.

The emperor's new clothes came off yesterday and what did we see, not much. Shame, Ric Rod (lousy coach by the way), his staff, team and a lot of fans forgot that a leopard doesn't change its spots, and the boys on the ream are young, rookies, still learning, and not being coached very well. The charlatan Rich Rod show be shown the door. Denard is not the QB people think he is, MSU easily handled all he could produce on Saturday. The teams U of M has played so far were second rate teams, once they come up against the big teams we'll see more carving up like we did on Saturday. Pity, I was hoping the emperor's clothes were genuine.

Redheat

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 5:48 a.m.

Michigan State played a good game you have to give them that. Michigan needs to tighten up their defense. Denard has provided fans with some of the greatest moments in college football. We can't expect him to shoulder the entire season on his young shoulders. Hopefully the team can shake this loss off and move on. Fans needs to lower their expectations a bit, no one can live up to those that are so high.

3 And Out

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 4:52 a.m.

3 in A Row by Sparty over Rich Rod's physically overmatched squad = domination by sparty. I went to Michigan and I LOOOOVE Michigan football and have since age 4...but I call it like it is: we stink and are not capable of competing in the Big Ten with these schemes. If some of you people dont see that...well I ask you what your football knowledge is....it is plain as day. 12 bcs wins 17 bcs losses 0-3 vs. Sparty 0 and a lot vs. the rest. it is not working..... what about that you dont understand is simply mind boggling. Best case Scenario for Michigan: Cut losses after the NCAA sanctions come out... give RR a nice settlement and wish him on his way... make someone an interim coach and go hire Harbaugh. This crap makes me sick. Sparty owns us right now...not ashamed to admit it....and its on your boy RR

Skipit3

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 3:02 a.m.

stunhsif, Do you seriously believe that you are the dominant program now just because you have won 3 in a row? UM has lost the battle today, but the war is not over, Lil Brother!

trigg7

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 2:24 a.m.

Those who stay will be MSU's B UM is a cupcake. You're playing with the big boys now.

Skipit3

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 2:19 a.m.

Jaxon5, you haven't been posting that much when the team was winning. Now that the team has lost one game, here you are again with all your negative rhetorics towards RR. Since the boat is sinking, why don't you spare us your 'intelligent logic' and just jump out and start rooting for another team? After all, you are happier with this team's failures than its successes. Some people's logic makes one wonder!

Macabre Sunset

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 2:17 a.m.

Then do it. Steele has been for more than a decade. He knows more about each of the 120 FBS teams than I will ever know, and I study this stuff every day. But what I don't like seeing is someone pulling a statistical claim out of his rear end and repeating it like it's some sort of fact. You get five to play four, and that means sometimes you put freshlings on the field. Every school does it. Michigan has areas where it's more experienced than average, and Steele can show you, position by position.

Macabre Sunset

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 1:37 a.m.

Oh, let's stop making excuses for the coach. According to Phil Steele, who studies this stuff for a living and puts out the most comprehensive college football preview magazine you can find, Michigan is 41st of the 120 FBS teams in experience headed into this season, third in the Big Ten. Rodriguez is in over his head, and a change will take place after the Ohio State game. Good coaches win with the players they have.

Blueman Rick

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 1:18 a.m.

It's simple. RR is not our man. And, it doesn't have a thing to do w/ going undefeated or wining 8 or 9 games. It has everything to do w/ tradition, philosophy, theory and strategy. Our current style of play is not Michigan football. Our wonderful history is built on total commitment to both sides of the ball. A team built on gimmicks is a house built on sand. Mark my words, we'll sink a little lower w/ each game. Although the Harbaugh haters chafe; he is the real deal. He should be coaching at UM.

lawrencelaundry

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 12:45 a.m.

Its s plain and simple folks, u can't expect Denard to win every game for us. Once in while the other players need to contribute too. U have a heisman caliber QB and he's.the only reason why we won 5 so far. The team the team the team. The Defense gets worse every year cause rich rod insists his coaches run a 3-3-5 even though neither D coordinator in his helm ever ran it before. The Defense did play better if u think giving up 500+ yrds a game is good, and now Mike Martin is hurt and james rogers too. So if u think we can still have a 8-4 season giving up that many yrds your crazy. Illinois is much better so we can only hope Denard bails us out the rest of the season. Its funny teams change stuff from yr to yr and improve like illinois and MSU but we get worse in areas like special teams, defense. We can't tacklle for crap. I just don't understand it. We keep running smith even though he can't break tackles like MSU BACKS. And we have backs that out weigh smith by 40 pounds riding the pine. Recruiting is getting worse and teams like stanford our in the top 10 in recruiting. Go blue and still rooting for you. Maybe the coaches will coach fundamental ball and coach u up next yr. UNBELIEVABLE. CAN'T wait to starry playing Nebraska

OkBlue

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 12:21 a.m.

I remember how I used to let my little brother get a lead and then I would take it away and win. There came a time eventually when I couldn't beat my little brother anymore

Yelmonian

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 11:13 p.m.

Bellheezy Don't understand how MSU didn't deliver a beatdown. 3 picks and DR kept to under 100 yards rushing. He's been getting 200 yes... but MSU had nothing to do with it. MSU just caught him on a bad day. So where were he RBs and wide receivers? Meanwhile...that defense is just horrible. Indiana setrecords against it...but could only score 10 today against OSU. I believe the state was this was MSUs third highest yardage total against UM. UM had a field goal blocked by MSU. Guess MSU just fell into the ball. How about MSU showed up and played well, and RR hasn't built a TEAM that can compete against teams that are good or better.

Yelmonian

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 11:13 p.m.

Bellheezy Don't understand how MSU didn't deliver a beatdown. 3 picks and DR kept to under 100 yards rushing. He's been getting 200 yes... but MSU had nothing to do with it. MSU just caught him on a bad day. So where were he RBs and wide receivers? Meanwhile...that defense is just horrible. Indiana setrecords against it...but could only score 10 today against OSU. I believe the state was this was MSUs third highest yardage total against UM. UM had a field goal blocked by MSU. Guess MSU just fell into the ball. How about MSU showed up and played well, and RR hasn't built a TEAM that can compete against teams that are good or better.

mun

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 11:02 p.m.

Stanford just beat USC. LSU beat Florda. Any word on whether Dave Brandon made a phone call to Jim Harbaugh or Les Miles?

TXteacher

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 10:47 p.m.

@mun- They will be the 2nd thing burning today! The first was Wolverine tail!

win

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 10:45 p.m.

