Jarhead

Mon, Jun 21, 2010 : 5:09 a.m.

Lemansblue, I agree with Robbie, I'm not at all happy with the toledo loss. So what were the reasons, the forces if you will, that we lost? And please don't say its because the coach dosen't know football. For the same motivation that you have that you can't accept a loss to toledo, I have in accepting a loss to App State. There were injuries in both games, so whats next?

Jarhead

Mon, Jun 21, 2010 : 5:02 a.m.

It's been posted that Mallet was a future Heisman winner, an enormous talent. I'm not disagreeing but the important word here is "Future". If Henne's arm was falling off and it is the most important game of the year, at least for Mich, than why didn't the head coach put in his heisman QB? Could it be that Henne knew the playbook for 4 years? Did the team have more confidence in him even with one arm? (Last year half way through the season, the coaches revealed that Tate had been exposed to about 75% of the playbook. Exposed is not knowing it cold. And it takes time to learn to read various defenses. Denard at that time knew less than 50%.} Freshman don't win games let alone Big ten championships. Takes time to develope, to learn ANY system. When people say RR recruits "his players", that is true. You would want kids who have played spread in high school, shortens the training period. Gives you more time to take them to the next level. Harder to get the players he inhereted up to speed and accept knew theories. It's hard for some fans to accept new ideas. Harder even still to get older coaches to change. It's been posted that the players RR recruits are small. The fastest guys usually are a tad smaller. Fast big men are out there but few and far in between. If Bill Walsh came in with his much more complicated system, how long before he gets a young team up to speed? Yes, yes I know, "a good coach utilizes his talent". The players still have to exicute {spelling} correctly and consistantly. You drop a pass, you give up the ball, you simply can't get to the endzone and out comes the young defense again. The def that will have a Def Cor for at least two years now. Hmmmmm.

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 9:54 p.m.

But hey! I'm glad you are on board as you just admitted about key injuries affecting a game outcome. And just to repeat myself again, Michigan had more to deal with in addition to key injuries. So again, it's not surprise to the people who understand what's going on that Michigan has struggled.

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 9:50 p.m.

3 and Out, the only time you are going to see Harbaugh in Ann Arbor is if he visits or if Michigan schedules Stanford. And what I post are facts. And if they are not what happened then you should have no problem proving them wrong, but you haven't done that this entire off-season.

3 And Out

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 9:49 p.m.

whatever Robbie... I just posted a fact...you cant disagree with it when you look at the prior year when Henne went 21-35 for 267 and 2 on the road vs. tUOS... yeah so assuming he would have been healty, it doesnt take a genius to figure out that Michigan would have had a bit more than 93 yds total at home vs. tUOS.

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 9:46 p.m.

3 and Out, oh so NOW you want to start talking about injuries affecting the outcome of a game.

3 And Out

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 9:43 p.m.

Jar... 3 pts vs. OSU was when Henne's shoulder was almost falling off his arm.

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 7:19 p.m.

Lemansblue, I completely understand. And you are proving me more right each time back lack of points to prove mine wrong. But I think that's a good idea for you to let it go. I wouldn't want to get in a deeper hole either. And if you really want a new coach, I suggest you learn to wait, because chances are you wont see one for a long time.

Lemansblue

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 7:14 p.m.

Robbie, You cannot understand it so I will let it go. I cannot wait to we get a good coach.

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 7:08 p.m.

Lemansblue, with all due respect, you have yet to make one valid point, one that proves my points wrong and says why Rodriguez is a bad coach all at once.

Lemansblue

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 7:05 p.m.

True, Your killing me man that is really funny. No...I asked for a list and you give me beating ND in 2 plus years that is all you got...seriously???

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 6:59 p.m.

Exactly! I was waiting for someone to fall into that trap and it happened (Lemansblue). And why are you asking for our P.O.V. on the Toledo game? I said ABOVE that there is NO reason Michigan should have lost that game. But then I proceeded to say that you can say the same thing about the App.State game, which was worse considering the experience of that team. And I made the point that just a couple key injuries can really hurt and that on top of injuries this team has endured there have been others things as well going on like youth, no depth, walkons at key spots and little veteran leadership. So thank you, Lemansblue, for proving our point.

truebluefan

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 6:52 p.m.

3-and-out, Now I KNOW that you do not read nor comprehend Robbie's posts. Robbie has been making great arguments that injuries and lack of experienced depth have been the primary causes of losses over the past two seasons. Then you come back with an excuse for Lloyd as to why he lost to App State (Mike Hart was injured). That was ONE guy and #5 ranked Michigan lost to a DII team, at home! RR has dealt with several injuries and walk-ons all over the two-deep over the past two years. The irony here is you give Lloyd a pass but you won't give RR the same pass. Why? Because courtesy of the Freep, the NCAA stumbled upon practice time and QC assistant violations under RR?

Lemansblue

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 6:46 p.m.

Jar, Good rundown on App St game. When are you going to do a rundown on the Toledo game with the current coach. I like the way your positive on a 3-13 Big Ten record that is really impressive. Neal. I am really impressed with your knowledge of coach Carr's record I just wish the people who compiled the records checked with you first because no way does his record add up to 8-4 coach...I would check the facts first before you post.

truebluefan

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 6:36 p.m.

Lemansblue - You asked for one good or great thing to happen to the UM program since the RR hire. I gave you one and your reply is "that is funny". Seriously? You don't consider beating ND a good or great thing?

Jarhead

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 6:17 p.m.

