Top 5 observations about Brady Hoke and the Michigan football team's recruiting class
After four weeks of working behind the scenes to assemble a coaching staff and recruiting class, a lot of Brady Hoke’s handiwork was on display during Wednesday’s press conference.
Here are five observations on the Michigan football program's new recruiting class, new offensive and defensive schemes and the new Wolverines head coach.
Michigan football coach Brady Hoke made the most of his small recruiting window.
Melanie Maxwell | AnnArbor.com
Rising from the tumult
One of the natural byproducts of a coaching change is the compressed recruiting period. Hoke, in particular, had a four-week window to compile his first recruiting class.
By various rankings, he seemed to make the most of it. Rivals.com ranked Michigan No. 21 overall and Scout.com pegged the Wolverines’ 2011 class at No. 24.
Here’s another way to measure Hoke’s success: the Wolverines recruiting class ranked second among the 21 schools that changed coaches this off-season.
At No. 14, Florida coach Will Muschamp was the top first-year coach, according to Rivals.com rankings, followed by Michigan at No. 21, Stanford at No. 22, Miami (Fl.) at No. 34, Maryland at No. 49 and Minnesota at No. 50.
Adding quarterback depth
As Rich Rodriguez’s first quarterback recruits, Tate Forcier and Denard Robinson received a ton of attention as the assumed leaders of the “news” spread offense.
By comparison, Hoke’s first quarterback recruit, Russell Bellomy, has flown under the radar.
In the mold of the other two, he’s a dual-threat QB, having passed for 1,564 yards and 15 TDs while rushing for 804 yards and nine touchdowns during his senior season at Martin High School in Arlington, Texas.
At 6-foot-3, 178 pounds, he’s “still filling out,” according to offensive coordinator Al Borges. But over the long term, the Wolverines feel they’ve added an accurate passer with a strong arm.
“He’s got a quick release and can get himself out of a lot of jams,” Borges said. “If there’s traffic in the pocket, he has some escape dimension to him.”
Borges said the Wolverines ideally want a quarterback in every class. He scrambled to find one this year, watching film of 15 candidates before whittling his list down to four potential targets.
“Of all the kids that were candidates for the scholarship, he checked out at every turn,” Borges said. “I talked to several coaches who were recruiting him, who maybe had already signed a quarterback but were really high on him.
“Even more so, the research I did on my own, I was sold on the kid.” Past and present
Nice touch from Brady Hoke acknowledging the work Rich Rodriguez and his staff had previously done on the ’11 class throughout his press conference.
On signing Brennan Beyer, a holdover commitment from the previous staff, Hoke said, “He’s a guy that had been here, and Coach Rodriguez and his staff had really cultivated that.”
On highly touted cornerback Blake Countess, Hoke said, “So he was one of those guys that coach Rodriguez and his staff did a tremendous job with.”
Hoke did this a few times, as well as during his CBS interview with Tom Lemming and Rodriguez, an awkward set-up that all involved handled as best as possible.
A first-time head coach might have been reluctant to say much about the previous regime. The comments from Hoke weren’t just the mark of a savvy coach, but a genuine and gracious way to continue this transition.
Line notes
From the first practice of spring football, the biggest adjustment along the Michigan offensive line might be a three-point stance and a quarterback under center.
“We’re going to have our hand on the ground, and be under center some, which they haven’t too much here,” Borges said. “So the kids are going to have to get used to that.”
Another potential change: Offensive line coach Darrell Funk says the Wolverines are about to get bigger. Coaches would like to see most of the linemen over the 300-pound mark.
“I hate to have the guys put on bad weight - there’s nothing worse than guys gaining weight too fast just to have Coach (Aaron) Wellman take it off - but that will take care of itself,” Funk said.
“Eventually we’ll want to see those guys over 300,” he said. “They’ll be able to handle it too.”
Two of Michigan's incoming linemen - Chris Bryant and Tony Posada - already check in at 330 pounds. Center Jack Miller, at 268 pounds, is the smallest of the bunch.
And finally ...
During signing day, I couldn’t help but think of Garrison Keillor’s fictional Lake Wobegon, where “all the women are strong, all the men are good looking and all the children are above average.”
Part of the ridiculousness of signing day - at Michigan, at Michigan State, at every school across the country - has always been the knee-jerk, glowing reaction that greets each class.
