Michigan Monday: Santa to the South Pole?

Michigan President Santa Ono after a short 3 years stint in Ann Arbor has decided to take his talents to the University of Florida.  For Michigan Football and Basketball fans, Santa was a guy we had all hoped would change Michigan's NIL policy and admissions restrictions.   He did make some progress even though the Harbaugh negotiations seemed strange and disjointed at times.  I'm not close to the situation to understand what happened, but John U. Bacon is and he said this on Twitter:

This is a surprise - but maybe it shouldn't be. I can't recall any UM president starting higher, nor falling faster. I'm not hearing from anyone who regrets his leaving - and his resignation letter seems rather insincere, given his abrupt departure. He leaves as a footnote.

Ono seemed like a genuinely nice guy, and his public enthusiasm for UM/Ann Arbor was received as a breath of fresh air after Schlissel. But Ono quickly seemed overwhelmed by the scale of the job, the conflicts that come with it, and an unusually tumultuous era.

I've since heard from insiders that now-former Michigan President Ono had pursued Oxford and Harvard -and didn't get close on either - but was pursued by U-Florida in October. Offer was too low, but when they upped in January, he interviewed. A surprise to Regents.

There you have it.  

So I finally watched the Spring Game.  Nothing like giving insights into a game that was played two weeks ago, I know.  

• I liked the active role Biff was playing.  He was on the field with Sherrone.  He is going to be a great help to the program and Sherrone. 

• Michigan will have the best RB room in the country. 
• I like the different formations that Chip was running on offense.  
• Bryce is very talented and raw, needs more time and live game situations.  Still very good for a true freshman. 
• Davis windup is really bad.  He does well on short timing throws but him dropping the ball down at his waist is really bad. 
• I think the defense is going to be really good next year.  I might have been wrong about Wink. 
• #13 the IU transfer is going to be a star in Ann Arbor, best WR by far. 
• TE room might be sneaky good.  Hoffman had a really good game.  I hope he sees some time. 

------

• Former Wolverines: Vlad, Wolfe and maybe a future Wolverine Yaxel invited to the NBA Combine. 
• Michigan Baseball beat Ohio State 23-1 on Saturday 
• Giles Jackson signed with the Eagles 
• Devin Bush was arrested on Sunday on assault charges. 

Michigan Tuesday: Brakes on the Axle?

Seems the Axle might be strongly leaning towards the NBA.  Even though he is a late first rounder or second, he told a Birmingham newspaper that he is 80-20 going to the league and Ann Arbor is a safety net.   We will see how his draft stock plays out, I remember a young Hunter Dickinson going through the draft process only to come back and play 14 more years of college basketball.  

• Congrats to Florida on the NCAA Championship last night.   Kelvin Sampson again misses out on the winning that National Championship.  I'm sure Jim Nance will be sad at Augusta this weekend.   Dusty's former recruit and player at FAU Alijah Martin is now a National Champion.

• Augusta?  Welcome to Masters Week!

• I hear OSU presumed QB starter is struggling in Spring Practice.  Which we hear every year.  I one time watched the Ohio State Spring Game and Justin Fields looked awful.  I think they leak that information on purpose. 

• Amorion Walker is listed on the Spring Roster without a number.  Coach Bellamy says, he is working through something.   Usually when a player doesn't have a number, he has work to do in the classroom. 

• One name I thought we would hear more from last season was MSU transfer Safety Jaden Mangham who played 2 years in East Lansing.  Sounds like Jaden got hurt in Fall camp and the learning curve between the two schools was larger than expected.   After red shirting last year, I expect a big year from Jaden.

Michigan Tuesday: Wants a $13M Contract

Here is a tip for highly rated players and NCAA Football Coaches.  This is not real money.  Do not be fooled.  If a coach or program is willing to pay a high school kid $13M to play football at their school for maybe 3-4 years, it's a scam.  There are a million things that could go wrong where that player never sees the field.  What do you think the boosters are going to do, if the kid pulls a hamstring or looks bad in the Spring Game?  That check will not show up.  

Jaden Rashada a former top ranked QB is suing the University of Florida and coach Billy Napier claiming he was defrauded of millions of dollars in NIL.   Jaden had a $9.5M deal with Miami in June 2022 and decided to flip to Florida for a 4 year $13.85M deal with $1M due at signing.  When no payment came, Rashada asked for his release and signed with Arizona State.  He is at Georgia now. 

Let me be very clear:

$9,5M from Miami - Fake 

$1M at signing - Fake 

$13.85M for 4 years - Fake 

Paying high school kids before they preform at a collegiate level is a really bad transactions for both sides.   Best bet is to ball out at wherever program you prefer and the money will come from legit sources.   Anything else is fools gold. 

• In news that is hard to believe, Graceland is up for auction on Thursday. 

• Ryan Day made this recent quote, (the bold changes are mine) "I have a vision in my head of us holding up the national championship or celebrating against the team up north and everyone in buckeye nation, $12 Million (in the transfer portal) strong, singing the fight song".  I don't have to vision it, my team just did it! 😉 BTW- More fools gold but at least they saw these players preform at a colligate level before they broke the bank. 

Wolverine Wednesday: Off The Board

We are 10 days away from Michigan Football, the Harbaugh suspension is now in place, and the submarine continues to remain air tight as the Wolverines prepare for the season. 

So, we need to go a bit off the board for topics today.