about Appl State. "On any given Saturday...." They are a good team---in their division. In the first half they scored on every posession but one. Where was our talented and experienced defense? Mich scored what? twice in the first half if I remember correctly? And one of those was a field goal? There is no way we should not have scored every time we had the ball against that team. And then in the second half at the end of the game we settle for a field goal to win? This goes to my statements about Lloyd being safe and conservative. If Hart is injured then Minor and Brown get the calls, but if you only run left over Long the other team catches on. And if Mallet was sooo good he should have played for Henne and all would be well right? NO? What? he was a freshman and you could't expect a freshman to perform consistantly could you? Arguments come back don't they? Appl State runs what kind of offense? Yes, the spread. And Mich has always had trouble with the spread and mobile QBs. {See Donovan McNabe and Syracuse {spelling-its late}1998} The answer to beating the spread is score more points. That has always been a problem with Lloyd. We would get a lead in the first half and half way through the 3rd quarter go into our slow down game. Now before you instruct me as to how usefull a tool the slow down game is, let me remind you of how many times we fans got that sick feeling in our guts cause we would see the other team come back and beat us in the last few minutes. It was like some old proper Engishman's code of not running up the score to save the other players some imbarrassment. Lloyd was too nice too ever ever run the score up. Then the next game was Oregon and I don't care what you do you are not beating Oregon that year. We couldn't find our jockstraps with both hands in that game. That was a class on how to mix up you play calling, keeping the other team off balance. Hart sat out the Wisc game and it showed how even one player's experience can make a difference let alone the confidence of the rest of the team. But please, PLEASE someone explaine to me 3 points against Ohio. I don't belive we even got 100 yds offense in that game did we? And that was at home? Lloyd is great guy and was good for Mich for a time, but we have to move on. Maybe Lloyd should have read Bill Walsh's book. Lemons and 3 & out, you've got to tell me, are you Mich haters or RR haters. I don't really care just trying to get where you're coming from. I thought maybe you're disgruntled fans and venting and this is cheaper that therapy. But then I thought you are really the staff at A2.com and trying to get some good action on these blog sites. Cayse a little stirr. Some of the stuff is funny and some of your points I get, but most is born from negativity and my old brain just dosen't spin that way. Believe me I'm not trying to be adversarial, just trying to understand. If you are PO'd fans just hang in there, this year will prove to be fun to watch.

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 5:12 p.m.

Thank you, Jarhead. Some of these people are so blinded by frustration that it's getting in the way of realization.

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 4:40 p.m.

And 3 and Out, to your comment concerning Rich Rod not having not many players drafted into the NFL is further evident of youth and lack of veteran leadership. The classes have been small. None of those players that have graduated thus far are Rod's recruited players. Even this year his eldest players are juniors, of course he's not going have many drafted in the NFL at this point. So thank you for helping me prove my point.

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 4:31 p.m.

3 and Out, they were 9th in big ten play alone, #3 overall. And MSU in East Lansing is a tough place to play, considering we lost our runningback and arguably our best lineman for the MSU game. Again, shows that injureis alone hurt. And I don't know about you, but I consider the points we put up against MSU, Iowa, and Purdue a good job by the offense and if the defense didn't have so many issues and if Minor and Molk were 100% then we would have been 8-4 that year. And we put up a good fight agaist Wisconsin and OSU. And Lemansblue, I said above mentioned the good he's done concerning his character and I ALSO said I am no way clapping or giving him a standing ovation for the past two years. So what does that tell you? But you have to see the big picture and realize what is going on.

Nick Scobel

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 4:29 p.m.

I've been lurking on this board for awhile now and am really less than impressed on most of the comments here. Lemansblue, you mention smart coaching as time of possession, slowing the game down, etc and you also vaunt Lloyd Carr as running an amazing program. Lloyd Carr did a good job in his 13 seasons at Michigan, but apart from a 1997 national championship, he was pretty much a 8-4 coach with a poor record against Ohio State down the stretch. Have things gone poorly since RR got here? Yes. Is he the man for the job? We'll see. But I don't understand where you all get the idea that 8-4 or 9-3 is great. The game of college football is about National Championships nowadays, not conference titles. Michigan was left behind in the evolution of college football because they didn't hire outside of the program for 40+ years. Something needed to change, and maybe it will need to again if these season doesn't go well.

3 And Out

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 4:21 p.m.

Robbies big time vaunted OFFENSE (caps!) finished up 9th in the Big Ten total offense last year and rolled up an impressive 265 total yds vs. Wisky last year, just another example that RRs scheme only works vs. lessor talented non typical Big Ten defenses or out of conference Mac, FCS teams etc....

3 And Out

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 4:19 p.m.

Robbie...lol...ok your vaunted RR genius offense put up a grand total of 20 pts vs. MSU (most of it in desperation at the end after trailing big time most of the game)....21 pts vs. Iowa when they went to a downhill running attack and Minor Rage ran wild because nothing else was working...36 vs. a weak Purdue due to again Minor Rage's best game of the year by far (154 yds and 3TDs running downhill in the old Bo and Lloyd style) and they still lost btw... and woopie a big 24 pts vs. Wisconsin which was really 17 because Van Bergan scored on a fumble return! aahhha hahaa So much for that vaunted offense. next question... For anyone who hates Lloyd for that one loss to a pretty darned good App State team that had 5 players drafted to the NFL off that roster (which was more than RR had last year lol)...and was 3 time defending DII champs... and MIke Hart was injured for a big part of that game btw... well OK>.. go ahead and blame Lloyd he certain deserves some of it... but to consider App State (an anomoly among Michigan footballs great 130+ year history) to be the downfall of the program... and overshadows 7-16+1, break every historical winning streak in the program history / NCAA violations Big Rich Rod....well one would have to ask you whacha smokin?

Lemansblue

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 4:19 p.m.

Robbie. Man he is head coach he is responsible for the entire team. He is running a hurry up offense with a bad defense good coaches would try to slow the game down with time of poss and keep the defense off the field. I will keep waiting on that list...or you could just admit nothing good has happened since RR came here.

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 3:59 p.m.

Lemansblue, I answered your question. And it is not coaching, I explained the offensive statistics, which Rodriguez runs.Again, no one is questioning our ability to score as we have put up points. It is DEFENSE, DEFENSE, DEFENSE! NOT the offense. So it's incorrect for you to say it's flawed, becuase it's clear that it's not. And I hope you're not serious with that App. State argument. So you are telling me that just because they were a championship team in division II that it's a more respectable loss vs Toledo? Again, maybe you missed the fact that Michigan was highly praised going in to the 2007 season and lost to a division II team. And when I bring up the issues with the roster when Rodriguez showed up, there should be zero surprise we struggled against much harder teams than App. State. You cannot question his ability as a coach based on these past two years.

Lemansblue

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 3:46 p.m.

Trueblue, That is funny. Robbie. Sorry I missed that list... I will keep waiting on it. The fact is RR is being payed millions to deliver...Has he done that? I never said nothing personally about him I do not know him all I know is he has done a horrible job as leader and coach. Let me explain about App st and toledo losses both were terrible losses...The differece is App St was the first game of the season evryone knows you improve the most between the first and second game of the season also App St was a championship football team. The Toledo loss was well into the season to a very bad Toledo team when Mi should have been improving no matter who the players were. RR's system is flawed for the Big Ten that has been proven so far. NO way has Mi had last place talent in the Big Ten it is the coaching.

truebluefan

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 3:31 p.m.