Didn't think our defense could stop them and didn't think there defense could stop our offense. Drob struggled today. We learned a few things today that we have to admit. 1. our defense is really, really bad and won't get much better 2. Denard is human, actually just a kid and still learning 3. RR and his coaches don't make very good second half adjustments 4. MSU is just plain better than we are (tough to admit, but true) We will get it together on offense and have to outscore teams. I still think we have a chance at 8-4 this year. I truly hope that MSU can keep winning. As much as I wanted to see Michigan win, you have to respect the way MSU played today. They are very good and well coached. GO BLUE, let's get it going again vs IOWA..

TXteacher

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 10:43 p.m.

@stunhsif- Leave the ancient history to the professors. All I know is 3 in a row, the most since pre-Bo! It's sweet, and there is another butt-kicking to come in EL next year!

mun

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 10:40 p.m.

Congratulation MSU. May your sofas burn bright.

TXteacher

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 10:38 p.m.

@Bellheezy-Putting up 500+ yards of offense on Big Blue's defense IS A BEATDOWN whether you call it one or not. The fact that it happened in AA makes it even sweeter!

GoblueinNE_PA

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 10:38 p.m.

As I said earlier this week, we were exposed for the fraud that we are. We played a weak non-conference schedule and got wore out by IU last week despite the win. Now, a decent team comes to town and puts a physical butt whoppin on us. Next week, Iowa will destroy us. And once that happens, watch the panic start to set in with RichRod. He panics whenever the pressure gets on him, it's been his MO for years. While PSU and UofI are beatable, I think we'll be in full melt down by the time we get to PSU. Only Purdue's complete ineptitude will allow us to get that ellusive 6th win. We'll follow that up with 2 straight losses to tough physical teams, something that we used to be. Hopefully, by the time, we walk off the field in Columbus, Brandon will have grown a set and done the right thing by terminating Rich Rod. For all of you Rich Rod fans, I don't revel in Michigan's loses. I hate it when we lose. It kills me to see these kids try their best, but be out coached and out matched physically, week after week, year after year. You can't really be a fan of the program if you find this acceptable. You can only be OK with this if you are fan of the coach. Look, that's OK, please follow him to whatever program he goes to after this. I wish you and him the best. However, he has destroyed my alma maters footbal program. He's put it in such a horrendous state that now, whomever follows him next season will truly have a rebuilding project on their hands. The only good thing is that our 3 year nightmare will soon be over.

heartbreakM

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 10:36 p.m.

MSU totally beat down UM today. First, it was a 17 point defeat, and should have been 24 had they not been called back for penalty or sat on the ball at the end. Second, they ran the ball down our throats and blocked us up and down the field. It was men vs. boys. Why do you think Denard looked so human out there *unlike last 5 weeks? Because MSU did some very disciplined D. They took away his running lanes and did not allow him to create on the fly. DR knew that, so he tried forcing the ball and rushed it. I credit MSU for playing "contain" D (as LC would call it) and doing it well. DR simply could not get into open space. That's a beatdown. Meanwhile, Stanford right now is once again giving up a billion yards but still putting itself in place to win.

stunhsif

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 10:36 p.m.

@EMRG, That was then, this is now. You cannot live off your past glory, it "dims" with the passage of time. Michigan won the national title in 97, they have gone no where since then. MSU on the other hand has never bragged about being the best ( at least not since 1966). And furthermore, MSU's budget for football cannot be half of what Michigan's is. For you to call us "Li'l sis" at this point, after three butt-whoopings is ridiculous. Better off at this point keeping your mouth shut. Take your licking and move on to your next loss!

bellheezy

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 10:27 p.m.

Seriously...did anyone watch the game? MSU DID NOT BEAT DOWN UM! MSU won because UM did not execute...particularly on offense. Denard threw two red zone interceptions, missed an open Stonum in the endzone and threw another interception late to end any comeback hope for UM. That was the game folks. UM made mistakes and MSU didn't. Now, I would give full credit to MSU if they had forced the turnovers or miscues...but Denard wasn't under any pressure during his turnovers or misses. He simply made bad throws and looked like the Denard of last year. That's on him. MSU's defense was not that good nor the reason UM lost. If Denard simply makes the throws, he likely leads UM to victory. He did not, and now the spin is MSU's defense is great. Go figure... Before this game, Denard gave us no reason to doubt him. Now, we know he's human. Oh well, I hope he can do what all great QBs do...bounce back and have a great game the next week! UM's Safety #4 Cameron Gordon is HORRIBLE! Without fail, on every single play he misses the tackle or play on the ball! Seriously, you cannot play any worse than him...there has to be someone better on the roster! Greg Robinson is done after this season no matter what happens. If RR get fired, he's gone. If RR stays, he's gone because there has to be some defensive change going into next year...and GR is the scapegoat! GR should be a scapegoat! MSU's first two touchdowns came on long runs where there was no second level of defenders to make a tackle. Either it's the scheme, players not knowing how to play their positions, or a combo of both...both of which fall back on the D coach! The first good play call for UM came on Denard's first touchdown pass to TE #80 Webb. (The pass came back against the flow of the play.) Where was the rest of the good play calls? Bunching everyone on the line of scrimmage and running for short yardage does not work (See Detroit Lions)! It didn't work on the 3rd down prior to their first field goal and it didn't work on the 3rd down on their very next series before they punted. Spread it out, run play action, do something unpredictable or give Denard space to run! If Denard is not getting it done out there...put in Tate Forcier, who is a superior pocket passing QB. MSU's secondary looked weak and Denard did not have the touch today. Exhaust all your options to try and get a win! And, how can the field goal unit be so pathetic? There's no excuse for what UM trots out on the field. Either RR's staff can't coach the unit to execute a field goal or they simply failed to recruit a kicker! Finally, RR displayed poor time management skills. At the end of the first half, he should have called a timeout before MSU's 4th down play to give his offense time to march down after MSU's possession.

BornInA2

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 10:17 p.m.

"BorninAA2, Jaxon, Sevans and Howard the duck Well said." Thanks, Sean. Too bad someone saw fit to delete what I wrote.

stunhsif

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 10:15 p.m.

@EMRG, "Gimmick Offense + No Defense = 3d Straight loss to Li'l sister." After three straight butt kicking's by MSU, you still call us "Li'l sister"? My new name for Michigan is "Cinderella". Good Day No Luck Needed

3 And Out

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 10:08 p.m.