• The much-awaited Florida Gators under Urban Meyer Netflix "Untold" Documentary was released on Tuesday and it's terrible.  It's basically the Urban Meyer and Tim Tebow story. the producers completely missed the story and barley touched on arrests, lightly touch on a fight Aaron Hernadez had while having dinner with Tebow.   I've never seen a documentary completely miss the story line.  Don't waste your time. 

• Pelton is now making a Michigan Bike 

• Reggie Bush is filing a defamation lawsuit against the NCAA for saying he was a pay-for-play athlete. 

• Do we realize the Bowling Green game is a night game? 7:30 kick on BTN

• Kobe Bryant would be 45 today.  Kentucky Basketball will be the first "Kobe" school.

• Oregon is really pushing Bo Nix for the Heisman.  I think Michigan has 3 better candidates on its roster. 

Wolverine Wednesday: Thomas to Announce on Saturday

Don Brown didn't like big defensive tackles which some folks call run stoppers.   Big 300+ pound guys that clog up the middle of the offensive line of an opponent.    In my mind, I imagine a RB having to stop in the backfield due to a couple of these big run stoppers clogging up the lane he wanted to run through.  The RB then has to pivot right or left and runs into a Michigan LB for a TFL.  

Michigan has started to recruit these "Big Fella's" again and 2022 DT Tawfiq Thomas is one of them.  He is from Tampa and comes in at 6'3 and 360 pounds.  That's right folks a high school senior is already 360 pounds.  

He is a big man but the services are a bit unsure of his projected success.  He is rated as a 3 star and the 1032th player in the country by 24/7 composite, 137th defensive lineman, and 140th player in Florida.   His offer list also has a ton of Arkansas, Kansas, MAC Schools, Syracuse, Maryland, and so on.   I know what your first thought might be, "how in the hell are we going to beat OSU with recruiting players ranked in the 1000's?".

Its a fair statement, but you have to start somewhere.   Also kids are grossly under rated in this cycle due to the lack of football being played, camps, etc.   Thomas is a current high school teammate of current Michigan DE commit Mario Eugenio who is a 4 star prospect.  Always good to have teammates on a roster as they can feel much more at home then not knowing anyone in Ann Arbor.  

Is this a home run recruit?  Probably not, but it could also be the first step in fixing the Michigan defense and getting back to stopping the run.   I love a good run stopper! 

Michigan Monday: NFL Draft In Review

Michigan had 10 players taken in the NFL draft (which was #2 only behind LSU)  and there was a couple of surprises on guys getting drafted and others that didn't.  Let's take a look:

Pick #24:  Ruiz - Congratulations to the top rated Center in the draft.   A great fit for New Orleans.
Pick #60:  Uche - Is going to New England and will be able to rush the QB with Chase.
Pick #143: Bredeson - Will go from Harbaugh to Harbaugh, I'm glad the NFL saw the value in this talented offensive lineman.

Pick #162:  Hudson to Washington, many insiders had Kheleke as a free agent, I'm glad the Redskins saw how this talent LB can play in the NFL .

Pick# 177: Dana to KC, talk about a great fit.  Mike is going to work hard and make the Super Bowl champs.  I think he will be a really solid NFL player in a year or two.

Pick#182: Onwenu to KC, the NFL Champs going Wolverines back to back.   Love Big Mike and hope he powers his way to a roster spot.

Pick #187: DPJ to Cleveland,  I actually don't love this selection and don't believe DPJ will be successful with he Diva WR's in Cleveland.   Should have stayed another year.

Pick #192: Runyan to Green Bay, If John can stay healthy I think he could have a 10 year NFL career ahead of him.

Pick#205: Metellus to Minnesota, I'm also concerned here about Josh making this roster.  The Vikings have a solid defense and Metellus will need to find a spot on special teams.

Pick#213: Glasgow to Indy, what a great story of 3 brothers all walking on at Michigan and then getting drafted.  

Free Agents:

Shea Patterson - this was not a surprise as his Combine and Senior Bowl didn't impress.   Probably should consider CFL or another line of work.

Sean McKeon - Is a talented and tall TE and signed with the Cowboys as a FA,  but you also have to wonder why he left with another year of college available.  (Sean played in 4 games as a Freshman and was considered a Senior but could have applied for another year due to the redshirt rule changing).  

Levert Hill - This one is shocking to me, I thought he was one of the better corners last year in the Big Ten.  I was concerned about Michigan CB's NFL Draft status after guarding OSU and Alabama's WR's back to back .   I think Hill's Junior year was better then his Senior year but I still think he should have been drafted.  Levert has signed with the Chiefs as a FA.

• Colin Castleton is transferring to University of Florida.  Good for him, close to home and a good basketball program. 

Michigan Friday: March Madness Matthews

Detroit News - Robin Buckson

In the NBA there are two different type of Rajon Rondo's.  There is regular season Rondo and playoff Rondo.   For Michigan there is regular season Charles Mathews and then there is March Madness Matthews.  The guy loves the NCAA Tournament West Region and went for a double/double last night with 22 points and 11 rebounds.  He had a very strong game and it was great to see that type of production from him again.

With that said, let's not confuse good with bad.  I thought Michigan played Ok, but Montana was awful.    Montana would of had trouble throwing the ball in the ocean from the beach last night.  The Grizzles were 6-24 from 3 and didn't do much better from 2.   They were under-sized and under maned and Michigan knew it.   I actually started to feel bad for Montana's Bobby Moorehead and his strange headband.  He reminded me of that guy at the local gym playing pick-up well past his prime with the 18 year-olds.  Yes, the Michigan defense had something to do with that but the Grizzles missed a ton of open shots.

