Top 5 things we learned about the Michigan football team's offense from Al Borges today
The last time Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson took snaps from under center before this spring was as a senior at Deerfield Beach (Fla.) High School. But that's not the biggest change the junior faces in offensive coordinator Al Borges' system.
Melanie Maxwell | AnnArbor.com
Nine practices into spring football, the Michigan football team’s offense has installed five of its six major segments, bestowed Denard Robinson with a new motto and found no shortage of running back candidates.
Offensive coordinator Al Borges sat down with reporters Tuesday afternoon to discuss the unit’s progress this spring. Here’s what we learned:
1. Ready to work
Considering Michigan finished the 2010 season ranked first in Big Ten total scoring offense, Borges wasn’t sure whether the Wolverines would be receptive to wide-scale changes.
They were ready.
“In the eight to nine times I’ve had to change jobs -- I’d give you my resume, but we don’t have enough time -- I think this group is as receptive to what we want to do as any, maybe more so,” Borges said.
“Everybody has bought in to what we presented them, and it makes it easy to coach them.”
(In case you wondered, his college coaching resume includes stops at Cal, Portland State, Boise State, Oregon, UCLA, Cal again, Indiana, Auburn and San Diego State).
2. Biggest changes for No. 16
It’s not the move from shotgun to under center that will be the biggest difference for Denard Robinson between last year’s spread offense and this year’s pro-style one.
“The drop mechanics are probably the biggest change for him,” Borges said. “How to time the throws, how to three-step drop, how to hang-throw a three-step drop, how to get it out quick. Just some of the things he hasn’t done a lot of.”
Robinson played out of the shotgun last season as a sophomore at Michigan en route to the Heisman conversation and played under center while playing for Art Taylor at Deerfield Beach High School.
3. For comparison's sake
One of the biggest challenges for Robinson in the new offense will be when to hang in the pocket and when to tuck and run.
“That was the struggle with Cade McNown,” said Borges, who coached the former UCLA Bruin from 1996 to 1998. “You run for yards, but you pass for miles.”
Difference between the two: McNown might run for 5 or 6 yards, but Borges said Robinson might run for 55. …
If Robinson’s athleticism reminds Borges of one quarterback he’s seen throughout his career, it’s former Virginia Tech QB and current Philadelphia Eagles standout Michael Vick. …
As for the running backs, Stephen Hopkins, the hybrid back who seems ideally suited for the new Michigan offense, Borges said his style reminds him of Atlanta Falcons running back Michael Turner.
4. ‘Something profound’
At each stop, Borges said he tries to come up with “something profound” to tell each of his quarterbacks. With Robinson, it’s a motto that helps emphasize the decision-making process in choosing when to tuck-and-run versus pass.
“The thing we’re talking about with Denard is let him make plays and let the good Lord make miracles,” Borges said.
It’s the same challenge Borges faced with previous quarterbacks like, say, McNown. This time around, his advice is different. Robinson is unlike anyone that Borges has coached before.
“As long as we’re using good judgment, we certainly don’t want to put that fire out,” he said about Robinson’s running ability. “You have to give him a chance to do what he does.”
5. Keep an eye on …
Tight end, linebacker, defensive end, defensive line. Steve Watson has been a vagabond throughout his Michigan career.
In need of tight ends for the pro-style offense, the 6-foot-4, 268-pound senior has switched back to his original position this spring. So far, coaches like what they see from the Colorado native.
“He’s still learning, but Steve Watson caught a touchdown pass the other day,” Borges said. “He’s bounced around a bit. But he’s fired up. He can help us too. We’ve got some good people there, and when it’s all said and done, we’ll be good there.”
Pete Bigelow covers Michigan football for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at (734) 623-2556, via email at petebigelow@annarbor.com and followed on Twitter @PeterCBigelow.
Comments
Blu n Tpa
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 2:12 p.m.
To the Staff: What happened to the two articles on the defense and the defensive line from 4/1 and 4/2? A poster questioned my accuracy concerning a quote and when I went back to see if I was wrong, the articles in questions were no longer there. Care to comment?
PortageLkBlu
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 10:38 p.m.
Tp, let it go, it's okay and Go Blue!
Blu n Tpa
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 4:22 p.m.
Tony, thanks. I checked on my posts in the record and it was 4/1 and 4/2. It may have been a late response to a related post. I try to accurate but I'm not perfect. Sorry for any error.
Tony Dearing
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 2:24 p.m.
We don't remove articles from the site. I talked with the sports staff, and we're not clear on what articles you are referring to. We did have a story on the defense that was published March 30 and you'll find that here: <a href="http://www.annarbor.com/sports/um-football/michigan-football-defensive-coordinator-greg-mattison-encouraged-by-wolverines-intensity/">http://www.annarbor.com/sports/um-football/michigan-football-defensive-coordinator-greg-mattison-encouraged-by-wolverines-intensity/</a>
cutty240
Wed, Apr 6, 2011 : 9:41 p.m.
