cpyder755

Thu, Dec 9, 2010 : 10:36 a.m.

My opinion is that Dave Brandon knows EXACTLY what he is gonna do on January 2nd. (Or even the first) He is playing it smart because he paid attention a couple years ago when I guy by the name of Les Miles almost came here....I mean after all there is still a guy on TV every Saturday named Herbstreit. We all remember how that went down. We don't need Harbaugh being put in a position to make a knee jerk reaction again. Rich Rod is gonna be gone, along with Greg Robinson. Harbaugh will still have time to fill in the immediate holes. Of which a RB is not an immediate need. We can get through one more year with Smith and Shaw, oh yeah and Denard... How about find a decent DB, a safety and for god sakes a guy who doesn't get performance anxiety when kicking a 25 yd field goal. So losing Dee Hart is not the end of the world. He won't go to another Big Ten school (Florida maybe?) so we won't have to worry about it. After all he is the top high school back of THIS year, there will be another top back of NEXT year. I would rather take the time to get a coach that will get us out of the 3-3-5 rut we have been in

I love Michigan Football

Tue, Dec 7, 2010 : 11:28 a.m.

What you call a jerk is what I call an honest, in your face competitive coach that isn't scared to speak his mind. He stands up for what he believes in and does it the HONEST way. You have to have a coach that has a true hard edge instead of just hanging up sign that says so. The Big 10 demands are very hard to live up to I personally don't think a lot of coaches(Rich Rod, Tim Brewster, Bill Lynch) can handle that here. Some cry when faced with adversity and some man up and get the job done. Can you ever picture Harbs making his team and staff sing that ridiculous song and joining hands ever? Jim would come in and make a statement like sweatervest did against us 9 years ago. "I am here to do a job, and that is to beat Ohio State each and every year and win Big 10 Championships." Jimmy went into the PAC-10 looking for the biggest bully(Pete Carrol) and sought out what he needed to do. He went into the lucnch room, found the biggest bully, and punched him square in the face. And Harbs didn't just beat Carrol, but he made a statement when he did so.

bluenuts

Tue, Dec 7, 2010 : 9:58 a.m.

@mick52. I should've specified. Most modern fans from the mid-80's til now have not dealt with that. I unintentionally generalized. The 4-6 year was Coopers first season which I intimated in my previous post. Losing to Michigan sucked, I'm sure, but they still had winning records and went to good bowl games. So I stick to 'most' of my original post.

Mick52

Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 10:06 p.m.

@bluenuts, I would disagree. OSU did have a couple periods with poor records. Not quite what Michigan is going through for these last three, but I think at least one year at 4-6. I looked up their records a few days ago for another story. If Michigan gets back on track next year and holds, Michigan's lapse in top quality teams would be better than what OSU went through. OSU was 2-9 vs Michigan over one period and their superiority vs Michigan is not yet at that level. With scholarships being spread so much, it is a lot harder to put excellent teams on the field year after year. Oh well no Harbaugh for next year. So who else?

D21

Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 2:49 p.m.

However, we can learn something positive from RR when he said, "My name is Rich Rodriguez. Im honored to be the football coach at Michigan. I hope you realize I want to be a Michigan man. Now I stand up and declare to you all, "My name is D21. I'm honored to be the head poster at A2.com. I hope you realize I want to be a A2.com man".

D21

Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 2:45 p.m.

Including a cameo appearance by tater tot.

D21

Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 2:39 p.m.

People, Fret not, RR will be GONE after Jan. 1st. At UM's bowl game, the halftime show will feature an encore Grobanian performance by RR and little theo212 at the 50 yard line. Bring boxes of Kleenex or Puffs. Wipes may be permitted for hygienic reasons if the unsuspecting fans were tear-splattered upon and/or endured those nasty handshakes by RR.

D21

Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 1:57 p.m.

"And what about this line from Sharp's article: "Brandon said... that he had no issues with Rodriguezs actions and received no negative feedback from supporters"? Read between the lines and fill in the blank with this term: RR's, "....____ supporters".

bluenuts

Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 1:20 p.m.

@johnnya2 That's ridiculous. The worst record Cooper had was his first year. After that he was.500 or higher. Regardless of losses to Michigan, Bucks fans have never endured what we have. So your assessment that the Cooper era is comparable is insane.

heartbreakM

Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 11:03 a.m.

A point that I made when DB was first mentioned (then chosen) as AD was that his former colleagues on the board of regents will not be able to reign him in and treat him objectively, as he is one of them (so to speak, an ex-regent). It'll be interesting to see if he makes a decision that backfires on M football how he will be treated. I think that the Regents have a very difficult line to walk on this. Allow DB autonomy, but still make sure that the best decision is made (which is not always one and the same). I don't know what the outcome of JH will be, and if he does not become the coach, there are others (remember, Paterno was Canham's first love). But the disappointing thing is that JH does seem to be a natural fit, much better than our current staff.

I love Michigan Football

Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 10:24 a.m.

First and foremost I have to say that I have read some really good post in this forum so far. I think good points have been made from both the Anti-RR and the RR-lovers. I for one do not want Rich back for another year, but I don't get paid to make that decision. I personally think cutting this experiment loose and starting a strong foundation is the best thing for Michigan football. We need a leader that is gonna take charge and be stern with the direction of this program. I feel sometimes that Brandon is gonna keep Rich by the comments he makes and I'm not sure why, but I just see it coming from him. If Rich is obtained next year, I can see majority of the fans not attending games next year. I will not be in attendance I know that much. When you watched alot of the games this year it sometimes looked as if it were half the opposing colors. If the season ticket holders keep selling off their tickets to the other schools, they are eventually gonna stop buying season tickets all together. And thats not a good sign of what would come. If DB isn't selling those seats, he has to go to the boosters for alot more money.

newe82

Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 8:48 a.m.

It looks like Harbaugh has been offered an extension at Stanford and according to the article he is going to accept. If DB has not contacted JH then he should be put in the same boat as Martin. The fact that he has not made a decision shows that he is leaning towards giving RR another year. So what will 2011 look like. RR goes 5-7 with loses to all the good big ten teams including a blowout at home to OSU. Harbaugh goes 10-2 at Stanford and goes to BCS. Michigan is stuck with a mediocre potential coaching list and the program continues to decline. Within two years the big house will not break 100K in attendance and DB job will be on the line. I hope this is not the case, but it is looking more and more likely to happen. Bowl game: MSU 48 UM 35 =We all know UM has no shot playing a team with the initials MSU.

3 And Out

Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 6:07 a.m.

XTR... I was thinking the same thing...Harbs took his time last year to sign his extension. He would be foolish to sign that thing before his BCS game (which they have a favourable matchup vs. VT) or without speaking to Michigan first...if Brandon is wise enough to call. We need help with our program! I will resign my post if Brandon brings back the Fraud Rod.

XTR

Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 4:45 a.m.

The news with regards to Stanford merely says the AD has offered a new sweetened contract for Jim. That's it. Last year, Jim was offered an extension and Jim did not accept/sign it until the Notre Dame job was filled and after interviewing with Kansas. That report is only relevant if Jim on camera were to say, he is not coming back. Other than that, the AD is just cheering on his chances.

mun

Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 1:22 a.m.

@Somewhat Concerned, "His willingness to let Rodriguez run the program into the ground, in terms of results and in terms of integrity and class, makes Brandon the wrong guy." BILL MARTIN was the one who hired Rich Rod, not David Brandon.

Macabre Sunset

Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 12:52 a.m.

If Harbaugh is staying at Stanford, we're probably not familiar with our next head coach. Do you know how many victories at the I-A level Jim Tressel had when he was hired at Ohio State? Answer: 0. His only head coaching experience was 15 years at the helm of I-AA Youngstown State. I'd say that hire has worked out well for the Buckeyes. I hope Brandon finds someone who wants to stay here a long time. No expensive rentals like Jon Gruden or Nick Saban.

3 And Out

Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 12:23 a.m.