It’s all a little bit silly.
Brady Hoke seems to think so as well. On Wednesday, he chuckled at the both the possibility of some dopey questions and the prospect of a coach giving something other than the standard “great” designation to an incoming recruiting class.
“Believe me, one of the greatest questions I always got was, ‘Did you sign some good guys?’ And my response has been, ‘We tried to do it a little bit different and really sign bad football players.’”
Pete Bigelow covers the Michigan football team for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at (734) 623-2551, via e-mail at petebigelow@annarbor.com and followed on Twitter @PeterCBigelow.
Comments
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 9:33 p.m.
Lorraine wrote: "Brazil...Thanks for the stats. I guess if you like underachievement, then Carr is your guy." Yes, so much better to have : ?6-18 in the Big Ten 0-12 against Big Ten teams with winning records in the conference 1-13 against MSU/OSU/PSU/Iowa/Wisky 2-11 against teams that were in the Top 25 at the time the game was played Winless against teams that finished the season in the Top 25. From 24th in the nation in defense in 2007 (Carr's last year), to 67th in 2008, to 84th in 2009, to 110/120 teams in 2010 Worst bowl loss in Michigan history 1st NCAA probation in Michigan history If Carr's teams "underachieved" (Lorraine's judgment, not mine), what does the above represent? And why the fetish for blaming Carr for all of whatshisname's problems? Good Night and Good Luck
missionbrazil
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 8:50 p.m.
Lorain, my comments speak for themselves as being a POSITIVE and ENTHUSIASTIC supporter of UM and the program, and thus of BH and his staff... unlike a small number of others. I can certainly understand why you would attack a guy like LC, who represented UM in an honorable way, and who averaged 9.5 wins per year until 2000 and then averaged 9 wins in those "terrible" years you talked about... and why you blindly support a guy who averaged 5 wins and 8 losses (average of 2-6 , 9th place in the Big Ten) and who had our first ever NCAA violations ... makes perfect sense.
Lorain Steelmen
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 4:27 p.m.
Brazil...Thanks for the stats. I guess if you like underachievement, then Carr is your guy. You have shown an average of over 3 loses per year, going back to 2001. Frankly, it got real 'old'. The consistent culture of entitlement was obvious. Win just enough to keep the natives in check, but don't push the envelope. Coach, not to lose. Frankly, Jim Tressel has made a career off Micihigan, and yet you defend that?!? Sorry, but it was time for a change. Carr's recruiting had slipped and the lack of aggressiveness, by Carr's teams was appalling. Yet, I remainded a supporter, until AFTER he left, and I saw the blantant negative response to the guy, that was hired to fix the mess. All you have done, is make the problem worse, by putting pressure, on a bunch of freshmen and sophomore kids. At least we can agree on something...most of us want Hoke to succeed. (Not really sure about you, however.) Let's hope the anti-UM folks give him a chance, before they start to rip him.
umgoblue47
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 3:43 p.m.
ghost. . . this defense was horrible in 2010 we all know that, but there was a lot of freshman and soph playing (not to mention the injuries). these kids will be night and day better in 2011 who ever is coaching. . . so give whatshisname some credit for a better defense in 2011. plus the ten recruits that he helped bring in. (and i also give credit to coach hoke for helping to keep them) i also like going to the 4-3 defense which will make a big difference for the D. coach hoke is a better fit for michigan (i hope he keeps some sort of the spread) and better times are coming soon. . . GO BLUE. . .
missionbrazil
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 2:36 p.m.
Lorain "And it is also a fact, that the problems Hoke inherited, came from Carr, not RR, and have been here since 2001. It's been a long 10 or 11 years. And you can only blame RR for 3 of those." Let's see what the record ACTUALLY says about this "fact" from Lorain: 9-3 , 6-2 BT (2nd BT) # 20 nation - 2001 10-3, 6-2 BT (3rd BT) # 9 nation - 2002 10-3, 7-1 BT (1st BT) # 6 nation - 2003 9-3 , 7-1 BT (1st BT) # 14 nation - 2004 7-5 , 5-3 BT (3rd BT) - 2005 11-2, 7-1 BT (2nd BT) # 8 nation - 2006 9-4 , 6-2 BT (2nd BT) # 18 nation - 2007 3-9, 2-6 BT (9th BT) - 2008 5-7, 1-7 BT (10th BT) - 2009 NCAA violations announced - 2010 7-6, 3-5 BT (7th BT) - 2010 (worst bowl loss) That "fact" certainly is Crystal clear, right Lorain ? I can't believe most of us haven't been able to see it before today.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 9:26 p.m.