I like the comment,Michigan Football Is back.Really now.They will be back when they win some games.I'm tired of all this Coach Speak BS.A Great Coach told me several times.It ain't the X's an O's its the JImmy's and the Joe's.I could care less about Ryan Lindley at SDSU.Now your comparing SDSU players to MIchigan players.REAL NICE.Fellows your not in San Diego anymore.
1bit
Wed, Apr 6, 2011 : 2:52 a.m.
Good coaches get the most out of the players they have. We will find out the caliber of our coaches in the fall.
Dusty
Wed, Apr 6, 2011 : 12:36 a.m.
It isn't in this article, but it was said in the presser Borges had: Denard might be more dangerous checking down to a run than to a running back in the flat, and if it he is, Borges will encourage him to do that. Which, do my delight, is basically an option play like we saw much of last season. Denard would drop back, check a receiver read, then go to his second read which was to run. Borges (please God, don't let me jinx this) is starting to win me over. I could do with less of the "we're a downhill running team, toughness, getting off the ball" benign coachspeak, but whatever. It is what it is.
PortageLkBlu
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 10:36 p.m.
Now, now Tp ya gotta treat peoples comments with respect if you want to be treated nice, after all we are all Mich. fans.
Blu n Tpa
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 3:57 p.m.
"Again, mind your on business and leave me alone." "Again, mind your own business, and leave me and my comments alone. Be a man." I thought this was a public domain, and I'm allowed to discuss anything you write as long as I follow the rules. I am and my comments are germane to your posts. I will respect your request though. I certainly don't want "this girl" hurting your feelings. I am a Michigan fan and there is NO doubt about that! TiM Go Blue!
Blu n Tpa
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 3:45 p.m.
Terry/Theo She/He, it doesn't change the facts. If your second read is running, there is no third read, and DC will put a spy on DRob and you'll have what Michigan had the last half of 2010. Lots of yards, almost no wins. Coach Borges has been clear, less DRob running means more success for the offense overall. TiM Go Blue!
Terry Star21
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 3:36 p.m.
DUSTY...don't even argue with Blu n Tpa. She is NOT a Michigan fan. She is just looking to irritate....she can't find the puzzles and games section.
Dusty
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 3:21 p.m.
Yes, it IS one of them. If your second read generally would be to a receiver in the flat, but you yourself are more dangerous as a runner in that situation and your coach agrees, your second read becomes a run. Again, mind your own business and leave me and my comments alone. Be a man.
Blu n Tpa
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 12:39 p.m.
Someone posted that "Denard might be more dangerous checking down to a run than to a running back IN THE FLAT, (capitals added), and if it he is (sic) Borges will encourage him to do that." In this context, which I answered, Coach Borges still wants DRob to follow his "reads" by looking for his primary receiver, then to the RB in the flat, second read, and then keeping it himself, as the third read. If DRob doesn't present the defense with two choices near the line of scrimmage, outlet to RB in the flats or him keeping it, the defensive coaches will simply do what they did after the midway point last year. Make Michigan a one trick pony offense, let DRob rack up the yards but Michigan loses the game. There are plays that have only one "read" but by stating DRob is "checking down" to two more options, this example isn't one of them. That was the basis of my statement about DRob getting past his second read. The idea here, which is well documented, is to get more players involved in the offense and save the heart of this team from excessive risk. It's a win-win for Michigan football. TiM Go Blue!
Dusty
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 4:09 a.m.
He's already a successful QB. And the "taking off", in the case I cited, IS the second read. And it's just one play. Some plays only have one read. Again, mind your own business and leave me alone.
Blu n Tpa
Wed, Apr 6, 2011 : 4:48 p.m.
"Jesus", "God"? Wow, maybe you should have put your "hands" on the WCIMFH and saved his job, St Dusty. If DRob doesn't get to at least his second read when passing before taking off, he will not be successful at QB. But you keep up your benign Dustyspeak, we all enjoy it.
Terry Star21
Wed, Apr 6, 2011 : 1:49 a.m.
Great Positive Attitude - keep it going !
Dusty
Wed, Apr 6, 2011 : 12:24 a.m.
"It's not the move from shotgun to under center that will be the biggest difference for Denard Robinson between last year's spread offense and this year's pro-style one. "The drop mechanics are probably the biggest change for him," Borges said. "How to time the throws, how to three-step drop, how to hang-throw a three-step drop, how to get it out quick. Just some of the things he hasn't done a lot of."" This is like saying "it's not the sunlight that burns you, it's the UV rays." One exists as a direct result of the other existing, so separating them verbally is just hot air.
Dusty
Wed, Apr 6, 2011 : 12:19 a.m.
