Michigan State flusters Denard Robinson, gets 4th straight win over Michigan
Michigan State senior Kevin Pickelman holds up the Paul Bunyan Trophy after the Spartans beat Michigan 28-14 at Spartan Stadium on Saturday.
Melanie Maxwell I AnnArbor.com
Updated 5:06 p.m.
EAST LANSING -- Despite sputtering on offense for most of the afternoon, the Michigan football team had its chances to end its longest losing streak to Michigan State in five decades.
But in the end, every one of them came up empty. And for the first time in 49 years, the Paul Bunyan Trophy will have a four-year stay in East Lansing.
Michigan managed just 250 yards of total offense Saturday and failed to take advantage of Michigan State's 13 penalties in a 28-14 loss at Spartan Stadium, the Wolverines first defeat of the season and fourth straight against MSU.
"Give (Michigan State coach) Mark (Dantonio) and his staff credit," first-year Michigan coach Brady Hoke said. "They out-coached us and out-played us."
For the second straight year, the Michigan State (5-1, 2-0 Big Ten) defense made Wolverine junior quarterback Denard Robinson look human.
And for the second straight year, Michigan (6-1, 2-1 Big Ten) paid the price.
Robinson went 9-for-24 for 123 yards through the air, and rushed for just 42 yards before leaving with an apparent injury following a roughing the passer penalty late in the fourth quarter.
Neither Hoke nor Robinson elaborated on the nature of the injury. Robinson said he was held out by the Michigan trainers, and explained that he feels confident he won't miss any game time because of it.
He also hinted that the play in question, a late hit by Michigan State junior defensive end Marcus Rush, was not a cheap hit.
"We were playing football," he remarked. "It's a dirty game."
As a team, the Wolverines ran for just 82 yards. Michigan State was led by a 167-yard performance by junior Edwin Baker, while senior quarterback Kirk Cousins finished his day 13-for-24 with 120 yards and two touchdowns for the Spartans, who now hold a four-game winning streak over in-state rival Michigan for the first time since 1959-62.
Despite the lackluster offensive performance, Michigan did find itself in prime position to steal the game late.
After Roy Roundtree hauled in a 34-yard touchdown pass from Robinson to make it 21-14 with 9:56 to go, Michigan caught its biggest break of the game.
Wolverines cornerback J.T. Floyd forced a B.J. Cunningham fumble on MSU's next play from scrimmage, Jordan Kovacs recovered, setting Michigan up on the Spartan 32.
On its next drive, Michigan would get a fourth-down conversion rush by Robinson before moving down to the Spartan 9-yard-line for another fourth-and-inches play.
But rather than power forward, the Wolverines attempted a play-action play, and Robinson was sacked for a 10-yard loss, giving Michigan State the ball back on downs.
Hoke explained that the decision to go for the fourth down conversion was his, and the play call was made by offensive coordinator Al Borges. He also said that, in the past, that particular call has worked.
It didn't work this time.
"We've been very successful the last two years (with) that same play," Hoke said. "Al makes the call, but I'm the one that said go for it."
The Wolverine defense didn't fold following the turnover on downs, though, as it forced a quick three and out and getting Michigan the ball back on its own 35 with just 4:40 to play in the game.
The last gasp of air for Michigan didn't last long, though, as Isaiah Lewis intercepted Robinson on the first play of the series and ran it back for a 39-yard touchdown to essentially seal the contest.
"Me and (running back Vincent Smith) weren't on the same (page)," Robinson said. "That's all it was."
After playing to a 7-7 tie in the first half, the Spartans took their first lead of the game on their first possession of the second. Following a poor Michigan kickoff set MSU up at its own 46, Cousins then led the Spartans on a nine-play scoring drive, capped off with a 10-yard touchdown pass to Keshawn Martin to make it 14-7 with 11:07 to go in the third.
After stalling on its next possession, Michigan received a break on MSU's next drive when Thomas Gordon stripped Baker on the tail end of a 20-yard pickup. Desmond Morgan recovered, putting Michigan at the Spartan 41 with six minutes to play in the quarter.
The Wolverines could do nothing, though, as Robinson was sacked on third and long, forcing another punt.
Michigan State wouldn't cough it up on its next drive, as Cousins led the Spartans on a 10-play, 61-yard drive, converting a pair of third downs through the air before finding Martin again, this time on a 13-yard score to make it a 21-7 game late in the third.
Smith rushed eight times for 37 yards for Michigan, while Roundtree finished with four catches for 66 yards and a score.
The Spartans committed 13 penalties for 124 yards. Asked if he felt Michigan State played a dirty game, Hoke said that was no concern of his.
"I don't know (about that)," Hoke said. "I'm worried about Michigan."
Michigan will now enter its bye week before hosting Purdue for a homecoming game on Oct. 29.
Hoke and players insisted that this year's team will bounce back from a loss to Michigan State better than it has in the past.
But at the same time, Hoke said his group needs to remember what Saturday felt like.
"They need to feel this one," Hoke said. "We all need to feel this one for awhile."
Nick Baumgardner covers Michigan sports for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at 734-623-2514, by email at nickbaumgardner@annarbor.com and followed on Twitter @nickbaumgardner.
Comments
Mush Room
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 11:56 p.m.
MSU had 63 offensive plays. MSU had 68 defensive plays. MSU had 131 total plays. MSU had 11 players on the field for each play and for the game: 1,441 opportunities for a player to commit a personal foul. MSU players committed 5 personal fouls, which is .3% of all opportunities to illegally rough up a UM player. But, UM fans label the entire MSU team, their coaches and the entire football program as being "dirty", "thugs", "classless". a "disgrace" and much more, even though the extreme violence administered to the UM players was legal roughing 99.7% of the time. Having watched the game, it was pretty obvious that MSU did a lot more roughing than Michigan did, but I think the team that does the most roughing usually wins football games. It's kind of a violent sport. Better luck next year blue boys. Oh, and next year have the class to shake the winning teams' hands.
allergictobs
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 8:12 p.m.
I don't see anything with this team that leads me to believe they can keep it together for the stretch run. They'll be LUCKY to win 2 more games, EXTREMELY lucky. They have played 2 REAL teams so far. ND B-slapped them all over the field for 3 quarters before they self destructed. And MSU just man handled and intimidated them. Make no mistake about it Michigan did NOT beat the Irish, The Irish gave them the game! MSU was not so generous. And ND Slapped the snot out of MSU. I say to all my fellow U of M fans. Have the great memory of the ND gift as the everlasting feel good moment for 2011. Lets hope Brady builds for 2012 and beyond. His honey moon lasts until September of 2012.
genetracy
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 9:46 p.m.
Ladies and Gentlemen, the realist is in the house. Thanks for bringing sanity to all of this whining.
discgolfgeek
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 2:53 p.m.
Our team fought hard and I believe they will learn from this loss. Football is a game where each team tries to impose their will on the other team. Michigan State thumped on us yesterday, they had the physical advantage and they exploited it. It's called smashmouth football -- the Ravens and Steelers have won Super Bowls doing the same thing. We are on the right path, just be patient, Hoke & coaches will build us a worthy team.
Redheat
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 2:25 p.m.
Yesterday's game was a big disappointment, not just seeing U-M lose, that was sort of expected, 7-0 was being optimistic. What is so disappointing is watching MSU fans defend the thuggish behavior that was displayed. MSU for the most part played a great game and deserved the victory. However, the actions of a couple of players tarnished the win, tarnished the team and tarnished the image of what Michigan is about. How these players were not thrown out is beyond me. In the end these are kids, who sacrifice a lot to get where they are. Their families spend years supporting them, and work to make sure they have a future. All of that could have disappeared in a moment of bad behavior. Where are the so called adults who are supposed to making sure these kids not only play football but become better human beings. They aren't things and have a responsibility to hold them accountable for their actions while we have the chance. The fans let them down, the coach let them down and the refs let them down. I usually root for MSU in a play off because in the end they are a Michigan team, but it's hard to root for this kind of playing and it's not about rivalry, it's about a football program being more than about the win and the $$$, but one that actually cares about what kind of men these kids become.