Don't you guys know--facts don't matter to the people who continue to pine for whatshisname. Good Night and Good Luck
missionbrazil
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 8:51 p.m.
Thanks Blu-dogg97.
Blu-dogg97
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 4 p.m.
Well put Mission !! Facts are facts..
D21
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 12:46 p.m.
In the year 2011... Michigan 27 OSU 24 Shades of 1969. Bank on it and mortgage your worthless homes on that prophecy! Go Blue!
Mick
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 8:44 a.m.
I like it 1st Down, I think you're on to something. I'm thinking a record of 10-2. I think with the toughness that the team will have instilled in them, that will keep them in every game, of course there will be the teams we rout. No one will be whippin' us this year, you'll have a couple of games that could be tough losses I'm afraid. However, with TSIO (that school in oHIO), Neb and ND at home and if lady luck is on our side, 12-0 might not be probable but is not impossible IMHO. Remember folks, we have a lot of experience coming back and a real motivational coach, who's players are going to love playing for because he's a stand up guy and genuine, that can be a very powerful factor. TiM, Go Blue!!!
1st Down
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 5:33 a.m.
Western Michigan - W Notre Dame - W @ home. ND cant stop Denard. Eastern Michigan - W San Diego State - Probably W, but SDS very explosive on offense Minnesota - W at Northwestern - W at Michigan State - W (Note: No 1st year Michigan coach since Fritz Crisler has won their first MSU game though) Purdue - W at Iowa - W at Illinois - W Nebraska - W (welcome to the Big Ten_ Ohio State - L Wow... I didnt see that coming! All of those games are winnable...if Pryor is back we lose to OSU, if not that one is winnable too...
DonAZ
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 5:12 a.m.
Michigan in 2011 -- my 2/3/2011 predictions: Western Michigan - W Notre Dame - L ... (? I predict ND to be much better, but it's at Michigan so who knows) Eastern Michigan - W San Diego State - W (Hoke's prior team ... isn't this ironic?) Minnesota - W at Northwestern - W (? Will Persa be back and healthy? NW plays tough at home.) at Michigan State - W (? Cousins in gone, right? Anyone in the wings? I think Hoke pulls this out) Purdue - W at Iowa - W (? Stanzi is gone, program in some turmoil ... toss up) at Illinois - W (Zook just can't catch traction) Nebraska - L -- gotta love the birth of this rivaly Ohio State - L (but closer) My *stretch* prediction: 9-3 Throw toss-up wins to opponent: 5 - 7 (I dont' see this ... really I don't) Split toss-up wins: 7-5 If I had lay money on it: 8-4, with losses to OSU, Nebraska, MSU and ND. But none blow-outs.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 4:45 a.m.
Lorraine Steelman wrote: "I agree with a couple of posters on here, that are disappointed, we did not find some intereior Dlinemen, DT's. I have serious doubts about Campbell's aggressiveness, and, his lack of agility. And I dont think Hoke can give this kid a 'heart'. That still leaves UM, with obvious depth problems, in the middle!! Not a pretty picture." And she wrote: "At the end of the recruiting exercise, Hoke still has his hands full next year, getting decent pressure, on opposing QB's, without sacrificing LB's. If, he can't do that, his DB's are still out there on and Island." And she wrote: "As for the negative anti-RR, anti-UM posters, the facts are, that RR built much of the foundation here on defense." So let me get this right. According to Lorraine, Hoke failed to fill the gaping holes he inherited on the defensive side of the ball, but whatshisname "built much of the foundation here on defense." Talk about turning some intellectual somersaults in order to come to a bizarre conclusion! Next thing we're going to hear is that Bo called Bill Martin to tell him that he ought to hire whatshisname. Wait!!! Lorraine's already told us that!! Good Night and Good Luck
Lorain Steelmen
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 4:32 a.m.