"As long as we're using good judgment, we certainly don't want to put that fire out," he said about Robinson's running ability. "You have to give him a chance to do what he does." Thank you, Jesus.
Terry Star21
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 11:11 p.m.
Portage is right, sort of - it is too early. However, this is good stuff....athletes are only as good as there coaches and support team make them....what he is doing is inspiring them, making them feel good about themselves - which equals happiness, which in turn makes them their very best. A WIN WIN WIN for all !
Terry Star21
Wed, Apr 6, 2011 : 10:28 p.m.
Very good observation GoBlueinNE-PA...it only takes an athlete to realize the inspiration a coach can make and how it can change their performance. Without disgrading anyone, the player needs that support, needs to look to the sideline and see dedication, serious concentration and the look of success and everything will be alright. Look for a major positive change in every player on that team this season.
GoblueinNE_PA
Wed, Apr 6, 2011 : 7:53 p.m.
PLB, did you even read what TS21 wrote or did your BP go up and cloud your vision when you got to "this is all good stuff."? He talked about inspiring the players. Getting them to realize they could maximize their potential. What you wrote is something that would denigrate and deride the players. Look, I'm not surprised by that, considering your affections for the Hack. That was his standard MO. His method of motivation was public humilitation, so your attempt falls right in line. Only, it didn't work for him. Frankly, doesn't really work for any one. That's why he's gone and we have a true leader of men in his place. Can't wait for the season to start!
PortageLkBlu
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 11:22 p.m.
Well Terry, if that's all it takes to get wins I can do that for them, ya ready? Okay Wolverines, if you don't get off your losing butts and do something this year forget those million dollar contracts down the road, you bunch of bums are looking at the poor house not the big house.
chiro19
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 10:43 p.m.
Has anyone taken a look at scouts.com recruiting board and all of the 4-5 star recruits looking at michigan now! Especially compared to last year. Of course that does not make a player good at the next level but it typically doesnt mean they are not good! I think the biggest thing to watch for this season with Denard is two things; 1) Footwork which has been mentioned numerous times, 2) making passes through the D and O line with Denard being shorter in a Pro style offense. The thing that concerns me is hitting Oline in the head a lot or getting passes batted down by D lineman. I hope it turns out like Drew Brees (not comparing passing skills!!! but height) and there is no issue in the season.
1st Down
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 8:57 p.m.
This is Michigan. Hoke is it. Most importantly he gets it. Hoke is a great HC and not a system guy who only recruits a certain type of small player.
Blu n Tpa
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 12:50 p.m.
chiro19 Like the heads up about the recruiting board. This is what Michigan use to do in the recruiting wars that brought so many talented players to the Big House. Get some quality young men to buy into Michigan football, then they go and get more quality young men and soon you have a solid reputation as a recruiter/coach at Michigan. Excitement for Michigan football in the Spring. You got to love it. TiM Go Blue!
Dusty
Wed, Apr 6, 2011 : 12:27 a.m.
His height won't be any more or less of a factor in the passing game than it has in the past. Pass blocking schemes are the same regardless of what type of offense you're running.
Theo212
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 10:34 p.m.
There once was a coach named Hoke; Of toughness he always spoke. But since it's wins that we need, Then he must use our speed; Or the season goes up in smoke. His name is meangoblue; Takes shots at Theo, it's true. But a rookie is he, And soon we shall see His love for ohio state u.
Terry Star21
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 3:33 p.m.
Brilliant my man.............
sportyridr
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 10:12 p.m.
Best comment this year so far (Meangoblue) 5. Keep an eye on ….....Hoke.....on his words THEO will choke!! MEEEEEEEEEEEEEEANchigan football will rise out of murky muck!! If y'all don't believe this Good Night and Gooooood Luck! GO BLUE...hype or not...to me its all GOOD news...not to wish for fall too soon but bring on Sept & the Maize & Blue
John
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 10:10 p.m.
Remember the mantra of the Michigan Defense. Now this is the Law of the Jungle, as old and true as the sky, and the Wolf that shall keep it may prosper, but the Wolf that that shall it break it must Die. Like the Creature that girdles the tree trunk, the Law run'eth foward and back, for the strength of the Pack is the Wolf, but the strength of the Wolf is the Pack. -Rudyard Kipling
Tru2Blu76
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 9:41 p.m.
Speaking of mottos for the Wolverines, after the worst three-season results ever, I'd say this one might be good to adopt: That which does not kill us makes us stronger. –Friedrich Nietzsche
Dusty
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 4:04 a.m.
Get over it, Blu. I didn't quote anybody, I relayed information in my own words. It's not my job to tell you where I got the info, particularly when it was from popular source in the area.
Dusty
Wed, Apr 6, 2011 : 12:30 a.m.
Give the guy a break. He loves colorful (and impotent) rhetoric.
PortageLkBlu
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 9:54 p.m.