The Wolverines had 12 turnovers for the game and Simpson who protects the ball like no other, had 4 of those 12.   Michigan knew they were the better team and played pretty sloppy.   From my eyes the Wolverines will need to clean up plenty of things before they tip off on 5:15 on Saturday against the Gators.  More ball movement on offense please!  The road continues for the Wolverines and they just need to survive and advance!

• Spring # Changes!  Christian Turner is now #3, Gill is now #8.   The early enrollee's:

CB Perry #3

QB McNamara #12

WR Sainristil #19

RB Charbonnet #24

DT Smith #58

DE Ojabo #71

TE All #83

DE Newburg #99

(HT to Mgoblog)

Peach Bowl Preview

Time: 12:00
Location: Mercedes Dealership, Atlanta
Weather: Indoors
TV: ESPN
Stream: ESPN APP
Line: Michigan -6.0

Vegas is the best in the business at predicting games and spreads.  I have no idea how they pick spreads for these bowl games?   Players are sitting out and some teams (like Miami) rather be at home then playing in a football game.  Or you just put bad teams up against each other like TCU and CAL that end up with a 10-7 OT game with 9 picks.   This system is working perfectly!

The Florida Gators were a bit streaky this year under new head coach Dan Mullen.  They lost their second game of the year to UK, won 5 in a row, lost 2 in a row, and finished off the year by winning their last 3 games against the murders row of South Carolina, Idaho, and Florida State.

We know how Michigan's season ended and there is no reason to relive that sh*t.

Tale of the Tape
Shea vs. UF's Pass D = Push
Michigan OT's vs. UF's DE's = Florida
Michigan Running D vs. UF's Running O = Michigan
Michigan's Pass D vs. UF's Passing O = Michigan
Intangibles: Florida
Coaching: Michigan

A good friend of mine Augusta J wanted me to go to the game.  He said the Stadium was worth the trip alone.  But alas, I have also decided to skip this years bowl game and head to the Chick-fil-A for lunch instead.

If this game was in Week 3 or 4 of the season, I think Michigan wins by 14 points.  It isn't and this team that Michigan will put on the field will be missing its best player on defense Bush and it's most talented one in Gary.  The offense is missing its 1000 yard runner and its Right Tackle.    Somehow all those changes only moved the line about a half a point.

Michigan is also coming off a train wreck in CBus that will either motivate them or do just the opposite.   Its hard to know.   The videos of practice looks like a team that is focused and is ready to play, but we won't know anything until about 12:15 on Saturday afternoon.

The Michigan coaches also have something to prove.   Pep and Jimmy need to open up the offense and let Shea throw without Higdon in the lineup.  Florida's pass defense is for real and it will be time to see Black, DPJ, and Nico can get separation and win some 50/50 balls downfield.

Don Brown the king of defense, got sent to the Bud Light wine cellar after the disaster in Ohio.  OSU was very clear on how to beat his defense and it will be interesting to see if his unit can respond positively without two very good players and just two weeks to prepare.

Yell, See you next year if...…………..

• Michigan's passing offense opens up the running game 
• Michigan's defense isn't shell shocked
• Getting 11 wins is really important
• Chase has a big day and goes out a winner like he deserves
• Michigan can handle UF's athletes

Shake your head and wonder why you attend these games if....

• This Michigan team looks like the one that played in the Outback
• Jimmy and Pep are running Evans straight in UF's D line 
• Michigan's D is lost without Bush 
• The UF offense is scoring points 

Here is my concern, Michigan is known to struggle with very athletic teams or players.   Even in wins this year, they gave up big plays to elite athletes.   Florida is full of those and if Franks can throw and run for some first downs, the Wolverines will have some issues.  

Florida likes to run the ball, which should be a positive for the Wolverines.  Florida also has tape from the Ohio State game.  Franks isn't Haskins and Mullen isn't Meyer but I'm sure we will see some concepts that beat the Wolverines in Ohio.  

I think the bottom line is Florida's program is on the rise with Mullen and Michigan just took a TKO in their last fight.   The Florida Gators are excited about playing another game, the Wolverines interest is questionable.  Michigan is going to struggle with Florida's DE's and Shea will have little to no time to get the ball down field.    Will Michigan be able to run the ball with Evans, Wilson, and Turner?

Harbaugh needs this win and Florida wants it so they can continue the progress.  

Florida 21 Michigan 17

Michigan Thursday: Down Another Starter For The Peach

As reported yesterday, JBB Michigan's senior starting RT did not make the trip to Atlanta for the Peach Bowl. Now your first reaction might be, "Is he really considered an NFL Draft prospect?" He could get drafted but if he did, he would be a Day 3 draft prospect. So why is he sitting?

Michigan's release said that JBB elected not to play but insiders are saying that he is still injured with a Turf Toe and wasn't ready to play in this game.   Jimmy has a rule: if your injured and not playing, you don't travel.    Not sure why the Michigan staff used that wording on his participation. 

If your wondering how to feel about this game, I would say that is a valid feeling.   Michigan will be fielding a team that is more like its future 2019 squad then its 2018 team.   I have always said, that every Big 5 program should have an opportunity for an August pre-season exhibition against a local school (to reduce travel costs).   This game is starting to feel a bit like that. 