Pete. I am not nearly as impressed as you were, about Hoke adding depth at QB. Or, are you saying that Hoke is ignoring Devin Gardner? Maybe you are ignoring Gardner, and the addition at QB, is really not any big deal! Regarding big, slow, 300+ pounders along the O-line. I don't remember TCU being overly impressed with Wisconsin's size. I would prefer some 'tough, nasty' kids, in the 295 to 305 range, but no greater. When you get kids much bigger than that, you start to see a lot of 'dunlap's disease'. ie, 'puss bellies'. Tough, quick D-linemen can get around those bigger guys, way too easily. Long was unusual, because of his 'agility', and his 'attitude'. Unfortunately, we have seen way too many slugs out there, playing for UM. I agree with a couple of posters on here, that are disappointed, we did not find some intereior Dlinemen, DT's. I have serious doubts about Campbell's aggressiveness, and, his lack of agility. And I dont think Hoke can give this kid a 'heart'. That still leaves UM, with obvious depth problems, in the middle!! Not a pretty picture. At the end of the recruiting exercise, Hoke still has his hands full next year, getting decent pressure, on opposing QB's, without sacrificing LB's. If, he can't do that, his DB's are still out there on and Island. I remember osu's QB, Smith(?), making Carr's defensee look sick.(and slow)....please, we don't want a replay of that!!!!!!! As for the negative anti-RR, anti-UM posters, the facts are, that RR built much of the foundation here on defense. Hoke's guys will take credit for it, next season, but that's life. At least Hoke is trying to say that, between the lines. And it is also a fact, that the problems Hoke inherited, came from Carr, not RR, and have been here since 2001. It's been a long 10 or 11 years. And you can only blame RR for 3 of those. But unlike the anti-RR crowd, I hope 'the Bradster' makes it here....now it's time for the 'Brady Bunch', to take over from the 'Rod Squad'. Go Blue!
vi4mi4
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 3:29 a.m.
..Go Hoke.. Go Blue! v
Tru2Blu76
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 3:23 a.m.
For those who think "big and slow" is actually something real on any top level team: lets just remember Jake Long and many others on this and other teams who were HUGE but moved lightning fast off their set to demolish the opposing linemen. And keep in mind such "big slow" linemen such as those on the Buckeyes team: they were big and fast and shut down RichRod's "speedy little offense" decisively. Anyone who doesn't think a 6' 5" 320 pound man busting through a double-team match up to open a hole for the runner or run down a quarterback is exciting probably has some kind of perceptual deficiency. ;-) Coach Hoke's recruiting has been masterful: making the best of limited time and going for an obvious size rebalancing on this team. Yes, this is the "new old" Michigan team we see emerging, or rather re-emerging from the miserable fog of doubt, dissension and indecision we've suffered through the past three years. AnnArbor.com's observation and the same coming from others is correct: Hoke is gracious and also HONEST in acknowledging that RR left him with some good recruits to form the core of the recruiting class he had to finish building. That's class and honesty - the kind of character trait we already see as a steady flame burning in Brady Hoke. Hoke's Michigan Reformation is definitely underway. Go Blue!
debling
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 2:34 a.m.
What degree programs will these new students be pursuing? How are their grades and SAT scores?
DonAZ
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 2:25 a.m.
Theo is the *king* (or sparkling crystal) of the false choice fallacy. The false choice fallacy tries to establish two opposites as the only alternatives in a selection. For example, o Posit that Rodriguez was all about speed. o Posit (falsely) that Hoke must therefore be NOT about speed o Ergo, Hoke will be slow and plodding and ox-like in execution. This is a quite common tool employed by those on the Internet who are otherwise without valid argument. I could employ the same, if I so chose: o Posit that Rodriguez was an incompetent coach o Posit that Hoke must therefore be NOT incompetent o Ergo, Hoke will be stunningly competent and from that will come victory after victory Of course that logic doesn't work ... any more than Theo's. The difference is I admit I was employing the false choice fallacy. Theo, I'm waiting.
Theo212
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 8 p.m.
Don, I don't live a fallacy, but thanks for asking. No, I just simply believe that I'm right about everything. I was right about The King seeking Crystal. And, for once, I hope I'm wrong concerning my belief that Hoke cares more about the Conference than Crystal. If you're not shooting for Crystal every year, don't play.
Keith
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 2:07 a.m.