"10 wins reasonable" based one what???? not happening in 011 under Rich Rod, especially with a strengthened Big Ten.

BillMK

Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 12:09 a.m.

1. I felt that it was time for a change earlier in the season. But the time is not right now, with contract obligations, recruitment, and all the rest. Patience, indeed. My guess is that RR has another year, with a revised defense and special teams staff, with the expectation of 10 wins, ranking, and a major bowl. Only a guess. 2. If 1)above comes to pass, 10 wins is a reasonable expectation. Another guess. 3. I trust Brandon, far more than media or bloggers. Far, far more. No guess there. 4. I loathe haters in general, including RR haters. The lynch-mob tone of many posters is unbecoming of Michigan people, if indeed they are Michigan people. Or any other people. It even makes me feel more sympathetic toward RR than I would otherwise. 5. I expect that I will support whomever Brandon appoints (or re-appoints) as coach. I doubt it will be Harbaugh, for multiple reasons cited by others. I also do not think he would walk on water or be all that good a fit. 6. The most apt comment here, from sparty...sister: "The only thing this article proves is that people are gonna bitch and complain no matter what Michigan does!" That's what I think.

truebluefan

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 11:48 p.m.

Another source says Harbaugh will accept the sweetened offer from Stanford. Bye, Jim.

truebluefan

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 11:45 p.m.

3 and out -- if Harbaugh turns us down, I want RR back next year. No way do I want Brady Hoke as the coach of Michigan. If that happens we are pretty much screwed. Take that to the bank.

3 And Out

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 11:34 p.m.

This just in: Stanford is making a preemptive strike and are offering Harbaugh an enhanced contract extension. If im Dave Brandon...Im on the phone tonight to Harbs: "Hey Jim, just caught your brother's game vs. the Steelers....great game, hard hitting defensive football is awesome isnt it? Speaking of which...we lack that at Michigan as you know, and I wanted you to know that Ive made a decision to go in a different direction come Jan. 2nd with our program. I realize that you love Stanford, and that they have offered you an extension.... but you are our number 1 choice to come home and be the new Head Coach at Michigan in 011... lots of exciting things happening, new lights at the stadium for the first night game, and a big marquee matchup vs. Bama in 012...Wed like you to be apart of that...what do ya say Jim... would you hold off on making a decision until we get a chance to talk after your bowl game? " well see... the first shots have been fired...

johnnya2

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 10:06 p.m.

"Brandon claims his business background as credentials for being athletic director. Huh? Anybody with a real business background knows you act on a decision as soon as you have decided." You obviously are not a business executive. There are many times decisions are held because of competitive reasons (we are rolling out a new product ie coach) but they do not announce it to the world until it will be available. This avoids the competition (LSU, Stanford etc) from gainiing an advantage. There are many times a decision on an executive coming from a competitor is not announced until it needs to be, even though it was decided months prior. You certainly have no understanding of how business operates by this statement.

johnnya2

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:59 p.m.

"You are critical because we want a new coach after 3 years of poor results... i would like to see what OSU would do after going 15-21 and 6-18 in the Big Ten in 3 years." We saw it much worse. Imagine being a coach who goes 11-1 (John Cooper) and the loss being to UM. HE GETS THE AXE.

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:15 p.m.

Big House: Sorry, I dont have inside information. And its very clear, given whats happened over the years, that those who do arent talking nor is AnnArbor.com. Bummer! I totally agree with your first paragraph, which I think was Mr. Bigelow's point. But his view, expressed last Tuesday and many times in the past, is that RR should stay, which, it seems, you don't share, as I don't. As for "Brandon does come from the corporate world and understands the need to properly comment on difficult issues," I don't agree with that at all. Generally speaking, people don't want to hear the truth, so success in life means manipulating words and people -- especially in politics AND corporations. And DB's career shows that he's a "team player," "company man," "Michigan man," and that he doesn't like to rock the boat, make waves, or be confrontational, including telling it like it is. (On this, search Crains Detroit and/or Google his name.) He clearly was brought in as AD at least in part to help the U administration weasel its way out of, not resolve, the mess it created re its football program and athletics, which had been growing for years. That is why he didn't can RR immediately after coming in, has consistently refused to do, and shows no inclination of doing even now, including after what happened at Thursday's bust and what he's said about the event. Those people who want RR gone don't seem to want to understand that the U and its AD don't share that view -- and won't until they're forced to make the changes that are needed, including, possibly, getting a new AD and, more drastically, adjusting the U's whole approach to big time sports like football and basketball, which are very corrosive. The latter is why I sincerely doubt that Jim Harbaugh would ever come back to UM -- unless the U is prepared for major change, which I don't see on their part any time soon (or JH is a hypocrite). And if Mr. Bigelow's call is any guide, THAT decision can NOT happen tomorrow for the reason you and many other people have said. As for "lack of endorsement" of RR, that certainly isn't the case: DB has been endorsing, defending, even apologizing for RR since the get-go and did so again this weekend. However, that, obviously, isnt enough for many people, including Mr. Bigelow and apparently you, any more. WHY hasnt DB given the endorsement that you all want? Ive copied Ben's post on that several times: Brandon has said over and over that he is not going to let the media or anyone else dictate his timetable. If I was Brandon, editorials like this would actually make me MORE stubborn about it. How will it look if the A.D. at Michigan lets the media tell him what to do? Perhaps that was Mr. Bigelows point? That DB should get off his high horse and stop being so pigheaded? But isnt that just kicking the can down the road again? As happened last year? In 2007? And many other times in the past? HOW is Mr. Bigelows (and yours?) call any solution? Clean house now!

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:49 p.m.

@Dwayne Gotcha. And thanks. Totally agree. Even as a person who wants RR gone, I've repeatedly been roughed up by people who totally agree with me on that. As Howard said, it's sad how ugly things are getting -- as they've been for years. But that's UM's fault, not yours, mine, or anyone elses's. Can't people just chill? Kumbaya!

heartbreakM

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:44 p.m.

It's not the tears at the bust that are the issue. It's not even the dumb song, though that is part of it. It's the utter lack of leadership, class, and maturity that you look for in the head coach (at least at Michigan). RR took an honor away from the seniors and the 1985 team and put shame and embarrassment squarely on the program, and attention upon himself. He begged, he cajoled, he sang. He should not be saying he "wants to be a Michigan man" (actions and not words may make you a Michigan man (or woman, as Hutchins has shown), but begging certainly does not). The only arguments I see from the RR lovers to keep him are that "recruiting may suffer" or "you will get more years of bad". Even the "RR is a proven winner" argument is fading away. (And it seems that the current coach there is also winning so maybe RR is not so magic after all). For the life of the program, you have to get the right coach in there. RR has been wrong since day 1 and gets worse. For 2 million a year, Michigan deserves better. But even without monetary considerations, M deserves better. And when you compare the fate of other underachieving coaches or bad coaches, like Lynch at IU, like Shannon at Miami, like John L. Smith at MSU or Callahan at Nebraska--you can't blame Michigan or M fans for wanting better and demanding better. Even Miss State's coach was able to turn it around in less time than it is taking Rod, and in a tougher conference. Let DB take his time to get it right, but RR has shown that he is not the right guy, by his words, actions, and results.

3 And Out

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:26 p.m.