Gettingbluer +1000 btw, I can't help Rich Rod pack but I will donate the cardboard boxes and the shredder of course so he can shred more docs on his way out of another job... maybe he can get Barwis to help him pack the car for the trip down south to whatever small school hires him as an OC

GettingBluer

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 10:04 p.m.

"Like Rich Rodriguez said, "We've turned on the lights and the cockroaches have scattered - they're still out there though..." Looking at the comment section here it's pretty easy to see he was right. The lights flicker off and the cockroaches come back. So sad to see... and they call themselves Michigan fans lol." The cockroaches aren't out here in cyberspace. They are getting sued and investigated while they feast in Schembechler Hall. If only they feasted in Michigan Stadium... I posted a link in an earlier post that leads to a UofM website containing football team yearly statistics. Go check how your boy is doing. He's the worst coach Michigan has ever had. The defense has regressed each year...we are currently number 120 on passing defense out of 120 FBS colleges (look it up at rivals.com). It really doesn't matter if we can score some or even most of the time we have the ball if our opponents can score every time they have the ball and can control the time of possession. I'll help RR pack and all of his recruits can go with him or stay, I really don't care. If we start rebuilding now, we won't waste the whole 201x decade. Are you still going to call it "rebuilding" as his recruits graduate or their eligibility is used up? FWIW, I am an alumnus of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor (since someone asked about the posters).

heartbreakM

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 10:02 p.m.

Mitch--you did not read my post. I said our "Defense" is getting worse each year and not our team. Halfway through the season, we are statistically the worst in Div I (or close to it). And that was against the easiest part of our schedule. It seems that as Carr's guys graduate out, the defense gets worse (though our 2 LB are seniors and not playing like it). Our offense is clearly better this year than the past 2 years, but the playcalling today was bad, and the team did not look ready to play--a reflection on coaching. MSU looked totally ready to play and that, too, is coaching. And MSU adjusted on both sides of the ball. M sure did not. After ND disaster in RR's first year, he said "Michigan football will be back" (which irked me then because before RR, we were pretty good but needed tweaking for sure). Well, as I asked you before, what is RR's plan? What is his definition of "Michigan football"? If it is "great offense (against the worst teams in NCAA), awful defense against everyone, then his plan is working. But if "Michigan football" is 'strong D, tough O, loyal, solid, etc--we seem to be moving backward at least on D. And that is on RR.

Sean T.

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 9:59 p.m.

BorninAA2, Jaxon, Sevans and Howard the duck Well said.

Jaxon5

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 9:44 p.m.

To Mitch, it's not hate. It's disgust. There's a big difference. We know they could be so much better. How do we know? Because they were better! 3 years ago they were better. Then, they became awful. True fans do not view the team with eternal optimism, saying "no problem, they'll get better. It's okay if they lose, as long as they get better, that's all that matters." That's what part-time fans say. Say it often enough and pretty soon they accept losing as okay. And, that appears to be where we're at right now. "There is no distinction in mediocrity." G. Cavender

Sevans68

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 9:41 p.m.

@Mitch - HeartbreakM is dead on. What is Rich Rods plan? If 3 - 9 first year 5 - 7 second year 5 -? this year (already as many wins as last year) Is the plan, I don't like it. Rich Rod is the HEAD COACH not the offensive coordinator and needs to accept responsibility for the Defensive deficiencies. Fans are begging for an average defense and can't even get that. As far as loyalty (this is for you too Kubrick), I am a loyal fan of the University of Michigan Wolverines. But I am not blindly loyal to a coach who has to have "his" players to run "his" offense. If he is able to get players to run "his" offense in 2+ years why can't he get players to run a defense and who hired he D coordinator and needs to accept responsibility that we are on our 2nd one already? I am all in for Michigan, just not all in for Rich Rod.

Sean T.

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 9:30 p.m.

Mitch, are you serious? MSU coralled Denard and made him play out of his character. He was forced to throw and do it from behind all game. This is what happens when you play physical teams who love to hit and beat down on you. Denard is fast but he lacks the ability to make quality throws deep. He had the one hail may pass that I thought would be intercepted but the MSU Safety got out of position. We did have some drops and those guys were affected by the physical game as well. MSU is better and they played like it and they exposed our offense to be a one trick pony.

Howard the Duck

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 9:30 p.m.

"The only difference between todays game and the pervious five was Denard's three INT's. He's a true sophomore with six starts and is only half the player he'll become. Secondary is full of freshman and Sophomores... Will grow up on-the-job." Here come the excuses. Last week, Shoelaces was the second coming. Now he's a sophmore. Face it... he and you are now a Spartan girlfriend!

rzd7gc

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 9:28 p.m.

From an outsider looking in. It's obvious....Good winners, very poor losers!

Sevans68

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 9:25 p.m.

@ In Bo we Trust - I couldn't agree more. Rich Rod wasn't my first choice 3 years ago but I will always support U of M. The defense is horrendous and the most talent RR had on D was in year 1. But RR takes no responsibility for the D, it is the coordinator who gets the heat. Well who chose both D coordinators so far? I will continue to support Michigan but not Rich Rod (I just can't do it). I also want to see Harbaugh back at Michigan even after his comments upset people. He has the toughness & attitude we need to get back to true Michigan football. Here's hoping the team shows some toughness against Iowa. Just want to say MSU played a great game and my hat goes off to them. I think they are deeper and definitely better coached.

heartbreakM

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 9:16 p.m.

Question for Mitch, Webb, et al. Does RR have a plan? What is that plan? I'm watching Stanford right now, and Harbaugh sure looks like he has a plan (tough play, good execution, make tackles, hold onto the ball, etc). Saban, Meyer, Dantonio, Tressel appeared to have a plan--all revolve around great D that tackles and covers well, plays competent offense, good running games (in Meyer's case, good running QB who can play). Their D's immediately got better when they got there--with whoever was there. RR not only does not make adjustments during games on offense or defense, but his defense has only gotten worse over his 3 years so far. Some of it is youth, some of it is injury, but defense is not all 'raw talent'. If it was, then Northwestern and Iowa would conceivably be horrible as their players are not highly recruited. Defense is coaching, positioning, good angles, swarming to the ball, playing lanes and gaps, tackling with your arms and not your shoulders. Being stronger in the 4th quarter. If RR has a plan, why does it seem to be getting worse? We are the worst D in Div I. Does that make sense at a place like Michigan?

Kubrick66

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 9:13 p.m.

"True loyalty is that quality of service that grows under adversity and expands in defeat. Any street urchin can shout applause in victory, but it takes character to stand fast in defeat. One is noise --- the other, loyalty." Fielding Yost

nicole

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 9:11 p.m.

