When Carcajous Attack Hawkeyes

Preview: Michigan at No 12 Iowa, October 10, 2009 – Kinnick Stadium, Iowa City, Iowa

When You Crave Irrational Exuberance On A Level That Only Brett Musberger Can Deliver:

We’re here LIIIIVE! and it’s Saturday night in Iowa City as the unbeaten Iowa Hawkeyes host the Michigan Wolverines for only their 7th prime time game in Kinnick Stadium! Folks, I’m really going to be doing the play-by-play in this one folks with my good buddy Kirk Herbstreit, so prepare yourself mentally for my over-sensationalization of the game setting, not to mention repeated statistical gaffes. Kirk? OK, uh, Herbstreit's grabbing another beer right now down at the concession stands, so uh… let's continue!

Well, the Hawkeyes really are 5-0 having already survived some tough contests on the road and at home this year. They’re led by one of the better scoring defensive units in the country with a number of starters back from last year, and giving up a measly 13.4 points per game. Norm Parker’s Hawkeye defense is currently ranked 10th in the land against the score and 32nd nationally in yards surrendered per game. All of this after vanquishing some pretty decent opponents like Arizona and Penn State.

Meanwhile, Michigan is 4-1 now, playing their second consecutive road game of the season here tonight. The Wolverines are coming off a late rally loss to in-state rival Michigan State. But I’ll tell you, this Michigan team can certainly display a powerful, balanced offensive attack when they want to, led by their star freshman quarterback from southern California, Tate Forcier. Michigan has proven over and over again that they can score quickly from anywhere on the field and with just about with anyone at the skilled positions. Seven different Wolverines have caught passing touchdowns this year while 6 different Michigan players have scored rushing touchdowns! Iowa’s great defense will somehow need to account for all of those possibilities. Michigan’s been banged up at running back and along the offensive line in recent weeks. The Wolverines’ high-rated rushing attack was successfully doused by the Spartans’ front seven last weekend, so Rich Rodriguez will look to re-establish that rushing game dominance once again here tonight against the Hawkeyes.

Offensively for Iowa they’re led by junior quarterback named Ricky Stanzi. Seven different Hawkeye receivers have caught touchdowns passes this year, so this kid obviously likes to spread it around and keep defenses honest. Despite Iowa’s huge offensive line advantage over their opponents, the Hawkeye rushing attack was a big question mark during the off-season following the graduation of star tailback Shon Greene and a serious knee injury to returning tailback Jewell Hampton. But so far Adam Robinson has answered the call for Iowa with 72 yards per game rushing, 4 TDs and a 4.6 ypc average. Look for Robinson and another fellow tailback Brandon Wegher to get a good number of carries and catches out of the Iowa backfield tonight.

Defensively, boy Michigan is really struggling right now. They’ve given up a lot of yardage on the ground and through the air over the last 4 games. However, they’ve done relatively well against the score, giving up just 23 points per game on average. Without forcing many three- and-outs, the Michigan defense has been spending an awful lot of time on the field this year. Against MSU the Wolverines held the offensively ball for only 20 minutes. It’s going to be a great one. Michigan and Iowa, as the Blackout falls upon us all right here in Kinnick Stadium!

What? You didn’t have the courtesy to bring ME a beer?

Damn you, Kirk!

This football game is important for Michigan for the following reasons:

1. Michigan leads this series 40-10-4 all-time against Iowa on the gridiron. Six of those ten Michigan defeats occurred after the Hayden Fry era began at Iowa in 1979.

2. A victory over Iowa almost certainly secures bowl eligibility and a .500 season for Michigan in 2009 following that disappointing 3-9 record in 2008.

3. A victory over Iowa also keeps Michigan’s Big Ten title hopes alive and increases the team confidence for upcoming road games against Illinois and Wisconsin.

4. A loss to Iowa on Saturday night probably eliminates Michigan’s Big Ten title hopes altogether and likely postpones any chance that the Wolverines will return to the Top 25 for several more weeks.

Three Great Reasons to Wipe That Ridiculous Smile Off Of Your Face:

Tyler Sash: Iowa's Very Own Interception Machine

1. Safety Tyler Sash
If we wanted to know why Iowa is 5-0 right now, we’d look no further then the performance of the Hawkeye defense. Iowa has 8 starters back from 2008 including the follow list of menacing defensemen: DEs Adrian Clayborn, Broderick Binns, DTs Christian Ballard, and Paul Krug, LBs Pat Angerer, AJ Edds and Jeremiah Hunter, not to mention star DB Shaun Prater. But when we look at the Iowa defensive statistics, we immediately notice something else: Kirk Ferentz and Norm Parker have a group that creates a lot of turnovers: 10 interceptions and 4 recovered fumbles after only 5 games. And for some crazy reason, a sophomore safety named Tyler Sash seems to be closely associated with many of them. Sash kind of surprised people last year with 5 interceptions and 147 yards in returns back in 2008. It’s 2009 and the guy already has matched the 5 interceptions and 117 yards in returns. Since Michigan runs a read spread option attack, much of the plays Michigan calls will depend on the position of Iowa’s safeties pre-snap. Tyler Sash defies space and time by being omnipresent all over the field making nice wrapping tackles in open space. It should surprise no one that Sash already leads Hawkeyes football team in solo tackles with 21. Most opponents avoid throwing to Sash’s side of the field.

Unless something changes significantly going into Saturday night’s game, Michigan is going to try and run on this Iowa defense immediately. Except Iowa’s defense is better than Michigan State’s, is currently No. 3 against the run in the Big Ten, and pretty much devoured read spread option attacks of ISU, PSU and Arizona over the last several weeks. If Michigan fails to achieve when running, they’ll turn to the air. This is where Mr. Sash arrives on the scene with a full squirt bottle of Smile Remover.

2.) The Entire Iowa Offensive Line

Iowa OT Bryan Bulaga: "Mongo pancake Prince Kwateng!
Him former leading tackler for Northwestern!"

Yeah, you knew it was coming. Hell, we all did way back in August. These Hawkeye offensive lineman are living, breathing case studies in hugeness. Overall this group is quite experienced and talented: Bryan Bulaga (6-6, 312), Kyle Calloway (6-7, 315), Dace Richardson (6-6, 305), Julian Vandervelde (6-3, 300) and C Rafael Eubanks (6-3, 280). Iowa’s offensive line has worked through some injuries so far this year, but most will be back at full health for the Michigan game. Iowa’s rushing game is only ranked 7th in the Big Ten so far, averaging just 140 yards per game, but with this group back to full health, that stat is destined to be killed. Tailbacks Adam Robinson and Brandon Wegher are young but have played remarkably well. Michigan’s defensive line is tiny compared to these behemoths, so expect plenty of trucking by the 3rd and 4th quarter of this one. Since Michigan’s rushing defense is currently as horrible as can be, giving up 153 yards per game (ranked 9th in the Big Ten), well, let’s just say it’s only mid-week and Iowa’s offensive line and running backs are collectively licking their chops for kickoff to finally arrive.

3.) Junior Quarterback Ricky Stanzi

Not Chuck Long. Ricku Stanzi IS Ricky Stanzi.