At this point, it would be a shock if Dave Brandon brought Rich Rodriguez back next year. Let's look at it closely: 1) RR has failed miserably at his job. He has built a soft, finesse team that can not compete in the Big Ten. 3 years In, no one thought that Michigan's best BT finish under Rich Rod would be 7th place...but here it is! 0-12 vs. BT teams that finished with winning records in the conference. 6-18 in conference. Many blow out losses. Terrible home record. 0-3 vs. Sparty, OSU, PSU etc. NCAA violations on top of that. 2) At least 1/2 of Michigan alums, fans and boosters hate the job that RR has done and want him out now. Dave Brandon knows he would be foolish to bring back a HC who would not only be on the Hot Seat as he was this season...if DB brings back RR next year, RR will be on the Electric Chair it will be that Hot. DB has boxes to sell, seats to put butts in to and people to please...fielding a Namby Pamby loser is not the way to get those things done. Im guessing that DB would love to avoid the risky possibility of bringing back a much hated, hot seated, losing HC. 3) RR is not DB's guy. If he brings him back, the RR becomes DB's guy. Im guessing that DB wants to bring in his own guy, and make his own mark on the program. 4) Recruiting is way down for RR. Last year's class was not great, and 1/4 of the players in last years RR class did not qualify, bounced out due to academics and never made it to campus. This is all on RR...poor recruiting and pre qualifying players. This years class is currently ranked between 25 and 30 by most services.... if that holds up, it would be the worst recruiting class at Michigan in probably 20 years. RR is not getting it done in recruiting and defensively this class is extremely light with hardly any talent coming in and certainly not many impact players at all. 5) Player development on the field is down. Other than D Rob who was a lucky diamond-in-the-rough recruiting find for RR (after Shavodrick Beaver and Kevin Newsome decommitted)... and the OL has done a decent job in getting coached up by Coach Frey....the rest of the team has been poorly coached and none of the other positions have developed under Rich Rod. WRs drop passes, RBs are small, soft and not physical or particularly impactful, LBs and Safeties are out of position and horrible tacklers, DL is small and easily knocked off the all, Kicker is non existant... Return game is probably the worst that Ive ever seen in Michigan football in my lifetime. ETc. Poor player development. 6) Getting rolled by the conference rivals and being non competitive in those games. 7) Offense disappearing in the first half vs. all good BT teams. Continues to make critical errors, turnovers, drops and penalties 3 years in. RRs teams have been at the bottom of the Big Ten all three of his years in turnovers! 8) Jim Harbaugh has done a wonderful job at Stanford. His teams play tough, disciplined and solid football. He is a Michigan legend. Reports are that DB and JH are friends, and JH very well could be DBs guy to bring back tough-minded, disciplined football to replace the Namby Pamby Rich Rod team. 9) Bob Bowlsby the Stanford AD worked for Mary Sue Coleman at Iowa when she hired Ferentz. No doubt that connection will be worked, if it has not already... to open polite and amicable discussions with Harbaugh to bring him home. 10)RR's buyout drops from 4 mil to 2.5 mil on Jan. 1. NO doubt that DB is aware of the ridiculous contract that RR and his agent totally "pantsed" Bill Martin on. He knows that if he were to fire RR "with cause" per his contract and the NCAA violations, that RR would contest it in court and there would be another long, drawn-out legal battle between Michigan and the narcissistic and letigious Rich Rod camp. DB would want to avoid this. In addition, he most likely is aware that RR has earned millions so far at Michigan and has failed miserably in all areas as HC. To pay him that extra 1.5mil by letting him go now (as Pete Bigelow suggests) would be almost blahsphemous. It wont happen. DB is too smart of a business man to squander 1.5million on a failure when he can wait just 3 more weeks and put that money to better use (aka Jim Harbaugh). 11) The national perception of Michigan Football is at an all time low. This must change immediately for a variety of reasons that I dont have time to get in to now. In 2012 we play Alabama in a showcase game in Dallas. DB must be aware that this marquee game that he negotiated, has to be represented by the toughest, most well-coached Michigan team possible. Bringing back RR next year on shakey ground and then having to fire him after 2011 would be tough to go in to that Bama game with a brand new coach...even though Harbaugh would be an upgrade over RR any day or any year. 12) Harbaugh is available now... that window will close. He will not stay at Stanford, making a lower tier HC salary and coaching to 38,000 in the stands at 80% capacity. There is no doubt that Harbaugh loves Stanford and loves his team and is proud to coach there...but the realities of major college football (or any top business) is that the best keep rising...the best want to play on the biggest stage. Michigan is a much bigger stage and is Home for JH. For those reasons, and many others... 3AndOut answers the question for Dave Brandon "What's Your Deal"... well the answer is "It's a Done Deal"! Go Blue.

Dwayne

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:02 p.m.

@Holmes Someone on here posted saying that they had been objective all along, but the bust was the "light switch" for them. Oh, actually I'm combining posts now, it was "Win" and apparently he was actually supportive of RR (not objective), but the banquet was the final straw. Yeah, right. I believe that, sure. Again, give me a break. I coached my daughters 3rd/4th grade basketball team a couple of years ago and the final game of the season, they put it all together. The clock operator actually stopped keeping track and some of my girls complained, "Coach, they're not keeping our score". Anyway, I got very emotional and teared up addressing them after the game and we're talking 3rd/4th grade sports! Nothing more than a continuation of the witch hunt, that's all the banquet fall out is. And Terry Foster should be ashamed of himself.

bighouse22

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 7:42 p.m.

This is just my point of view, but you can sacrifice having some recruits decommit if the end game is a coaching change. Otherwise, you would articulate now why he will be returning. By taking the stance without change, you only damage next years recruiting class, that is critical to improving RR chances of improving the team. The posture by Brandon only makes sense if change is in the air. Otherwise it is just ridiculous and damaging to the program! Brandon does come from the corporate world and understands the need to properly comment on difficult issues. His lack of an endorsement for RR is very telling. He is taking a very politically correct posture until the time is right! Holmes if you have some inside info, that we don't. Please do tell!

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 7:08 p.m.

@Dwayne I don't know what you mean by "light switch" but do agree that the response to the football bust is being blown way out of proportion and that "The people that didn't like RR, still don't like RR." I don't RR at all but haven't seen anything from any of the reports of the bust that I've seen that is bad in any way. I certainly don't see that David Brandon was in any way disturbed by the event or that his decision re RR will be affected by it.

Sallyxyz

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 7:04 p.m.

ViSHa: Good analysis of the freep article. You are absolutely right. DB changed the subject and didn't answer the question. Good for him. He's made a decision to wait until after the bowl game, and in the meantime, I doubt he'll answer any specific questions about the status of RR's job. I don't agree that DB should wait, but in no way did he offer support for RR. He's trying to save face to the extent that RR made a mockery of the bust, which I'm sure was a surprise to DB. I've read in several other columns in the Detroit media over the last couple days that those in attendance at the bust reported that DB was "shocked" when RR raised up his hands at the end of his phony, manipulative motivational speech. DB only joined in after several awkward moments and did so only to save face at the banquet, which has become a national punch line. The sooner RR is out of A2, the better. Hit the road, Jack!

XTR

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 6:49 p.m.

DB does not care if those undersized RR recruits go elsewhere because DB has decided since the Penn State game that RR is gone from the program. RR is gone why should he worry about those undersized offensive (offensive players again?) players going to other schools. lol! When the former NFL player becomes coach, all of those NFL wannabees will flock to AA and play for Michigan before signing day is over.

Howard the Duck

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 6:46 p.m.

This is like a nightmare, isn't it? It just keeps getting worse and worse!

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 6:41 p.m.

RR is still coach because his boss REFUSES -- repeatedly -- to undo the mistake his predecessor made. And the boss did so again this weekend, with words that obviously are troubling to many people -- Drew Sharp, BlueRoses, you, AND me. Yeah, RR is NOT doing a good job, so DB tried to weasel (or "twist," as you said) his way around the issue, as he's been doing for months. But the question here is what DB thinks, not what WE think. WE are in agreement: We don't like what HE thinks, which is that RR doesn't deserve to get canned. But he's the boss; we aren't.

The OSU

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 6:38 p.m.

Keep him, fire him: Don't care. Decide now, decide later: Don't care. Just know this: We've already got you guys in our crosshairs for next Nov. 26th in AA. We never stop thinking about beating Michigan! PS: It would be best for the rivalry if you fired him after your "bowl-lite" game and rebuilt your team. PPS: To Michboy40. Get a new picture. Your picture of UM linemen transmits as maize and GREEN. It looks like some type of weird Wolverine/Spartan crossbreed. Maybe it's supposed to be Green Bay with "wings."