Go State! It's nice to see other teams win other than U of M. (and I graduated from U of M).

Kubrick66

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 9:08 p.m.

InBoWeTrust - In RR we falter! The D took a lot of chances today. There wasn't a lot of 3-3-5. And I like that. It's on the job training and they got beat deep a few times. But the rush was there, they had some big stops. What they really need is better LB's. It was the Offense that didn't get it done today. Denard missed three open receivers in the end zone. Get even one of those and it's a different game. I don't like losing anymore than the next guy... But dumping RR at this point is a dangerous move.

aarox

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 9:08 p.m.

The worst part of the game was when the ESPN/ABC commentators told the nation that we were the little brothers now.

InBoWeTrust - In RR we falter!

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 9:02 p.m.

3 and Out - you nailed it! Those are the only stats that count. Who cares what Denard is doing. All I care about is the number in the left column versus the number in the right column. The number in the left column better be 10 wins at least, and of those ten wins, there better be wins against all your rivalries. RichRod looks truly lost in the big ten.

Jaxon5

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 9:01 p.m.

Football is a team sport. By last count, there are 11 players, not 1. A team cannot have success by relying on 1 player. Those of us here who lay the blame on DR and say "it's okay, he's only a sophomore", "he had a bad day, he'll get better", "it was only 3 INTs - except for those we would have won", are missing the point. The point is you need a complete team to win games. I just can't get behind a concept that promotes one player above all others. When that player has a bad day, we lose.

InBoWeTrust - In RR we falter!

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:56 p.m.

Kubrick66 - There is some truth in your comment. The D is very young, but there doesn't seem to be a very solid hint of talent in any of the DB's. By that I mean, each and every week the same mistakes seem to be re-occurring. If there were signs of improvement, then I think you could say that Greg Robinson knew what he was doing - he was just doing it with inexperience youth. I don't think that is the case. First I wounder if Greg Robinson really wants to be running this 3-3-5 scheme, second I wounder if Greg Robinson is even competent to coach at all anymore. It seems that normal logical would say, focus on a good pass rush and make sure you don't leave freshman and sophomores out on an island all day. Instead, the logic has been we will just subtract a defensive lineman and add another true freshman DB. Play a soft cushion and give up an average of 400+ yards a game.

3 And Out

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:54 p.m.

Its amazing how a couple of you refuse to criticize Rich Rod for the awful job he has done at Michigan. Just amazing. 12 BCS wins, 17;osses...0-7 vs. Sparty, PsU and OSu... 4 BT wins in 2.5 years...wow...just wow.... how disgustingly sad.

Yelmonian

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:51 p.m.

Kubrick! You are the man! You win the comment of he day....with your lion comment.

3 And Out

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:47 p.m.

We got out muscled on both sides of the ball. We are not ready to play in the Big Ten. Our S and C program is inadequate. Our Head Coach has no idea how to build a program to compete in the physical Big Ten.

Kubrick66

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:46 p.m.

The only difference between todays game and the pervious five was Denard's three INT's. He's a true sophomore with six starts and is only half the player he'll become. Secondary is full of freshman and Sophomores... Will grow up on-the-job. Most were predicting four, five, six loses... This is just part of that process.

InBoWeTrust - In RR we falter!

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:44 p.m.

Anyone now why Will Campbell isn't playing more?

blue in ann arbor

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:44 p.m.

To use a bad pun, I've kind of been waiting for the other "shoelace" to drop in AA. Those that say this is last year all over again are dead on. Except maybe this year they will find a way to get that 6th win and get bowl eligible. Then again, maybe not.

InBoWeTrust - In RR we falter!

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:42 p.m.

Can anyone explain why Will Campbell isn't getting more playing time? And, I don't want to hear that he plays behind Mike Martin because I have always thought you get your best players on the field. I don't want to hear that a young secondary is the reason. I don't want to hear that he doesn't fit into the 3-3-5 (which is a freakin' prevent defense in ever aspect). It is one thing to play hard, play tough and get beat by a better team knowing that everyone did their part and it just wasn't enough. It is another thing to play the way this team has for the past 3 years and not feel embarrassed as a fan. Before all you haters start piling on, MSU played and executed like they were WELL COACHED, DRIVEN, and DETERMINED to win. MSU doesn't need a high school gimick offense (an offense that is typically ran at programs that don't have the players to run a REAL offensive scheme), a 3-3-5 defense to win a game. It is quite ashame to see where UofM's progam is currently. I will admitt that I was one of those individuals that said L. Carr had run his course and it was time for him to go. Back then the idea of mediocre was a 10 win season and going to a bowl game. Now, mediocre would be making it to 6 wins and a possible no-name, non-new year's eve bowl game. Wow, has the bar level changed. It is not that I want Carr back because I do believe that he was done coaching and it was time for a change, but this is flat out ridiculous. David Brandon better be beating down Harbaugh's door! Offer Harbaugh what ever he wants.

2sweetblue

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:40 p.m.

Speed WILL NOT win championships. Toughness wins championships. I do agree speed is nice but they sure did look soft against MSU. Rich Rod will NEVER win a Big Ten championship. Maybe one day you all will see....

Kubrick66

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:38 p.m.

H... "Hail to the VICTORS!!! Memo to all Michigan fans: your little brother is all grown up." That's actually kinda funny. Like I said earlier, maybe State is actually really good this year... Time will tell.

Kubrick66

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:32 p.m.

Yelmonian... I have no anger. Losing to MSU to me is like losing to any other team. I may have been born and raised in Michigan but I moved away long ago... so it's just another lose to me. What I think is always funny is how so many embrace wins and loses as if they were the ones out there on the field. Sure, we all like to think WE ARE out there with our team... but the truth is nothing close to that. We root from afar...We win we lose, in the end it really changes nothing because tomorrow we'll all be saying... Man, the Lions suk!

H.

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:26 p.m.

Hail to the VICTORS!!! Memo to all Michigan fans: your little brother is all grown up.

Jaxon5

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:21 p.m.

Many have adjusted their expectations so far downward that they are almost unrecognizable as Michigan fans. They have forgotten how great Michigan was, they settle for second best, they accept mediocrity, and they rationalize losses.

Yelmonian

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:19 p.m.

Kubrick, Why the anger? Go back and read the posts during the week. Specifically called out by jameslucas, thosewhostay and some others that I wouldn't come back on after the game. I'm obliging. I hope RR gets a contract extension. There is no intimidation anymore by UM. And ill be the first to admit, I never expected MSU to win against a Carr coached team. And for all those that said Wisconsin was a joke... and Indiana had an awesome offense.... how'd those two teams do today.

saginaw

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:12 p.m.