In my 2009 Big Ten preview, I really thought something ridiculous would happen in the absence of tailback Shon Greene this fall. With no heir apparent replacement at running back for Greene, I believed that Stanzi, now a junior, would step up and become the second coming of Chuck Long. Stanzi has not played like Chuck Long the last 5 games, as his 59% completion percentage, 8 TDs and discouraging 7 interceptions clearly attest. But he does an more than adequate job of leading the Iowa's offense up and down the field. He has a seemingly endless lineup of talented receiver targets like WRs Marvin McNutt (12 rec, 242 yrds, 2 TDs) and Derrell Johnson-Koulianos (8 rec, 138 yards, 1 TD). This week star Iowa TE Tony Moeaki returns from injury. Moeaki is big, reliable and a key part of the Iowa offensive attack in play action. The tailbacks too have done a very good job as receivers for Stanzi out of the backfield. The important thing about Ricky Stanzi is that he seems to improve his play in key football games, like the road game at Penn State and Arizona game. Without significant pressure, Stanzi will have a glorious evening against Michigan’s youthful secondary and linebackers.

Iowa's Tight End Tony Moeaki. Coming to an end zone near you.

When Carcajous Attack! On Defense:
By now reality has probably sunk in for most Michigan football fans everywhere. This uncovered reality is that the 2009 Michigan Wolverine football team cannot stop passing offenses. It cannot stop any kind of power run offense either. It can’t really even slow opponents down a little bit. The one thing Greg Robinson’s defense has somehow managed to achieve, rather inexplicably, is force opponent field goals in the redzone. It’s unknown whether such fortune or ability will continue into Michigan’s Big Ten schedule. To understand the gravity of the situation on defense for Michigan this year, all anyone has to do is review how Michigan’s defense played the last two games against Indiana and MSU, and substitute all of those opponent field goals for touchdowns.

Do that now.

Right.

Yeah, me too. Except I couldn't stop crying.

Well, for what it’s worth, Iowa is 6 of 9 this year on field goals, and isn’t exactly scoring a lot of points these days (10th in scoring in B10 with 25 points per game). They haven’t really had to.

The truth is that ever since the Notre Dame game, Michigan opponents have been able to march up and down the football field fancy free. Through the air or on the ground, it doesn’t really make a difference. (If Rich Rodriguez had a preference, he’d probably want opponents to shred his defense by throwing the ball because at least that way his own offense could get the ball back a little quicker.)

Michigan's Defensive End Brandon Graham

If you didn’t like Michigan’s chances against MSU’s passing attack last week on the road, you’ll probably like the Wolverines’ prospects against Iowa even less. Unlike Michigan State, Iowa actually has something resembling an NFL offensive line that has done a good job in pass protection. Similar to MSU, the Hawkeyes have a decent quarterback and a talented cast of receivers and backs. Those backs may not be the fastest on the planet, but they’re do break tackles, block well, and serve as excellent receivers on screen passes. Unless Michigan’s own front four gets regular pressure on quarterback Ricky Stanzi in this game, Iowa will be able to run and pass roughshod over Michigan all night long. Brandon Graham, Mike Martin, Ryan van Bergen and Craig Roh are on notice. They must get pressure or the risk increases that this game gets out of hand fast.

Michigan’s linebackers and secondary were ripped apart last week by a number of screen pass plays to the tailback (MSU’s Glenn Winston). As luck would have it, this just happens to be one of Iowa’s favorite chapters in their offensive playbook – a long repertoire of screen passes to tailbacks, play action downfield posts and flies, as well as quick dump passes to the tight ends. The Michigan linebackers and secondary have received a lot of well-earned criticism so far this year. They’ll need tighten up coverage of Iowa’s WRs and TE’s and show good containment around the edge. Stevie Brown, Obi Ezeh and Jonas Mouton must show significant improvement in reading play action, taking on much bigger blockers, and find ways to disrupt the routes of Iowa’s big tight ends.

When Carcajous Attack! On Offense:
Last week Michigan tried their bread-and-butter read spread option rushing attack against their opponent’s main strength (MSU’s run defense) and failed in embarrassing fashion with just 28 rushing yards to show for it. Why the epic fail to run the ball against Michigan State? Well, we’re all led to believe that because Rimington Trophy candidate David Molk is out for another 3 weeks at center, and despite all calls to UM’s improved OL depth and experience, the Wolverines offensive line and backfield has suddenly become out of sync. Star running backs Carlos Brown and Brandon Minor were both completely ineffective last week. So Rich Rodriguez and offensive coordinator Calvin Magee will probably introduce some new plays into the offense this week to try and turbo-charge the running game Saturday night. If Iowa’s vaunted defense has shown one weakness at all, it would be their rushing defense (giving up over 122 yds/game). Even so, the Hawkeyes have given up zero (0) touchdowns on the ground this year.

Midichlorians! Yeah Bayy-Bee!

If Michigan’s OL problems aren’t corrected, then they’ll turn to the pass. Can Michigan’s offensive line can protect it’s quarterback long enough to make reads and get the ball away safely? The answer is a qualifed “yes” only because of the midichlorians and waterbug DNA coursing through the cells of Michigan’s starting quarterback Tate Forcier. Iowa’s front seven is truly outstanding, and while the secondary may have given up significant points and the yardage, they possess interception king Tyler Sash at safety and welcome back star Shaun Prater at the cornerback position this week. Forcier will need to step it up a notch because this Iowa defense has dealt with mobile quarterbacks pretty well this year, holding Penn State’s Darryl Clark to just 19 yards rushing and intercepting him 3 times. With the injury at center and the reduced production of the Wolverine offensive line the last two games, Michigan’s pass protection is probably not going to be much better than last week. Rodriguez and Magee must implement passing plays with easy safety valves for Forcier to dish the ball off more quickly when under pressure and take advantage of what will surely be zealous over pursuit by Iowa

Michigan’s offensive players are probably much faster than those faced by the Iowa defense at any time this year. Michigan must exploit speed mismatches wherever they can in this football game.

The Last Time:
On October 21, 2006 Michigan launched a vicious defense and a relentless off-tackle zone rushing attack featuring senior tailback Mike Hart that eventually wore Iowa down in second half of the game, allowing Michigan to separate from a 3-3 tie early in the 3rd quarter to win handily 20-6.

Iowa’s last victory over Michigan was in 2003 in Iowa City when Hawkeye tailback Fred Russell, an Inkster, Michigan native, ran for 110 yards against the Wolverines, setting up three Nate Kaeding’s field goals to lead 12th ranked Hawkeyes (4-1) to a 30-27 victory over 4th ranked Michigan (4-1).

Dammit, why is it that these Iowa-Michigan games have so many damn field goals in them? (BTW, don’t ever watch the 1981 and 1985 games. Ever.)

This will be Michigan head coach Rich Rodriguez’s first game ever against Iowa.

Iowa’s head coach Kirk Ferentz is 2-3 all-time versus Michigan since 1999.

What to Expect
First, this Iowa team is better than Michigan State or Notre Dame.

Way better.

Iowa has been playing lights out, blackout, defense against superior opposition and every kind of offensive attack this season, including both pass- and run-centric spread teams and more pro-style offenses. Consider, for example, that Iowa’s opponents this year have a cumulative W-L record of 15-8 compared to the rather unimpressive 11-13 record of Michigan’s last 5 opponents. Michigan hasn’t played anyone, while Iowa clearly has.