3 and out -- So you are an expert on offensive playbook originality and innovation? Let me ask you an honest question and I will hopefully receive an honest answer. Have you ever played or coached a down of football beyond "peewee" level?

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 3:24 p.m.

3 and Out, what you have to understand, is no matter what kind of offense it is, it is ultimately all about player execution. That's football 101. With that being said, I and others (football analysts) like his play book and know it works. You seem to forget that we put up nice points against MSU, Iowa, Purdue and Wisconsin. For the most part was not an offensive problem, although there were issues. If you listen to anyone talk about college football and Michigan, NO ONE is questioning their ability to score. Why? Because they know it works, it's been proven that it work. ALL EYES are on defense. That is the big question going into the 2010 season. Not, ''Man, I sure hope Michigan can score.''

truebluefan

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 3:22 p.m.

lemans - OK, we beat a heated rival in Notre Dame. And we soundly dismantled the only Div II team we played. You happy? My guess is "no".

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 3:14 p.m.

Lemansblue, you did not respond to my points. But okay, I will answer yours. Rich Rodriguez, as we all know, is an emotional guy who very clearly cares about what he does for a living and loves the state and university of Michigan. He has said that he and his family could not imagine living anywhere else and that he takes his work home with him and is doing everything he can day and night to succeed as a team. I believe that's a great quality and others do not see that. I believe his style of play suits more to how football is being played, so I like the style he's brought to Ann Arbor, but as I mentioned above, there have been issues. On this particular site if you scroll down there is an article where he took time out of his day and was late for practice to talk to a grieving family, that's alot of class. It was nice to see the media not complaining about something negative. The problem is Michigan fans are spoiled and think they are entitled to the team winning every single time and when things don't happen over night, they get upset. Your last post shows very clearly that you are one sided and only showing the negative things, implying that Rodriguez is an evil person who does nothing right. Well let me let you in a little something, no one is perfect, everyone makes mistakes and the media likes stories that will keep people interested (Negative things mostly). You are only looking at one side. Brandon Graham said that Rodriguez made them all better players and he cares very much for them. No one is perfect, EVERYONE makes mistakes. To put the blame souly on him is not right. And those NCAA violations are minor, there was no cheating, he was not trying to cheat, there were communication issues. So bringing that up is useless. Because of the record, it has blinded the way people think. Look at Dantonio, Saban, Meyer, Lane Kiffin, those guys do not, IMO, have much class, but you don't see the media talking about the negative aspects constantly because they have produced on the field to some degree. To say Michigan is ruined is ridiculous and is wrong. Give the guy some breathing room. Like I said, the media likes juicy stories. And since our team has struggled, the negative things are what the haters look at.

truebluefan

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 3:02 p.m.

lemansblue, 3-and-out: I will always appreciate Lloyd Carr's service to the U of M. He secured us our only national championship in 50 years and gave us a bunch of great wins and good times for us fans. However, I also understood, as Lloyd did, that the time was right for change. I ALWAYS supported Lloyd Carr and Michigan Football through the good times and bad. That said, I think you really need to read and UNDERSTAND RobbieWebb's post. The point about App State is especially relevant when bringing up ANYTHING that has transpired under the RR regime. Under the coach that you likely believe was head and shoulders a better coach than RR, with a top 5 ranked UM team, we lost to a Div II team, at home. IMO, that is 100X worse than any losing season, Toledo loss or practice time violation. THAT is what everyone remembers and will talk about 15, 20, 30 years from now. It was nothing short of an historically embarrassing loss. I'm not sure what to say if you actually believe that a win over Florida later that season erases the memory of the App State loss or magically made things better. Icing on a stale fruitcake, my friends. So go ahead and forget about 5 losses in a row to OSU with the grand finale a 3-point clunker at home. Boast about how Carr left behind a roster full of 4- and 5-star talent (fools' gold!). All the while you are forsaking our tender rebuilding years, a time when Michigan Football desperately needs ALL of its fans' support. The time is NOW to get behind our team. And the team always includes the coach!

3 And Out

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 3:01 p.m.

Robbie talks a lot about what a great offensive coach R Rod is...and while under certain conditions (weaker conference) with certain players (exceptional QBs like Shawn King or Pat White) and if the wind is blowing properly, can produce some good numbers due to its quirky ability to get those powerful QBs to utilize their skillsets in space. (note RR was only an OC for Shawn King, not HC). However when you examine the offense and playbook...you find quickly that the "innovation" is only from spread formations and some misdirection option plays... ie football 101 that was developed back in the 1930s, (yet RR and his camp love to tout him as the inventor of the spread) yeh whatever.... I have in my possession Rich Rods 2005 WVU playbook and also the later Bill Walsh's playbook that he used at both the NFL level and also at Stanford. The differences are incredible.....Walsh's highly developed west coast / pro style scheme is FAR more comprehensive and attacks all parts of the field with a) consistency b) timing and c) strategy...than Rich Rods does. RRs is in fact pretty darned thin and has far less hot reads and responsibility on the QB, other than "read the safety" to paraphrase his philosophy. A true innovator like Bill Walsh humbles R Rod and exposes the differences between a well thought out offensive attack vs. a hodge poge band aid approach that only works in certain situations.

Lemansblue

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 2:49 p.m.

Robbie, Ley me try it this way. It is RR's decisions as leader of this football program that has led to this. I will make it easy for you. List all the good or great things that has happened to our football program since RR took over.

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 2:19 p.m.

Lemansblue, those are not excuses, that's what happened. And like I said above, Carr said the same thing at the end of the Florida game about his team in the beginning of the season, that those injuries are not excuses, it's what happaend. And they did excellent as the season went on because Hart and Henne were healthy. Carr said those injuries were why they stuggled those first two games, one of those being App. State. So if just injuries to two key players hurt to where we lost to a team like App. State, then it should be no surprise that Rodriguez has struggled with what was at hand against big ten teams. It just goes to show you even a couple key injuries can really hurt. And The past two years, Michigan has had more than just key injuries. Michigan was very young, there is no secret there. That is a fact, not an excuse. Michigan was not fully of seasoned veterans. We were relying on walkons at positions like quarterback amongst others. And since we had walkons playing, that means we had a very thin depth chart. And the senior classes being small is more evident about our youth and that the veterans that made Carr go out on a high note were gone. How do you go from Henne to Sheridan and expect a winning season amongst other problems? You cannot tell me that any coach would have not struggled. Period. And those are the facts that no one can deny. 3 and out pointed out Carr's, Saban's, Meyer's, and Tressel's success, which has nothing to do with Rodriguez's team. Those guys did not inherit all of those problems at the same time. They've dealth with them, but not all at once. Hence the success. Please do not get confused and think that I am clapping and giving Rodriguez a standing ovation for the past two seasons because I'm not. I try to look at both sides without any biases to understand where each side is coming from in order to form a valid response. Those things I just named above are facts, not excuses. And if you don't agree with them, then at least attempt to prove them wrong. No one has done that yet.