John Bennett
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 2:14 p.m.
There was an offense coaching plan? Looked pretty random to me!
hippiegrandma
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 1:34 p.m.
I'm proud of my Spartans. They shone yesterday. I'm not proud of the unsportsmanlike conduct I saw, however.
Howard the Duck
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 9:58 a.m.
" Michigan State is enjoying a temporary high. Michigan will be back to "big brother" status before long. This is the worst Brady Hoke team you will ever see. Ever." I've seen this movie before. It was titled "Year one of the RichRod era."
Amanda
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 8:58 a.m.
I am not a smart football fan. I watch my teams and that's it, I don't have a fantasy team. But for everyone to say that MSU was playing dirty is just plain wrong. Yes, I agree that some MSU boys were playing some dirty pool, but it was not the whole team. In this rivalry who doesn't expect these teams to play a bit dirty?? It's not like U of M hasn't done it in the past. I think State would have shut down Michigan without the dirty play. It hindered the team far more then helped. It is such a big game for both teams, who can blame these boys for getting too aggressive, when it is so important for both sides? MSU defense was on point for this game, and they proved again why they are the number 1 D in the nation. And to say that Denard & Coach played down the dirty of the game is silly. They realized they were manhandled out on the field today. They have work to do. The only game I hope U of M doesn't win is against MSU. I love my Spartans. Yes, I am a bit disappointed by some actions by a few on the field today, but I know that they would have won without it, and I know that the coaching staff will be tearing them a new one for it. MSU was the better team by far today, and U of M fans just have to admit it. We beat you. Again. 4 years in a row. We are no longer the "little brother"...
mookienation
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 8:37 a.m.
Michigan State is cute. I hope they enjoy this win against this young Michigan team with a 1st year head coach. Seriously. I want them to enjoy it, because I'm a humanist and I want my fellow human beings to enjoy their lives. But, if you're a realist at all, you'll know that this is only temporary. Michigan will be dominating this "rivalry" before long. Next season? Maybe. The year after? Probably. Year after that? Umm, yes. Michigan State is enjoying a temporary high. Michigan will be back to "big brother" status before long. This is the worst Brady Hoke team you will ever see. Ever.
Tru2Blu76
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 4:46 a.m.
I'm waiting for someone to STAND UP and show some courage about the serious threat presented by personal fouls like those MSU players used on Michigan players. For the first time, I'm really disappointed to hear Brady Hoke and Denard Robinson speak post-game. They are both pretending to "be tough" when the situation calls for conscientious attention to very dangerous "play" by MSU players. To let this slide actually encourages more of the same. What will everyone say when some college player gets paralyzed or worse from "Michigan State Style Football?"--?? If Brady Hoke can't work up the courage to acknowledge his players aren't super men or rag dolls for dirty players to throw around, then A.D. Brandon ought to DO IT FOR HIM. Mark Dantonio's program is dirty - dirtier than his pal Jim Tressel's. If any Michigan player gets seriously (or permanently) injured in this "rivalry": I'll be the first to advise his family to sue both U of M and MSU. Robinson is young - and WRONG when he says football is a dirty game. It's silly - the NFL and NCAA teams have been full of talk about player safety - or lack of it. Michigan is supposed to stand for superior character and higher ethical standards: when did that get thrown out the back door??? Finally: (1) The MSU "streak" against Michigan means nothing. They beat a younger team - which also has the remains of small guys playing where BIG guys should be playing. MSU beats Michigan: every 50 years when Michigan has hit a low point. Big deal. (2) The offensive line "wasn't there" today and that's the WHOLE REASON Denard was terrible, the RBs were terrible and why Michigan threw away chances for 3 to 5 MORE TDs than they got. BTW: Hoke and his players looked like zombies mouthing slogans in the post game presser. But...they'll feel much better tomorrow.
Tru2Blu76
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 7:27 a.m.
Hey Skolly: "big deal" to me means getting Sparty's delusional jubilation at beating an inferior team 4-straight years straightened out. MSU (team & fans) need to come back down to Earth. Realize: MSU has NEVER had a streak against Michigan when M was playing AS USUAL. Get it? Wisconsin will OWN Dirty Dantonio next week: your team will have TWO losses. And the wails of "dirty play" will squall out of E. Lansing. But you have fanboy amnesia so you won't remember what you said this week.
Skolly51
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 5:01 a.m.
It's obviously a big deal to you because your giving so many reasons this loss doesn't mean anything. "Serious threat", "Michigan State Style Football?"--??", "seriously (or permanently) injured", "sue MSU and UofM". Man your pretty far out there in your reasoning. They do make drugs to help balance people their thoughts out. I do give you credit for admitting UofM has hit a low point.
Skolly51
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 4:26 a.m.
For all of you who are acting high and mighty and calling MSU a dirty program, dirty players yada yada yada check these links out. Are you all really niave enough to think that UofM players (as well as most football teams) aren't under the pile pulling and twisting to? Take a look at these links. It may be hard for some UofM fans to see and actually admit they do some of the same things their ripping MSU for. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=AhbZoU4w-Xo" rel='nofollow'>http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=AhbZoU4w-Xo</a> Not saying the punch was ok but look at who was holding on to the face mask <a href="http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2011/10/michigan_state_notes_spartans_5.html" rel='nofollow'>http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2011/10/michigan_state_notes_spartans_5.html</a> Take a look at the pictures, specifically the one where a UofM player is grabbing a MSU player. Suck it up, quit complaining and take the loss like a man (or women if your reading this)
genetracy
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 3:51 a.m.
Michigan is still a soft team and they are still RR's team. Let's face it. To date, Mich has not played anyone. They beat Notre Dame, but ND is a fourth place Big East team at best. And just because a team gets manhandled by one team does not make that team dirty. They are just more physical.
mike gatti
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 1:44 a.m.
The thing that I can't get over is that for the first time in memory I am seeing a Michigan team (and this is 5 or 6 years in a row) getting pushed around by other teams. They may have had winning seasons in this span but they have not been the physical teams I have seen my whole life. It is not only MSU, it is other teams that throw them around. They have won games with these furious comebacks after being outplayed. It is thrilling when it happens but it is not lining up and beating people off the ball. Obviously they can't and won't go back to Bo era type ball but they do need to start lining up and smacking people. We saw MSU push them around today and even when it got to 21-14 it just didn't seem like they had much chance. You had the feeling if MSU needed to score again they would. That aura that Michigan had seems to be gone. The only way to get it back is to line up and get after it.
BTY
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 1:43 a.m.
Let's try to be reasonable. (1) MSU did not play "dirty, classless, undisciplined football." They played great defence - too good for Michigan. (2) MSU did make some dirty plays and were undisciplined. (3) The pressure MSU got on Robinson made a big difference. The coaches have said, with good reason (if you were a better coach than they you'd be coaching the team) that Denard's passing problem is "happy feet." When you are under pressure you get happy feet. Maybe the MSU coaches were listening. (4) Denard is not the team. If his O line cannot give him a bit of time, or open any lanes, he might not have a great game. (5) The Michigan defence played well. But they are not big enough and strong enough. The thought of Michigan having to play Whisky frightens me. (6) Hoke, Borges and Mattison are pretty good coaches. I am not standing in line to tell them what to do, or how dumb they were today. Now is anyone out there ready to be reasonable and talk about realities?