Great Job Hoke. Keep the momentum and beat the school in oHiO. Make little brother eat his wheaties. And Bring back the pride in Ann Arbor, MI. & GO BLUE!
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 1:06 a.m.
"Being completely embarrassed in those two Rose Bowls against Southern Cal are, plainly and simply, what we can NEVER have happen again." Indeed. Being embarrassed by the 5th place team in the SEC West in the worst bowl loss in program history was much more fun!! Good Night and Good Luck
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 1:04 a.m.
Final Grades: Brandon: A Hoke: A Whatshisname Kool Aid Drinkers: F Good Night and Good Luck
sportyridr
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 12:32 a.m.
It's going to be a great year no matter what...the stink of the last regime is now gone...fresh is awesome...if we could just get rid of the 212 & a few of his followers and their resentment, I for one would be happy...hopefully they will fade away sooner than later...go Blue!
fjord
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 12:19 a.m.
Looks like a decent class, but the lack of defensive linemen worries me. The Wolverines need to improve at all defensive positions, and they need to recruit some three- and four-star defensive line prospects.
Theo212
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 12:02 a.m.
Being completely embarrassed in those two Rose Bowls against Southern Cal are, plainly and simply, what we can NEVER have happen again. We were so completely overrun by their speed that it makes it imperative to have those type athletes throughout our roster. Our King had us headed toward the Promised Land, Hoke. Will you follow, or will you take us back out to the desert? Go Blue. CoB!
PortageLkBlu
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 9:31 p.m.
Hey Theo, the desert is cool place to hang out, I can shoot anytime I want, hunt in wide open places running into very few other hunters and USC is in the desert along with most of their recruits. Los Angeles is nothing but desert with buildings. Things move fast in the desert and I will bet you that that is not lost on Brady Hoke and his future recruiting both in the Calif. desert and the Texas desert.
azwolverine
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 1:22 a.m.
If the desert involves going to BCS bowl games and competing for conference titles, not to mention knocking off the occasional Gators, that's not a bad road to go down. As we've seen, it could certainly be far worse.
missionbrazil
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 11:40 p.m.
Final Grades: David Brandon: A Brady Hoke: A+ 2011 Class: B+ Projected: BH & staff coaching up: A+
james Kurtz
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 11:34 p.m.
Michigan should have another 7-5 season in 2011; 9-3 in 2012 and who knows in 2013?
azwolverine
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 1:21 a.m.
I actually think you're not too far off. UM has a tough schedule next year (and 2012), which may not translate to a ton of wins right off the bat. I think what we will see, though, is a team that is solid in the fundamentals and competing nose-to-nose with the best teams in the conference from the beginning of the season to the end.
1st Down
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 11:24 p.m.
Final Grades: Hoke = A Brandon = A (for hiring Hoke) New Dominos Pizza = B+
PortageLkBlu
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 9:25 p.m.
Exra thick please!
Gaboo
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 1:25 p.m.
I give you Hoke and Brandon, but I just had the new Dominos Pizza and have to give it a D. Too soggy.
tater
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 11:08 p.m.
Final grades: David Brandon: F Brady Hoke: A+ 2011 class: C Hopefully, Hoke can pull a top ten class out of next year's midwest-heavy class.
PortageLkBlu
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 10:49 p.m.
I like that Brady acknowledges RR in that way and I think when the truth be known the honest folks will admit that RR did some positive things for the Mich. program and I hope some of those things stuck like the value of a dual threat QB and team speed and at least some versions of the spread. Training facilities improved and a negative which was the poor win record could turn into a positive with the arrogance of EXPECTING to win the big ten gone. Now under our new coach it's going to be work and more work and I think the fans will appreciate the work it takes and effort put in just to win in the big 10. I remember going to games and you could here a pin drop as fans acted almost bored like the were thinking, ho hum another easy win for Mich, what's for dinner honey? I'm glad to read that Brady has a sense of humor and I hope we all keep our sense of humor we will need it for awhile at least until this thing turns around as in wins not just anticipation. Anticipation fades if the wins don't come in bunches. I think Mich. fans for the most part understand the need to give this man support and patience regardless what happens the first 2-3 years. Hey, if we can win the big 10 this season I'm all for it.
DonAZ
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 5 a.m.