Second, on paper at least, Michigan appears to be a much more explosive offensive football team than Iowa because they’re faster, they can score a lot of points very quickly. Michigan has a multitude of scoring weapons to chose from, not to mention their very own Ace of Spades player, freshman quarterback Tate Forcier. Iowa’s defense must find a way to control Forcier’s escape routes and laser-guided passing abilities for a full 60 minutes. This is way easier said than done. But if Iowa can somehow pull that off, (whatever “that” is), then Rodriguez’s spread offense is almost surely dead in the water. Michigan’s offensive line is in disarray and Iowa’s defensive front four is ready to setup camp in Michigan’s backfield. They should be able to reach Forcier frequently in this game, unless he manages to escape or improve the quickness of his release.

Motorhead - Tate Forcier
Pushing up the ante, I know you've got to see me,
Read 'em and weep, the dead man's hand again,
I see it in your eyes, take one look and die,
The only thing you see, you know it's gonna be...

Tate Force-ee-yay!

Tate Force-ee-yay!

Sore Shoulders? No Wonder.

Michigan State (2-3) held off a late overtime rally by Michigan (4-1) in East Lansing on Saturday.

It never should have come down to that, but it did.

This is because MSU had beaten Michigan in virtually ever facet of the football game for the first 55 minutes of play. It was only in the final 5 minutes, trailing the Spartans 6-20, that Michigan freshman quarterback Tate Forcier decided to walk up to the line of scrimmage, put the entire game and Wolverine football team on his back and try to pull off another adventure of the improbable. The Wolverine offensive coaching staff could only look on in disbelief.

Michigan approached the game with confidence. And why not? They were unbeaten at 4-0, a top of the Big Ten standings, and had seemingly redeemed themselves from the 3-9 record of their hellish season past. Meanwhile Michigan State was reeling at 1-3 after three consecutive defeats.

In the game Michigan first tried to match strength for strength with the Spartans, but simply could not move the ball on the ground against the MSU’s 4-3 defense. The Wolverines managed only 28 yards rushing on the day.

With just 5 minutes left in the game, it looked like Rich Rodriguez and offensive coordinator Calvin Magee had finally experienced an epiphany. It turned out that indeed Michigan State’s defensive secondary wasn't that good after all. Just like those crazy team scouting reports and hours of game film had confirmed and demonstrated all along! And so it was that with 4:47 remaining young Mr. Forcier, in obvious and considerable pain from his injured shoulder, launched a rocket pass to sophomore wide receiver Darryl Stonum covering 59 yards for the score.

Spartan Stadium shocked. The sun starting to peek out while clouds still hovered.

Michigan 13, MSU 20.

Forcier wasn’t done yet. The Michigan defense, which had been ground all afternoon into fine powder by the surprising running (and less surprising) passing prowess of Spartan quarterback Kirk Cousins, forced a rare three-and-out possession. Now with 2:53 on the clock and down by 7 points, Forcier went to work again for Michigan, this time from the Wolverines’ own 7 yards line.

Of the 93 yards that Michigan would traverse in 2 minutes and 51 seconds, Forcier was responsible for 39 on the ground and 39 through the air. The Spartans would of course do their share to help out and donate another 15 yards on a penalty. On 3rd and 8 with 00:08 showing on the clock, Forcier connected on a 9 yard touchdown pass to Roy Roundtree with 00:02 to play.

Tie Game 20-20 and on to overtime!

And that's where our illustrious fairy-tale ends.

The Spartans ran in a 24 yard score during the last overtime possession to win the game by 6 points, 26-20, sending Rodriguez, Forcier and the entire Michigan football team back on the road, wondering only what could have been.

As of the end of last week it looked like the Michigan State Spartans’ football season had been caught in a maelstrom and was about to be summarily smashed against the rocks. An emotional contest against hated cross-state rival Michigan was exactly what Michigan State needed to pull up their collective bootstraps and perhaps right their wayward ship once again. I distinctly remember some overly creative Detroit sports journalist using the phrase: “Time will tell” in a recent column headline. OK, Time will tell.

As for Michigan, they must collect themselves and heal injuries. The coaching staff must determine what went wrong with the vaunted read spread option running game that had done fairly well the previous 4 games, and then make corrective adjustments.

Defensively, as bad as it looked Saturday against MSU at times and the week before against Indiana (and by the way, it looked godawful most of the first 3 quarters on Saturday), Greg Robinson’s defense is actually finding ways to force field goals and keep the young Wolverines in football games.

For the first two games, the offense carried the Michigan team to victory with a balanced running and passing attack and by simply outscoring the opposition. Despite the loss on Saturday and the surrender of 400+ offensive yards again, the Michigan defense may actually be finally finding it’s bearings. The wheels aren’t coming off the Michigan offense, but clearly the injury to center David Molk is causing major disruption in the rhythm of the Wolverine rushing attack. It’s doubtful that this can be corrected completely with another week of practice.

Your shoulders are sore? Well, it's Because We've Been Riding Them Since Game 2!
As outstanding and heroic as Tate Forcier has been so far this year, there are seven games left and it’s time for him to settle down as the starter. Forcier is simply waiting way too long to get rid of the football. This could be on the UM receivers not getting open, the lack of decent pass protection or the lack of a safety valve receiver on certain plays. It could also be Forcier’s inexperience.

In my view, however, the “freshman mistake” comments need to end right here and right now. Forcier has already started 5 collegiate football games this year. This practice of holding on to the ball until the last moment is something Forcier must recognize as a serious risk and try to minimize it. Yet, the long pauses and Fran Tarkenton impressions keep coming week after week. The scrambling around and throwing off the back foot is going to create turnovers, possibly cause injuries, and likely place Michigan’s already porous defense in the worst of possible circumstances.

But what happens? With an beautiful TD throw here and a shocking first down play there, it's amazing to me how all of this recklessness is so quickly forgotten. And at what cost? If no one is open, take off and get some yards, or just throw it away. In the game of college football, you can still be the game hero by not being the hero.

While Forcier can certainly do more to help himself become more patient, the Michigan seniors need to step up and remind Forcier that they intend to contribute as well. And if they do this, they have to actually deliver! Brandon Minor, Carlos Brown, Greg Mathews, Mark Ortmann, David Mooseman must show some burst over the next 7 games.

It is not right to have the success of this football season ride on Forcier's busted shoulders alone.

On the Wolverines’ horizon lie a tough, 12th-ranked Iowa Hawkeyes team that resembles Michigan State in many ways, except perhaps that they’re much better offensively than predicted in the off-season, with arguably the biggest and best offensive line in the entire Midwest. Iowa’s defense has played remarkably well this year against run-oriented offenses including spread formation teams like Iowa State, Arizona and Penn State. They are known for causing turnovers, particularly interceptions. If Michigan's defense can't control a quarterback like Kirk Cousins of Michigan State, they're going to have an "interesting" time against Iowa's Ricky Stanzi.

Expectations for a Young Team
As a last comment following the Wolverines' loss to Michigan State this weekend, I will say this: Michigan’s football team is remarkably young. It’s easy see that this football team possesses significant talent and promise for the future. Only 2 players will graduate from the starting lineup on defense this fall: DE Brandon Graham and LB Stevie Brown. On offense, Michigan will lose 5 players to graduation: TB Brandon Minor, TB Carlos Brown, WR Greg Mathews, OG David Moosman and OT Mark Ortmann.