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 11:53 a.m.
Geno, Once again you have proven that when you don't have facts and logic (which is never), you resort to the ad hominem. Yeah, I know it's a Latin phrase and that that means you'll have to look it up. Good Night and Good Luck
genetracy
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 3:47 a.m.
Talk to Ed Murrow's ghost. He knows everything, along as you don't criticize the mighty Blue. Then he cries.
Wally the Wolverine
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 2:46 a.m.
We, too, were whistled for a "dirty play" today, if that's the language you choose to use. Frankly, I think this kind of talk makes us sound like a bunch of whiners.
heartbreakM
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 2:42 a.m.
M Defense was mostly terrible. They got pushed around all day. Woolfolk spent whatever time on the field out of position. The D-line made few if any tackles, and I didn't even see Roh mentioned once. Big Will Campbell was also minimally present. Our linebackers were nonexistent. Only player I saw worth a darn was Kovacs and maybe Countess.
genetracy
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 1:07 a.m.
For all of you UM whiners complaining of "dirty football", get a grip. It is Division 1. If you are so worried about your players getting hurt playing tackle football, then disband the program and let the real men perform on Saturdays in the fall. The UM marching band. Ha!
genetracy
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 2:46 p.m.
Well heartbreak, of the two teams, the last one to be in trouble with the NCAA was who? That's right, your beloved Blue.
heartbreakM
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 2:41 a.m.
And if there are multiple players doing these things, and not getting coaching discipline, it makes you wonder. Well, not really. Dantonio has played his cards--beat Michigan however you can. Be dirty. Cheat. Lie. (Oops, I'm Tresselizing here)
BTY
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 1:19 a.m.
Umh, genetracy, the officials called the "personal fouls" not the UM fans. And the player who "complained" about dirty play after the game was a Spartan boy who got called for personal fouls. A "personal foul" is by definition a dirty play. Maybe it happens accidentally, because the player cannot control his body, or maybe the official gets it wrong - we could decide that by looking carefully at replays. But if the player is coordinated and the official can see, it's a dirty play.
BTY
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 1:06 a.m.
MSU outplayed Michigan, and I hope they win out, I really do. But they still have the Little Brother mentality. Read Gholston's comments post-game. UM players don't get "crush Sparty" tattoos. The world is bigger than that. UM players don't use post-game comments to complain about dirty football. Be realistic. There were personal fouls committed by MSU that were not even called. MSU's defence is outstanding, and I'd like to be proud of them, but how can I when they commit unnecessary personal fouls and then make childish post=game comments?
PHXblue
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 1:04 a.m.
Not sure where all the comentary from the team about this year bieng different was coming from.. I was buying into that like I have for the last two years.. I love the team and will not give up on them but the senior leadership does not know how to win big games. The dirty play from MSU made me upset during the game but the truth is they played like they hate us and refused to lose to us. Our guys dont play with that emotion, not that I am condoning unsportsmanlike play by any means, but I keep waiting for them to show us that they can match a rivals intensity and play with a chip on their shoulder. They just dont know how.
Jaxon5
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 12:05 a.m.
Now watching Iowa dismantle Northwestern with whom Michigan struggled. UM could very well finish out 0-5. Here's why: Purdue was competitive with PSU today and absolutely hates Michigan. In two weeks, look for a very close game with Purdue coming out the winner. Then, it's four straight losses to Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska and Ohio State. Iowa wins at Iowa City where Michigan always struggles. Illinois is too good for UM on both sides of the ball, but especially offense. Nebraska will be steamrolling through the Big Ten by the time that game arrives. And, finally, OSU is OSU. They've been better than UM for the last ten years, especially now that their suspended players are back. Final regular season record W 6, L 6. Big Ten record W 2, L 6.
mun
Mon, Oct 17, 2011 : 3:28 a.m.
"Now watching Iowa dismantle Northwestern with whom Michigan struggled." Michigan won that game 42-24. Not exactly a "struggle."
Goober
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 11:55 p.m.
Even though they are called an 'ag school' by UofM students, the MSU football program rocks! Go Sparty!
UMfan2001
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 11:52 p.m.
The coach keep saying that the Denard's throwing mechanic was not right but week after week he still cannot get his mechanic right even the ESPN commentator pointed out his mistake during replay. This is so discouraging that there is no improvement in such a dynamic QB. There is nothing worng with the offensive line when they allow the QB more than 4 secs to throw the ball each time. It seems like it takes Denard forever to throw the ball and to make matter worst he failed to connect with his receivers. Is he not working hard eough or the QB coach is incapable of coaching? To make matter worst, Borgess keep calling for passing when even the wind was blowing against the throw. I am very confident with the coaches before this game but with so many breakdown in this game I cannot help feeling this may be a replay of the past disaster seasons
UMfan2001
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 11:39 p.m.
There is no question that the UM players played their heart out. The long hual by Roundtree was brillant, the first touch run by Denard was impressive, the two forced fumble by defense were great. However, there is bad execution on the part of the offensive coach and head coach. This created confusion player and did anything but win the game.
H.
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 11:13 p.m.
Hail to the Victors....X 4 Love, Little Brother.
BTY
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 2:28 a.m.
H. Yup, you got us, four years in a row. I am a UM guy, a "Michigan Man." But I long for the days of Duffy Daugherty, when MSU was a class program. Back in those days MSU pounded us, and I was almost happy because they were so good, and so classy. MSU is partly back. The defence today was so good they disrupted Denard, a very good and very classy young man. But where was the class? Take the defence aside and talk to them. You can be aggressive without personal fouls. It's the little brother who gets emotional. H. three of my brothers and one of my sisters went to MSU. My Dad was an MSU varsity athlete. I want MSU to be classy. Today they were very good; too good for UM. But not classy. Your Brother
truebluefan
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:44 p.m.
People need to stop blaming the refs. MSU was penalized for well over 100 yards in this game. I think their penalties added up to more yards than our offense attained! Complain about Michigan's anemic offense and poor coaching. Wasn't there a countdown clock for MSU? Where was the fire? Where was the passion? Where was the "toughness"? It looked like we were playing in quicksand. Outcoached, outplayed and outschemed by an inferior football team. That stinks!
truebluefan
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:38 p.m.
Michigan was terrible today from the coaches down to the players. No sugarcoat. The offense was stuck in neutral. Borges made a stupid call on 4th and a foot. Denard couldn't complete a 10-yard pass and his mechanics have regressed from last season. The O line couldn't prevent MSU's 4-man rush from pressuring the QB. Our D line couldn't get any pressure whatsoever on Cousins against a mediocre MSU D line. Our tackling was horrible. We punted from inside the 35-yard line how many times?!?! Where were the bubble screens? The slow tempo was killing any flow for the offense. I keep saying that Michigan needs to run no huddle hurry up but nobody believes me. We took a big step backwards today. Number 11? Hardly.
mun
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:32 p.m.
Congrats, MSU. You won this game fair and square. Go out and win the Big Ten Championship, then we'll talk.
Smart Logic
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 11:51 p.m.
You can repeat yourself as much as you want but it won't help the fact that they showed themselves to be better than UM. UM needs the work.
mun
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:46 p.m.
Go out and win the Big Ten Championship, then we'll talk.
Smart Logic
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:33 p.m.
They beat UM fair and square, so it's UM that has more proving to do before "you'll talk"
Jon Saalberg
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:26 p.m.
Well, I guess Dantonio's version of college is play hard and play dirty, and especially, play dirty. Still, UM killed themselves with a particularly egregious interception and missed fourth down opportunities. Someday, well, beat MSU. Might even be next year.