Yeah, you're right ... to the extent Hoke has any success at all it's all due to Rodriguez. He was the one who broke the mold of the staid Michigan model. Had Hoke come in behind Carr it would have been the exactly the same ... no differences, just same-old/same-old. Right? Nonsense. Rodriguez had the opportunity to make a significant mark on the history of Michigan football. But he chose to change too much too quickly. What we're seeing is the difference between a man of apparent grace (Hoke) compared to a narcissist (Rodriguez). In reality you should be grateful that Rodriguez was afforded this opportunity for true self-assessment. He can either make something of it -- that is, gain some measure of humility about his beloved "spread," or double down and go the dustbin of history. It's very unlikely that Hoke with win "crystal" for Michigan in the near term or long term. The odds are against northern-tier schools. The football factories are down south. But Hoke can do something far more meaningful -- generate men of character and standing. I doubt many Michigan players entirely under Rodriguez will speak much of his era when they are older.
tulsatom
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 10:33 p.m.
Thanks for the observations, Pete. If I could add a 6th one it would be the absence of defensive tackles in this class, although they did add four defensive ends. In his press conference, Coach Hoke mentioned that a couple of the defensive ends had the potential of beefing up into defensive tackles with more extensive weight training but that won't happen overnight. It will be interesting to see who the fourth defensive lineman will be next to Martin, Roh, and Van Bergen in the 4-3. My guess it will be Will Campbell switching back to defense. Also, who will supply depth at that position? In looking at the roster on MGOBLUE.COM, there are some guys who redshirted last year but I'm not sure how good they are. I hope U-M is able to keep from getting pushed around on defense like they did last year, that's for sure.
tulsatom
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 1:08 p.m.
By the way, I'm not blaming Brady Hoke for this. I think he did the best he could in the short time he had. He had two or three highly touted defensive tackles who seriously considered U-M and almost chose the Maize and Blue.
1st Down
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 10:30 p.m.
As Pete points out: Hokemania is very gracious towards TWCIMFH (Rich Rod) ..... however in retrospect, anyone remember Rich Rod ever being gracious towards Lloyd Carr and the foundation that he left RR when he came in? Nope...didnt happen...RR was all about 'cupboard bare' crying....and he still does it to this very day. That difference alone, is enough for many of us to be excited about the NEW (old) direction of the Michigan Program... where Accountability is In and Excuses and Crying/Blaming are Out. TiM. Go Blue! I like the class...it is an underrated class that is filled with tough players that fill needs. In particular, I like the athleticism at LB, the TE from Texas, the mobile QB with the arm and some of the DBs....this class will end up looking very good in a couple of years as Hokemania laid the foundation towards success.
1st Down
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 1:24 a.m.
Dwayne...quoting 3G who cant even hold a job in the weak Detroit Radio market due to his complete and utter lack of common sense....doesnt make your conspiracy theory hold much more water than the internet paper that it was written on.
1st Down
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 1:22 a.m.
Hey...all Im sayin is that Mike B said "Lloyd never showed up at one and never said anything...." Well Dang if I didnt post photo evidence that he (Lloyd Carr) did. Put away your Tin Foil Hats Ladies and Gentlemen. Next Question.
azwolverine
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 1:18 a.m.
Bottom line...the previous coach at UM has the worst record in UM coaching history and BH is still giving him props. Hoke is a classy guy...and the other guy just sucked.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 1:02 a.m.
The last line from article to which Dwayne's link leads: "This information comes from two separate sources with no knowledge of the other, I found that stunning and hard to believe until I quizzed them individually without the others [sic] knowledge." Wow. Two whole sources?? Really?? And, based on these two sources, out of the thousands who played football at the U between 1969 and 2008, you are certain that this is an accurate portrayal? Two unnamed sources, nonetheless??? Sounds like fiction to me. And what is most amazing about the "story" is its complete lack of any verifiable facts. For example: "The disaster that has going on at Michigan over the last 3 years has largly been orchestrated by former Head Coach Lloyd Carr and his minions." "My sources also claim that Lloyd has sabotaged Rich Rod at every turn during his tenure at Michigan,." "It is interesting to note that the 'Lloyds' were the ones who sabotaged Les Miles's chance to get the Michigan job when they hired Rodriguez three years ago. " "Michigan President Mary Sue Coleman loves Lloyd Carr, because of his fund-raising at Mott's Children's Hospital; he can do no wrong in her eyes. She wants nothing to do with Miles or Harbaugh because Lloyd has poisoned the well for former Bo players." "Lloyd knows Harbaugh will overwhelm the program and he will be an afterthought in Ann Arbor." "Lloyd Carr believes that he should be on the Mount Rushmore of Michigan Football alongside Fielding H. Yost, Fritz Crisler and Bo Schembechler" This is really quite amazing, hate-filled, slanderous stuff--and the article offers not a single piece of evidence--not ONE--to back any of it up. But there are people who believe in fairy tales, the lovers of whatshisname and the Carr bashers are free to believe this. Good Night and Good Luck
missionbrazil
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 12:57 a.m.