When Michigan was unbeaten at 4-0, as excited as everyone was, many failed to recognize that two of the wins were close, non-decisive wins (ND, Indiana). The other two victories were rather expected, decisive wins (WMU and EMU). Saturday a close loss has been added to Michigan's experience. This Wolverine football team is going to continue to grow and surprise people. It would be a mistake, for example, for teams like Penn State, Wisconsin or Ohio State to discount Michigan this year. The high expectations that came with 4-0 now need to be appropriately adjusted following Saturday’s performance.

The Michigan offense and defense are not where they need to be to win a Big Ten title. Rodriguez’s read spread option offense is not running on all cylinders. The defense is giving up way too many big plays.

So what exactly can Michigan fans expect over the next seven games?

1. A good number of explosive plays and scores by the Michigan offense.

2. A high number of explosive plays and scores given up by the Michigan defense.

3. Close, barn-burner, cardiac-arrest-inducing UM victories.

4. Excruciatingly-close UM defeats.

5. More moments of brilliance which will foreshadow a bright future.

Cinderella's Wearing Combat Boots...or Maybe Flip Flops

Looking at the game footage once again today (courtesy of one of the finest human beings on the planet, WolverineHistorian), Michigan has displayed some ugliness already in each of the last three games versus Notre Dame, Eastern Michigan and Indiana. The lack of position depth, experience and other warts are making themselves more than evident in the secondary, the linebacking corps, quarterback and even the more veteran offensive line.

But, man, when facing the Michigan team this year, opponents damn well better be prepared to bring it for a full 60 minutes. Defensive coordinator Greg Robinson's defense, as ugly as it has played so far, has given up 91 points total after 4 games (23 pts/game), but only 31 points in the second half. And Calvin Magee and Rich Rodriguez has the team running fast break the entire football game on offense. It can score quickly and from anywhere on the football field, either running or passing. They're not waiting for 3rd down and long either.

Things have changed.

That last TD pass from Forcier to Odoms looked.....improbable....didn't it?

Cinderella obviously isn't waiting around anymore for that stupid ass glass slipper to show up.

Michigan Escapes Indiana 36-33

They will call it an ugly win. And it certainly was. But Tay Odoms was smiling.

Down 33-29 in the final moments of the fourth quarter the sophomore slot receiver Martavious Odoms made the game winning score Saturday on a 28 yard touchdown pass reception from banged up Michigan quarterback Tate Forcier to give the Wolverines (4-0) the victory 36-33. Surprisingly, this was Martavious Odoms’ first touchdown reception as a Michigan Wolverine.

Kudos to the Indiana Hoosiers (3-1) and their head coach Bill Lynch. The new Pistol offense is improving each week for them and Michigan's defense served as a nice practice dummy to work on. Indiana came to Ann Arbor with a creative game plan: attack Michigan’s corners and the middle of the field with a mixture of short and long passes, and as for running the ball, just employ a full frontal assault on Michigan's center line and linebackers with isolation runs up the middle and to the outside. This approach worked well on Saturday against a soft, malleable Michigan defense. Want the evidence? Hoosier tailback Darius Willis shredded Michigan for over 152 yards and two touchdowns, including an 85 yard jaunt. Indiana outrushed (197 yards to 149 yards) and out-passed Michigan (270 yards to 223 yards) in this football game, and had fewer turnovers and penalties as well.

Michigan’s read spread option offense had previously been averaging 287 yards rushing per game, but Indiana’s defensive front seven halved that output on Saturday. The Wolverines also lost 3 fumbles, threw one interception and generally looked out of sync with several players replacing injured starters on both sides of the ball. Yet the Hoosier defense still struggled to prevent three Michigan scores on the ground and two through the air, including a 2 point conversion run by Forcier early in the 4th quarter.

For the second straight week tailback Carlos Brown lead the team on to victory with solid contributions and big plays, with 83 yards rushing, 61 yards receiving and 2 touchdowns. Banged up senior tailback Brandon Minor tacked on another 50 yards rushing and one TD as well.

Freshman quarterback Tate Forcier seemed off in this game, but did his best to continue his spot-on imitation of former Wolverine quarterback Rick Leach in this game. Forcier hit on 11 of 21 (52%) passing attempts for 184 yards, 2 touchdown chucks, 15 yards rushing and 1 touchdown run plus a 2 point conversion run. Forcier also just happened to be behind the game winning TD pass again. However, for the third straight week, Forcier threw an interception (1). He was also sacked twice for -7 yards and appeared to have injured his shoulder in the game. Denard Robinson led Michigan on one touchdown drive (Minor TD) and was 2 of 3 for 39 yards passing and contributed 24 yards rushing.

Next week Michigan travels to East Lansing for it’s first road game of the season against cross-state rival Michigan State (1-3). Following last year’s 3-9 finish, and Saturday’s close win over overmatched Indiana, Rich Rodriguez and the Wolverine team are looking past no one this season. The Spartans are currently ranked last in the Big Ten standings despite a strong signing of recruits in 2008 and high pre-seasons praise and accolades from the local Michigan and national press. Despite the 1-3 start in 2009, it’s worth noting that 2 of MSU’s losses were by a total of only 5 points (CMU by 2 pts, Notre Dame by 3 points). The Spartans currently lead the Big Ten in offensive yards per game (439) and are 4th in scoring (33 pts/game). They lead the conference in total passing yards (1,283) and in first downs per game (24).

Being 4-0 is the best Michigan could have hoped for to this point of the season. The past victories provide this young Michigan team much needed confidence. But the Wolverines must make no mistake, Michigan State on the road will be the toughest opponent they've faced so far this year. This game will be a key determining factor as to how good the 2009 Michigan football team intends to be and how far they might go.

When Carcajous Attack Eagles

I'm Ron English.
Look at my wingspan!
I will destroy you!

Preview: No. 25 Michigan vs. Eastern Michigan, September 19, 2009 – Michigan Stadium, Ann Arbor, Michigan

When You Crave Irrational Exuberance On A Level That Only Brett Musberger Can Deliver:
“Well, we’re here LIVE in Ann Arbor, Michigan yet again! The Wolverines are well on their way down the path to redemption in 2009 following that soul-devouring 2008 season finish of 3-9! Rich Rodriguez’s Wolverine football team is now 2-0, having vanquished two former bowl teams from the 2008 football season in Western Michigan and Notre Dame. Now the Wolverines must guard against an emotional letdown this week, as the Eagles of Eastern Michigan come to the Big House for the fourth time since 1998. Eastern Michigan fell to Rich Ellerson’s Army Cadets in a 14-27 defeat two weeks ago, and then proceeded to rattle Northwestern in Evanston last weekend, tying the football game 24-24 with just 2:40 left to play. Northwestern escaped an upset by a butt-hair, nailing a 49 yard field goal with only 6 seconds to play!