Smart Logic
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:24 p.m.
It looks like "little brother" just wasn't, today. Ouch. Maybe next year.
Coozerino
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 12:16 a.m.
You can't always beat your little brother, sometimes they just get you and you say congrats and give them their props for a job well done...but they are still your little brother:)
UlyssesSwrong
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:19 p.m.
What we learned today: Denard Robinson is a poor passer and will probably be bad for the rest of his career at Michigan Michigan's defense is improving game by game but still have many of the same weaknesses (which are slowly being improved) Devin Gardner will be a much better passer than Denard and should be more involved in the offense Blake Countess is only a freshman and Michigan's best CB, showing us that Hoke can recruit great talent right away (or maybe the current CBs are just that horrid)
Jed I Knight
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:17 p.m.
I think it was 77 from UM had Gholston on the ground and was face-masking him ahead of Gholston's punch. That is what triggered it. Gholton frankly should have face-masked the UM player and pulled him to the turf v punch back. Yes 77 was Avenging Gholston's face-mask of Denard, so good for him, but Gholston would have been smarter to pull him to the ground v punch....
Chilltime
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:16 p.m.
VISHa, It will be refreshing when post like yours are no longer written. Let it go! It's over! The O-line was bad today! Pick a running back and stick with him! Hell pick a QB and stick with him! This is not a top 25 team and it showed today. However, there is hope.
Jed I Knight
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:13 p.m.
Oh yeah - really - holding the ball out is ILLEGAL and should nullify the TD??? I give you extra points if you are so clear to the end-zone you can hold the ball out at arm's length at will. Stop the crying. Men play FB and men win or lose FB. Seriously. Penalties are called and rewards tithed to the opposing team. Don't hate the players, hate the game. UM are quite educated folks IMHO. Deal with the loss. State kicked your butt. End of story. Move on, better luck next week.
Coozerino
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 12:15 a.m.
Oh you stop it now you silly spartys. We will move on but what is wrong with a bunch of fans commenting about things that bothered them or venting about the other team a little. It is therapeutic and it will help us to move on. Yes, MSU kicked our butts it is true, so let us deal man! When you guys lose I am sure you all do the same so don't get so annoyed, it's all good!
ViSHa
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:03 p.m.
So refreshing not hearing the coach blame the loss on everything under the sun and not deflect his own responsibility.
DonAZ
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:23 p.m.
Where are you seeing this post-game news conference? I can't find the links.
BlueGator
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:01 p.m.
Let's not despair. None of us should have really expected that UM would be a B1G title contender this year. I recall Hoke's intro presser in January. He said something to the effect that in order to win the B1G you need plenty of "wide shoulders and big, fat butts" on both sides of the line of scrimmage. Like many of you, I merely chuckled at the mental image, and assumed that good technique coaching would cure all ills. It can't. Until we get more mass, our lines will continue to be B1G pushees instead of pushers, at least against the top echelon teams. UM will start getting help coming in for 2012, but most of those Clydesdales won't be ready to play as true freshmen. Our effective line bulk should start noticeably improving in 2013. Until that help arrives and can be fattened up and trained, I believe the staff is making the most of a less than ideal situation at the "point of attack."
Paco12054
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 3:13 a.m.
Great analysis.
MRunner73
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:42 p.m.
Too many ledge jumpers on this post. Bullet points: \Michigan- no feature tailback, there still searching. (it finally caught us this time) \Denard's passing continues to be very erratic. ( the wind really hurt today) The TV commentation was good at pointing out his mechanics on the foot work. \Michigan's defense could not stop the run but was not a disaster. (this too caught us) \MSU played dirty, got a lot of penalty flags but we didn't capitalize. So even if we only win 3 of the next 5 remaining games which seems very, very realistic, Michigan would have a 9 and 3 season and I will call that successful. GO BLUE!!!
Jaxon5
Mon, Oct 17, 2011 : 12:36 a.m.
Right 5-3, that's .625 which is less than Michigan's approx. .750 lifetime winning percentage. Not successful.
Coozerino
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 12:11 a.m.
That would actually be a 5-3 Big Ten season and that my friends would be very successful and a good building block going forward. GO BLUE!
Jaxon5
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:02 p.m.
Then, that would be a 5-4 Big Ten season. That's more successful than under RichRod, but not successful in my view.
mookienation
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:35 p.m.
Gardner! Gardner! Gardner! Gardner!
mookienation
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 11:16 p.m.
Making roster changes isn't simple?
MRunner73
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:44 p.m.
You make it sound so simple. Apply for Al Borgess's job.
emueagles63
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:28 p.m.
As for all the cheap shots and bad sportsmanship talk.... This was a rivalry game and MSU took it like that. Rivalries should be intense, a little dirty and grimy. Maybe the Michigan players should have matched MSU's hype and intensity. The outcome may have been a little different. Look...bullying IS allowed on the football field and in rivalries. Michigan beat up on State for years, and now that "Little Brother" is fighting back and winning, you can't take it. Become the "Big Brother". Also, don't blame Mike Hart, he's not the one playing the game. He said what he said and meant it, and he backed it up for the years he was at Michigan. Michigan should try that, maybe it would hit a mean spark.
Tru2Blu76
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 6:36 a.m.
You might want to know: some of the top refs said they'd have ejected Gholston. Players' lives & careers DEPEND on fighting the dirtbags like him. MSU having a streak every 50 years isn't impressing anyone who doesn't live under a barrel on MSU's campus. Esp. because they have NO streaks against the top Michigan teams. No one claims THIS team is a top Michigan team. Rivalries: Over hype to sell tickets and TV rights. Nothing more.
Dwight Lang
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:25 p.m.
The MSU Nike uniforms look an awful lot like the University of Oregon Ducks. Perhaps they did the trick. Quack!
cjh
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:22 p.m.
MSU "got away" with a win. The face mask where #2 Gholston turned Robinson's head around was ridiculous...then later when he punched a player?? really?? And then when he held the football out to Robinson when he was running into the end zone which is taunting ALSO illegal....U/Ms fault for not calling them out on it. This is what was on CBS Sportsline "Will Gholston had a fine day for the Spartans, but he probably shouldn't have been on the field for the fourth quarter. In the third quarter, Gholston was flagged for piling on Denard Robinson well after the play was over, then wrenching Robinson's helmet around for good measure. Later in the quarter, Gholston was being manhandled away from the play by Michigan OL Taylor Lewan, and when Gholston made it to his feet, he summarily punched Lewan in the facemask. Famed referee Mike Pereira said on Twitter that he would have ejected Gholston, and it's entirely possible that MSU or the Big Ten will suspend Gholston next week when Wisconsin comes to town. You are probably thinking sour grapes on my part but no, I would have said "good game" if they would have played like good sports. That is not good for college football. How many personal fouls did they have?? Would not be proud of that win and being a Spartan today.
a2girl
Mon, Oct 17, 2011 : 1:30 a.m.
Agreed. Although I am a wolverine fan, I have always cheered for MSU as well. I guess I grew up in an era when Michgan/Michigan State was a friendly rivalry. I am not depressed about Michigan's loss. It is just a game. I am, however, deeply saddened to see players behave so poorly. It will be a long time before I cheer for MSU. I hope there are some ramifications for the players that forgot where the line between playing tough and assaulting an opponent lies.
mookienation
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 8:49 a.m.
Michigan can still go 10-2 or even 11-1. Don't be reactionary. They're a good team and they'll keep improving.
Tru2Blu76
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 6:27 a.m.