Yelmonian

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 6:27 p.m.

Holmes, I have no clue why he is the head coach. Heis a 500 coach that only gets 50 percent of his teams to a bowl game. He has legal troubles, blames his players or lack there of, can't be competitive against top tier teams, and admittedly "wants to be a Michigan man" (so he doesn't even think he is one). So no, I have no clue why he is the coach.

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 6:24 p.m.

@Yelmonian The key line that I can find in your comments is: Maybe that's why I have a hard time twisting that statement into a compliment. Not maybe, definitely. And the word twisting is yours. Try substituting the words see or understand: I have a real hard time understanding that statement [of David Brandon, Rodriquezs boss] as a compliment. And you do so even when its very high praise. And thats because you obviously dont like RR (any more than I do) and are so affected by your feelings that you dont really want to understand what his boss (NOT you) thinks and why were stuck with RR. Just like that phrase we are a national joke. No we arent not unless one wants to be. As Ghost wrote, does anyone REALLY believe [Brandon] hasn't already made up his mind? Well, theres at least one person who does. And he does because he doesn't WANT to believe. But hell learn one day, one way or another: It's about understanding, not believing.

3 And Out

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 6:17 p.m.

BTW2: If you listen to the audio of GrobanFest... RR makes jokes about his big swimming pool, how much he makes, how Rita appreciates how much UM pays him...and before that he made all kinds of jokes about his lawyers etc. Why is that necessary? Would Bo, Woody, Lloyd, Jo Pa or any reputable Big Ten coach resort to that type of narcissistic "humor"? Did Rich Rod think his talking about the millions that he makes, would endure him to the audience? And why talk about his lawyers and all his lawsuits? The guy is flat out odd...

GettingBluer

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 6:13 p.m.

"Price $4M now Discounted price $2.5M January first" New Year's Day does have some pretty good sales...that is 37.5% off.

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 6:08 p.m.

No. Not even close. The questions were: WHY is he UM's coach? Can you explain that? Can you "see" it?

tzgoblue

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 6:04 p.m.

I previously was one bashing DB for not pulling the plug on RR immediately. As a die hard wolverine fan for over 40 yrs that proudly wears my maize and blue apparel almost everywhere except to the office, I have finally calmed down to realize that DB is travelling the high road in this mess. He is respecting all parties involved both at MI and else where. DB is not going to change his timetable, nor is he going to say anything about RR that would start more rumors or articles on this subject. His comments about the football bust and reactions he received was the politically correct response. I am sure he received comments and reactions of one sort or another from the insiders. As for the recruits decommitting, I guess that is part of the deal that goes along with this. Sometimes you have addtion by subtraction. I am confident that if DB does make the change in the HC postion, the replacement will have time to recover in the 4 weeks or so available until signing day. Remember, not all available recruits sign on the first day. There are plenty of players available beyond the 4 and 5 stars that can help a program be very successful. I am as concerned about the current state of affairs as any true UM fan can be, but we have to accept the timetable DB has decided to exercise. I did talk to a former teacher of mine today that played at MI and he did tell me that in conversations with a current UM athletic department employee, donations are slipping and declining and have been over the past couple years. This could be a result of the economy or the dissatisfaction of the alum with the state of the program and the current HC. As for all the posters representing other schools, you need to focus on your programs and not try to explain what we need to do or should do. I'm sure if this was going on at OSU or MSU the fans would be happy, not. Remember Cooper won 9 or 10 games every year and OSU fired him because he was 1-9 against UM. MSU canned John L Smith and Bobby Williams after very short coaching stints as well. IMO 3 yrs to prove yourself when you are handed the keys to a program with 40 straight winning seasons is more than enough time even if you decide to "fix something" that was never broke. RR gambled his system would work and he has lost. It is proven his style and system both offensively and defesively will not work against the quality teams in the B10. His recruiting classes have not been outstanding and we have had too many players decommit or leave after they did get here. His game management has been terrible as well. I could ramble on here forever, but I won't. Let's just pray DB doesn't disappoint us and brings us a quality HC, that hopefully is a guy that understands the MI tradition, rivalries and most of all what it takes to compete in the B10.

3 And Out

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 6:02 p.m.

utownie nailed it... perfectly stated (above)... but Richy will still use his tears routine to try and tug at the heartstrings of Pete and others.... yeah, to compare his 3 million a year with a 2.5 buyout to anyone suffering in this bad economy is in poor taste...you should remove that comment from this opinion Pete. It is a slap in the face for any TRUE unemployed person in Michigan.

Yelmonian

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 6:01 p.m.

Rich Rodriguez is the coach of the university of Michigan football. Rich Rodriguez likes the song You Raise Me Up. Rich Rodriguez has never beat MSU. I say keep rich Rodriguez forever because he will never beat MSU consistently. Rich Rodriguez is the coach of the first UM football team put on probation. Rich Rodriguez is the coach that received a ringing endorsement that basically said (paraphrasing) Rich Rodriguez didn't embarrass the program when he cried at a function to honor seniors, but instead begged for his job and made jokes about using up the legal fund. There... are you happy now Holmes? Do I "see" things accurately now?

ViSHa

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 5:59 p.m.

PRESS: Dave Brandon, did you receive any complaints from booster/alumni after the theatrics at the awards banquet? DB: Oh yes, several top boosters called me to complain, especially after josh groban's twitter. In fact let give you names of everyone who called........ Does anyone seriously think DB would give the press anything more to draw negative attention to Michigan??? This drama must be a reporters, um, damp dream----you could write anything and as long as it has the words RR, DB, contract, Jan 1st in it, you're golden with internet views.

3 And Out

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 5:59 p.m.

PS: RR makes 3 mil a year at Michigan. To grovel for his job is beneath him and he should know better. Leaders do not do that. RR is toast.

3 And Out

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 5:56 p.m.

Pete, you have had RRs back all year long.... so for his teary-eyed, narcissistic acting job to have tugged at your heartstrings, is not surprising. It was however, a very unnecessary act...yes act. If you look on Youtube you can find many examples of this narcissist crying like a baby and pledging his allegence to WVU, Michigan, claims of family being harrassed... blaming everyone else but himself for his failures...etc. So he succeeded in that. Congrats to Rich Rod. It doesnt make him a 'good man' though. He has a ton of faults, is shaky and manipulative and is not the type of man who should be leading a huge program like Michigan's I support Brandon's decision to wait until after the bowl game. He is being respectful to Rich Rod, enabling him to finish out his career with a bowl game...and is also respectful to Jim Harbaugh allowing him and Stanford to play in their first BCS bowl game. Any 'lost recruits' over this are incidental and dont matter... this last class of RRs is paper thin anyway...and as Bo Said, no player is bigger than the team. On Jan 2, when Harbs is announced...he will pick up many solid recruits in that month, including the possibility of switching over some of his Stanford recruits. Rich Rod can stay in Florida and cry to someone there about how he was mistreated at Michigan. Perhaps he can get a gig at South Florida as their OC or something.

Macabre Sunset

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 5:53 p.m.

If Brandon feels there's a good chance the right coach is someone who is leading a bowl-bound team, why make the call now? Any coach with the integrity necessary to run this program isn't going to abandon his current team right before a bowl game. There's no need to pull the plug this minute. There is a need to act quickly the minute the bowls are finished.

NoSUVforMe

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 5:41 p.m.

Brandon claims his business background as credentials for being athletic director. Huh? Anybody with a real business background knows you act on a decision as soon as you have decided. If he is waiting until the bowl game, then he hasn't been doing his job. Just because Brandon has the job, doesn't mean his is competent. He should support his coach, or fire him now.

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 5:37 p.m.