This football game is important for Michigan for the following reasons:

1.) When Rich Rodriguez first accepted the head coach position at Michigan in December 2007 he decided not retain the services of then Michigan defensive coordinator Ron English. Instead Rodriguez chose to hire Stanford’s Scott Shafer as UM’s DC in 2008, which of course turned out to be a failure of epic proportions for Rodriguez. English moved on quickly and became the new head coach of the Eastern Michigan football team for 2009. English has established an fine coach staff including offensive coordinator Ken Karcher (Pitt ’93-’96), and some former Michigan players and coaches like Tyrone Wheatley (RBs), Kurt Anderson (OL) and Steve Szabo (LBs). In at least one corner of Ron English’s brain, he’s got to be more than a little pissed off still after whiffing that interview with Rich Rodriguez. Ron will want to dish out some payback, or at least make a strong statement in his first coaching stint against the resurgent Wolverines.

2.) The 2-0 Michigan Wolverines are coming off the program’s biggest victory since the Capital One Bowl win over No. 9 Florida back back in January 2007. Michigan’s recent losses to teams like Appalachian State and Toledo remain fresh in the minds of both Wolverine faithful, coaches and players. This Michigan team must demonstrate a renewed level of focus and determination and defeat the teams like EMU in resounding fashion in order to regain national respect.

3.)Michigan is ranked 25th in the AP college football poll for the first time since the final season polls back in January 2007. Michigan must prove it belongs here in 2009 with a decisive win over EMU - a team that on paper appears to be overmatched by Michigan in the talent department.

4.)Michigan needs to be able to heal team injuries and avoid new ones. Michigan must also build greater depth and experience at several key positions by getting more reps for 2nd and 3rd string players at quarterback, along the defensive front, linebacker and the defensive secondary. A swift, early and decisive victory over EMU Saturday could grant Michigan coaches and players that much-needed opportunity.

5.) As a head coach Rodriguez is 7-1 versus MAC teams all time, with the only loss coming last year at home versus Toledo. However, this will be Rodriguez’s first game ever against an Eastern Michigan football team.

6.) EMU played Michigan pretty tough the last time they visited Ann Arbor in early 2007, losing by only 8 pts 22-33 against a Wolverine football squad widely regarded nationally as one of Lloyd Carr’s most experienced and explosive offensive teams ever. That game included a surprising EMU second half rally, and a recovered onside kick by EMU.

7.) It’s a battle for the ages for absolute hegemony over Washtenaw County Michigan (including full control over the Washtenaw Dairy in Ann Arbor, which features the best assortment of fine ice cream served in massive quantities, that you will ever taste in your life including “Superman ice cream”, one of my personal favorites.)

It’s interesting to note that Eastern Michigan returns 9 starters on offense, including star senior quarterback Andy Schmitt, as well as 8 starters on defense for the 2009 football season. Also, the Eagles finished a shocking 28th in the nation in total offense (versus mainly MAC competition) in 2008. On the other hand, Michigan returns 9 starters returning on offense and about 7 starters on defense. Again, on paper Michigan is a much more talented squad than the Eagles in terms of the vast number of 4- and 5-star players on the Wolverine roster.

Three Great Reasons to Wipe That Ridiculous Smile Off Your Face:

1. Eagles Quarterback Andy Schmitt and Wide Receiver Jacory Stone
So Tate Forcier is an accurate thrower and has earned some notoriety for being cool in the clutch. Well, EMU’s quarterback Andy Schmitt is, well, EMU’s not-too-shabby starting quarterback! After two games, Schmitt has hit on 64% for 331 yards, 2 TDs and 4 INTs. Well OK, so the interceptions are not so great thing, but Schmitt is a senior and EMU’s offensive team leader! Indeed Eastern Michigan was 2-10 last year, but Schmitt championed the Eagles in surprising victories over far better opponents like Bowling Green and Central Michigan.

Eagles QB Andy Schmitt threw for 2,648 yards, 15 TDs and 8 INTs in 2008

Schmitt’s favorite target is senior wide out Jacory Stone, who has had 15 grabs for over 150 yards so far including one 25 yard TD grab last week vs. Northwestern. Stone is not a big player (6-0, 190 lbs) but he is very quick and shifty, and seems perpetually open for easy first down strikes.

Eastern Michigan's WR Jacory Stone

2. Eagles tailback Dwayne Priest
Judging from the first two games of the football season versus Army and Northwestern, Dwayne Priest might very well be the most talented and productive player on the EMU football team. So far he’s rushed for 210 yards, with 5.8 yards per carry, 2 TDs and has 28 yards receiving.
The EMU offensive line has played well enough in the last two games against a smaller Army squad, and a talented and veteran Northwestern defense. Both opponents permitted Priest to rattle off several big runs over 30 yards in each game.

3. The Threat of More Michigan Injuries
With two games down, Michigan has already struggled to keep its starting lineup intact. Injuries to Brandon Minor, Junior Hemingway and Boubacar Cissoko have left after week 1 are worrying. After the Notre Dame game, Michigan guard David Moosman hurt his shoulder and will likely miss this week’s game vs. EMU. I stated before the season began that player injuries could be the death of Michigan in 2009, particularly along the defensive line, defensive secondary and (*gasp*) at quarterback.

It doesn’t matter that an 0-2 EMU is rolling into town. If it were 1976 Michigan would put EMU away by the second quarter, rest its 1st string players, and give the 2nd and 3rd team players badly needed game experience. Of course, scholarship limits and general college football parity ensures that a Michigan football season like that of 1976 will never ever be seen again. Resting the first team players is an event rarely seen in Michigan football since 1994. Rodriguez’s coaching philosophy is rather different from Lloyd Carr’s. Rodriguez, historically speaking, has not been the pillar of mercy in terms of letting off the gas pedal in the second half of football games against inferior opponents. In fact, Rodriguez doesn’t mind drag racing the team despite a significant lead. Lloyd Carr, on the other hand, was more careful not to get caught speeding, lest it embarrass opponents or make them angry.

Moeller: "Hey Bo, it's uh...uh, 42-0, let's send in the second tea.."
Bo: "Shut the f&#* up Gary!" ("Heh, heh heh, yeah, I love this game!")

When Carcajous Attack! On Defense:
Greg Robinson made some half-time adjustments versus Notre Dame, which like, wow, is a major feat in and of itself for Michigan football since, well, Gary Moeller was the defensive coordinator in Ann Arbor.. Michigan’s secondary must be shell-shocked to some degree this week, as Notre Dame’s Jimmy Clausen and his wide receivers absolutely throttled the Wolverine secondary for 336 yards passing and 3 TD bombs. The Wolverines also gave up a disturbing amount of rushing yards last weekend, 154, as well as 34 points. Andy Schmitt will be the 3rd pro-style quarterback the Wolverine defense has faced in succession. The EMU offensive line is massive at center and at both guard positions, but considerable smaller at both tackle spots. The Eagles OL is probably as good as, or slightly better than Western Michigan’s was. Michigan did not sack Clausen at all last week, but did give him some pressure to hurry his throws. And so it will likely be for Andy Schmitt. Michigan’s weakest link is the secondary. Anyone watching the WMU and ND films of Michigan’s defense cannot avoid the obvious conclusion that the Michigan’s corners and safeties can and must be attacked, with the exception of CB Donovan Warren. Schmitt should have well over 150 yards passing easily in this game. They should also have success running the football with Priest and the other Eagle tailbacks. But if Michigan gains the lead in this game early, the EMU running attack may be shelved and more pressure will be placed firmly on Schmitt’s already burdened shoulders to pull off some magic. And that’s were the undersized EMU tackles come in, and their Wolverine friends Mr. Brandon Graham and Mr. Craig Roh.