Answer: I believe it was six PFs for 'State, maybe one for Michigan. Michigan won't fold after this, I think they'll go on to win 2 or 3 more at least. Having an 8-4 or 9-3 in his 1st year isn't bad for BH, next year he'll have more. MSU gets its "Win 4 X Every 50 Years Award" and goes back to obscurity. Besides, next week Wisconsin will OWN MSU and Sparty will have 2 loses. Go Blue!
arbormike
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:11 p.m.
ahahahahahahahahaha! Go state, get 5 in a row!
pubmedme
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:17 p.m.
we were outplayed, which is something I can say today. however, when you 'out-educate' someone, that is something you can say forever. Go Blue! keep working hard.
southernblu
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:14 p.m.
Can we step back and take a deep breath? The season is not over because of one loss. Sure, it hurts that that loss came at the hands of MSU. Hopefully, we'll fix many of the issues displayed today. MSU indeed has a very good defense--possibly the best or in the top 5 percent of D1 programs. I can't help but feel, however, that MSU's win is somewhat tainted by their dirty play. Gholston's grabbing and twisting of Denard's facemask was not merely bush league, he could have severely hurt Denard. It says a lot about the player--and his coach for not admonishing his dangerous behavior. In the fervor for this game, it should never be forgotten that there are human beings out there playing. Trying to twist a person's neck by grabbing his facemask is nothing to brush off. I'd have been extremely ashamed if a Michigan player had exhibited such behavior. And I can't imagine Brady Hoke tolerated it. Interesting that MSU fans seem to be fine with their team's dirty behavior. It just reinforces my long held belief that we (meaning UM) are the good guys.
bigtenknight
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:29 p.m.
Gholston was playing with emotion mixed with stupidity. I agree he could have seriously hurt Denard, which is NEVER a good thing. Like you said, they are human beings playing a game. However, to say that MSU was the only dirty team is completely falsified and biased. Gholston's punch was a direct response for having his helmet buried, way past the whistle being blown, continuously into the turf. The O-lineman (forgot the number) wouldn't let him up. And I'm not too sure if you were in the situation would have acted much differently. Both schools should be ashamed of themselves. This rivalry used to be good games with hard hitting. Now it's become cheap shots and trash talking. BOTH schools and their coaches need to 'check' themselves. P.S. Hats off to Brady Hoke and Denard for their post game comments - even after losing a hard fought game.
bobbyhackett
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:06 p.m.
While my brain told me we'd lose, my heart was hoping we would win. So much for hope. Let's just hope (there's that word again) this team, with this group of seniors, doesn't go in the tank AGAIN for the fourth straight year. We can still have a great season IF these guys suck it up and play some Michigan football over the next five games. MSU's Defense has kept a LOT of teams down, so no big disgrace there. It just hurts to see our offense suck so badly, especially against MSU and their cheap shot specialists....
58-44-6
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:02 p.m.
Over the next 10 years we have 3 categories 1) Ohio State, Michigan, Nebraska, Wisconsin - can win Big Ten and National Championship 2) Penn State, Michigan State, Illinois, Iowa - can win Big Ten Championship but never a National Championship 3) Indiana, Purdue, Minnesota, Northwestern - can win neither I have spoken, now accept it and enjoy your team...
bigtenknight
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:22 p.m.
Sorry to say it boys, but Michigan's National Championship days are over. One title (or half depending on who you're talking to) in the last 50 years or something like that. I mean, come on, I know you love your team but let's get real. Since the inception of the BCS, Michigan has been to 4 BCS bowls with a record of 1-3. 4 total appearances...half of the likes of OSU and Oklahoma. And now, with Nebraska in the conference and the dominating Wisconsin teams, and the rising competitiveness of MSU (like it or not), there are too many obstacles in the way. And, let's not mention the big boys down south in the SEC. 1) OSU, Nebraska, Wisconsin - can win Big Ten and National Championships. 2) Yes, Michigan will still continue to perform and stay in the middle tier of the conference. Many of these recruits that were brought in ranked much higher than MSU's recruits...yet it's all what happens on that field that matters. Hoke will definitely bring in some good players, but so will the other schools. And when OSU bring in Meyer next year, it's back to the drawing board for Big Blue. I have spoken, now accept it and enjoy your team...
Jaxon5
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:21 p.m.
I would agree, except Michigan should be removed from the top category. It is not a top tier Big 10 team and hasn't been one for at six or seven years.
Howard the Duck
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:16 p.m.
"Over the next 10 years we have 3 categories 1) Ohio State, Michigan, Nebraska, Wisconsin - can win Big Ten and National Championship 2) Penn State, Michigan State, Illinois, Iowa - can win Big Ten Championship but never a National Championship 3) Indiana, Purdue, Minnesota, Northwestern - can win neither I have spoken, now accept it and enjoy your team..." I often need one or ten fat juicy rationalizations to make it through the day too!
GoBlue1984
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:59 p.m.
Anyone have Coach Rod's number... Look at our offensive (and I mean that in both meanings) numbers... Make the call and appologize.
DonAZ
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:22 p.m.
Not a chance. By the end of last season good teams had Denard and the RR spread offense figured out. Did you catch Urban Meyer's piece on how the spread offense is tending to wane away now that defenses have figured out how to defend against it? Did you hear what Urban said ... that the cycle seems to be trending back towards more of a power game? Have you looked at Alabama's offense lately? Or Wisconsin's? Apologize to Rodriguez? Never. Not only the worst coach in Michigan history, but a not very good coach period. He will never be a successful coach again, unless he coaches in the Big East or WAC or something.
81wolverine
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:20 p.m.
At least make some sense. Do you make judgements based on one game? C'mon man. This team has been decimated in talent at key positions because of poor recruiting by RR and his staff. It's going to take several years to fix it. And Coach Hoke and staff are doing that if you have bothered to read the recruiting reports. Focus on the big picture!
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:55 p.m.
As if it were needed, proof that you are a fan of the WCiMFH rather than of the Michigan Wolverines. Time to go watch you boy on CBS. GN&GL
GoBlue1984
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:56 p.m.
Told ya so...
Mick52
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:49 p.m.
One big play that was an unbelievable call was the ballgame. 4th and one or less and rather than go forward, DRob drops back and gets nailed by an unchecked blitzer. Unbelievable call. Get a 1st down and a tie is just a few yards. Not all that impressed by msu, these teams are even. Still not sold on Coach Hoke. Michigan was not prepared for msu's defense.
GreenPus
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:43 p.m.
The disappointing display of goonery and poor sportsmanship by MSU today will be remembered a lot longer than the victory.
arbormike
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:08 p.m.
ahahahahahahaha no, actually losing for in a row will go down in record books. but whatever makes you feel better.
cjh
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:25 p.m.
Agree!!!!!
trigg7
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:05 p.m.
wwwwaaaaa wwwaaaa
heartbreakM
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:35 p.m.
Michigan was badly outplayed, badly outcoached, and badly out"quicked" today. I think there were a lot of things masked by weak opponents earlier this year that were exposed today, and Michigan needs to work on those things. The biggest things I am upset about are the persistent dirty plays that MSU was responsible for--vicious hits trying to induce injury, hitting late, twisting the QB helmet, taunting. That is all related to coaching as far as I'm concerned--especially when it comes from so many players. You didn't see Michigan players doing those things. I think Dantonio ought to be disciplined somehow, and I think those players should be suspended, especially #2 and #44. If it costs MSU a victory next week, then they deserve it. I am also upset by the continued sloppy QB play by Denard (though the line did not give him much time today, that's for sure). His throwing continues to be gosh awful. And that fourth down call? What was that? Hopefully the rest of the year goes more smoothly, but I do think we might have been better prepared for this defense had we played a better pre-season schedule than 2 MAC teams and ventured on the road. MSU is a great defense, that's for sure, but we were just flat out unprepared for them.