OMG, I felt like I was on another planet -- everything went wrong. Now we have to go against IOWA. OMG.

Kubrick66

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:11 p.m.

Yelmonian... Hooray! The team that you root for won! Great. Now what? Exactly. Win or lose life goes on. And sorry, but the Big House is still standing.

Kubrick66

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:06 p.m.

johnnya2... Sorry, but I don't understand your logic.

heartbreakM

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:04 p.m.

Some team has to lose every game, and M is not going to win them all, even though we like them to. Losing to MSU individually is not the end of the world, as has been mentioned, but the way we lost to them is what raises my anger and suspicion of RR. So far, RR has shown that he cannot make adjustments at halftime since he has been hired, and a telling stat is that he is 3-10 when trailing at halftime. MSU immediately made adjustments during the game, while M's only adjustment was moving the helmets on their heads as they turned their heads to watch MSU offensive players move past them. It is telling. And yes, as has been pointed out, this season is beginning a lot to look like last year. But it is only one game.....

Do Better

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:03 p.m.

Sure, under its previous coach. Even a national championship under him and a few years with losses only to the #1 team in the country. In fact, if you go to: http://bentley.umich.edu/athdept/football/misc/fbrecord.htm and click on any year, you can find out almost anything you wish to know...including that Michigan has been in the Top 20 virtually every year EXCEPT under RR (where we haven't beaten MSU in 3 tries and OSU in 2 tries...that'll be three in late November, and haven't reached 0.500 yet). Any more questions? Yeah....but in BCS era Michigan football has been average but maybe you was happy with that. I have a very good friend who is a NFL scout and he has told time after time Michigan just does not have elite talent. I was at the USC game in 07 and it was not even close. But i guess you were happy that season?

RudeJude

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:03 p.m.

@ Kubrick Where did I say anything about a great MSU defense? I don't think I said anything about MSU's defense. But since you bring it up, I think MSU's defense is average, and that was enough to stop Michigan's offense. I won't argue with you that D-Rob didn't lob them up some give-me INTS though. Sad loss.

miatamich

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 8:01 p.m.

MSU kicked our butts. I wouldn't say they forced Denard into three interceptions, however. Those were on him. He needs to step into his throws and not throw across his body. The defenses are tougher now.

lawrencelaundry

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:59 p.m.

Kubrick my fault. But it seems like rich just gave up. What happened to onside kicks and still had timeouts left, and maybe some trickplays. What do u have to lose. Did anyone notice the clock still running when we went out of bounds on a running play and pass play. Is that normal? I THOUGHT the clock stops then.

Kubrick66

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:56 p.m.

RudeJude... This loss wasn't about a "great" MSU defense... Denard missed three open receivers in the end zone. Two thrown behind for INT's and another overthrown to Stonum. Yes, MSU made plays. But those turnovers were the difference in the game.

RudeJude

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:55 p.m.

Bravo Marlon Glenn, M Club Supports You! I totally agree. I have faith in David Brandon. If he sticks by Coach Rodriguez, I would be surprised, but I would not argue with his call. I sure hope that does not happen.

Kubrick66

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:51 p.m.

GettingBluer... That's exactly what I'm saying... USC was way down, but because of the tradition Carroll was able to bring them back.

Don

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:49 p.m.

I remember a few years ago when fans were clamoring for something different, and the fans got just what they wanted. Out with the pro sets, the large linemen, the brusing defenses, NFL quarterbacks, tightends,recievers. Everyone want Lloyd's Carr's head on a platter, does anyone remember how great his last game was? his national championship? So we couldn't beat ohio state, now we can't beat much of anyone. And it will take years to fix. Now we have small players, no one we will see playing on the next level, little linemen, and defenders that can not win in the big ten. The big boys play here. Michigan state played michigan footballl today and kicked our butts.I have been watching michigan football since the 70's and have never seen anything this bad. I'm sure he wouldn want to come back, but Jim Harbough, if you'd be kind enough to leave Standford, we could really use you about now!

aftermac

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:48 p.m.

"How many people even went to UofM on here?" What does going to a school have to do with being a football fan? No one has ever been able to explain that to me. Not my fault that Sparty doesn't have football fans that didn't attend classes at MSU. BS Sparty propoganda. Being a fan of a college football team is no different then being a fan of an NFL team.

RudeJude

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:47 p.m.

@ Metal0reJ Take some time to "digest the emotions?" We'll see if things seem differently to me later after some time for digestion, but what I see, as I have since the ND game, is a team with a terrible defense and a offense that, as expected, would have trouble against a Big Ten defense. I see a team that is seemingly ready to fire its defensive coordinator and hire what will be the third DC in as many seasons - a real selling point to the recruits. I see a defense that seems to be worse than than the one Coach Rod started with two seasons ago. I see a team that very easily could lose four or five games here on out. I also see a team that is awaiting a verdict from NCAA regarding violations. I better go take a TUMS because all this digestion is giving me heartburn.

johnnya2

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:46 p.m.

Kubrick, You want proof I am right? MSU would not have changed anything that happened there. They got to burn out the half and still score, whole UM had a Hail Mary pass and a blocked field goal attempt. MSU was at the 40 yard line. The issue was not time for MSU. Basically it is RichRod saying the last minute of the half needs to come fast. Is MSU makes it, so what, then you get the ball back with some time and two time outs, or what actually happened did happen. Michigan goes to halftime with a timeout and NOTHING to show for the best play they had all day.

aftermac

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:44 p.m.

Three picks and a missed touchdown was the difference between 42 points and 17 points. It seemed like Denard was trying to force the ball down field more than they have been - not his strength, and that lead to turnovers. Michigan should have been up 14-0 to start the game. Too many dropped passes, also. They need to use this as a learning experience, put it behind them, and get ready for Iowa. To win, Michigan needs to play pretty close to flawless, and they didn't today. The defense did about what I expected them to... perhaps a bit better. The offense needs to put up 35 to 45 points to win games. Today they made too many mistakes on offense to do that. Hat's off to Sparty, they played a solid game.

lawrencelaundry

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:42 p.m.