Many Michigan fans are feeling the same way, at last report Michigan had only sold 60% of it's ticket allotment and right now tickets are going as low as $55.75 on Stubhub.   Tickets through Michigan's Athletic Department are at $160 per.   (Michigan has to purchase any un-sold tickets in their allotment of 13,000)

If your wondering, Florida expects all their draft eligible players to participate on Saturday.   This is also starting to feel a bit like the Citrus Bowl in Harbaugh's first year but in reverse.   New coach, rebound year, and a program on the rise.   Other teams stars more interested in the NFL Draft. 

Should be a fun game! 

• Hello Minnesota's run game!  They ran over Tech at Ford Field yesterday.  

• Hello interceptions!  A total of 9 in the CAL - TCU game. 

• Hello Lighting, never seen a bowl game cancelled before. 

• Zach Gentry was happy with the draft grade he got from the NFL, so he will make a decision after the Peach Bowl.   To be fair, Zach has had a nice year but struggled against OSU.  If he has a strong Peach, he might just jump to the NFL.   When are they going to run a trick play, where he throws the ball?

• Don Brown addressed the OSU game by basically saying they had a great year with one terrible week.  That he just needs to move on.  I know he isn't going to go into specifics with the media but I hope moving on includes teaching his unit how to play a zone coverage.

Michigan Monday: Exhibition Game Week

Michigan loaded up a plane and headed to Atlanta on Sunday to face the Florida Gators in less than a week.  I feel sorry for the journalist that are covering the game, can't feel great spending Christmas at the Atlanta Westin.   For the Wolverines, this is a business trip to get younger players some game time action and to see if they can eclipse 11 wins this season.  

Some practice buzz includes RB Christian Turner and CB Vincent Gray.   I expect with Higdon out, we will get a couple more looks at Mr. Turner and even Hassan Haskins who is back full time at RB after a stint on defense.  This is the first year where the new 4 game red shirt rule is in effect, so expect many younger players to see the field on Saturday.

In other news:

• Shea Patterson is coming back for his senior year.  Which is great news.  Two years in Harbaugh's system should bring more positive results from that position.  

• Michigan gets a PWO QB commit from a Rivals 2 star QB Ren Hefley.  Ren is a dual-threat at 6'1 and 185 pounds and played his high school football in Arkansas.   Welcome Ren! Any chance his nickname becomes Kylo?

• Michigan's basketball team slept walked through another 1st half against Air Force on Saturday but found its footing in the second half.  I think this is just rust only playing once a week.    Speaking of a service academy, did you see what Army did to Houston in the bowl game?  You know Army is on Michigan's schedule next year right?  Who keeps scheduling these service academies?

• With only a week left in the NFL regular season, expect more Harbaugh rumors.  The latest is that the Jets are going to come with a big offer.  Their owners name is Woody Johnson, that is all. 

• Speaking of the NFL Tom Brady clinched another Division Title yesterday.   In his 18 years career he has won 16 AFC East Titles.   That is just crazy! 🐐

A Too Early Look at Florida:

Record: 9-3

Best win: LSU 

Worst Loss: Missouri

Finished tied for 2nd in the SEC East with Kentucky who beat them.  

Very consistent on offense where they rush for 209 yards per and throw for 217.   

Gators score 34 points per game and give up 20.

Florida ranks #24 in total defense

Dan Mullen is in his first year as Florida's head coach.  A familiar name coaching the Gators secondary, Ron English (former Michigan DC and EMU head coach).

 

Line: Michigan -6.5

Interesting trend, when Florida has lost this year they have scored 16, 17, and 17 points.  (Kentucky, Georgia, Missouri)

Michigan Monday: It's Like Deja Vu, All Over Again

That quote comes from the famous poet Yogi Berra.   It's also a summary of the Michigan Football program the last two weeks.   A devastating loss to Ohio State, watching the Big Ten Championship from home, and playing Florida in a Bowl Game.

I don't understand the CF Committee having the Florida - Michigan game for the 3rd time in 4 years.  If you wanted more interest, higher attendance, and more TV viewers.   The better bet was UCF vs. Florida and LSU vs. Michigan.  Even "Champion" the clothing manufacture agreed:

This was on the MDen site last night.

Who do I blame?  

The Peach Bowl and Warde Manuel.   Nether of these two had the final decision as that comes from the committee.   But both could have voiced their opinion to the committee which match-up they preferred and their non-support for the Florida-Michigan game.   It was clear all over social media that they where making a mistake all weekend and nobody cared.

Warde Manuel needs to start standing a bit taller as Michigan's AD.  If he kept Michigan - Arkansas game this year, the Wolverines would be 11-1.   He also should of been in everyone's ear that the Michigan - Florida game V3 was un-acceptable.

The Big Ten also holds some responsibility here after being kept out of the Playoffs for the second year in a row.

How do I feel about the match-up?

I hate it!  I have been attending bowl games for awhile now.  I will not be going to Atlanta.   These games have become the basketball equivalent of the NIT Tournament.   The only upside is, if Michigan plays a team they normally don't play.   They are expensive (tickets through Michigan are $160 per) and I watched Michigan quit during the Outback Bowl last year.   The viewing experience is not that great in an NFL Stadium either.   I would have preferred to have watched the Orange Bowl two years ago from home.

What about players that elect not to play?

After watching Jake Butt lose millions with one play in the Orange Bowl, I will never question a player skipping a (non-playoff) bowl game.  Gary told Jimmy he wouldn't be playing in the Peach and I don't question that decision for a minute.  He has millions to make in the NFL and participating in a exhibition game it's worth the risk.  As they say, "the juice isn't worth the squeeze"

Isn't it Ironic, Don't you think?