When Carcajous Attack! On Offense:
One thing is for certain. Eastern Michigan’s defense has been absolutely ground to fine powder the last two weeks by primarily run-centric offenses, although the most obvious weakness of the EMU defense is a much less experienced defensive secondary. Rich Ellerson’s new Army Cadets football team has returned to a wishbone offense variant and proceeded to rush for 300 yards, over 6.1 yards per carry. and 4 rushing touchdowns. The Cadets passed for only 8 yards in the game on 5 attempts. Northwestern rushed for only 159 yards, 4 yards per carry and 2 TDs against the Eagles. Northwestern’s QB Mike Kafka threw for 158 yards, 0 TDs and 1 INT. Michigan’s offense is like Northwestern’s in many respects, except that Michigan’s quarterback Tate Forcier has been very accurate in the passing department, and has already developed a reputation for making incredibly big plays at opportune moments. In addition, UM tailback Brandon Minor may finally be at 100% health for the first time this week. It’s also worth noting that after only two games three different Michigan receivers have caught 2 or more touchdown passes and over 6 different Wolverine receivers and running backs have over 10 yards per reception averages. This is a very different Michigan offensive football team from a year ago. Once again all eyes will be on the freshman quarterback Tate Forcier in this game, and well they should be. So far Forcier has been very productive, and has managed to avoid big mistakes. With Hemingway and Minor likely returning to the Wolverine lineup, EMU will have to defend more big play makers than WMU and Notre Dame had to.

The Last Time:
Michigan last played the Hurons, I mean, the Eagles on October 6, 2007 in Ann Arbor. Michigan won the game indecisively 33-22. That final outcome would not be known until the waning moments of the game. This was in part due to Michigan head coach Lloyd Carr and offensive coordinator Mike DeBord approaching the football game with kid’s gloves. This irresponsible lack of creativity and aggressiveness permitted EMU to hang with the Wolverines much of the game, trailing the anemic, yet star-studded Wolverine offense only 8-16 at halftime. Then, surprise! EMU then took ensuing second half kickoff and drove 57 yards to cut Michigan’s lead to 2 points 14-16 on an Andy Schmitt 10 yard touchdown run. Then things got really interesting. Michigan countered with two big Mike Hart touchdown runs and a K.C. Lopata field goal for a 33-14 lead entering the 4th quarter. Mike DeBord took a break the 4th quarter and Michigan’s offense stopped scoring. This signaled EMU to score a 4th quarter touchdown pass and a 2 pt conversion to cut the lead down to 8 pts, 22-33. The Eagles then called for an onside kick which they of course recovered at the EMU 40 yard line. Then EMU’s backup quarterback Kyle McMahon drove EMU easily down to the Michigan 41 where his 1st and 10 pass sailed into the loving arms of a Michigan defensive back for an interception. Game over. It was not pretty. Mike Hart had over 215 yards rushing and became Michigan’s all-time career leading rusher in that game. But the slacker fashion in which the game was won reminded many Michigan fans of the earlier embarrassment to Appalachian State just five weeks before.

What to Expect:
Without question EMU head coach Ron English is going to have his Eagles breathing fire at the very start of this football game. EMU almost beat Northwestern in Evanston last week and will have renewed confidence heading into the Big House. The Eagles have an experience offense and should be able to move the ball on Michigan with a balanced attack of draws, screens and quick hitch passes in the flat. EMU has displayed improved toughness on defense against both Army and Northwestern, but ultimately will have no answer for Michigan’s meat cleaver rushing attack on Saturday. Offensively, quarterback Andy Schmitt has demonstrated the ability to execute long scoring drives for EMU. Alas, despite such advancements under Ron English, the Eagles have repeatedly beaten themselves with over 130 yards in penalties in just the first two games and with 5 turnovers that have just killed key offensive drives and positive game momentum for The Eagles time and again. It will not be any easier to cease and desist with this senseless behavior in front of 110,000 screaming Michigan fans, and the now famously seen-but-not-heard Michigan Marching Band, not to mention….wait for it…. piped in music by *shudder* Neill Diamond.

The pundits will definitely be flailing about, warning of a MAC revival and the significant risk of an emotional letdown for Michigan following the dramatic Notre Dame victory last weekend. I don’t see that this time. This UM team is just different. Any “letdowns” where likely thrown off the team prior to the start of fall practice. To English’s surprise, the Wolverines will be all business on Saturday. Defensively, Michigan will give up some disturbing amounts of yardage on the ground and through the air once again to tailback Dwayne Priest and quarterback Andy Schmitt respectively. Adjustments will be made by UM, and the EMU running game will eventually be abandoned by the 3rd quarter.

Tate Forcier will work in a swift shift in this game with 150 yards passing, 2 TDs and 50+ yards rushing. EMU had serious problems with Army’s bruising tailback Patrick Mealy (5-8, 203 lbs) who had 109 yards in just 5 attempts!!!! Expect Minor to rack up over 100 yards rushing and 1 to 2 touchdown before he tags in Carlos Brown and Michael Shaw

“Oh, Mr. Minor! Your table is ready!"
"Our special today: Broiled Eagle"

For the remaining 30 minutes of the game, attendees will be entertained with eyes wide and mouths agape at the mercurial running and option exploits of one Mr. Denard Robinson, a.k.a.

Denard Robinson: "Laces?! I don't need no freakin' laces!!"

WCA Prediction: Michigan 45, Eastern Michigan 14

Tate Forcier Hits Cover of Sports Illustrated

The Michigan freshman quarterback has started to rack up some serious notoriety points this week (see upper right of SI cover).

Here's to the New Freshmen Quarterbacks

Michigan Quarterback Rick Leach as a freshman in 1975

A new era of Michigan quarterbacks begins on Saturday versus Western Michigan.
Many fans and pundits deeply disparage the spread option offense and the quarterbacks that operate it because like the Wishbone, the Veer and the Option I offenses before it, the spread option is considered by some to be just not as good, not as prolific, and considerably more "boring" than the more refined and exciting pro-set, West Coast, NFL offenses that have featured the tall drop back quarterbacks like Elvis Grbac, Todd Collins and Tom Brady.

With the two freshman quarterbacks Tate Forcier and Denard Robinson, Michigan is going to finally be able to open up the entire Rich Rodriguez's playbook on Saturday. Both of these youngsters are going to make some big mistakes. No question. But I'm convinced that they are also going to give Michigan fans plenty to smile about this fall as well.

College football is certainly a game of great emotion. It's also very much a team sport. No one player can do it all themselves. Tate and Denard will not only have 10 other guys sharing and carrying the load on every play. They'll also have 105,000+ Wolverine fans cheering them on. Though California and Florida are hundreds of miles away, they'll both be playing at home. In their Big House.

Best of luck to Tate and Denard in their first game in the Maize and Blue this coming Saturday versus Western Michigan!

HAIL TO THE VICTORS! AND GO BLUE!

Tate Forcier, QB, Scripps Ranch High School, Scripps Ranch, CA:


Denard Robinson, Deerfield Beach High School, Deerfield Beach, FL:

Western Michigan's Defensive Coordinator: Steve Morrison

The defensive coordinator for the Western Michigan Broncos has a familiar name to most Wolverine fans. It's Steve Morrison, who played linebacker for the Michigan Wolverines between 1990 and 1994 under then Wolverine head coach Gary Moeller.