I can see that you can't even bring yourself to say the coach's name -- much less admit that he's the coach. WHY is he UM's coach? Can you explain that? Can you "see" it? And what about this line from Sharp's article: "Brandon said... that he had no issues with Rodriguezs actions and received no negative feedback from supporters"?

John Bretzloff

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 5:36 p.m.

Since when must a coach be validated each post-season to return the next year, even though he has 3 more years remaining on his contract?? I am amazed at so many people and their incessant need for constant and immediate feedback, results, consequences, etc. No one is happy with the way this season ended but their was marked improvement over 08, and 09. Rodriguez was brought here because he is a proven winner; and he will win at Michigan. I know it doesn't provide much writing fodder for the bloggers but I'm sure you all can get creative and come up with something. Rothstien must be loving this...any time he can bash Michigan or make light of anything negative, the boy is all over it.

Yelmonian

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 5:23 p.m.

Visha You are terribly wrong, according to others that is a direct compliment to RR. Don't you see?

blusage

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 5:21 p.m.

George Peng -- You're right about the players. That's what get me most about RR, is disrespect of the players. These guys work hard and sacrifice in order to play on the team, even the ones RR inherited from Carr. So for RR to come in and sort of dismiss the Carr players and/or non-spread-type players is insulting to them, and unfair, especially when they're all you've got! The defense that was there was better than any he fielded in three years, but he managed to muck it up. For three years he's been mucking it up and for three years he's been blaming the players. Enough.

Yelmonian

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 5:19 p.m.

Holmes you are right. I SEE who the coach of UM is. He is the Guy that has 6 wins in the big ten in three years. He is the Guy that was in charge when UM was put on probation for the first time ever. He is the Guy that can't beat Iowa, MSU, or Ohio state. He's the Guy that is in charge of one of the worst defenses and kicking games in the country. Maybe that's why I have a hard time twisting that statement into a compliment. Why can't any of the people you quote say straight up... RR has done a decent job? I'm not even asking for them to say he has done a good job.

ViSHa

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 5:19 p.m.

according to freep: when DB was asked if he was aware of RR's planned choreographed presentation, DB replied: I was really proud of how our seniors represented themselves and the program last night. I thought their remarks showed their commitment to Michigan, the coaches and how theyve grown as men. The past three years have been challenging and difficult for Rich and everyone associated with our program, and their passion and emotion was evident at the banquet. So basically DB changed the subject and while not saying anything negative about RR, took the high road and complimented the SENIORS, who were supposed to be the main focus of the banquet. He brought the focus back to the SENIORS. Doing this does not automatically means he supports RR, it means he's a good businessman.

George Peng

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 5:12 p.m.

The one idea I haven't heard mentioned is the impact of all of this on current UM players, especially on defense. Older players are likely to have their third DC regardless of whether RR stays or goes. If you assume that the defensive players are in fact decently talented, and I don't know if we can really say definitively one way or the other, then you have to think that the idea of staying in a 3-3-5 that clearly isn't working is highly unattractive, especially for front 7 (6?) players who seem to constantly get swallowed up by Big Ten O-lines. If I were them, I'd seriously be thinking about transferring if RR survives past January 3. Otherwise, you're neither going to flourish here nor are there going to be opportunities at the next level, even if you're reasonably talented, with little opportunity to show it in 4 years.

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 5:06 p.m.

One cannot "see" if one doesn't look. Drew Sharp isn't a good medium through which to communicate, but DB's words came through -- VERY CLEARLY. ALL positive, NONE negative. The issue is DB's view. NOT yours (or mine). For the THIRD time: Who is UM's football coach? Can you "see" that?

bighouse22

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 5:03 p.m.

The point of the decommits is not the quality of the decommits. It is that Brandon is willing to allow it to slip. If you want to bring RR back, why would you undermine his recruiting efforts. The answer has to be that he has already determined that RR is gone and has other reasons to wait. If he brings RR back, he makes himself look silly and does nothing to help the program in the future.

blusage

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 5 p.m.

"...in case he can't find a suitable replacement better than RR?" Are you kidding? Even before the last three years, RR wasn't THAT good, and now, definitely not. Let's not sell Michigan short, even with our recent troubles. There are a lot of good coaches who would love to come to Michigan. It's not a matter of "if." Osbourne fired Callahan BEFORE he found a new coach knowing there where four or five good candidates out there. Michigan is no different. If anything, Michigan might have a slight edge as far as attractive coaching jobs go. Harbaugh would be nice, but he's not the only guy out there. At Nebraska a search committee decided on somebody after nine days. Fixing Michigan Football is NOT that hard. Fire RR and quickly hire somebody good out there. Their names are well-known. We've got the tradition, the facilities, the fan base, the national stage, the cash, and quite a challenge ahead of us. There's no "if" we can find someone better than RR here! Of course we can! Go Blue!

Yelmonian

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 4:55 p.m.

Holmes, Because Brandon says RR has passion, is much different than Brandon indicating has done a good job. Saying the players are committed to RR in no way indicates RR has done a good job. That is the most round about way to compliment the coach... if that is the intent. Why not make the coach the subject of the sentence, if the intent is to compliment the coach? Again, we are not going to see eye to eye on this statement from Brandon.

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 4:33 p.m.

Sorry, I missed this line: "the players commitment speaks highly to the coach." Or, rather, "of the coach." The fact that the players are committed to their coach speaks VERY HIGHLY (regardless of what I may think) of their coach. That shows the leadership of the coach and his ability to win his players' trust and to motivate them. And the coach has done this despite all the challenges and difficulties "for Rich and everyone associated with our program, and their passion and emotion was evident at the banquet." Passion and emotion are also product of the coach's leadership, which serves to motivate the players and is evidence of the coach's effectiveness. These are code words, filtered through Drew Sharp, whom another commenter has just blasted. But the words are ALL positive AND supportive, NOT critical (again, despite what I'd like to see). You want more? What do you think DB says to RR? Do you really think RR doesn't know what his future is for the next year? Did you see what Ghost wrote? Have you seen what DB has repeatedly stated the past months and weeks? What did Mr. Bigelow say last week?

BlueGator

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 4:30 p.m.

I'm not saying it's good to lose any commit, but Sousa was always regarded as a "soft verbal." Even prior to his visit to Wake this past weekend, had had already visited Middle Tennessee and Louisville in the last few months.

RudeJude

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 4:28 p.m.

@ Brian Bundesen Your comment hit the nail on the head. While the waiting game makes December a very tense month for us fans who are left in the dark, Dave Brandon is keeping open all potential options and will choose what is best for the program come January. If he fired Rodriguez today and tomorrow was unable to find a better suited candidate for the long-term, he'd be doing a disservice to the program, and at the same time, embarrassing it further. Think of a boxer being knocked down and using nearly the full 10-count to steady himself. As uncomfortable as this period is, this is the Michigan program regaining its lost stability. Go Blue

bighouse22

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 4:20 p.m.

Another Recruit has decomitted from Michigan (QB Sousa). I have to assume that RR is not coming back, otherwise Brandon comes off as looking ridiculous. Why would you let RR stay and sabotage his recruiting class?

Yelmonian

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 4:15 p.m.

So... if I say... the Chicago bears played a great game in Detroit.... does that mean I praised Detroit? Just because the word "coaches" is in the sentence does not mean they are praised. Can you UNDERSTAND that?

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 4:07 p.m.

Who's the coach again? Can you "see" that?

Yelmonian

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 4:03 p.m.

Holmes, Obviously you and I see very differently. I don't consider praise of the players... praise for the coach. If he had said, the players commitment speaks highly to the coach. Instead, the statement comes across as a lot of praise goes out to the players for sticking with this coach. I do not see praise in that at all.

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:54 p.m.

COMMITMENT to their COACHES, not "ME." Huge difference! Do you know how that came about (regardless of what you or I think of RR)? And the coach, once again, is who? Can you "see" that?

blusage

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:52 p.m.