Hours before the Peach Bowl is announced, Jim McElwain former Florida head coach and Michigan WR Coach is named the head coach at Central Michigan.   Which I think is a great fit.

Patriots OC Josh McDaniels little brother, Ben will be the WR coach for the Bowl Game.  Ben has been on Michigan's staff this season.


What's Next?

The Michigan coaches need to focus on the 12/20 early signing period and get the best class signed as possible.  There are plenty of big fish out there and Michigan needs to land at least two of them.

Spend the two weeks of Bowl Practice getting the young players more experience.
----

The Michigan Basketball's Team continues to impress and beat a ranked Purdue team at Crisler on Saturday.  Their defense is incredible and will need to travel to Chicago to face Northwestern on Tuesday at 9:00.   After that game, Michigan has South Carolina, Western, Air Force, and Binghamton before the Big Ten season resumes.

• Drew Singleton, former Michigan LB picked hometown Rutgers to transfer to 

• James Hudson, former Michigan OT picked Cincinnati to transfer to 

• Mo Wagner got his first NBA points by scoring 10 in a Lakers blowout

• Former Michigan, Ball State, and San Diego State head coach Brady Hoke was fired from the Carolina Panthers this morning.  He was the DL coach. 

Michigan Tuesday: A Look Back At The 2017 Florida Game

At the time, we didn't know that each program had a side bet: whichever head coach loses this game will have to join the winning staff next season!  :-)

Michigan Monday: Is Full of Information

Side note:  I have no idea, what happened with the right side bar.  If your an HTML developer and a fan of the Big House blog, please let me know and I will send you the code.  I'm sure it just a tagging error and a quick fix.  Email me if you would like to give me a hand.  Thank you!


As expected, Michigan lost a 2018 commitment and gained one after the game on Saturday.   First, we will do a quick look at the Golden Gophers and then discuss the loss/gain.


Minnesota Golden Gophers Look Ahead:


Record: 4-4 with wins over Buffalo, Oregon State, MTSU and Illinois.  Losses to: Maryland, Purdue, MSU and Iowa last week.


As we know, this the first year for the King of Rowing the Boat, PJ Fleck from Western Michigan.  He is a good coach and it will take a few years to turn around that program.


The Minnesota Offense passes for 156 yards per game (116th) and runs for 182 (47th).   They score 25 points per (89th).


The Minnesota Defense gives up 18 points per (21st).


ESPN Big 10 Rank:  #10
Line: Michigan -15.5


You know how I feel about night games and hopefully Michigan can get a win this Saturday night and keep a hold of the Little Brown Jug.

• Florida fired their head coach Jim McElwain on Sunday after getting housed by Georgia and lying about getting death threats.   I don't have any inside information but I wouldn't be surprised if Chip Kelly gets a call for that opening.  They could probably hire him in the next week or so, before Tennessee or Nebraska comes calling.  Maybe they will hire back Urban Meyer!  :)

4 Star IN OG Emil Ekiyor de-committed from Michigan


This has been brewing for weeks/months.   Emil committed to Michigan early and keep saying the right things but his actions told another story, as he was taking multiple trips to Alabama.   Yesterday, he officially pulled the trigger and switched to Alabama.   EE was Michigan's highest rated recruit and now the Wolverines will look to replace him with another offensive lineman in this class.


3 Star Missouri RB Hassan Haskins committed to Michigan on Sunday


Michigan loses EE and gains an HH!  Hassan is an under the radar, senior RB that has been having a great senior year.  He has rushed in the area of 1,800 yards and scored 30 touchdowns already this season! He is 6'1 202 pounds and reminds people of Le'Veon Bell a talented power back.


His offer list has the likes of Purdue, WKU, and Memphis but that's not the entire story.   Big programs were looking hard at HH and many more offers were expected to roll in.  Michigan might have beat those programs to the punch for Hassan.


HH is now the 15th player in the class that might top out at 20 or so players.    Both lines continue to be the focus moving forward. 

The BHB Inmates Running The Big House

There is so many great comments today, I decided to put them on the front page!  Well done guys! 


Potsy 55:

First off great article..I agree with DPJ punt returns...ONE HAND on the ball, it was like I was waiting for ball to get punched out..Can't wait to hear the SEC excuses...Paul F. I'm looking at u..Right tackle freshman had a tough night pass protecting...After last night I will never second guess Jimmy when it comes to QB...He knows...and like u said we have about a month to get things right until games get tougher...lets enjoy this win...


Dude 1984:


Great game. Not to take too much away from the D, but I really can't comment on the defensive performance because the FL O is pretty scrubby. I did like how fast and aggressive the D was though.

What really surprised me in a very positive way was the O performed. FL has a legit D and Michigan steamrolled them. So much speed in the skill positions. If the O-Line can play at that level through out the year and Speight can work on preventing so many high throws this O can be something special.

My general take away is that Michigan is fast all over the field, faster than last season, and more physical in the trenches on a more consistent basis which points towards good things if they can repeat this performance on a weekly basis.

Onwards to the Cincinnati game next weekend.