8-3 record if were really lucky. We could lose every game on the rest of the schedule. Purdue looks to be the only easy one. Illinois is a prime example of what a defense coaching change can do. Other teams D gets better, ours gets worse. Coaching coaching coaching. GERG SUCKS AND now Defense will be worse as the best player we had is out. Mike martin. Play calling was terrible as well. Let's change what we were doing the last 5 weeks rich rod. Oh yeah, on 3rd and 1, LET'S give it to Vincent instead of hopkins since he weighs about 40 pounds lighter. Let's throw the ball more too instead of letting denard just run it.

Kubrick66

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:38 p.m.

lawrencelaundry... Were down by three scores 34-17 when he decided to punt.

marlon glenn

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:36 p.m.

This is a very interesting situation. All the typical complaints will arise: RR can not win in the Big 10. The defense is horrendous. The offense is a gimmick. The typical excuses will surface: The team is young. RR needs his players. The cupboard was bare. These are all red herrings. Only one question needs to be answered by David Brandon. Does he believe that RR is a LONG-TERM solution for the UM. If the answer is yes, then by all means, keep him. If not, he should be relieved of his duties at the end of the season. Brandon needs to make it unequivocally clear that RR is and will be the coach at the UM.

Kubrick66

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:33 p.m.

johnnya2... Completely disagree. Michigan forced MSU to call a time out and make a decision. They decided to go for it and made it. But in the process they lost time off the clock and a time out which limited their options. And what happened? They were stopped and forced to kick a field goal. If Michigan would've called timeout it would've given the opportunity to MSU to make the decision without burning a TO, without losing time on the clock... and when they make it on 4th down they now have more time, and an extra timeout which gives them many more options on offense. and based on the Michigan D that probably would've meant another TD. No TO by Michigan... Was the right call.

lawrencelaundry

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:31 p.m.

Blueman u said it. Gutless. We were only down 2 scores and with denard u go for it. Sure, denard had 3 picks. But really, why would u not just let denard run the ball. He's done it the last 5 weeks and worked. Offensive coordinator calls a play and expects denard to throw it in triple coverage. It didn't help the recievers dropped 3 important passes. Rich rod needs to stay.. the talent is there on D, its the coaches on that side of the ball that are just flat out terrible. No fundamental football coaching, no motivational speaking, and no halftime adj. And it looked like some of the players were afraid to hit someone. And now with martin and rovers hurt, were screwed. Fire the entire defensive coaching staff

GettingBluer

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:31 p.m.

"How do you think football powers stay on top, or aren't down for very long... Tradition. How do you think USC became great under Carroll? USC didn't "become great" under Pete Carroll. Remember John Robinson? But, that does support your "tradition" role.

Larry Weisenthal

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:29 p.m.

I'd turn Denard Robinson into Charles Woodson, but with a twist. Denard moves to defensive back. He also returns kickoffs and punts. On offense, rather than running occasional snaps at WR, he receives snaps in the Wildcat. Forcier takes most of the QB snaps. Shoelace also goes in to run the two minute drill, when required.

Ann Arbor Sucked Me

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:27 p.m.

Ann Arbor is yet again the little sisterAll these Ann Arbor Trolls posting how bad MSU is going to loseAll this talk about Heisman is a Joke...The Dust has settled and one again Ann Arbor is now humble...GO GREEN!!!

GettingBluer

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:27 p.m.

"Once again I am not a fan of either team. But for all you rich rod haters. Can you tell me when Michigan was a dominate(sic) team in colloge(sic) football?" Sure, under its previous coach. Even a national championship under him and a few years with losses only to the #1 team in the country. In fact, if you go to: http://bentley.umich.edu/athdept/football/misc/fbrecord.htm and click on any year, you can find out almost anything you wish to know...including that Michigan has been in the Top 20 virtually every year EXCEPT under RR (where we haven't beaten MSU in 3 tries and OSU in 2 tries...that'll be three in late November, and haven't reached 0.500 yet). Any more questions?

johnnya2

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:24 p.m.

I want to address another poor coaching decision that hads not beeen discussed yet. At the end of the first half, MSU was driving. They had a fourth down. UM allowed more than 20 seconds to run off the clock instead of calling time out. MSU did make the fourth down, but only after chewing up most of the clock. The first half ended with UM driving, but had to try for a field goal with 3 seconds left. Add another 20 seconds and how many plays could have been run? If UM scores, how does that change the momentum going into half time. That was a coach who was scared. R2 KNEW MSU would get the ball to start the second half, if they had stopped them, UM gets the ball with plenty of time. As for the other bad decisions, people can blame Greg Robinson all they want, but who hired him? It certainly was not Lloyd Carr. If you believe the level of talent at UM on the defense is that poor, why didn't you spend all your time recruiting defensive players, or convert offensive players to defense? If a defensive player won't come to UM because the head coach is offense obsessed, that is on him again. If he can not convince them to come to UM, it is again his failure as a recruiter. I also hate the experience excuse. Charles Woodsen, Brandon Graham, David Harris were good from the start and got better. Defensive players do not start horrible and get good, they start out good and get great. This defense is HORRIBLE. They start a guy who is a try out,which is great for Kovacs, hes a good kid, but it says how poor the competition is for that job. He is not a Big Ten caliber player.

Kubrick66

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:20 p.m.

Jaxon5... "If I'm a 14 year-old (i.e. one who will graduate high school in 4 years) which school do I want to attend after watching the UM - MSU games for the last 3 years? Michigan State!" That couldn't be further from the truth. Kids choose a school first and foremost based comfort level, playing time, and tradition. Does winning help? Of course, but it's far from the number one reason. If a kid is a Michigan fan and he watches Michigan lose, chances are he wants to be part of the rebuilding. He's not going to throw his love of Michigan out the window over a couple bad seasons. How do you think football powers stay on top, or aren't down for very long... Tradition. How do you think USC became great under Carroll? How about Alabama? OKlahoma, Texas, Nebraska. All traditional powers that had down years but were rebuilt using their tradition, exposure, and facilities. And when it comes to tradition Michigan destroys MSU. Go Blue!

TrueBlueinOH

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:18 p.m.

I need to call the M-Den and see if its too late to cancel the personalized # 16 jerseys I am waiting for. What, its only one game that DRob didn't play well you say? Ok I'll keep the order as is. We'll see better execution from DRob and co. next week against the Hawkeyes.

Blueman Rick

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:11 p.m.

Absolutely no surprise in today's outcome. Many of us have contended for weeks that the D couldn't cover or tackle. The saddest moment of the game came when UM punted on 4th and 10 w/ five minutes left (to avoid having MSU add another score). Sorry boys when you're down by 17 w/ nothing to lose but the game, you go for it. Gutless.

johnnya2

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:09 p.m.