Dave66
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 11:12 p.m.
> persistent dirty plays that MSU was responsible for Yeah, very disappointing. I would rather watch MSU play a clean game and lose than win dirty. I blame the coaching. I think several players should have been yanked and sent to the showers for dirty plays. I like to see MSU win, but when it's tainted like this it takes all the fun out of it. It was shameful.
DonAZ
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:18 p.m.
"Carma is a B" ... the proper spelling is "Karma" Denard *is* a QB ... just not as good at some elements of the position as he is at others. I think he *could* be better at those things ... and it's the goal of Hoke and Borges to try to get him there. I often wonder ... adolescent or just ignorant?
81wolverine
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:16 p.m.
MSU showed a massive lack of class and discipline today. This will prevent them from going very far this season. Gholston should have been kicked out of the game for 2 extremely cheap shots against Denard. If the ref's didn't do it, you'd think Dantonio would have. But look at who we're talking about. He's clearly shown a Tressel-like player-management pattern over the last few years of excusing immoral and unethical behavior by his players. Teams that commit 13 penalties in a game don't deserve to win. They got lucky today against a Michigan team that couldn't make offensive pass plays.
trigg7
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:56 p.m.
DR is not a QB first of all, just thought i should let you know. personally i wish MSU would have busted those overated pompus losers in the mouth more! Carma is a B. You just worry about your probation,MR glass house!
58-44-6
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:33 p.m.
Lets not get carried away. Michigan State has a good team, they can win the Big Ten Championship, but will never be good enough to win a National Championship. They will never be able to compete with the top SEC teams, that was obvious at last years Capital One Bowl when they lost 49-7 to an Alabama team that was having an "off" year. They can be good but never great. They cant get enough 4 and 5 star players to compete with the top 5 teams in the Country. Michigan is headed in the right direction and has the capability in the future to win a National Championship. Over the next 10 years Michigan will win 8 out of 10 against Michigan State. Keep cool my babies...
Coozerino
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:02 p.m.
Oh, trigg how right you are....talk is cheap, and from all your posts all over the place that makes you as cheap as all those thuggish cheap shots your team took today....maybe cheaper
58-44-6
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:49 p.m.
Michigan will win another National Championship because I am their fan and I am the greatest man on earth. I should be named President for Life and the Country should be named after me and I should be on all currency. Go Blue!!!
trigg7
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:42 p.m.
talk is cheap! just take your place and keep quiet.
emueagles63
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:32 p.m.
How can anyone in this post say that Michigan defense played good enough to win? They gave up 28 points and couldn't stop the run. MSU had 150+ yards on the ground and Cousins passed for two touchdowns. How is that ever good enough to win a game? Or are you just happy that MSU didn't put up 40 which they could have done. As for Denard Robinson, it is what it is. He's a running back throwing the ball. His mechanics and inability to be a good passer will hurt Michigan as long as he's at QB. I liked the packages with Gardner at QB and Robinson at slot. That should be the offense for the rest of the year. Gardner will give them a better chance to win through the air with Robinson receiving screen plays and running the jet sweep. Gardner and Robinson needs to split the reps in practice, give Gardner more looks. Terrible on both sides of the ball.
UlyssesSwrong
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:28 p.m.
I totally agree with you, motorcitysportstalk. Gardner has great potential and Robinson has shown us he's a bad passer time and time again. Gardner isn't too comfortable in the offense which is why he made bad decisions. He's a young kid and getting game experience so this should change.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:51 p.m.
The D did not give up 28 points. It gave up 21 (7 came on a pick 6) and forced two fumbles deep in Spartan territory that resulted in zero points. Playing well enough to win does not mean that the defense played as well as I would have liked. It did not. But holding our opponent to 21 points on offense ought to have been good enough to win. GN&GL
heartbreakM
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:51 p.m.
I agree. THe M defense was pushed ALL over the field by that supposedly suspect MSU O-line. Baker looked Mike Hart against MSU, having his way with us. UM made a few good plays to keep UM in it, but had they been tougher against the run, the game would have been much much closer. Of course, with the QB play that UM got, UM's fate was sealed anyway. Just not our day against a dirty but excellent MSU defense.
Dave66
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:31 p.m.
Maybe they got diabetes from all the cupcakes in the first half of their season. This is their first real game against a decent opponent, right? They haven't really been tested yet. And now they have.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:48 p.m.
Not what I'm saying at all. Nowhere did I say that. Just wondered what it meant if, by your logic, you lost to a cupcake. There. Does that clarify things for you?? GN&GL
Dave66
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:26 p.m.
So what you're saying is that MSU < ND < UM, by the transitive property of football? Keep telling yourself that and pretend it makes a diffeence. When you wake up in the middle of the night, all alone in the dark, let me know if it comforts you. OK, here are two more logic puzzles for you: UM < MSU < ND ND < UM < MSU Gee, kind of looks like everyone is better than everyone else, huh? So what are we to conclude? (Hint: UM < MSU, four years in a row)
Coozerino
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:01 p.m.
Way to go Murrow! I'm right there with you buddy! Oh and motorcitysportstalk, kind of like how sparty has been living off the michigan wins, including this one...GO BLUE!
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:57 p.m.
"They are a better team than we are " Except where it counts. On the scoreboard with 0:00 left on the clock. But, yes, I have found that in A2.com discussions, and especially where Michigan football is concerned, actual FACTS have little meaning. GN&GL
edjasbord
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:49 p.m.
Murrow - claiming anything from the ND win makes you look silly. ND beat themselves. They are a better team than we are - that game hinted at it, today shouted it.
emueagles63
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:40 p.m.
Still living off the ND win. Get over it.
mookienation
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:26 p.m.
Reactionary fans.
15crown00
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:25 p.m.
Well blue brain little sisters you play a REAL team and look what happens. Pasted that's what it's called. And D Rob well when he's neutralized you ain't very good r you? Well Well LITTLE SISTERS
Coozerino
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:58 p.m.
Little sisters? First we were the fat sister, now we are the little sister....man you guys sure are creative. So what REAL team have you guys played besides us? Hmmmmm, youngstown state, no....florida atlantic, no....cmu, no....osu, ooooh probably not...and then michigan, who didn't show up and didn't play well at all....Your luck will run out as you get into the tough part of your schedule...10-2 at worst for Meeeechigan and 8-4 at best for the spartys...oh, and I am starting to think of a new nickname for you sparty fans to unveil next year when we roll you and start a new streak of dominance! GO BLUE!
Howard the Duck
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:23 p.m.
Such lofty goals for the last four years. Each time the Spartans have opened a can of whupass on the Wolverines. Will the inevitable collapse follow?
Coozerino
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:54 p.m.
No, but MSU will definitely collapse...I see a 8-4 record for them at best
Jaxon5
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:21 p.m.
No Big 10 championship again for UM. Need to set sights on playing as well as MSU. That should be job 1 for Hoke. Realize where the team is in the hierarchy - it's no higher than middle-of-the-pack. Then, figure out what you can do to take it to the next level - being a Division leader - that's where MSU is now. Being a team as complete as MSU should be the goal. Dantonio got it right from the very beginning and he hasn't lost yet. MSU has set the standard and UM has not approached that standard in over 4 years. There has been improvement - last year, UM was bottom-of-the-pack. This year, they have not yet proven they can be middle-of-the-pack. Need to win vs. Purdue and Iowa both. Then, they can claim they've achieved a level up over last year.
Jaxon5
Mon, Oct 17, 2011 : 12:40 a.m.