Here's Mr. Morrison take on the Broncos young defensive secondaryquoted from Yahoo.com's Western Michigan Team Report:

“You can, as coaches, try to prepare them and put them in situations, and that’s what we do. We try to get them in as many negative situations and see how they respond. But certainly it’s still going to be that first time they line up and the first time something goes bad—and it will. And how are they going to respond to that?”

The Broncos secondary this fall will feature mainly upperclassmen, including safeties Mario Armstrong (Jr.) and Jamail Berry (Jr.) and cornerbacks Josh Price (So.) and Andy Dorcely (Sr.). However, Mario Armstrong is only player with significant game experience and statistics, with 64 tackles and 1 interception recorded in 2008.

Sources from inside Michigan's practices this week indicate that the Broncos' secondary will very likely face Michigan freshman quarterback Tate Forcier on the first offensive series for the Wolverines on Saturday. The other two Wolverine quarterbacks, Denard Robinson and Nick Sheridan, are also expect to rotate in during the course of the contest.

Western Michigan's historical football team record over the last 20 years on opening day can be described in only one word: abysmal. In fact, despite a tremendous overall record in Kalamazoo, Bill Cubit is 0-4 so far in season openers since coming to Western Michigan in 2005.

The last time the Broncos won their season opener was in 2004 versus Tennessee-Martin 42-0. The last BCS (Division I) opponent that Western Michigan defeated on opening day was in 1997 versus Temple 34-14.

Gulo Gulo Semper Accursus : Michigan Offensive Position 2009 Preview

No, I'm not pissed off.
I'm harmless.
Come over here and pet me.
Shred you to ribbons?
Now where on earth would you get a crazy idea like that?

My theme for the 2009 Michigan football season is going to be:

Gulo Gulo Semper Accursus.

This is not "Wolverines Perpetually Pissed Off"

It's “Wolverines Always Running”.

My justification for this theme is backed up by mountaineers of evidence and modern science. This is what inevitably happens on offense when Rich Rodriguez combines a more experienced offensive line, a mobile quarterback, and a deep stable of talented running backs, not to mention when wide receivers finally understand their place in the offense and sustain their blocks downfield. Michigan should witness some better throwing accuracy from the new quarterbacks, to be sure. As improved as the Michigan passing game should be this fall, you can take this to the bank:

Rodriguez is going to have the Wolverines running the football like no tomorrow in 2009.

Quarterbacks
Failing to heed the lessons learned from the Steve Spurrier Experience, the Rich Rodriguez and the Michigan Wolverines in 2009 will sally forth with, count ‘em: A Vun! A Twoo! A Trree! - Trrree! different starting quarterbacks this fall, including two true freshman Tate Forcier (Scripps Ranch, CA) and Denard Robinson (Deerfield Beach, FL). The third option will be much-maligned junior quarterback Nick Sheridan, who started on and off at quarterback for the Wolverines during the 2008 football season. According to fall camp observers, Forcier is a quick runner and the most accurate passer, while Sheridan apparently has achieved coach-level understanding of Rodriguez’s spread option playbook, while Denard Robinson is what you get when you find a genie lamp at a Michigan concession stand on game day, rub it profusely, and then ask for the Greek god Mercury to reappear, strap on his winged helmet again, and score 80 yard touchdown runs on zone read keepers in 5 seconds flat while opposing defenders drop their jaws and shields in amazement just like frightened 4th century Greeks obviously would. Some of them hail from Sparta, you know.



It has been argued by me that with mobile quarterbacks like Forcier and Robinson, Michigan opponents can no longer skip chapters 2 through 58 of the Rich Rodriguez spread option playbook. Like the magical appearance of Rasheed Marshall in 2002, alas, Wolverine opponents must finally hit the library and read all of the nasty bits to prepare for every possibility that will be on display Saturday afternoons. Finally.

Both of these quarterbacks can run and throw equally well, so every play involves considerable risk that simply did not present itself last fall with quarterbacks Steven Threet and Nick Sheridan. Forcier has a fake 40 time of 4.6 and Robinson of 4.3. So yeah, go ahead. Ignore these freshman quarterbacks if you wish. It's your funeral.


I will concede the possibility, however remote, that Nick Sheridan dramatically improved his throwing skills over the winter, spring and summer workouts and that’s he’s bigger and stronger than 2008. Also, we must recognize that Sheridan is being tutored by a fine quarterbacks coach in Rod Smith, as well as Rich Rodriguez himself. Game experience and knowledge of the playbook places Sheridan at No. 3 on the depth chart. The other reason why Sheridan is No. 3 is that David Cone and a walk-on are No. 4 and No.5 respectively on the UM QB depth chart. Next year the addition of a two more top rated quarterbacks will likely increase the competitive pressure even more the position. This is good news for Michigan.

So how will things end up in 2009 for the Michigan offense with these quarterbacks?
It’ll be a mixed bag of sunshine and tornados. I’ve been thinking a lot about Michigan’s 1981 season, when the Wolverines replaced a gimpy runner and pro-style thrower in John Wangler with a sophomore tailback, I mean quarterback, Steve Smith (who played only 3 games of garbage time in 1980).

Except Steve Smith’s throwing accuracy sort of sucked by modern standards (46% in 1981, and 50% over his career), but the guy rushed for 679 net yards and 12 TDs and threw for about 1700 yards, 15 TDs and 11 INTs.

I’m thinking whoever is quarterback for Michigan will have slightly greater stats passing that Steve Smith did, but it’ll be close. I certainly expect a lot more rushing attempts and yardage by the Michigan quarterbacks this fall as this will keep defenses much more honest. Wolverine fans should also expect increased passing accuracy, a lot more passing attempts than in 2008 on all downs, improved 3rd down conversion rate (27% in 2008!), and a significantly higher number of interceptions, plus muchos sacks ridiculosos.

Defensive Coordinators will rip off their headsets in disgust most frequently because of: Tate Forcier’s scrambling ability and throwing accuracy

These QBs will remind us of: Zak Kustok and Troy Smith with two integrated Pratt & Whitney aircraft engines.


Michigan Offensive Position 2009 Preview: Running Backs
Most college football pundits and opponent homers have been harping on about Michigan’s 3-9 record in 2008. One of the things that stand out as I review this year’s running back depth chart is how deep and talented it has become. The future looks very pretty bright indeed for Michigan in this area. Michigan’s running back situation might be the best in the entire Big Ten right now in terms of overall experience, talent and speed. Brandon Minor, Carlos Brown and Michael Shaw all return at tailback, while new arrival true freshman Vincent Smith has tore up the floor and won significant favor with the coaches. Redshirt freshman Mike Cox and true freshman Jeremy Gallon might also see reps this fall at tailback. Michigan will employ more Ace and I-formation sets in 2009, featuring one of two talented fullbacks in Mark Moundros and Kevin Grady. Keep an eye on Moundros, given Rodriguez’s love for walk-ons that play the fullback position.



The only mark against this group is durability. Minor and Brown are arguably the best players at running back on the team, but both have been prone to injury throughout their careers. Last year, the lack of a mobile quarterback allowed defenses to hone in on the Michigan backs and they paid the price. The addition of Forcier and Robinson at QB should give reasons for defenses to slow down their pursuits or pause outright, to which the Wolverine tailbacks should be quick enough to respond and exploit. I seriously doubt this, but if both Minor and Brown can stay healthy for 12 games, ho man, Michigan might have one of the better running attacks in the Big Ten and perhaps the nation.