Lemansblue

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 2:04 p.m.

Robbie. You are great with excuses...I see no facts. The last year with coach Carr they did have alot of injuries to Henne and Hart and they played young inexperienced players, Mallett was a true freshman that played alot. What was their record that season? 9 wins 4 losses... what a great coaching job that team could have folded after going 0-2. Why would you support a coach that has ruined our great Mi football program?

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 1:24 p.m.

Lemansblue, he has yet to prove me wrong. And it looks like you may need to read my post again, if you haven't already done it.

Lemansblue

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 1:15 p.m.

3 and out. What a great post you nailed it. RR is the most overrated coach in college football I cannot believe he is here. I have never heard so many lame excuses. People forget he had a losing record at WV against top 25 teams. 3 and out shutting them up with the facts which they cannot deny. I cannot wait to we get a new coach and back to MI winning with class.

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 12:31 p.m.

3 and Out, while some of those are facts, they are irrelivant to why Michigan has struggled. The team Lloyd Carr had his last year was in no shape, way, or form as talented or experienced as what Rich Rod had. That's a fact as well. And Saban, Meyer, and Tressel did not have youth, no depth, key injuries, walkons playing key positions and very little veterans all at the same time. Rich Rod did, that's also a fact. So you can't compare Rich Rodriguez in his second year to those three you just named. And I'm loving how you are still bring Toledo up when I have said numerous times that I agree there is NO WAY Michigan should have lost. However, you can say the SAME thing about the App. State game, which was worse. Why was it worse? Because Carr's team that year had veterans and experience that would later on that season beat Florida. Why did they lose? Lloyd Carr said himself at the end of the Florida game that injuries hurt the team. Go look it up. He said, and I quote, ''Injuries really hurt this team, that's not an excuse, that's what happened.'' Guys like Hart and Henne were banged up. So, if a couple key injuries affected the team to where Michigan lost a game they shouldn't have (App. State) despite lots of expereince on BOTH sides of the ball, then WHY are you shocked with Michigan's struggles against big ten teams with all that is going on with Rich Rodriguez? Please answer that for me. To say he simply did not adapt to the players he had is completely inaccurate. He did NOT have ''Experience'' he NEEDED to succeed the way we want him to. You can spin it anyway you want, but when Sheridan is at quarterback, when you have walkons on the backfield, and young guys out there with little leadership from veterans, it does not matter who is at the helm, struggling will happen in one way or another. I am COMPLETELY aware of the two losing seasons and I am no way saying that I'm okay with that because it kills me. But this is NOT the first time Michigan has had losing seasons, or the first time they have had two losing seasons in a row. The reason you think it is so bad along with others is because we are not use to seeing that happen, it doesn't happen very often. I wasn't alive when they had their last two streak losing seasons, or when they had a losing season in general. But that does not mean they never happened. EVERY team goes through hard times, and Michigan is no exception. I never said the cupboard was bare, I never said we never had talent. I said that we had issues that affected us. And he has not brought total chaos. You can't tell me that if Rich Rod had, had two winning seasons with a national championship or wins over the Buckeys that people would care. The media has blown this so far out of proportion. And also, I never said he needs, ''His guys'' I said he needs experienced guys. And again, just so you don't say it again about the transfers, remember there were talented guys who quit because Bo was a tough coach. So to imply Rodriguez is the coach at Michigan who drove players away is wrong. They left on their own. Again, listen to Brandon Graham who played for him for two years and has been behind the scenes, somewhere we have never been. I'll take his word over anyone elses outside the program. While you say there are some that dislike him which is true, there are alot that support him.

3 And Out

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 12:07 p.m.

I used the term "slappy" playfully and not as an insult...it means admirer, lover, devote, afficiando, loyal follower etc. Skipp Webb, you keep mentioning that I dont post facts...which is and interesting statement because as you know nothing is further from the actual truth. I post facts, you post excuses. For example, my facts are that Lloyd left a 9-4 team after going 122-40 in 13 years and a program that had not had a losing season in 40 years and had the longest bowl streak in college football as well. Lloyd left the winningist program of all time. He left a program that was never under NCAA investigation and never had violations. He left a fully stocked cupboard of players including a returning QB with enormous potential who had started a few games already, a mostly returning OL, some backs like Minor and Brown who had pretty solid experience and talent behind Mike Hart...2 prototypical NFL wide receivers in AA and MM... 8 out of 11 returning starters on defense... the entire kicking game returning, multiple consecutive years of top 10 ranked recruiting classes, etc etc etc etc etc. That is what was in the cupboard the day that Lloyd left the program. Those are FACTS that can not be refuted. What happened from the day Rich Rod took over, are also facts. Multiple player defections, several pointing fingers at RR as the specific reason....a quirky light weight S and C program that is lead by a chest thumping self promoter that has shown to be proven to be weak and undersized in Big Ten play. 7-16_+1 record at Michigan with only 3 BT wins in 2 seasons. NCAA investigation and violations found. Turmoil and scandals in his personal business life with embarrassing lawsuits etc. A large drop in recruiting with Michigan barely making top 20 classes now under RR. Embarrassingly bad losses to PSU, Illinois (of all teams), OSU, Sparty, Purdue (!yikes), Toledo (double yikes!!!)... a complete embarrassment on the field and off. Total and utter chaos to a once proud program. Those are all facts that simply can not be refuted. But you do refute them you say, Scotty...? well you do with excuses and speculation and innuendo such as "the cupboard was bare" "Boren was a ___" "Mallet was gone anyway" etc etc etc. All excuses no facts no numbers just excuses. An interesting thing about the good coaches like Saban, Meyer, Tress...they all won NCs in their 2nd year with someone elses talent...because they made it WORK! They adapted their systems to the talent that they had to work with. But your system guy needs "his guys" and the wind to blow right on the right day lol in order to even be competitive. 2 worst back to back seasons in school history = fact 3AndOut

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 11:59 a.m.