That is not always true. The real warriors are in VA hospitals and trust me I know, that which does not kill you does not always make you stronger.
DonAZ
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 9:37 p.m.
We can predict outcomes based on spring practice interviews. But ... I sense an important re-focus on structural fundamentals. My hope for the 2011 season is fairly simple, and it revolves around 3rd downs: Offense: I would like to see Michigan with a good 3rd and less than 5 yard conversion rate. That will tell me they're executing up front with coordination out of the backfield. Defense: I would like to see Michigan face more 3rd downs than last year and have a higher rate of rejection. More 3rd downs says they're not giving up the big plays; and a lower allow rate speaks to defensive fundamentals. I have more hope for 2011 than I did for 2010.
DonAZ
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 9:38 p.m.
Crud ... meant to type we CAN'T predict outcomes ...
Tru2Blu76
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 9:28 p.m.
As some say, it's too early (about 8 months too early) to call anything. But as to "bragging" - I don't confuse what's said early in the year with bragging: it's pointing out legitimate potentials, including that of our star quarterback. The adaptive approach of Hoke's Hoard of Coaches is very reassuring, quite intelligent compared to what we've seen the past three years. Comparing pre-season talk with post season results during those three years revealed the true meaning of "bragging." The only thing that may be lacking from Coach Borges statements is mention of what will be done to protect the QB. Anyone who watched the movie "The Blind Side" knows (if they didn't already) that the left tackle position is key. Who will be left tackle? Who will protect Denard's blind side? No one can say that the preseason talk of the past three years was verified by results. Few had confidence that it would be. This year, I think the greater confidence (not "assurance") is more likely to be vindicated come the end of November.
Dusty
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 4:03 a.m.
Why would I not assume the man can do something before he proves me wrong (or right)?
Blu n Tpa
Wed, Apr 6, 2011 : 4:13 p.m.
Are you telling us that the new coaches are going to do something the old staff couldn't do, even though they had all fall to work on it? And you made that judgement on 'faith' in the new position coach? Next PLB will stop pretending that he's not going to judge our new staff until fall while never missing a chance to disagree with any thing they say or do. OK, one miracle at a time. TiM Go Blue!
Dusty
Wed, Apr 6, 2011 : 12:32 a.m.
Taylor Lewan is going to start at left tackle. If he doesn't, it'll be because of injury. He's a beast. And I'm going to go ahead and assume Funk can get him to stop committing penalties.
PortageLkBlu
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 9:51 p.m.
I hope you don't have to eat those words since you are falling for the hype.
PortageLkBlu
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 8:56 p.m.
It's to darn early to call the race boys and girls. It's all grandstanding hype at this early stage. hell we know what Robinson can do we don't need Borges to hype him. We all knew what Denard could do long before Borges got here. All this other stuff we hear every year from every college coach and pro alike. Mike Hart's senior year we heard they had a good shot at the national title that year, Ka-boooom. I prefer no bragging, hard work and let em know if they don't work like dogs last year could be a repeat easily. These kids gotta earn respect on the field this year and not outta Borges mouth before a game has been played, at this point they don't deserve it.
missionbrazil
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 8:29 p.m.
"Considering Michigan finished the 2010 season ranked first in Big Ten total scoring offense" We were 3rd in scoring offense in the BT, not 1st. Wisconsin scored 41.5 ppg, then OSU 38.8 ppg, then UM 32.8, then Illinois 32.5 It will be interesting to see where we end up this season.
Pete Bigelow
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 8:28 p.m.
David, There was a quote that Borges had I was saving for a later story, but it speaks to exactly what you bring up - whether the new offense is going to hold Denard back. I don't have the exact words in front of me, but Borges essentially said that yes, other players will get more touches than last year, but that Robinson is still the focal point of the entire offense. Part of that was simply to diversify the offense. Part of that was that Borges seemed amazed that Robinson had to come out of 10 or so games last season because of injuries. He said at SDSU, last year's QB, Ryan Lindley, didn't come out once.
PortageLkBlu
Thu, Apr 7, 2011 : 10:59 p.m.
Did you ever get up a full head of steam and the other guy to and you collide? Can you imagine a collision with Robinson? There were times Robinson should have slid out but took the collisions.
Stephenb1707
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 7:52 p.m.
It seems so great to know Michigan football is on the way back. I cannot wait until the Spring game and then the season.
bigblue
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 7:46 p.m.
i like what im hearing from borges too. i also hope shoelace can open up the possibility of other dual threat QB's coming to Michigan while hoke and co. are the coaches here. at first i was worried that they would run denard off. but he seems like he's willing to give this new system a chance. a QB who can run will work wonders on the college level if used correctly.
David
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 7:28 p.m.
I really like what I'm hearing with Borges. The way he is handling Denard, for example. I thought the "new offense" was going to hold Denard back...doesn't sound that way. Go Blue...