Dwayne, let me guess ... the 2 sources that were sited on your "credible" link were tater and Theo, right ? You can't even call that an "article" ... it is a blog opinion post citing 2 "sources" giving their opinions.
Dwayne
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 12:02 a.m.
Mike B, I'm with you. I'm sure formerly known as 3andout would love all of us to believe that Carr and RR sat around the camp fire and had s'mores together, but it sure didn't seem that way to me. Here's an article that seems to shed a little insight: <a href="http://gregghenson.typepad.com/gregg_hensoncom/2011/01/nobody-knows-anything-about-harbaugh-and-his-next-move.html" rel='nofollow'>http://gregghenson.typepad.com/gregg_hensoncom/2011/01/nobody-knows-anything-about-harbaugh-and-his-next-move.html</a>
1st Down
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 11:09 p.m.
Hey Mike B: Read this and weep: <a href="http://blog.mlive.com/wolverines/2007/12/crowd_gathering_at_press_confe.html" rel='nofollow'>http://blog.mlive.com/wolverines/2007/12/crowd_gathering_at_press_confe.html</a> Lloyd totally was gracious and welcoming to Rod. Next Question!!! This is Michigan!
1st Down
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 11:07 p.m.
uh...wrong MikeB... I can show you photos of Lloyd Carr Greeting Rich Rod as he arrived at UM to accept the Michigan job...all smiles and welcoming.... do you really want me to go get those? uh no because that would prove you wrong wouldnt it! lol whatever
MikeB
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 10:59 p.m.
Yeah, he had a lot of chances when Lloyd showed up at all those early introductory meetings to graciously welcome him to Michigan. Wait, sorry, Lloyd never showed up at one and never said anything......
maizenbluedoc
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 10:14 p.m.
cutty240 I certainly hope you are incorrect about the big and slow lineman. Other schools have large and fast OL. No reason BH can't recruit those types also. I do not want to see the "three yards and a cloud of dust" type football. I also do not want to see Michigan players get pushed all over the playing field either. I also prefer the 4-3 defense. Hope he has someone who can put pressure on the opposing QB. I think the team will be improved. I'm not willing to make predictions, but I expect to see obvious improvements. Go Blue.
NoBowl4Blue
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 10:13 p.m.
Smart move getting guys who play "D" and one out of Cleveland Glenville. May not be any 5 starts or so called super studs as the pundits would call them but a class that meets needs. Maybe now Michigan will learn how to play special teams, kick field goals and stop the other teams offense.
DocJ
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 9:34 p.m.
"From the first practice of spring football, the biggest adjustment along the Michigan offensive line might be a three-point stance and a quarterback under center. 'We're going to have our hand on the ground, and be under center some, which they haven't too much here,' Borges said. 'So the kids are going to have to get used to that.'" Huh?? I've never seen any college o-linemen, certainly not Michigan's, assuming anything other than a three-point stance prior to the snap. The only other options are a four-point, for straight running plays (which nobody I know uses as it just tips your hand completely) and an upright stance for sure passing plays - again, I've never seen any team in the NCAA use that because you're just giving your play completely away. This must be a misquote or taken out of context somehow.
1st Down
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 10:34 p.m.