And 3 and Out, that's not what ''The rest of the world thinks'' that's what that particular person thinks.

Robbie Webb

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 11:41 a.m.

PortageLkBlu, apparently I am. Haha! And I'm still waiting for someone to prove us wrong. Bu that's what you have to do sometimes though, is present the facts to keep them in line as best as possible.

PortageLkBlu

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 8:03 a.m.

3 and out I really don't take offense to your offensive remarks and I really do enjoy hearing what your have to say, what was it you refer to RR fans, slappy RR lovers. I truly have never been called slappy but I think I was slappy a few times after a night out on the town with my friends. Ya I like that I'm a slappy Wolverine fan has a real ring to it ya,I'm just a slappy kind of guy. Robbie, are you a slappy Wolverine fan?

John-Maize Blueblood

Sun, Jun 20, 2010 : 1:57 a.m.

3 & Out, Is that the best you can come up with to validate your point? You just provided us the link to a blog where someone's opinion (not a fact) is being debated on. That's very original, indeed! Who cares what those people think? Why don't we all wait until September when the rubber meets the road and end of November when it's all said and done to see whose point is really valid?

Robbie Webb

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 11:27 p.m.

And it's also very biased, there are other articles from other people who have faith in Rodriguez and know Michigan will turn things around with him.

Robbie Webb

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 11:23 p.m.

That article still doesn't prove what I said wrong. It is basically saying that Michigan has struggled recently ever since the App. State loss and if Rodriguez doesn't get it done this year, then chances are he is gone, which is no secret, and it's not something I disagree with. My point is you can't call the guy a bad coach when he has things going wrong for him.

3 And Out

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 10:46 p.m.

To the Rich Rod slappy lovers (and the Mlive censors too)... this blog pretty much spells out what the rest of the real world thinks about your savior and what he has done to our program. http://www.blackshoediaries.com/2010/6/4/1501167/will-michigan-ever-come-back You go Braylon. Keep speaking the truth and Go Blue.

Robbie Webb

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 8:23 p.m.

PortageLkBlu, I agree. I find it funny that still no one has answered or proved my points wrong. I completely understand they are not able to, but if they're going to keep saying the same thing over and over, you would think they would at least try.

PortageLkBlu

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 8:16 p.m.

heartbreakM, son your just not paying attention to what's being said. Nobody is saying that Braylon Edwards can't play football in fact your the one that brought it up. What is being said is that, ah hell you wouldn't get it if I told you again. heartbreakM, I hope you get what you want for Christmas but don't put a new coach on you list I'm afraid Santa Claus will disappoint ya.

Steve Pepple

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 8:06 p.m.

A couple of comments were removed because they contained personal attacks against another commenter. Please leave the name-calling out of the debate.

heartbreakM

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 5:07 p.m.

Wow, is that Braylon a big bad man for even thinking that RR may be to blame for Michigan's record. I am totally convinced now, Wersch and Mitch. (Where are you Tater when I need you too). I finally see. Braylon singlehandedly lost the Rose Bowl and 3 OSU games. He is foolish enough to expect that his former football team should be good, because he does not know anything about football. I mean, he does not even understand Michigan, to expect those who stay to be champions. He just got lucky.

Robbie Webb

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 3:44 p.m.

Sheridan is a walkon and is nowhere near as talented as Denard or Tate. Denard just got there too late and did not understand the offense and had to work on throwing the ball. Minor was banged up for a good amount of his career, to me he never reached his full potential.

Dave

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 3:33 p.m.

Rich Rodriguez did not, perhaps now he does, think that the Big 10 was any more physical than the Big East. He continually recruits smaller players on defense. It looks like he is finally starting to recruit larger D for his 2011 class. RR does tend to favor his recruits over the existing roster. Why did it take him so long to play Minor in 2008? He wasn't that injured. Sheridan was certainly better than Denard Robinson last year. Why did he only play one game? RR has his system and that seems to be it.

Jarhead

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 2:46 p.m.

John-Maize Blueblood, 3 tours? WOW! Welcome home Gireen. I agree with you about Ohio and State fans. Once RR gets his players up to speed we will be a force again. I liked what I saw in the spring game. I have always appreciated the rivalries but don't understand the sophmoric statements. I have sparty fans in the family. I think they say those things to take the light off of them. Didn't State have 10 wins in 2008 and then only 6 in 2009? That's only 1 more than Mich. And the game with us went into overtime with freshmen QBs.And with the problems with the law you would think they'd be calling for Dantonio's Head. I do not fault Dantonio or RR for giving players a second chance. It goes to helping these young men out. The door to reformation is never closed but 2 strikes you are out. About Justin Boren. There is a drill called "4 corners". Imagine half the field and you do a skill set at each corner. RR wants his players to run to the next corner after each skill. Boren didn't want to. He couldn't say he was lazy, he has to blame someone else. How about the new guy? And stating Family Values---Come on. Also some of the plyers were let go because of grades, according to Mgoblog, that was 2 years ago now. This year we will also see about 20 players contribute that were redshirted from last year. One year older and one year bigger. Barwiss said about Tate when he first came to Mich, "I saw bigger arms on a clock!" You never saw past players come back except for a golf outing. Under RR they are coming back and training and walking around the facilities like never before. RR has had an open invitation and made an atmosphere for them to come back. Go Blue!

Robbie Webb

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 1:40 p.m.

3 and out...Mallett was on transfer notice before Rod was even there, I don't know how many different languages you want me to say it in. Boren is a traitor. Even guys who played under BO and loved and respected him said he was more of a field general and said the easiest time to play for him was on Saturday's, and they said there were talented guys who quit because of him. So that's an invalid argument. Transfers happen all the time and Michigan is no exception. We had guys like Threet and Sheridan at quarterback, the most important position on the field. It's hard to succeed when you don't have a quarterback you need despite expereince at other spots. On defense, the line in 08 was very solid, but the line was never the issue and is not the issue. The only one worried about the line is you. Morgan Trent was aweful, Warren, Mouton, Ezeh were all sophmores, which goes back to when I said youth. It's the same story, inexperience in the secondary.

Jarhead

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 1:36 p.m.