Big35Hurt:

Here's my take....
Offense
We are starting to get the type of OLine Play that is necessary to run this offense. The entire offense is predicated on the ability to run the ball and play action pass. I don't think the WR youth is going to be as big of an issue as I thought it would be going into this year. Someone still will need to step up and be a #1 guy that we can count on to make the big 3rd down catches, but I was VERY encouraged by the WR blocking yesterday. I'm not too worried about Speight's int's. The 1st one could have been caught and the 2nd one was largely in part due to him having a man in his face. The positive thing (if there was one) about that 2nd pick 6 is that he hung in there and stepped into that throw. It was just a poor throw. Ulizio struggled in pass pro for sure, but it was very clear from the start that he wasn't going to be able to handle that DE from Florida. I think they should have given him some help. The fact that we dominated the line of scrimmage against a solid SEC front 7 is VERY encouraging moving forward. Next week we get to face a Cincy D that got ran on by a bad opponent this week. So expect more of the same. Oh, and by the way, our TE's are each limited in some capacity of their games, but collectively they sure had a great day yesterday. Lastly, a shout out to Khalid Hill for a crushing block on one of Isaac's runs. I love watching that kid play. he does so many things well. He's a "football player".

Defense
I agree with the comment about CB depth perhaps being an issue moving forward. Their youth showed too at times, but for the most part I think they played well on the outside. Now, let's talk about some of the REALLY GOOD things that we saw yesterday.
*Bush is going to be a TON of fun to watch for the next 3 years at the MIKE.
*The entire team defense is extremely fast at all 3 levels. It was amazing to watch the DLine pursue plays and make the tackles. They get there FAST.
*Don Brown is truly a genius on D. It's so much fun to watch this guy's defense.
*Gary is a beast with an endless motor. I hope we get to watch him for 2 years (not 1).
*Hurst is also a beast. Definitely a top half of the 1st round guy in April.
*Hudson was also noticeably flying around.

Special Teams
* Punt blocked. WTF?
* DPJ - yes he scared me a bit but the kid wants to make things happen and it looks like he has really good hands. I think he's going to be a lot of fun to watch back there.
* Nordin - what a start! I'm going to give him a mulligan on that last one. I was impressed.

A few questions that maybe someone could answer for me:
* Is Ambry Thomas going to play Safety? I was hoping he would stick at CB.
* Is Newsome for sure out for the year? I saw some video of him running and he looked good, but I realize running and playing in a game are 2 very different things.
* Am I the only person that thinks that John O'Korn is not a viable backup option and that if Speight got hurt we would need to look at Peters or McCaffrey?
Is Kareem Walker in the Mix?

BHB Answers the best I can

- I don't believe its 100% decided on where Ambry Thomas will play.  He is a great athlete (he played WR at the Nike Opening when DPJ had a minor injury) and could play either position if need be.  He is listed as a DB on the roster. 


-Yes  Newsome is out for sure and even if he is ready later in the year they won't play him so he can save his redshirt year.   I saw Runyan get a few snaps on Saturday.


- I agree John O'Korn worries me under center.   I would have loved to see him more last year earlier in the year,  That IU performance is stuck in our head.  I trust Jimmy on this and I think we will feel better if he gets more snaps against UC or Air Force. 


-Yes, Walker is in the mix but down on the depth chart.  Jimmy is comfortable with the 3 guys that played on Saturday.   We will see some in the next two games, I believe. 


VOR:
I have been hearing and reading from the "expert" talking heads and writers about how bad Florida's offense is and has been under Jim McElwain but when you look at the last two year's scheduled results it's difficult to justify the criticism completely.

In 2016 against the SEC teams they put up 45 in a win against Kentucky, 28 in a loss against Tennessee, 13 in a win against Vanderbilt, 40 in a win against Missouri, 24 in a win against Georgia, 20 in a win against South Carolina, 16 in a win against LSU, and 30 in a B10 win against Iowa. Plus they were never shut down by the defensive powerhouses in their conference.

In 2015 they put up 28 in a win against Tennessee, 38 in a win against Ole Miss, 21 in a win against Missouri, 28 in a loss to Les Miles' LSU, 27 in a win against Georgia, and 24 in a win against South Carolina. Plus Michigan and FSU were the only two teams that basically shut down Florida's point offensive production.

My point being is that the media seems to refuse to give Michigan the respect that they deserve in this win. I guess we're going to have to get used to this media bias.

Regarding the CB's, this group did fairly well against a top 20 team regardless of the suspensions. They will get better as the year progresses. Devin Bush, Jr. is a good player, I'd like to see him become more disciplined in his tackling, i.e., I believe he was charged with targeting last year in a game(?) When he gets that area more under control, he'll be awesome.

I am fairly satisfied with Michigan's offensive line play. It was clear I agree that the right side of the line needs some work. They had their good and bad moments, however, they hung in there and produced against one of the better defenses in the country so I am encouraged. They will have a few games to work out the technicalities before serious play begins.

Speight is likely what he's going to be this year and we will see what and where that is before the end of the year. I wouldn't be surprised if we didn't start to see Peters make appearances before the end of the season if Speight's improvement isn't noticeable and exponential to get Peters ready for next year.

I am still concerned about the Special Teams play. They've seemed to come up with miscues or questionable decisions in big games periodically. If they don't get that worked out then it runs the risk of costing them in big games.

Lastly, Grant Perry's penalty where he spun the ball was not acceptable. And just to think that he may have done it AGAIN later in that game should have the coaches and team mates up his rear end. IMHO!!!


BHB:  didn't see him do it again, but your right, the first one was a huge mistake!

Imperfectly Dominating

Daniel Mears - Detroit News

The game started a bit nervously for Michigan fans as on the first play sophomore LB Devin Bush gets flagged for a hit out of bounds and a possible targeting penalty, which if the review had agreed to  would have cost Bush the rest of the game.   That didn't happen and Wolverine fans took a deep breath. 