I said it last week, and I'll say it again, this is last year all over again. Last minute ND win, record offense against the 4th non-conference opponent, over hyped new QB before toughest competition, barely beat a horrible Indiana team, trouble against a truly over matched opponent like UMASS, beaten by MSU. The thing that makes it worse is the team is WORSE in two areas, special teams and defense. Defense wins championships, it is not debatable. Florida, Alabama, LSU all had great defenses when they won. The top three team sin the Big Ten last year were surprisingly enough the top 3 in defense. With all the evidence, Bill Martin hired an offensive coordinator. The problem is the Rich Rod philosophy of speed over power has been shown to not win championships. I also suggest people look at second half of games since the strength "guru" came to town. It is only one loss, but thats what they said last year on Sparty weekend. It was the first of 7 Big Ten losses. Purdue may be the only victory left on the schedule

Robbie Webb.

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:07 p.m.

Yeah, fire Rich Rod! He threw 3 interceptions and missed all those catches and tackles!...Oh wait. Haha! As much as this STINGS, you guys are acting as if MSU is a bad team. Reality check, look at what happened against Wisconsin. MSU is much more experienced. Michigan will win at least seven games this year, Rich Rodriguez will still be here. We all knew Michigan wasn't going to go undefeated. We all knew Denard Robinson was not going to do what he did the first five games all year, but I'll bet you what, he will only get better from this, as well as the rest of the team. The defense gave up some plays, but the offense didn't fair much better setting up for three touchdowns off 3 interceptions. On to Iowa! GO BLUE!!!

blue in ann arbor

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7:02 p.m.

If UM does not make 8 wins this year, RR needs to go. This defense is possibly worse than the Lions is. Here we go again!!!!

Metalc0reJ

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 7 p.m.

I hate what a lot of you are saying. All except Kubrick. Maybe once you allow yourselves to digest the emotions you'll see it more clearly. The fact is we've lost so many key guys on our defense. That said, the defense taking the field on Saturdays is an embarrassment to Michigan football. This must change and it must change quickly. Unfortunately, my outlook on the season isn't all that optimistic, but let's not jump to such harsh conclusions (something I was guilty of just over an hour ago). Michigan moved the football well, but Denard Robinson simply had his worst game of the year. He was indecisive, and he took too long to turn it up-field. Credit should be given to Michigan State's defense, and blame should be given to Denard Robinson. Let's not all get off the Denard bandwagon, but if blame is to be given it is to be given to him. After all, the offense IS Denard Robinson and his decisions. Denard made bad decisions and incredibly costly turnovers. If you want to blame Rich Rod, fine, but I choose to pardon Denard, and simply understand that our athletic true-sophomore QB had a bad game. I can forgive him. The lack of talent of our defense is unmistakable. I think our offense will be able to bounce-back against Iowa, but this team will simply not live up to the expectations of its fan base until the defense improves dramatically. I don't know about you guys, but I don't think that's happening this season.

rico2458

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:59 p.m.

Drob gave that game away the d wasnt tha bad let face it msu is a better team this year just think if he would had compreted those two interception in the inzone

Do Better

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:59 p.m.

Once again I am not a fan of either team. But for all you rich rod haters. Can you tell me when Michigan was a dominate team in colloge football?

blue in ann arbor

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:55 p.m.

We will now be calling this "The curse of Hart", destined to become one of the great sports "curses". Thank Mike. Who's little bro now?

81wolverine

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:55 p.m.

Let's not get too carried away with the doom-saying. Yes it was a disappointing loss. Our defense isn't very good. And Denard had an off day. But, he's only a sophomore and this was his 6th game as a starter. He will learn from this loss and become a much better player because of it. We're still 5-1, and a win against Iowa next weekend (granted a tough opponent) will get the season back on track. There's still a lot of season left, and I'm not going to panic yet - unlike some people here.

Jimmy McNulty

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:53 p.m.

Oh you Michigan fans....I cannot wait until OSU kicks UM's butt. We'll see how many calls for Rich Rod's resignation there are then!

GettingBluer

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:50 p.m.

"If I'm Dee Hart, do you think I'm not rethinking my "commit" decision right now?" Umm, not too sure on that one...did Alabama pull their game out of the dumpster?

Jaxon5

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:48 p.m.

If I'm a 14 year-old (i.e. one who will graduate high school in 4 years) which school do I want to attend after watching the UM - MSU games for the last 3 years? Michigan State! If I'm Dee Hart, do you think I'm not rethinking my "commit" decision right now? Here come another 4 years of recruiting losses to Michigan State.

GettingBluer

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:47 p.m.

The last time we lost three in a row to MSU was 1967. The team went 8-2 that year. It was Bump Elliot's last year coaching UofM. Then came Bo... But, you can't blame RR...he doesn't have "his" people this year, or last year, or the year before. If RR needs help packing, I volunteer to help.

hooper

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:46 p.m.

Stunhsif...you will always be little brother!!! Here are some facts to prove my point. Big Ten Football Titles UM - 46 MSU 6. All Time series UM 67 wins MSU 31 wins. Now for the topper and the one that matters most. US News & World Report just a few weeks ago rated UM 4th of all Public Universities in America. MSU was ranked 34th. Which is last among all the Big Ten schools. Isn't that what these colleges are here for? What a shame little brother!!!

Mark Harrison

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:42 p.m.

Fire Rich Rodriguez now!! He is a lousy game day coach and his gimmicky offense only works against inferior competition. He has no chance against an opponent with a good coach and talented athletes. He took a team that had gone to bowl games for 30 years in a row, winning many Big 10 Championships and a National Championship in the process, and destroyed it. And he's not "building" a program. After three years, Michigan still has no defense and no kicking game. Rodriquez has set so many negative records at Michigan that it would take a long, long page to list them all. The NFL is full of players coached by Lloyd Carr. There is almost nobody in the NFL coached by Rodriquez. Fire him now and hire a real coach who can restore Michigan football. Rodriguez is a disaster.

lawrencelaundry

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:41 p.m.

8-3 record if were really lucky. We could lose every game on the rest of the schedule. Purdue looks to be the only easy one. Illinois is a prime example of what a defense coaching change can do. Other teams D gets better, ours gets worse. Coaching coaching coaching. GERG SUCKS AND now Defense will be worse as the best player we had is out. Mike martin. Play calling was terrible as well. Let's change what we were doing the last 5 weeks rich rod. Oh yeah, on 3rd and 1, LET'S give it to Vincent instead of hopkins since he weighs about 40 pounds lighter. Let's throw the ball more too instead of letting denard just run it.