Missionbrazil -- good examples: Oregon and Auburn were turned around by new coaches in 2 years -- look where they'll be playing in January! Good coaches get immediate results. Good coaches know how to use what they have and fuse them into a team that plays better than the the sum of their collective parts. Good coaches adapt. Good coaches don't cry and talk about Perfect Storms in their third year. We all know what the definition of insanity is. Giving RR another year is insanity.

RudeJude

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:50 p.m.

@ InsideTheHall Who the heck is Bill White? (He's the democratic gubernatorial candidate in Texas who lost to incumbent governor, Rick Perry, in November. Sorry, the remnants from the election are still in my head) I meant Bill Stewart.

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:45 p.m.

@Blueroses I know about Drew Sharp. But, from what you wrote, there's little difference of opinion between you, Sharp, and me re RR. Sorry if you don't like DB. I don't, either, certainly not what he's done re RR since he took over as AD. But that is his doing (including what happened at the bust). If you feel you need to bash me for that, fine. That's "shoot the messenger."

Yelmonian

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:40 p.m.

Holmes, I would be upset if that was my job review. Praising my employees for their commitment to me? There is no praise in that statement for me. That is praise for my employees. Nothing there says Brandon is proud or supportive of RR. It only says there were not negative effects from his actions. That is not praise IR support. Huge difference.

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:39 p.m.

To repeat: Exactly, Teebob: did Mr. Brandon ever say there was going to be a coaching change? I haven't heard him say that. Is richrod still under contract next year? Yep, he sure is. Then, why would anyone think any differently about who the coach is going to be next year. Let me remind you that the coach is the fella that is listed in the media guide and has the coach's office at Schembechler Hall. And Ben: Brandon has said over and over that he is not going to let the media or anyone else dictate his timetable. If I was Brandon, editorials like this would actually make me MORE stubborn about it. How will it look if the A.D. at Michigan lets the media tell him what to do? And Ghost: does anyone REALLY believe [Brandon] hasn't already made up his mind?

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:31 p.m.

Including "no issues with Rodriguezs actions," "no negative feedback from supporters," and PROUD of the seniors' COMMITMENT to their COACHES! And passion, emotion, natural thing? "Rich and everyone associated with the program"? No "team" there? "So nope... didn't see a suppoertive statement for the coach." How 'bout the coach? Can you "see" who that is? Harbaugh?

missionbrazil

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:31 p.m.

superbuck "You had one of the best recruiting classes last year in the top 5 if i remember correctly." You do not remember correctly. RR's recruiting classes are rated # 8 for 2009 (his 1st full class), # 20 for 2010, and the current 2011 class is rated # 27. Recruiting seems to be going the wrong way. You are critical because we want a new coach after 3 years of poor results... i would like to see what OSU would do after going 15-21 and 6-18 in the Big Ten in 3 years.

Blueroses3

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:28 p.m.

To Holmes, Drew Sharp not only has an axe to grind against Michigan, for whatever reason, but he frequently wields his hatchet against the program. I'm sure Dave Brandon could care less that Sharp scolds him about the Football Bust. Brandon has consistently represented that announcements will be made about the program after the bowl game. And someone has to act like an adult and a professional in the midst of that spectacle last week--what did you want him to do, hug Rodriguez, join hands, sing Kumbayah, swear fealty to him? Why should he respond to that kind of provocation? I'm astonished you believe Brandon choreographed that fiasco. It is what it is: the last ditch attempt of a narcissist to save his job, whether it means embarrassing himself and the university in the process or not. If Mr. Rodriguez can't get it done on the field, if he embarrasses himself by crying in public and worse, enjoining his student athletes in a bald-faced, bawling display to keep his job, then I am happy to say farewell. If he thought that performance helped him with his boss, he's clueless. He's a highly paid professional in a high profile job, and he should conduct himself as a professional. Whatever happened to "The team, the team, the team." With Rodriguez it's "me, me, me." Enough.

Joe

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:24 p.m.

Holmes - If everything Mr. Brandon said to a very stupid question were positive statements about RR, then why didn't he take that opportunity to endorse RR and state the RR is the UM coach in 2011?

spartyisyourlilsister

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:23 p.m.

The only thing this article proves is that people are gonna bitch and complain no matter what Michigan does!

Yelmonian

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:20 p.m.

Holmes, I saw him praising the seniors for following he coaches. I saw nothing that said he was proud of the coaches. I read him trying to justify rrs show... by saying the coach has passion. Not that he approved of the show. So nope... didn't see a suppoertive statement for the coach. By the way... another decommitment. Sousa. QB. Not highly rated but he gave the position depth and could have time to learn w three players ahead of him. He chose wake forest instead.

Brian Bundesen

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:07 p.m.

Let's face it: We're all speculating, and all our hooting and hollering will not make Mr. B announce his decision on anything other than his own time table. What seems most logical at this point is this: He will not pull the trigger on RR unless the replacement is signed and sealed (if not delivered). IMO, if he does not get who he wants, RR stays one more year. So, assuming JH is the replacement, an announcement won't be made until after the bowls out of professional courtesy to all. I'm comfortable and confident that Mr. Brandon will make the right decision at the right time, in the best long term interests of the program. My two-cents

missionbrazil

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:05 p.m.

blusage - good post about Tom Osborne and Nebrska... it was obvious that they needed to make a coaching change to get back to being a winning program. superbuck - "If you would set back and keep your mouths shut and support your school you might make a come back but I doubt it."... i'm sure you would love it if we just set back and hold on to RR and keep getting blasted by OSU... i'm sure you want RR for another 10+ years.... You mentioned Auburn & Oregon as good teams... both of their coaches are in their 2nd year... they didn't have to wait long to get better, with good coaches in place (in Aubrun's case maybe it took some shady things too). Neither did Nebraska - they got better right away with a good coach.

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3 p.m.

Brandon did NOT say "nothing" about the coach: 'There was a lot of passion and emotion at that bust expressed by both the seniors and the coaches,' Brandon said, 'and I think thats a natural thing.' COACHES 'I was really proud of how our seniors represented themselves and the program last night. I thought their remarks showed their commitment to Michigan, the coaches and how theyve grown as men." COACHES, indeed, COMMITMENT to the coaches. DB is PROUD of that. 'The past three years have been challenging and difficult for Rich and everyone associated with our program, and their passion and emotion was evident at the banquet.'" RICH THEIR passion and emotion FOUR references to RR, including his name -- ALL positive. And that when DB was pressured to denounce RR for what happened Thursday. Yet you saw "nothing"? Or that Brandon "had no issues with Rodriguezs actions and received no negative feedback from supporters"? Well, that's how it is that many comments here clearly assume that RR is gone, Harbaugh is already here, and that this is what Mr. Bigelow wrote, when, in fact he has said the opposite, as has DB for nearly a year. Amazing!

Macabre Sunset

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 2:57 p.m.

Fortunately, the media doesn't make these decisions. And the louder the whining from columnists, the happier we should be. Because it's those who leak plans to the media who inevitably see those plans dashed. And those who act quietly and decisively who inevitably win. Use your logical reasoning skills. Rodriguez is done here. The decision was made Saturday when he brought an unprepared team into Columbus and embarrassed the school. Rodriguez knows that. It's why he made his tearful "look at me, woe is me" goodbye at the banquet. However, there's no benefit in making an announcement now. All that would do is put pressure on any coach rumored to replace Rodriguez. Particularly Jim Harbaugh, who has a BCS bowl game to prepare for and doesn't need bloggers on his doorstep. As for recruiting, it was already a disastrous recruiting class. The bell-cow running back is already gone. Not much happens over the Christmas break - families tend to resent coaches calling to interrupt. A coaching change in January will produce buzz at just the right time. It's certainly not an easy situation for Brandon. But if he's half the man he needs to be to perform this job, he understands that the desire from the media to "break" a story early is his last concern right now. He needs to keep quiet until he's ready to act.

Jason

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 2:55 p.m.