About Ryan Mallet. RR told Ryan that he would build an offense around him. Ryan knew though, that in his junior year he might be replaced and then couldn't transfer. transfering when he did was smart cause he would sit one year, develope and have two years to build his stats. I would have done the same. The real problem was in what was left in the cupboard. Who was behind Mallet? Sheridan who admitts he was here to learn to be a couch, knew he'd never be a starter. And there was Cone who was a clipboard holder. Lloyd had not recruited any depth at the position. If Mallet had gotten hurt Sheridan would have been the QB, and we all saw what happened. I don't care who you would have put in as coach, they would not have won! Threet knew he would never play at Georgia and asked to transfer and RR said sure, who wouldn't. Also about the cupboard, Lloyd's last recruiting class that RR inherited had no corners and 2 safeties who were too big and slow and moved to linebacker. As I said before, I like Lloyd but he was aiming to retire and didn't leave much back for the next guy. How would you like to have inherited this mess?

Robbie Webb

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 1:32 p.m.

3 and out, all I have posted are facts, and you have yet to respond to any of them. And put no blame on Carr, he was a great coach. So I have no clue what you're talking about. Haha!

Robbie Webb

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 1:30 p.m.

Exactly! The haters like to point out the record without mentioning what was wrong with the roster. The one I love reading is, ''Michigan had their first loss to a MAC school (Toledo).'' And although I have always agreed there is NO reason Michigan sould have lost that game, you can also say the same thing about the App. State game, which was Carr's veteran team. Michigan had key injuries that game, with Henne and I believe Hart. And I don't think that injuries to just those two should have affected us to where we lost to a team like App. State, but it just goes to show you that key injuries can really hurt. And not to mention the experience on both sides of the ball his last year. It wasn't until they got healthy where they picked things up. Now, when Rodrieguez came, Michigan was FULL of youth, that is no secret. We had crushing injuries to guys like Molk and Minor. If those two alone would have been 100% all last year, there is no question we could have won eight games (See MSU, Iowa, and Purdue). Molk's injury really hurt the line. We had walkons in 08 and in 09 to key spots like quarterback and safety. And even linebacker (Kevin Leach). So what does that say about depth? We had little depth, also no secret. And our veterans were in small number, hence the small senior classes. Rodriguez's eldest players this year are juniors. Those are facts. Now, whether you agree that's the reason we struggled is up for debate. If those that think it's easy to succeed with all of that going on, then I'm at a loss for words.

John-Maize Blueblood

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 1:18 p.m.

Jarhead, You are right on, Leatherneck! I am a former Marine as well, but I wasn't born yet when the Vietnam War was going on. However, I've had my share of OIF & OEF (two tours in Iraq and one in Afghanistan). The problem with my generation is that we are simply very impatient. Remember that we are the Fast Food, Microwave Oven, Instant Coffee, and High Speed Internet generation. We want RR to produce on the field INSTANTLY even if it is not logical since he is literally rebuilding this team. Some of the Posters fail to realize that perhaps Braylon may have a personal vendetta against RR for "tempering" with his retired jersey. His "Lloyd Carr University of Michigan" comment and now those comments all indicate that RR is not one of his favorite people on this earth. Finally, those Suckeyes and Sparty fans that pretend that they want RR to stay at Michigan are actually very afraid that he stays. They know that their numbers are coming once RR finally gets it together. I believe RR will be coaching at Michigan for a long time. I also believe that people like Braylon and all the other anti-RR folks will all soon eat their words. Semper Fidelis! All In For Michigan!

Robbie Webb

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 1:14 p.m.

And also, 3 and out, I and the other Rich Rod supporters agree with what Braylon is saying. It's no secrect he's on the hot seat and has to produce this year. However, he was not saying Rodriguez is a bad coach. Also, you read that Brandon Graham article I sent you, so that is proof also that there are Michigan greats behind him and know he's a great coach and will get things done this year.

Robbie Webb

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 1:07 p.m.

The Rich Rod supporters are making good points while the ones who are doubtful are just pointing at the record without mentioning what I have mentined this whole off-season. I'm still waiting for someone to prove what I have been saying this whole time wrong.

PortageLkBlu

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 1:06 p.m.

Now, now boys and girls let Braylon have his say after all this is the same Braylon that talked just a wee, wee bit to much at his last job. Braylon is a talker always has been and always will and it's good entertainment to listen to Braylon talk smack but I don't give much credence to what Braylon Edwards has to say. RR has the job for 2010 and that's a fact. The sky could fall tomorrow so all of what Braylon has to say could be a moot point. Then again, RR could win every game this year and be offered a job by another school and take it becuase of all the disrespect he's received by our local habitual complainers, I've seen stranger things. I think RR will be fine and if I had to make a prediction I'd say RR is the coach for a long time get used to it complainers but then again, I'm not looking past the 2010 season.

3 And Out

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 12:59 p.m.

Rich Rodriguez is in well over his head with this coaching job. He was a desperate hire which was done over the course of 2 days by Martin and MS. Bad fit, overrated coach. 5-7, 3 and out.

gatling64

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 11:07 a.m.

DO BETTER we all would have liked RR to come in and delivered right off the bat but that is not the way it happens without recruiting violations and hanky-pankey.For instance the quick turnaround at Univ.of Washington where Steve Sarkesian did wonders in one year.My nephew was a Top LB recruit and the previous coach Ty Willingham had many players on the bench because of a variety of reasons,ususally poor grades or pot.My nephew was going to accept a schollie there(he had 25 offers)until he saw the team which Sarkesian was going to put on the field.All the "bad actors' were back,boosters were offering him money and cars under the table and Bob (not his name) found the whole thing disgraceful.He became turned off by the whole thing and described SS as "a con man" right out of the USC school of con men.Since Bob had had a 4.2 average he took an aademic schollie and forgot about football at UDub.

gatling64

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 10:38 a.m.

BRAYLON: how many Ohio State games did you win? How many bowls?LLoyd screwed up the program and he had to go.Does Braylon remember the "Billy" speech after the Oregon game?It was clear Lloyd had been hit in the head too much when he played for Northern and the effects were becoming obvious..

gatling64

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 10:22 a.m.

JARHEAD I AGREE TOTALLY. And Braylon How many Ohio State games did you win? How many bowl games? You were personally responcible for the loss to USC when you dropped passes and then allowed a ball to hit you on the foot(!)because you ran the wrong route and then run back for a TD.

terry smith

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 9:33 a.m.