@mun. Yeah, I forgot about that one UM win because it seems like ages ago and happened with the last great coach UM had.
Tru2Blu76
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 7:10 a.m.
Going back to when Hoke first arrived: did we or did we not all UNDERSTAND that this was just the beginning of a recovery? Talking Big 10 championship THIS year was NEVER believable, even though Hoke pretends it is. Most people were hoping / predicting an 8-4 season for Hoke. He IS likely to do that or better. M's O-line is the last major repair job: still ahead. Hoke, Borges, Denard can only do so much with "so little." I think throwing Hoke or Denard under the bus RIGHT NOW is the stupidest thing imaginable. Denard & Co. will be seniors next year and they'll have new (quality) help. Michigan will RISE, no doubt about that.
mun
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:37 p.m.
"Dantonio got it right from the very beginning and he hasn't lost yet." Uh, Michigan beat MSU in 2007, Dantonio's first year.
Jaxon5
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:44 p.m.
Not talking mathematics, talking ability and potential. Michigan has neither of these in enough quantity to win the Big Ten.
Hebner
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:52 p.m.
We are not mathematically eliminated from winning the division. There is quite a few more games to be played. It sucks to loose, but it is only one loss! We can still win the Big Ten Championship.
Kubrick66
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:37 p.m.
I don't agree with anything you've written above. Except for the part that Michigan needs to beat Purdue and Iowa. The rest... I find completely nonsensical.
MikeB
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:25 p.m.
Personally i would rather have them lose than resort to the cheap tactics and dirty play MSU exhibited. Yes, MSU was a better team, that makes the fouls and conduct worse
Rocketron
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:20 p.m.
Anyone who still think that Denard is a candidate for the Heisman or thinks he will play QB at the next level is dreaming. Once again he laid an egg in a big game completed by having him throw a pick 6. His passing is horrible and his throwing technique is even worse. It seems that he doesn't ever learn about setting himself before he throws the ball. He is a running back playing quarterback. Despite that we still had chance to even up the score. I'm not sure why we called the passing play with the way their blitz had been working all day. As Chris Spielman pointed out on ESPN there was a lane open if he checked out of the original play call. Not sure if he is capable of doing this. Thanks again Mike Hart for running your mouth with that stupid comment. Have we won a game against the Spartans since?
Coozerino
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:53 p.m.
Mike Hart's comments have nothing to do with your string of wins against us...Mike Hart and Chad Henne graduating, as well as RichRod coming to town and destroying our team did. We are crawling out of the hole he put us in and you guys are taking advantage and have had good teams so hats off to you...but please stop saying those comments had anything to do with sparty's winning streak. It's just plain dumb
edjasbord
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:47 p.m.
Blaming Hart's comment is a sissy, weak thing to do. But you are right about Denard - he has always done well against inferior opponents, horrible against competent-to-good opponents. He is not a pro-style QB, but he is not a good spread QB either. We have seen good spread QBs do well against good opponents, such as Troy Smith, Dixon, or the AUburn guy. Denard is just a sub-par passer and decision-maker.
Mick52
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:40 p.m.
He's a spread offense QB. The offense this year is far worse than last years. We are going backward. The O line is not dominant enough to successfully run a pro style offense in re to running. And today they couldn't stop msu blitzes.
psaume23
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:19 p.m.
Not so much deja vu all over: It was encouraging to see the defense play better than in recent years' games, but Sparty did appear to have DRob's number (and face-mask on at least one occasion). I agree with the comments that the relatively frequent change of our quarterbacks may have affected the flow of our offense. It was also frustrating to watch the lack of effective blocking at times. But the main rivalry game for Michigan is still against Ohio St. and it's in our stadium and can be won by Michigan. With this coaching staff, we should be able to win at least two more games before the OSU game, and that will make for a very good season with a new coaching staff.
Tru2Blu76
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 6:42 a.m.
Hoke has had a LOAD cleaning up RR's mess. M still needs better players - now he'll turn attention to improving the O-line personnel. It was O-line failure that felled Denard, nothing more. MSU has a good defense and they got to Denard early & often. From there, no matter what happened, Denard was rattled and never recovered. Wis. will OWN MSU next week. Michigan has a bye week then they face a "doable" schedule. Hoke will have at least 8-4 and maybe more , not a bad first season (and God, Thanks for that.)
Mick52
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:37 p.m.
It would be nice to beat osu, but after losing to msu, its just not the same. After this game, I am not sure we can beat osu.
Mick
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:18 p.m.
Yeah, I was very disappointed in the play calling today, many of the plays made no sense. Devin missed on some reads that could have taken advantage of the MSU D, but it wasn't meant to be today. The Defense played reasonably well, good enough to win, got some turnovers, but the Offense was offensive today. That was a backward lateral the refs missed that call, MSU ended up scoring on that drive, with the replay rule, I wish refs would not blow the whistle on plays like that, just terrible. That 4th down call was horrendous, changed the game. This game was close actually, we could've won if we finished some plays. I would give credit to MSU, but they have an undisciplined, dirty and thugish team. Dantonio coaches them to be that way I believe. We still have a good football team with a bright future and great coaching, although today the coaches were not great. I still have faith that we will end up with a good season and be proud of this team, Go Blue!!!
Wally the Wolverine
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:17 p.m.
I think Borges outsmarted himself a couple of times especially on the 4th and 1 in the red zone. We went to the well once too often on the road and gave up points because of it.
trigg7
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:16 p.m.
O, i'm sorry thanks again Mike Heart.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:12 p.m.
The defense played well enough to win--gave up only 21 points. It had some obvious problems (e.g., tackling) but, again, it played well enough to win. The offense looked completely disorganized. Understood what the guys on TV were saying in that switching Devin and Denard made little sense, but they also averred that the reason Devin was in there was due to Denard clearly being uncomfortable in the pocket--that the second he felt under pressure his eyes went from downfield to looking to run. Good thing the team has two weeks off--much to work on. Good Night and Good Luck
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 1:13 a.m.
Then you better watch your game on DVR because there was an extended conversation about it. It came after he pulled the ball down in a blitz when he had his check down--tight end line up on the left side of the formation--come open across the middle. He never saw him because he never looked for him. Showed the replay a couple of times as Meyer and Spielman talked about it. Came early in the 4th qtr, I believe, but wouldn't swear to it. Yeah, I know. You won't find it. GN&GL
truebluefan
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:50 p.m.
The Denard of last year became unproductive only after he got injured. The Denard of this year has been unproductive when healthy. It's the scheme that's not working for Denard. And, tell me how has Denard's passing improved under this staff? His mechanics right now are terrible. It's obvious he has little confidence.
DonAZ
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:11 p.m.
Last year it was very definitely "tuck and run" for Denard with the slightest bit of pressure. This year I believe they are trying to get Denard to break that habit and look because in a lot of cases there are receivers open. edjasbord -- I wrote what I wrote because Denard did *not* look like he did for the past 12 games or so. There was a hesitancy about him. I can't put my finger on it, but I just had a sense. I know what Urban Meyer was trying to say, but I'm not sure I agree with him wholly. The Denard Robinson of last year can only take a team so far. The great 2011 experiment is seeing if another facet of QB skill can be grafted onto his running ability. If that were successful then he'd take the team a little further. I'm still convinced Devin was in because Denard was nicked up in some way.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:47 p.m.
JUB wrote: "This is patently untrue. Denard very, very rarely goes "looking to run" when he's under pressure in the pocket." Yeah. Urban Meyer and Chris Spielman don't know what they're talking about. LOL GN&GL
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:17 p.m.