During the rest of the game, that same feeling seemed to exist at least for me.   Michigan dominating on defense but the offense and Wilton kept throwing TD's to the Gators.   I agree that the first pick was not on Wilton, but if he hits Crawford in the chest that ball is not intercepted. 


Michigan was able to run the ball on a tough Florida Defense and I thought the Michigan Offensive line played well enough to secure the victory.   The story of the game was clearly that Don Brown or Donnie as the ABC crew liked to call him is a Wizard.   Florida is not a good offensive team and Don Brown proved it again with his re-loaded defense.   The Florida offense scored 3 points and had 9 first downs on the day.   The Michigan defense dominated the overwhelmed Gators offense and it didn't matter who they put under center or gave the ball to.  


With a dominating performance on defense the Wolverines have plenty to work on, so lets take a look at Cheer and Jeers for Week 1:




Cheers

• Another dominating performance from the Michigan defense
• 6 Sacks = Wow!
• The offensive line played well
• Isaac with over a 100 yards!
• Black is the real deal at WR!
• Grant Perry might have the best hands on the team
• Hello Nick Eubanks!
• Bush had 7 tackles and 2 sacks
• Michigan ran for over 200 yards
• Nordin was sharp early with some long field goals
• 433 yards total for the Wolverine offense

Jeers

• Free 14 points on 2 picks 6's can't happen
• To many penalties, one cost Michigan a TD
• Love DPJ but worried about ball security on his punt returns
• Too many field goals and not enough TD's
• It didn't seem like Crawford had 1 catch for 3 yards
• Nordin's last miss was a bad one
• CB depth might be an issue
• Michigan had a punt blocked/tipped

It feels good to win a big game and happy to dominate the Gators again but there are plenty of things to work on before Penn State and Ohio State.   Good thing the strong Michigan staff has time to fix the issues and get this team ready for a great finish. 

Michigan - Florida Preview

Time: 3:30 EST
Location: ATT in Dallas
Weather:86 partly sunny
TV: ABC
Line: Michigan -5


It is finally here my friends, Michigan Football is back!  The Wolverines will lace up their shoes, strap in their helmets, and throw on the shoulder pads tomorrow afternoon in Dallas and get to hit another team for a change.


Florida is full of athletes but has lost over 10% of their team to suspensions including their #1 WR and RB.  Michigan is replacing a boat load of players that are currently in the NFL and need to reload with young players at the WR and DB positions.  


Tale of the Tape:
UF DL vs. UM OL = Florida
UM DL vs. UF OL = Michigan
UF passing game vs Michigan DB's = Push
Michigan WR's vs Florida DB = Push
Special Teams = Florida
Coaching advantage = Michigan
Full Roster = Michigan
Location = Push


As you can see this should be a defensive battle with two offenses trying to find themselves this season.  Florida last year barley had a passing game and Michigan will be rolling out new guys on the offensive line and at the WR position.


You want to know an early key to victory for either team?  Which offense line plays the best will win this game.   Both teams will want to run the ball and throw short passes for long drives and first downs.   If either line is effective in opening holes for the RB and keeping the QB clean will have a huge advantage. 


Party with Stephen Ross and Jerry Jones and a bottle of Johnny Walker Blue if.................

• Wilton is picking apart the young Florida secondary
• The offensive line is protecting and opening holes for the Michigan RB's
• Michigan DL is dominating the UF OL
• Michigan has 3 or more sacks
• Defensive gets two turnovers
• Wilton is clean with his throws
• The young WR's are as good as advertised

Yell, I paid $1000 to travel to DTW for this sh!t if......................

• Florida's DL is better then FSU's last year in the Orange Bowl
• Florida really has a good QB in the 3 they are expecting to play
• The suspensions don't hurt them at all
• Michigan's offense struggles to score points/TD's
• Michigan loses field position battles

I know everyone that reads this blog regularly knows that I'm not a fan of these neutral site games.  I think it takes the college football experience out of the game.   I want to see Michigan play in the Swamp and the Gators in the Big House, not in some NFL stadium with $40 parking.


Michigan housed Florida over a year ago in the Citrus Bowl when Florida looked like they didn't want to be there.   I think they will be ready to play this year but will be leaving a ton of talent in the Swamp running the bleachers. 
Michigan is the better coached team and Jimmy and staff have been preparing for this game for months.  The Wolverines seem healthy and ready to play football.   Florida has been full of suspensions and QB controversies, as much as I would like to discount that, it does have to be a distraction at some level.   Michigan's offense is going to execute better then Florida's, Wilton is a seasoned QB at this point and we will be looking for a huge jump forward.   I also expect Michigan will surprise the UF defense with a ton of "west coast offense" quick throws and strong RB play.


I like Michigan to put up some points in this one and have the defensive line protect the young DB's learning on the job.   Either way, our wait is over and its time again for some Michigan Football.  Enjoy they day!
Michigan 28 Florida 13

Michigan Thursday: Big Ten Football Starts Tonight!

It's been a long time since I can remember a conference game being played the first official weekend of the season or on a Thursday night prior.   Tonight, OSU will travel to IU to kick off the Big Ten and the start of the college football season.   The Buckeyes are a 3+ TD favorite and this game isn't expected to be close.   Kevin Wilson, the new OSU OC is the former head coach in Bloomington.

Why you should watch?