Thank God there are still level headed people like Jarhead commenting on this sight. I agree with his post 100%. While Braylon has a right to his opinions, I do not think it appropriate for him to make such statements publicly. Michigan is down enough as it is, and criticisms like this serve almost no positive purpose... just like his "Lloyd Carr's Wolverines" comments. They only serve to add fuel to a fire that is trying to be put out. They certainly won't accelerate RR's departure. Only what RR does on the football field will determine that. If he keeps losing, his head will be on the block soon enough. He deserves a full set of recruiting years to change. If he cannot win, he will be gone. Michigan will not tolerate losing on that scale. And enough about Ryan Mallett. He was not going to stay at Michigan. Even Lloyd had to convince him to stay one more year. He wanted to go to Arkansas and that is all there is to it. He was not in my opinion a "Michigan Man" and neither is Boren. Good riddens.

ChelseaBob

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 7:07 a.m.

RR had a Heisman trophy QB when he came in, but asked him to leave. Watch Arkansas this year. He also had some fantastic talent at QB last year, but most QB's don't take constant beatings and perform well. Truth is, and decent coach could have taken the team RR inherited and had a winning record. He discarded good players, good coaches and tradition. He's recruiting guys who can't make it here. This season will be a disaster. Next year Harbaugh will have to deal with a number of "troubled" players brought in by RR, but at least he'll do it with class and diginity. Looking forward to 2011.

Jarhead

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 6:12 a.m.

Ohiowolverine, Welcome Home! I think a lot of people forgot that braylon struggled in his junior year and had some emotional and motivational problems. His dad Stan sat him down and counseled him and good thing for us because his senior year he was a man amoung boys on the field. Also good for Chad Henne as he was a freshman pressed into service and wasn't that good. Chad was not accurate but had a strong arm and could just heave it and play jump ball with Braylon. And for braylon he matured that season and became a good Mich Man. I'm just surprised by his comments though. And of course the detractors will hang on those comments as if they came from the bible. I belive most people are tape recorders, what goes in the ear comes out the mouth. they don't let info rattle around in their brains long enough and really think about stuff. Depends on their agenda I suppose. "In the ear and out the mouth." Semper Fi!

ohiowolverine

Sat, Jun 19, 2010 : 3:26 a.m.

Jarhead, I agree with you 100%. I have been a Michigan fan for 50 plus years, read mlive daily, and yours is the first post that is worth reading. By the way, Welcome home brother. I came home in 70.

Jaxon5

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 10:59 p.m.

7-5 this season, or even 6-6, is a distant dream. The seat is still hot.

aarox

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 7:54 p.m.

bacert, we did not go winless in the big ten! we pinched one out against our nemesis Indiana. Seriously, I have emotions but am looking at facts. I'd rather see RR turn this program around. I know what happens when a team switches leadership too often. Can you say Bobby Williams and John L. Smith? (sorry lil bros) At the same time there are two serious questions that need answers. 1. Does RR have the ability to adapt to his environment or is his football strategy a one-trick pony? Does he have the ability to take what he has and make it competitive? 2. Does RR (a) have, and (b) display, the integrity and honesty needed to make us proud of UM? Would he stand up to I**o who is the standard bearer in this state and sadly went to the wrong school. I don't pretend to know it all but I do have an opinion. And am very worried.

Jarhead

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 7:53 p.m.

3 & 5 are bad numbers for Michigan, but more on that later. In '69 I came back from VietNam and became an avid fan. I loved Bo, Mo, and Lloyd but they were not "Mich Men", they became "Mich Men". And so is Rich Rod. Lets get some things straight. RR has not had 3 yrs of recruits. The recruiting class for 2008 was already established before he got here. 2009 was his first full class and most of this years' aren't even on campus yet. Was the cupboard bare? Darn right it was. Look at how many left for the NFL after 2007. The 2 most experienced offensive linemen in 2008 were sophomores and one went to Ohio. Where was the senior leadership? The leadreship was freshmen. Last year's team was 70% fresh, redshirt fresh, and soph. Whats the difference between freshmen and seniors? Experience, conditioning, confidence, knowledge and consistency. If your team is 70% freshmen then every game you are 70% inconsistant. Last year we had 3 games in which we coughed up the ball 5 times. Not RR or Fred Jackson did that, it was inexperience. We also had 3 other games that our recievers dropped 5 passes. RR didn't drop those passes, youth did. Win any 3 of those games and we are sitting at 8 and 4, the same as Lloyd's last regular season with a senior and experienced laden team. Are you happy now? Would you have felt all rosey about yourself then? I've never heard of a new coach with a new system not getting 4 to 5 years to produce, except of course at Michigan, because we fans are spoiled and want instant gratification. We have to face something else like it or not. Throughout the 2000's the fans were grumbling because we were 9 & 3, or 8 & 4. and we couldn't beat Ohio. We were stale and lackluster. In 2006 Lloyd let Malone go and put Debord back in at offensive co-ordinator. Did you see any difference in the offense? No. Because it was Lloyd's safe and conservative game plan. Look Lloyd had 6 plays; run left, pass directly left or right to the sidelines, pass to the corners of the endzone, and if your 3rd and 18 throw a 3 yard pass and see if the guy can get you a first down. Remember that diamond formation with 4 recievers on the right? We ran that in 2004, 2005, 2006, and only once did I see them take all 4 recievers and flood down field. Every other time, EVERY OTHER TIME it was the wide reciever screen. Lloyd is a great guy but in his last regular season game we score 3 points against our arch rival. 3 POINTS! I've read some people say the spread is a gimmick. Gimmick? Last 2 years 8 out of the top ten teams ran the spread. What did Bo run in the 70's? The triple threat option. What dose RR run? The triple threat option spread. Instead of 2 tight ends and a fullback, you trade them in for wideouts and spread the defense and give your players room to work in. Look back to App State and Oregon. Give these kids some time and give RR and his staff time. They are going to be fun to watch and they'll be very competitive this year. GO BLUE!

bacert

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 7:28 p.m.

Do Better has a point, but we were still getting the minor wins then. Michigan needed to hire a coach to win the big games not go winless in the big ten. That said, it isn't the wins for me as much as the questionable play calling. based on what Rod has shown, michigan will be a middle of the conference team that has a once in a blue moon good season. Basically Purdue.

Do Better

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 5:50 p.m.

I have only one problem with people like Braylon and that is if you look over the past six years Michigan has only one quality win. Over a very young Florida team that gave Michigan all it could handle. I understand that RR has not preform to great standards but he broke the thing down to build them back up and it takes at least four years to rebuild to full strength. I would just like one person who dislike RR to give me another quality win that Michigan has underneath its belt in the past six years to show how this was an elite program that he destroyed.