Didn't say that I was satisfied with the "D", Mick. Indeed, I said it had "obvious problems". I said they played well enough to win. And they did. Maybe you wouldn't disagree with me so often if you actually *read* what I wrote? Naaaaaaaaaaah. GN&GL
trigg7
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:47 p.m.
Class, this from a program with two teams on probation! what a joke. Then you should have won. waaaaa wwaaaaa
Mick52
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:35 p.m.
I don't think I would ever be content to say the defense gave up only 21 points. My line would be, The defense gave up 21 points! Of course compared to some recent years, only 21 is not bad. But in college football, in my humble opinion, offenses gave become more and more difficult to stop.
edjasbord
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:25 p.m.
DonAZ - um, what? Denard looked today like Denard of the past 12 or so games, save one or two here and there. Denard is not a natural QB, and decent big ten teams will exploit his flagrant weaknesses every time. I saw the Denard out there that we have seen over and over, and will continue to see over and over. Its time to give Devin a real shot at starting QB.
DonAZ
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:16 p.m.
I have a theory I can't prove -- Robinson was playing slightly hurt today. Some nagging something -- flu, bruise, something -- and he wasn't on his game. Hence Gardner. Hence spotty play.
Kubrick66
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:12 p.m.
Six plus minutes left in the 4th. Trailing 21-14. 4th down and less than a yard to go on MSU's 9. Who's number do you call? In that situation I run Denard 99 out of 100 times. Maybe Borges does too... The next 99 times. Play of the game. Call of the game. So close but yet so far... Bright side... It's in the past. Time to regroup. Work hard in the off week. 10 win season still there for the taking. Go Blue!
Jaxon5
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:15 p.m.
Completely disagree! It did not come down to one play. UM was beaten thoroughly by the better team. I don't know what game you were watching, but it wasn't this one. MSU Defense owned Michigan's offensive line. There were more green jerseys in the UM backfield than bumble bee jerseys. UM has a long, long way to go in order to beat the Spartans.
Coozerino
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:47 p.m.
Agreed 100%! We can still win 10 or 11 games and with msu having to play wisconson and nebraska the next two weeks, we could still win our division and go to indy!
Wally the Wolverine
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:12 p.m.
I shudder to think what the score would've been had msu not not had all the penalties & cheap shots. Easy to see why their D is #1 in the country.
Coozerino
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:44 p.m.
I shudder to think of what the score would have been if Denard and Gardner hadn't overthrown wide open touchdown passes and if we would have scored half the time we were in msu territory...until next year (sigh)
Hebner
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:39 p.m.
Good D no doubt, but they would get destroyed by Alabama's o line now as they did in Orlando... So, the number 1 ranking is really not valid nationally. MSU will also loose the line of scrimmage battle next week against Wisconsin.
uminks
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:03 p.m.
Michigan DLINE got pushed around but overall the defense played well enough to win. The offense was just horrible. Poor play calling and DROB was way off on his passes. MSU played so many in the box that DROB had to throw. Bringing Gardner in really threw off any rhythm in the game and made for long 2nd and 3rd downs. Overall MSU players are poor sports. There was no reason to play so dirty! I'll be rooting for the Badgers next week to thump MSU!
truebluefan
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:57 p.m.
Geez, stop with the "poor sports" stuff. MSU out-everythinged Michigan today and it wasn't close. They even tried to shoot themselves in the foot with the most ridiculous penalties for over 100 yards and they STILL ran away with it. The fault lies with how this staff chooses to run this offense.
Smart Logic
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:23 p.m.
What is the issue with just accepting a loss, pure and simple? We can always claim the other team was playing dirty, the refs were bad, blah blah. At the end of the day, we failed to deliver and can fault nobody but ourselves.
DonAZ
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:09 p.m.
Wisconsin will pulverize Michigan State. It's going to be a bloodbath.
zimmats
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 7:59 p.m.
really disappointing. msu played dirty, classless, undisciplined football and we couldn't make them pay. would love to have that 4th and 1 call back - just give it to touissant. defense played good enough to win but how did we not do more on offense? seemed like some screen passes were in order in the second half that weren't called. two wide open passes in the first half that we missed. sometimes it just doesn't go your way...hopefully we get sparty next year.
Mush Room
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 9:47 p.m.
The refs called it roughing. Michigan fans called it dirty, classless and undisciplined. Michigan State fans called it football.
Mick52
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:29 p.m.
That 4th and less than one play amazed me. To not take it forward and not prepare for that blitz makes me think we are not much better off in the coaching area. As to msu's dirty classless play, that is nothing new. I think that is an issue of intelligence. A smart player can control that kind of stuff. Since you can't fix stupid you get it over and over.
trigg7
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 7:57 p.m.
Overated as allways. How did that tast fat sister!
Goober
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 7:30 p.m.
To the ghost What do mean by moo, with many o's? Please explain.
genetracy
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 1:02 a.m.
So Edward, is that the best you can do? Criticize someone's typo becuase your team is overrated and got humiliated? Don't you have a 'Take back Wall Street" rally to attend? DonAZ, At least MSU scheduled Wisconsin. I noticed Blue scheduled the mighty Purdue instead. Typical. For all you whiners complaining of dirty football. Welcome to Division 1. If Michigan played Alabama today, would they have even scored?
Coozerino
Sun, Oct 16, 2011 : 12:05 a.m.
Smart Logic, I am making no excuses for my team...they blew big chunks. They did not play with the energy or intensity that they needed to and MSU did, so congrats to you and your team, they played better today. I am also not really insulting anyone, I am just having some fun on here, so if you don't want to see some fun back and forth jibber jabber then go somewhere else. By the way, did you see the comment that started these replies...yes, trigg definitely didn't throw out any insults, hmmmm....
Smart Logic
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 10:30 p.m.
It's always enjoyable seeing people making excuses for their team and throwing random insults around, even after a loss like that.
Coozerino
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:39 p.m.
Ah yes, the ol' fat sister remark. Well, even if we are your fat sister that still makes you our little brother so enjoy the win with those dirty thugs you call college football players and we will see you next year!
Mick52
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:26 p.m.
Um Don. I don't think anyone revels in being No 19 or anywhere in the bottom ten plus. Never heard the chant, "We're number 19, we're number 19, we're number 29...." So if Wi beats them its really no big deal.
Hebner
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:20 p.m.
We lost...nice game...no excuses. MSU won the line of scrimmage battle, therefore they won the game.
DonAZ
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:15 p.m.
Not good, that's for sure. I take it you're a Michigan State fan. You will get yours next week against Wisconsin. It's going to be ugly. Then we can talk about who's "overrated." Answer -- "both of us."
DonAZ
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 7:56 p.m.
I was *not* encouraged by what I saw. I hope Michigan learns whatever lessons are to be drawn from this and improves two weeks from today. Michigan was 3 for 15 on 3rd downs, 2 for 4 on 4th. Combine those and it's 5 for 19 (26%) on moving the chains. Michigan State was 7 for 14 (50%). So Michigan's defense was not horrible today ... not great, but not horrible. But Michigan's offense seemed to have no answer for Michigan State's defense. Michigan's offense is like last year's -- explosive against lesser defenses, but only average against good defenses.
Jaxon5
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 9:18 p.m.
Absolutely right! This was not an encouraging appearance by the Wolverines. The Spartans have demonstrated how Michigan and especially Robinson can be beaten. Expect at least 3 more losses this season.
Mick52
Sat, Oct 15, 2011 : 8:44 p.m.
I think your description of Michigan's offense is true, but I think its always been that way. Go back decades and Michigan's offense never did that well against good defenses but did great against poor defenses. I think Michigan's offense was much better last year. DRob is a spread QB. All we needed was a better defense, but the turnovers is still killing this team.