• It's freaking Big Ten Football! 
• Scout OSU
• IU has been known to play well from time to time (see John O'Korn Snow game or should we shorten it to just Jon Snow?)
• OSU has struggled in Bloomington in the past 
• ESPN and national TV doesn't come to IU very often for a football game
• Did I mention it was Big Ten Football?

The suspensions keep coming for the Florida Gators football team.  Now their top RB is suspended from all team activities for that credit card fraud that many players were involved in.   There are even some rumors that there might be more suspensions coming.   Redshirt Freshman QB Feleipe Franks has also been named the starter.   He is more of a drop back passer then Zaire or Del Rio. 

Warning!  Let's not get too fooled about these suspensions and a brand new QB that has never played a college football game.   This team (for the most part) blew out Iowa in the bowl game and will have athletes to replace the suspended players.  (I still like our chances on Saturday)   

I would have loved to have heard what ND transfer QB Malik Zaire said when he learned of the decision to start Franks.   I'm sure he will see plenty of playing time after Franks tries to figure out a Don Brown defense.  Mr. Franks meet Mr. Gary, Mr. Hurst, Mr. Winovich, and Mr. Kemp.

Enjoy tonight! 

Michigan Tuesday: Get Used To The Maize For Saturday

I'm a guy that likes tradition and really don't see a reason to change uniforms, etc.   I know its a big trend and the players and recruits like it.  


I think the below looks like a Halloween costume that really doesn't understand Michigan's colors.  The Blue looks off to me as well.   My son, (whose birthday is today!)  said these are, "Fire". Ok, I will now officially stop being the "get off my lawn!" guy.  

• Matt Godin suffered a torn ACL in a preseason game for Houston last weekend.   That is really bad news as we get close to cut down day.

• Jimmy tweaked Florida during his game week presser by saying he hasn't got anything from Florida on which QB they are starting either.   Florida did release a depth chart today and Michigan's is expected to on Wednesday.

• Former MSU Basketball Coach Jud Heathcote has passed.

• Myles Sims is still '100' percent to Michigan but will take other visits.

• These Michigan Jordan Trainers 2 are releasing tomorrow.

Michigan Monday: It's GAME WEEK!

To my fellow Big House Blog inmates, this has been the week we have been waiting for after a non-Peppers team lost the Orange Bowl to an athletic FSU team.   Michigan has had a successful summer and a very strong recruiting class coming in to plug a few holes.  Here is a quick look at the game this Saturday:


#17 Florida vs. #11 Michigan in Dallas at ATT Stadium

Time and TV: 3:30 EST on ABC

Biggest Question Marks Coming into the Game:

U of M:
-Offensive Line (RT)
-Freshman WR's
-Defensive Backs


Florida:
-3 QB's could play
-Can they move the ball through the air
-Can the loses on defense to the NFL be replaced effectively?

Both teams lost players on defense but have quality replacements.  Florida's Offense has struggled and it seems they can't decide on a QB.   Which might be good for a very young defensive backfield for the Wolverines.  Look for a physical, low scoring defensive battle.


Can't wait for kickoff!

• Mike McCray and Mason Cole voted team captains.

• Please send all Glasgow's to Ann Arbor.  Walk-on Jordan Glasgow joined his brothers with this honor and received/earned a scholarship this weekend.

• Speaking of the game on Saturday, there is a strong rumor floating around that the Wolverines might wear all Maize.  It seems they will go with the Maize jersey for sure and the pants are still a question mark.  I wouldn't be surprised if Jimmy changed his mind during the week as well.

@gavinrodes7 and HT to Mgoblog





@GoBlueMcCue







Its official!

• Peppers had a pick and Taco had another sack in pre-season NFL action.

Michigan Friday: Coach B is Squeaky Clean

Michigan Basketball coach has been voted the cleanest coach in college basketball in a survey of his peers by CBS Sports.   In the fact, the vote wasn't even close, Coach B got over 26% of the votes and #2 was ND Coach Mike Brey who got 10.5% of the vote. 


I know we all have had some complaints about Coach B and not recruiting the top guys but he plays by the rules and does it the right away.   That is what we expect from the CEO of Michigan Basketball.  Here is what one coach said,   John Beilein is a by-the-book, letter-of-the-law guy. LETTER-OF-THE-LAW. ... You get two hours to work out guys for the week. If he works out a kid and, say, they go one hour and one minute, he's going to start the next time with 59 minutes on the clock and go 59 minutes. That's the truth."

• A Michigan Insider UMBig11 is saying on Touch the Banner that the QB race is over and Wilton won the job.  O'Korn is #2 and Peters is #3.  It seems Peters has dropped way off and McCaffrey would be #3 if not for his redshirt.   Let the transfer rumors begin!   

• There have been a few articles in the past week about PJ Fleck being the next Jim Harbaugh.   I like PJ a lot and think this was a great hire for Golden Gophers, but lets slow the train on the PJ - Jimmy comparisons quite yet.   The best comparison I can see at this point, is they both coach in the Big Ten and both seem to have unlimited energy and drive.

• This is the final weekend for the Michigan's Fall Camp.  Monday starts Game Week, even though I'm sure they have been preparing for Florida for the past 3 weeks or so.

• Speaking of Florida, their newest QB Malik Zaire doesn't seem to be a fan of the 3 QB system: “Obviously it’s not ideal,” Zaire said, per Thompson. “I don’t think anybody in the quarterback room wants that. But at the end of the day, you just gotta do what coach wants. I feel like coach should be confident enough to stick with a guy and be able to roll with that guy because that’s best for the team. When you have all these quarterbacks, you still have none at the end of the day.”