Dave Brandon is a consummate professional he knows exactly what he is doing. He does listen to the people and he takes all things into consideration. Ultimately he will make the best decision for the direction of the program and that just isn't related to the actual game itself but everything contained their-in. I am sure he already knows exactly what he is going to do. Now we apparently are suffering due to recruits not knowing what direction we are taking but keep in mind we still have a bowl game to play. Any change now can contribute to more stress than is already there. Now the big question one should ponder is this: If he already knows RR will be returning why hasn't he announced it as of yet? Think about it folks......There are 2 possible Michigan candidates with big bowl games coming up.......Whatever happens we will be fine

Joe

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 2:45 p.m.

IMO Mr. Brandon has already indicated his decision on RR by not giving him an endorsement like he did Beilein. I also agree with all of those who say he is not making the "see ya RR" announcement until after the bowl season because of the total circus atmosphere it will create at UM as well for the coach/coaches that the press think UM should select. Those gentlemen already have a hard enough job getting ready for their bowl game. Why turn this whole situation any uglier than RR already has with his antics last week? Let's just let the man do his job. I for one have a TON more confidence in Mr. Brandon than his predecessor!!

ethanblue

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 2:41 p.m.

As a lifelong fan of the program, I find it kind of ridiculous that so many lifers think that to be a Michigan Man you have to have everything you do repeat everything of the past...as if invoking the past will somehow be the remedy for victories. Oh my, it wasn't "Hail to the Victors!" Yeah, Josh Groban's song was a lame choice, and Groban knows it. So what? Apparently the one quality people want in a coach is for them to simply be a politician who Rudy Giuliani's it with a noun, a verb, and Michigan in every sentence. I get it. The team has been bad, but so has the fan support. You go to games and Michigan fans are the quietest 112k there can be. I've been to games with 20k at an Orioles game in the seats that cheer harder for their team during a game. Perhaps it is all the standing at the Big House that makes the fan base pretty tame at games? I see more anti-Rodriguez passion here than I have ever seen acted out for the football team on game days. It's quite sad. Our fans are guilty of being a non-factor in the Big House. There is such a lack of faith whenever there is something not going our way that the fan base pouts on comment boards and sulks in their seats. There's such a lack of faith in the ability to overcome, and that started way before Rodriguez. It's always amazed me at the lack of faith the average Michigan fan has in a game that's close; in a team that is close. Apparently the only way we can see progression is to look at wins. I'll be happy with Harbaugh, and I'll be happy with Rodriguez. One represents tradition to some fans; the other, stability in how the program is run, etc. Fans have to realize neither choice guarantees a certain path to success -- nor failure. Good coaches can have failing seasons. Even the best of coaches can fail; see JoePa for an example of that. See Urban Meyer this year without Tebow. But I am extremely tired of the Rodriguez haters with their "apologists" and "tradition" arguments. Simply because I am a bit more patient with the turnaround does not make me an apologist. Just because I see things progressing, and you "can't" does not make me an apologist. And just because RR doesn't scream Hail to the Victors every chance he can, doesn't mean he doesn't understand the tradition. There is a huge logical fallacy here called "an appeal to tradition." Many fans seem to take this fallacy to the grave, both multiple ways. As a Bears fan, the word patience is something ingrained in me. So many people have wanted Lovie Smith to be gone for...since he was hired (sounds familiar). And yet we are leading the division this year. It has not been pretty, but we sure have switched things around. I take this as a lesson that a team can improve from one season to the next (even as Cutler lost the ball to the darn Lions just now).

blusage

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 2:40 p.m.

Superbuck, you're right: three years of losing with ANY coach is reason enough to want a change. (Carr was forced out for much less.) That's football, or any sport for that matter. What's wrong with that? And you're wrong that this discourages coaches from coming to Michigan. There are plenty of ambitious coaches waiting to prove themselves at Michigan. If a coach is afraid that he'll be fired for not winning after three years, then we don't want him. We want coaches who think they can come in and make an immediate difference -- a promises not to cry in public unless he's just won a National Championship.

LBGoBlue

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 2:37 p.m.

This decision has indeed already been made. Dave Brandon started work on a succession plan back in September. I'm sure that he has lined up either Harbaugh or Miles and will make an announcement in early January. In waiting until then, he is showing respect to our new coach-to-be and giving Rich the opportunity to finish the season with his players. That strikes me as good leadership. As for recruiting efforts, I'm confident that the University of Michigan will be able to hold it's own with either of those two coaches in place. When something hasn't worked, a leader owes it to everyone involved to make the needed change. Brandon seems like that kind of guy to me. We will be welcoming a Michigan Man to Ann Arbor in early January. Rich will be fine and likely will have a fine career in the ACC, Pac 12, or Big 12.

jameslucas

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 2:34 p.m.

Regardless of David Brandons time line for making a coaching decision, persons suffering with Coach Rich Derangement Syndrome will find no quick relief for their disorder.

Yelmonian

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 2:34 p.m.

I know I'm going to sound hypocritical. Being a little brother, and watching Tom izzo make a decision about Cleveland this past summer... Lynn henning said the same thing about izzo. He said that a long decision was tearing the program apart. That was completely wrong. The decision can be drawn out. Its big business. A decision shouldn't be made based on the media. The important part... is that the correct decision is made when a decision is made.

Yelmonian

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 2:26 p.m.

Holmes, What I find more interesting about the quotes... he was proud of his seniors. Nothing about his coach. What he didn't say spoke louder than what he did say.

blusage

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 2:23 p.m.

Oops, meant "football MAN," not "football." Osborne wasn't too worried about getting the perfect coach. He was more worried about stopping the slide. Like Nebraska, Michigan can attract good coaches -- Harbaugh would be great, but he's not worth a wait, if he wants him he should speak up. There ARE other options and not too hard to find. The important things is to announce that this culture of losing and crying is over at Michigan. It's time to announce that this national embarrassment is over. It's time for Michigan to get back to being Michigan -- the wins will follow. Show us what you've got Brandon: "football guy" or businessman? Michigan needs a football guy right now.

CRa2

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 2:21 p.m.

Can we really risk RR going to a bowl game with the team after his sad display at the Bust? It's not hard to imagine what his behavior will be with the focus on him and his future. Clearly he wasn't there for his players at the Bust. RR, remember this was supposed to be about your players and their accomplishments - NOT YOU! Very sad what their memories of the Bust will include. I sure hope a decision is made about his future and he is not given another platform for his performance nationally. I have to believe both President Coleman and Dave Brandon won't allow that to happen - or I can hope!

Billw94

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 2:19 p.m.

Incredible to see everyone trying to fight for whom to put on the chopping block. To me most of you sound pathetic. RR takes over a program and decides to change the entire style of play using at first players that were recruited under a different style of play. He now has an offense that seems to be improving every year. He has a defense that is young and frankly small I think which makes it hard to tackle one on one. Michigan could not trade scores this year and the defense was the main problem. The kicking game deserves one line that simply says next year anything will be an improvement. Alright, so lets get rid of RR because he has not given that immediate, fast, got to have it now attitude of success and bring in whom? Maybe that coach likes the old 3 yards and a pile of dust Michigan football. How many years do you give him to fix a program with players that are not up for that style of play. You might even remember some bowl games where Michigan had their lunch handed to them because their opponent had a running quarterback, a fast offense and a fast defense. Oh wait, that sound like Michigan today or at least the path they are trying to get to. Frankly, it is the 70 or so comments above mine that are a true sampling of the pathetic fan base of a program that expects everything now. If you could add some patience you will find success compared to the change it all the time because the fans are nothing more than oversized babies.

superbuck

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 2:18 p.m.