Actually Doc...spread OL are often not in a 3 point stance...they start in a 2 point. This is a big issue as it affects their first steps and leverage.... not to mention tipping plays as you mentioned. NFL scouts are very wary of drafting spread OL in part due to this reason, and having to re-teach them fundamentals to play in the NFL. Here is an interesting quote on this: College spread offenses are killing line play Former Jacksonville Jaguars tackle Tony Boselli is the best offensive lineman I've seen with my own two eyes. So I sought out his opinion as to why line play isn't as good this season as it was maybe five or 10 years ago. "It's the spread they use in college," Boselli said. "It doesn't allow them to be taught the techniques you need to have in the pro game. I talk to linemen now who didn't know how to get in a three-point stance when they came out of college. They never had to do it. In the old days, when college teams ran the triple-option, the linemen had a hard time adjusting to the pro game. That's what we're seeing now with the spread." Colleges that use the spread, an offense that is being seen more and more on that level, don't ask offensive linemen to get in that three-point stance, which means the run-blocking is much different than on the pro level and it's tough to learn how to pass block out of a two-point stance. "It's even that way in high school now," Boselli said. "So where are they learning the pro techniques?" When they get to the league, and that takes time. That's why you see some young linemen struggling when they get to the NFL. Source: Spread the blame when examining bad O-line play - CBS sports 10/14/2010
cutty240
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 9:28 p.m.
Looks like they are going back to BIg An Slow Guys.I know the people of Michigan like this move.Thats one Big Reason the Big Ten got their Clocks cleaned in the Bowl Games.Speed,Speed,Speed,Not Slow,Slow,Slow.But i do like the 4-3 Defense.
johnnya2
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 1:33 p.m.
Luckily the Michigan team was so fast the last three years. Otherwise they would have lost to OSU by 100. Oh wait, you mean the OSU team that is actually big and strong and in case you missed it, WON their bowl game. What a horrible fate it is to win all but one of your games like the Buckeyes. By the way, the NC and Heisman winner is clocked at 4.7 in the 40 versus Denard's 4.3. Which team and player had a better season? . Tim Tebow seemed to do ok with less speed. Ben Rothliesberger will be playing in his third Super Bowl and does anybody really care about his 40 time? Football is a game of strength and power.
DonAZ
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 2:29 a.m.
See my post below about Theo's use of the false choice fallacy. So speed is the key, huh. Then why did Mississippi clean Michigan's clock in the bowl this past Jan 1? MSU was *not* known for any particular blazing speed. Frankly, MSU was not really known for *anything* within the SEC. Good, but not great ... a snake in the grass that can bite an Alabama or Auburn, but otherwise middle-of-the-pack team. And yet ... they ... DESTROYED ... Michigan. They ... EMBARRASSED ... Michigan. Why? Blazing speed? No. Superior strength? Partially, yes. Superior tackling and defensive play? Absolutely. Superior coaching? Without question.
AMaize'n
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 2:07 a.m.
At 1st I thought you were Theo, then I read down farther and saw he commented later... What are you talking about when you say slow, slow, slow? Linemen? We aren't saying the DBs are going to run 5.3 40s and be 300 plus pounds. We are talking offensive linemen here. Countess, Carter, Hollowell all run sub 4.5s. Same can be said for our TE and DE recruits. Speed and a commitment to fundamentals combined will be a much better combination than our previous regime could have ever imagined. We had speed, but noone in position, or fundamental tackling skills. Poor coaching accounts for the last 2. Anyone can recruit speed, its what you do with it once it's on campus.
1st Down
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 10:36 p.m.
Where did Hoke say this? He didnt. Only uneducated fans make this assumption. In fact, Hoke mentioned the need for speed quite a few times in his presser yesterday, particularly in respect to DBs and LBs.... you may want to go listen to it.... it may shed some light on your perspective. Go Blue.
tulsatom
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 10:11 p.m.
Cutty, I agree that speed is important but so is muscle. Clocks also get cleaned because they get knocked off the ball like what happened to the U-M defense versus teams like Wisconsin, Iowa, and OSU. The U-M offensive line and runners need to be stronger, too, so they can dare run the ball on 3rd and 2 and 4th and 1 and expect to get a first down instead of throwing it sideways 15 yards to a receiver and expecting him to juke his way to a first down with a defender in his hip pocket.
missionbrazil
Thu, Feb 3, 2011 : 9:16 p.m.
Pete, not trying to be picky here, but in this article and in another one you wrote earlier, you mentioned BH being the HC for 4 weeks ... it's only been 3 weeks.