Kubrick66

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:34 p.m.

These comments are a gold mine! The irrational, illogical, emotionally driven responses based on one game of football is truly a sad commentary on our society in general. In other words... Get a grip! Show some composure. We're fans. Win or lose we are forever at the mercy of what happens on the field and are in no position to chance any of it. The mistake some of you fans make is that you actually convince yourself that your opinion matters... Guess what? It doesn't. I can't wait for Iowa. Look forward to a trip to Happy Valley... Etc, etc... Go Blue!

Do Better

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:32 p.m.

I am not a fan of either team. This loss is not the end of the world for michigan nor is this win a big ten championship for Michigan st

2sweetblue

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:24 p.m.

Michigan can have all the speed in the world, but they need toughness. Richie will never be great in the Big Ten and he proved it today. The guy is a joke and when he loses it the players shut down. I am glad I stopped drinking the kool aid because I don't feel nearly as sick today as last year. But hey lets be mediocre and play for 8-4..... Oh wait richie just needs his players. Well if only they would not transfer or could be coached........

TXteacher

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:23 p.m.

Ann Arbor BEATDOWN! Denard... Welcome to the big leagues! I think a 3 year extension is in order for RR-Or, he could run for mayor of East Lansing and win easily. RR sucks, Denard is NOT Superman, and STATE is very good. This just in AA, State is pretty good and the Blue is over-rated!

aarox

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:21 p.m.

sorry Jax, I guess in my mind I've lowered the bar. A bunch.

Jaxon5

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:19 p.m.

How anyone can declare victory by saying the team has come a long way in 2 years is beyond comprehension. I mean, it's unbelievable. When you destroy a program, you can't turn around and say, "see what improvement I've made" when you destroyed it in the first place. When will people recognize this team has become Indiana - can win the nonconference games and then get blown out in the Big 10. I expect this team to lose big to Iowa. It's not a good match up. Iowa is very physical and tough. You see, football is a game in which to be successful, the players have to like to hit people, not run around them. Iowa 35 - UM 14.

azwolverine

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:15 p.m.

UConn and ND aren't what they were supposed to be, Indiana got destroyed by OSU 38-10. What does it all mean? Make your own judgements. One thing that doesn't require any judgement because it's an objective fact is that MSU has kicked our tail since RR arrived on the scene and this year's result was the worst yet. Instead of getting closer to them, they're widening the gap. For those fans that love RR yet despise MSU, I don't know how you will justify this internally, although I'm sure you'll make up a way to do it. MSU had every reason to lose: they were coming off a tough victory over Wisconsin last week, they were in our stadium, their coach was in the press box...yet they won by 17. I still see 8-4 as the end result for this season, but that will surely include another thrashing at the hands of OSU as well. 8-4 after three years, 0-3 and losing ground against Sparty...BCS here we come!

aarox

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:13 p.m.

This will be a good reality-check for us in the long run. DR's statistics have been too good to be true. We are improving and hopefully this game keeps our heads where they should be. We still have a ways to go but we have come a long way from the last two years. Hopefully we learn from this and bear down, down the stretch for a good bowl game.

Jaxon5

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:13 p.m.

It was sickening to watch MSU pound UM with a punishing run game, and then throw beautiful deep passes to burn the defense. It used to be the other way around. This UM team could not have won this game if it was played 10 times. That's how far the program has fallen. In the closing quarters, there was absolutely nothing the defense could do to bring down the tougher, stronger MSU athletes.

Kubrick66

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:12 p.m.

Disappointing day. Points were there. Turnovers a killer. Three picks the difference. Denard is a true sophomore that has only started 6 games. Can't expect him to be perfect. Right now he's only half the player he'll eventually be. Maybe State is actually a good team for once... Time will tell. I'm going to take a deep breath and realize that this is just one game. I'll lick my wounds and look forward to Iowa. I expect the team will do the same. Go Blue!

Macabre Sunset

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:10 p.m.

Home losses, Michigan history. 1. Bump Elliott 26 (10 years, 33 wins) 2. Bennie Oosterbaan 19 (11 years, 46 wins) 3t. Harry Kipke 16 (9 years, 30 wins) 3t. Bo Schembechler 16 (21 years, 115 wins) 5. Fielding Yost 13 (25 years, 129 wins) 6. Lloyd Carr 12 (13 years, 74 wins) 7. Rich Rodriguez 9 (2 1/2 years, 10 wins) 8t. Gary Moeller 8 (5 years, 22 wins) 8t. Fritz Crisler 8 (10 years, 46 wins) It took Carr until his 13th season to lose his 10th home game. Schembechler needed 16 seasons. Yost needed 19. Rodriguez will likely reach ten next week against a tough Iowa team.

NoBowl4Blue

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:08 p.m.

Reality sets in at Michigan. That's how the bowl turns

3 And Out

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:07 p.m.

Hate to say "I told y'all"....but....this is another example of what happens when a great program makes a terrible hire. Our soft finesse-team is not prepared to play in the tough Big Ten. Physically overmatched, poorly coached on both sides of the ball...melt in the 2nd half (thanks Barwis!)..... This is just like last year...and it will continue until the head of the snake is chopped off and we start over and build with a stronger foundation.

aarox

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:07 p.m.

Detroitrocks, sadly you are right. This was not even close to a 'stumble.' We looked like the Lions. Even our writers are arrogant.

Sallyxyz

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:05 p.m.

Great job, Coach RR. Great play calling, and best of all, great offense! How many interceptions was that today? Michigan goes 5 and 7 on the season, and RR dusts off his resume....

Detroitrocks

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 6:02 p.m.

That was a serious butt kicking. RobbieWebb - I feel for you. You actually had faith. Unfortunately, State is far better than Michigan, who was exposed for the fraud they are.

Sean T.

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 5:55 p.m.

Tough loss. So do you guys still feel we don't have a "one trick pony"? On to next week!

stunhsif

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 5:52 p.m.

I predicted earlier this week on A2.com that the score would be MSU 38 and Michigan 21, I was pretty close. It is so very obvious that Mark D. is the better coach. MSU just played games with Denard today, he is human after all. Don't want to beat you U of M fans up too bad but you cannot call MSU little brother anymore. That is three in a row. Go Green Go White!

Macabre Sunset

Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 5:51 p.m.

That wasn't worst-case. That was Michigan against a mid-range Big Ten defense and a good offense. Back to reality, folks. Our first five games were against five of our easiest six opponents.