Is Brandon Minor 2009 = to Chris Perry 2003?

I like to compare Michigan players at a similar time in their careers. Michigan's expected 2009 true freshman QB Tate Forcier was compared to true Freshman Chad Henne and redshirt Freshman Stephen Threet in a past post.

Today, we will take a look at what I consider similar players; Brandon Minor and Chris Perry. Both of these guys have a similar running style and had up and down Michigan careers.

As Freshmen: Chris rushed 77 times for 429 with 5 TD's, long run 42 yards. Brandon rushed 42 times for 238 yards and 2 TD's, long run 40 yards.

As Sophomores: Chris rushed 129 times for 517 yards with 2 touchdowns. Brandon rushed 90 times for 385 yards with 1 touchdown.

As Juniors: Chris rushed 267 times for 1154 yards with 14 touchdowns. Brandon rushed 103 times for 533 yards and 9 touchdowns.

As a Senior: Chris rushed 338 times for 1721 yards with 18 touchdowns. Brandon?

Both of these players struggled the first two years in the program to have a break out years as Juniors. Brandon's break out didn't happen until later in the year so his numbers aren't as impressive as Chris's. I also doubt that Brandon will carry the ball 338 times in 2009 with the depth at running back for the Wolverines in 2009. Carlos Brown, Michael Shaw, and host of others will be getting snaps at running back this year.

Chris had a fantastic senior year, which included a trip to the Rose Bowl, finishing 4th in the Heisman voting, wining the Doak Walker Award for best running back in the country and was the Big Ten MVP. We don't expect the young 2009 Wolverines to be Big Ten Champions but Brandon could have a very productive year and get drafted if he stays healthy.

How can this happen?

• Michigan's offensive line must approve in it's run blocking and there were strong signs that was happening late last year.
• Tate must hit open receivers to keep the opposing linebackers honest. Too many times last year they just sat on the run.
• Brandon has to stay healthy which is difficult with his upright, power running style.

So, no I don't expect Brandon 2009 to have a Chris Perry 2003 year but if Michigan is going to get to a Bowl game he needs to carry the load and have a fantastic year. I expect 200 carries and 1000+ yards in 2009. I also expect Brandon to be a First Team All Big Ten running back and be the teams offensive captain at years end.