Defensive Coordinators will rip off their headsets in disgust most frequently because of: A healthy Brandon Minor

That guy reminds me of: Michigan’s Billy Taylor combined with the weird high-knee, upright running style of USC’s Charles White



Wide Receivers
Michigan’s wide receivers are coached by Tony Dews. While I consider coach Dews to be a fantastic recruiter, his work coaching Michigan’s cast of 4-start wide receivers so far has left me longing. I say this in full understanding of the crap quarterback situation last fall (49% accuracy and 5 yards per attempt). The spread option offense absolutely requires excellent downfield blocking skills and execution by the outside receivers and slots on every down. In year two, this better improve. It’s not difficult to project significantly better receiving numbers for 2009 with Forcier and Robinson under center this fall. My God, the best receiver on the Wolverine team last year, slot receiver Martavious Odoms, caught only 49 passes for only 443 yards and no touchdowns! Of course, the football sails to only one receiver on any given play, so the other 3 or 4 guys have to block better than they did last year. If they do, Michigan’s rushing stats, yards per attempt and points per game should improve dramatically.

Odoms’ speed and elusiveness after the catch make him extremely dangerous. Two other slot receivers Kelvin Grady and Terrance Robinson are unknown to UM opponents, but offer speed and talented depth for Michigan.



The best receivers on the roster right now and the true deep threats for Michigan are probably Greg Mathews and Junior Hemingway. Darryl Stonum, James Rogers, Roy Roundtree and true freshman Je’Ron Stokes round out the depth chart of receivers. The Michigan receiving targets were a silent group last fall. That should change in a big way in 2009.

Defensive Coordinators will rip off their headsets in disgust most frequently because of: Greg Mathews

The guy reminds me of: Adrian Avant, I mean, Jason Arrington. Alright, some combination of those two.

Tight Ends
Michigan is blessed with two fantastic tight ends in sophomore Kevin Koger and redshirt freshman Martell Webb. Tight ends have not been prominently featured in Rodriguez’s offenses in the past, but the coaching staff seminars with Kevin Wilson down at Oklahoma were very productive, and Rodriguez likes the ideas of employing TEs more effectively. We’ll see more Ace and full I formation sets that utlize these two players. I like this aspect because tight ends in general can be effective blocking instruments for the running attack on dives and option plays, as well as frustrating targets in the passing game. Most importantly, the tight ends add another passing option for the quarterback and just one more item that defenses must prepare for. This added TE weaponry in a spread offense will either create big mismatches in the secondary or massive openings for other receivers and backs.



Defensive Coordinators will rip off their headsets in disgust most frequently because of: Kevin Koger

The guy reminds me of: Doug Marsh


Offensive Tackle
One of the things I like about Rich Rodriguez, and that I disliked about Lloyd Carr, was that Rich Rod dictates a policy of continuous improvement and competition at every position. This competition does not stop at fall practice. It continues on week after week at every single position from quarterback to special teams. No player can rest on his laurels. Incumbents, seniority and nepotism all slough off so that the most productive players displaying the least errors and the strongest drive see the football field first. What does this insanely competitive atmosphere yield for Michigan football? The answers lie with greater position depth, greater game preparedness, increased player confidence, greater team unity and an overall heightened sense of urgency. No where are these benefits more apparent than along the Michigan offensive line in 2009. A 2-star freshman named Mark Huyge actually beat out Perry Dorrestein, Patrick Omameh and Bryant Nowicki to be the starter at tackle. Fifth year senior Mark Ortmann has secured the other tackle spot. Dorrestein and Omameh will serve as the 2nd string backups at either tackle.

Huyge and Ortmann are both 6-6 and in the 290 lbs range. Not colossal in size, but big enough, quick enough, and good enough to do a satisfactory job. Run blocking should be their forte. The biggest question mark here may be their pass blocking, but it helps this group significantly to have two jitterbug escape artists like Forcier and Robinson at quarterback.

Defensive Coordinators will rip off their headsets in disgust most frequently because of: Do DC’s throw down their headsets in disgust about offensive tackles? They do? Well OK, then Mark Ortmann



The guy reminds me of: Jeff Backus

Offensive Guard
If the Michigan Wolverines offense lives up to the motto Gulo Gulo Semper Accursus, it’ll be because this core of the Wolverine offensive line did a great job. In my view the guards and center of the Michigan offense line makes up this core and features the best players. Seniors David Moosman and Steve Schilling are poised to have break out seasons at the guard position for Michigan this fall. Both are essentially identical in height and weight at 6-5 and around 300 lbs. Both are very experienced veterans. Barring injury, this could be their finest season in a maize and blue uniform. Backing them up are John Ferrara, Elliot Mealer and Ricky Barnum. Tim McAvoy is the backup center, but he also played some guard last year and adds more depth if needed.

Defensive Coordinators will rip off their headsets in disgust most frequently because of: Do DC’s throw off their headsets about offensive guards? They don’t? What about David Moosman!



The guy reminds me of: An unshaven, axe-wielding Brendan Gleeson in Braveheart



Center
It certainly helps Michigan this fall to have a Dave Rimington candidate snapping the football on every down. It is fitting that Dave Molk, too, wears No. 50.
Molk, only a junior, is already very experienced and has become a vocal leader along a more senior offensive line. With veterans Schilling and Moosman at his sides, Michigan’s offensive line appears to be well-anchored and should be able to open good holes for the Wolverine running backs and quarterbacks, as well as provide sufficient pass protection. Fifth year senior McAvoy serves as a capable backup at center.



Defensive Coordinators will rip off their headsets in disgust most frequently because of: Do DC’s throw down their headsets about centers? They don’t?

The guy reminds me of: Steve Everitt

Pre-Season Grade Predictions:

Quarterbacks: C+
Rod Smith and Rich Rodriguez are handing over the keys to true freshmen and a mistake-prone junior walk-on. This group is going to make plenty of mistakes this fall folks, so I hope you ordered those crates of Pepto Bismol to arrive on your doorstep prior to kickoff September 5th. At the same time, the skills sets are in place to drive this offense the way it was always intended: With reckless abandon.

Running Backs: B+
The only thing preventing this group from getting into A territory is injuries. This is because we're unable to imagine a full 12 games where Brandon Minor and Carlos Brown escape unscathed. I don't believe these two can stay healthy. It will impact production to some extent. Otherwise, the running backs are the strength and bread-and-butter of this football team.

Offensive Line: B+
This should be a solid season for Michigan along the front. Injuries could really put the clamps down on this group, and I suspect we will witness some in 2009. The good news is that the mobile quarterbacks should lighten the load a bit and perhaps allow greater advancement to the second level. Of all the offensive position groups, if healthy, this crew could be really good.

Receivers, Slots and Tight Ends: B
Last year this group got about a D- in my book. The new quarterbacks will help, as well as increased competition and another year in the system. Hemingway and Mathews should make some exciting plays downfield this fall, while Odoms, Robinson and Grady will be dangerous dudes underneath and on the edge. Koger and Webb should become more prominent in the new Rodriguez packages this autumn.