RobbiesBoyfriend

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 5:38 p.m.

Braylon just doesnt understand football like me n Robbie do. We needed change and Rodriguez is the man for the job. What does Braylon know?

OSUbeBetter

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 5:31 p.m.

Wow, I cant believe Bralon didnt drop that ball

gobluemark

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 4:16 p.m.

When the other schools fans want your coach to stay, shouldn't that tell you something?

ohhowihateohiostate

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 4:07 p.m.

As a lifelong UofM fan and the fact Braylon Edwards is my all time favorite player to ever wear the Maize and Blue winged helmet I have to take his side on this. I'm surprised Braylon isn't more pissed at RR and hasn't said more regarding him being fired after he did away with the #1 jersey tradition. Braylon set up a scholarship fund for it and everything and RR handed it to some freshman DB his first year in Ann Arbor - ouch! Listen, I am "All In For Michigan" and I always support the coach for THE TEAM THE TEAM THE TEAM, but there comes a time when you have to rip the band aid off and suffer a little pain to help the wound scab over and heal for the long term. I see 8 games we should be able to win this fall based on our schedule - maybe even 9 with the Iowa game being at home. If RR doesn't win at least 7 maybe even 8 he's out. I like many things about RR but it comes down to brass tax - especially if it is determined he committed major violations. Ask Gary Moeller how it works in AA when you mess up and bring a bad light on the university.....and Gary's teams were ranked no lower than #19 with 4 bowl wins (including a Rose Bowl) in 5 years during his tenure.

NoBowl4Blue

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 3:45 p.m.

Braylon is right. Rich Rod has done nothing other than bring negative exposure to a once proud program. The only people who want him to remain are the other Big Ten coaches

jalapenorancher

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 1:51 p.m.

If you want Michigan to turn into Notre Dame, who ruined a great program and only has the "glory days" to fall back on, go ahead and fire Rich Rod. We'll flounder for another 3-5 years and go through coaches like diapers ultimatley building nothing. If Rich Rod can't turn it around after Tate, Denard, etc are seniors, lets look at getting another coach with a similar system then so as not to. However, Michigan's downfall is its unwillingness to adapt to the game as it changes. I want to win as bad as anyone, but we are through the worst of it (I hope), why do you want to fire RR and go through more "rebuilding"? Obviously his program works. Even last year's 5-7 with a JV experienced club showed flashes of amazing.

azwolverine

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 1:47 p.m.

I agree with Braylon 100%, and even RR supporters who don't need to understand that what he's saying comes from his heart, and his heart is 100% behind the Michigan program. His dad played under Bo here and, when he could have left after his Jr. year to go pro, he chose to stay out of love for the program. Not everyone will agree with Braylon, but anyone who derides him for being anti-Michigan is just plain wrong and ignorant of the facts. Braylon loves Michigan and it pains him (and many others, including me) to see his program lose.

3 And Out

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 1:05 p.m.

Spot on Bray...spot on!. And, trolls that is coming from a guy who is far more qualified than any of us to comment about the current state of The Michigan Football program. But RR slappies, if it makes you happy then continue to buy in to RR and his lackeys blaming Lloyd Carr (120-40 1 NC) for their 7-16+1 lol... keep making excuses all the way out of town Rich..and take Barwis with you on that bus.

Spartywhite

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 12:54 p.m.

Be patient. His team will come around. Keep him....

oli

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 12:37 p.m.

I am not a UM alum but I have been watching this football team since I was a little kid. I think firing Rich Rod after this season would be a huge mistake. The university hired a system coach who has recruited players to fit his system. His first real class was last year and they seem to have some good young talent. If you fire the guy before he completely implements his system you don't even know how good they would have been. You won't really have a good understanding of the system until Tate is a senior. If you fire him after this season you bring in a new coach and start all over again. Then in three years when they still aren't competing for titles all the impatient alums will be calling for the next coach's head. Just be patient.

Lorain Steelmen

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 12:18 p.m.

I support Coach Rodriguez wholeheartedly! He spent the first year with no legit D1 QB. They were great kids, but the level of play was too demanding! Last year, he struggled with youth on the Defense. Sure, it HAS been a tough two years, but the cupboard was bare! I like the guy, both as an individual, with great family values, and, as an exciting offensive coach! Yes, UM WILL return to it's past greatness, and RR will have a LONG, and very successful career here! I don't have a problem with players and coaches working long hours...as students we all did the same! I would be more concerned if the opposite were true, that is, no sense of commitment to EXCELLENCE! Don't kid yourself, Bo's teams worked long, tough hours as well. There is nothing new there! (Ask Brandon!) The QC procedures have been in place for years, and were not changed because RR came in. To dump ALL that on him, is JUST a cheap shot! In the meantime, there will always be those, inside AND outside, the program, who will take shots at Coach Rod, not just because he's new, but because they want the school, and the program, to struggle. That will never change, no matter who was brought in. I am fully confident that Brandon will demand responsibility to the Michigan code of ethics, but WILL always SUPPORT his coach, from those who just want to throw mud at UM! While Dave's a tough guy, he's fair, and sharp. The program is is GREAT shape and will get even better! Good luck this year, guys! Focus on winning games, have fun, and enjoy the journey! Go Blue!

William

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 11:53 a.m.

Okay, let's see someone call Braylon a troll. I'd like to hear Tom Brady speak out next. The "you got to give him time to bring in his own guys" excuse is facile! Lame! This argument will take care of itself by season's end. Let the countdown begin.

Kevin James

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 10:57 a.m.

The threshold for him to keep his job is beyond what this team can deliver thanks to the five major violations he is guilty of. With the investigation, 7 and 5 and a bowl game would be have likely kept him around and even that win total is completely unrealistic for this team. With the investigation, the threshold is up there around ten wins. If they found anything at WVU the threshold is an undefeated season. You also have to remember, that they can cleanly cut ties come November thanks to the violations. Not like it matters, this team is destined for another 3 and 9 finish.

Michael

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 10:37 a.m.

I agree whole heartedly. The question is, what is the threshold for success? 7-6 and a bowl?

orlandomichfan

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 10:06 a.m.

who cares what he has to say..

blueiniowa

Fri, Jun 18, 2010 : 10 a.m.

Let you tell it Braylon