My feelings on a coach for Mich. If Harbaugh has the same record in 3 years you'll wan't his head, if Miles would have the same record you'll wan't his head. The reason you can't get a quality coach is if they don't produce instantly your not happy. That is why no great coach will come to Mich. You had one of the best recruiting classes last year in the top 5 if i remember correctly. If you would set back and keep your mouths shut and support your school you might make a come back but I doubt it. there are great team out there today look at Auburn, Oregon, etc. They arene't asking for Meyers head in Florida. You are has beens and will continue that way until you change that greater than thow attitude. I agree you have talent on this team that are not being used to their ability. I would put tate as QB and DR as a receiver you would then be harder to reckon with. Ohio State played keep away the whole second half and did not try to score it could have easily been 70--7 GO BUCKS

BadgerBill

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 2:01 p.m.

As a UW alum an diehard Badger fan I think I speak for all Badger fans that we hope UM signs RichRod for another 10 years!!! This guy has has brought the UM program to a level we at UW would not put up with, much less a storied program like UM. While we like whooping up on you guys there is something just wrong about UM being an also-ran. Good luck singing Harbaugh.

InsideTheHall

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 1:57 p.m.

RudeJude: Who the heck is Bill White?

johnnya2

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 1:56 p.m.

The problem with making a decision today is what happens to the coaches you want. Recruiting for one year is not as important as doing this right. If Brandon was keeping Rich Rod he would have given him the vote of confidence already. What could UM do in a bowl game to save RR's job? NOTHING. Brandon is doing what good businessmen and ad's do, he is getting his succession plan in order. This is the REAL failure of the Martin regime. A plan should always be in place all the time or a persons replacement. If Red Berenson dies tomorrow does the hockey team have somebody ready to go? That is how top-notch programs work. Bo went to Mo, went to Lloyd. Barry Alverez went to Belima. Martin KNEW Lloyd wanted out, and should have cultivated a person to take the position. Unfortunately, Martin say an opportunity to make a mark on the program. The mark is a skid mark. I bet if Bill had said "Lloyd, will you do one more year and let's get an assistant you want to take over" he would have done it. OR, if he had said it after Bo died (which I think is when Lloyd wanted to retire) and said, lets do one more year for the seniors you have and decide who you want.

XTR

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 1:52 p.m.

The columnist is a RR supporter. Decreased buyout, waiting for both RR and the replacement to finish their bowl games and then it will be done. Very logical. I'm waiting for DB to announce that RR stays and JH to say he is staying at Stanford or going to the 49ers which he has not done. Until then there are grounds for speculation.

Huron 74

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 1:39 p.m.

Henry Ford was famous for making near instant decisions. He accomplished a lot more in his life than Dave B ever will. Out of all the coaches on UOM payroll, isn't there one who has the backbone to lead us through the "Token Bowl"? Every day that goes by cuts deeper into the respect for the Michigan program. We look adrift at sea. Can somebody please grab the wheel?

blusage

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 1:37 p.m.

I'm just hoping that Brandon is not too much of a businessman, so that he is inflexible when maybe he shouldn't be: timetables are great, but sometimes quick, decisive decisions are needed. It's fine to have a protocol for evaluating a coach at the end of their season in most situations, but this is a more desperate situation where waiting hurts us. Fire RR now, then go back to your schedule or evaluating the football coach after the season with the new coach. For recruiting's sake, RR should be fired. He doesn't have to announce that he's found another coach, if indeed he has. The $1.5 million is a small cost when compared to losing recruits like Dee Hart, though firing RR and not announcing the new coach isn't really re-assuring to recruits, but it should at least buy some time. I hope Brandon talks with the AD of our new Big Ten brothers Nebraska. Osborne was in this situation a couple years ago with Callahan. He was decisive, kicked him out and brought in Pellini. Look at them now. They lost last night to Oklahoma, but Nebraska is definitely back as a proud program. That's where we need to be. It doesn't have to take another three years, but let's start our road to recovery already.

Spud

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 1:31 p.m.

Dave Brandon is handling this situation perfectly. Unlike last time when it got let out of the bag that Les Miles was our man. It forced Miles into a corner, and he did the manly thing of not walking out on his team. Just relax this time. Brandon knows what he is doing. I would guess that his choice is participating in a bowl game, and he is not about to embarass that potential Michigan coach by letting the cat out of the bag. I thought it was awful last year when Cincinnati lost its coach for their bowl game to Notre Dame. It may be difficult for RR in this situation, but it is better and more noble than a coach walking out on his current team. Brandon is a pro. Trust him to do the right thing.

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 1:22 p.m.

"Why would Dave Brandon eliminate one or more of his options by making an announcement now?" He eliminated those options -- and has done so consistently -- since becoming AD, if not before. "pathetic pleas in public," "sappy music," "fence-sitting"? WHO says? From Drew Sharp, freep.com, yesterday: "Athletic director Dave Brandon must share some of the blame for Thursday nights football bust fiasco. His stubbornness in not deviating from his post-bowl timetable for rendering a verdict on Rodriguezs future placed his coach in a position where there was no alternative but an attempt at a stay of execution." Brandon said before Saturdays basketball game at Crisler Arena that he had no issues with Rodriguezs actions and received no negative feedback from supporters, although Michigan became the object of ridicule by a good part of the state, the national sporting media and even, in the world of Twitter, Josh Groban himself." 'There was a lot of passion and emotion at that bust expressed by both the seniors and the coaches,' Brandon said, 'and I think thats a natural thing.'" Asked whether he was aware that Rodriguez had planned such an apparently choreographed presentation which included hand-holding and swaying as Grobans 'You Raise Me Up' played Brandon said he would stick with what he said in a statement prepared Friday." It read: 'I was really proud of how our seniors represented themselves and the program last night. I thought their remarks showed their commitment to Michigan, the coaches and how theyve grown as men. The past three years have been challenging and difficult for Rich and everyone associated with our program, and their passion and emotion was evident at the banquet.'" Note Brandon "had no issues with Rodriguezs actions and received no negative feedback from supporters." WHO says that the whole "show" wasn't the handiwork of the Puppet Master?

blueinwestpenn

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 1:21 p.m.

Pete - Dude I can't tell you how much I normally agree with you on things. 99% of the time. I know it helps fire up the blogosphere, but I think you should leave Dave Brandon alone. You make an odd point about "twisting in the wind." Don't use that as leverage. Oh and by the way, let's not restate history and use restated history as leverage. In late 2007, les miles was plenty busy coaching LSU for the SEC title game. Les wins the SEC its on the NC game. So come on man! You're a reporter not me, but was Miles truly sitting around twiddling his thumbs? Ah..no he was not. Geez, I recall a HC search by Martin that literally started before the florida game. Much like the U (Miami) is doing right now. Dumb Dumb Dumb. If we must learn from history, let's state history correctly. and as for using Dee Hart as leverage? having Dee Hart second guess us (when he literally just second guessed ND) does not bother me. Second guessing happens in this day and age with recruits whether you are changing a coach or not. There's no leverage in that debate. Lastly, these guys (outgoing coaches or incoming coaches) are men compensated in the upper ranks of society. They are properly compensated for the good times and bad (like now). You write like its Brandon's fault there's 4 weeks of discomfort. Excuse me but if we were 18-6 against B10 rivals and not 6-18 over the last 3 years, we wouldn't be having this discussion. The real message is "just win baby." You don't want to be hanging in the wind? Answer: don't put yourself in that position. I guess that's Dave's fault too. Again, leave DB alone so I can read Pete Bigelow articles I love.

heartbreakM

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 1:05 p.m.

Just another example of why RR must go: (as if we need more) He does not know the history of M football. You can't be an effective M football coach without knowing and embracing the history, the rivalries, the traditions. Here, we are honoring the 1985 M football team, #2 in the country, loss only to Iowa and tie to Illinois. A team that was 6-6 the previous year. How perfect would it have been for RR to look at every one in the room in the eye, bring up the team, and say to everybody: I have had a tough time, and have not coached well enough to make these players their best. Well, I am looking at these Wolverines of 1985, and I think they are a great inspiration of what is possible. We know that the current Wolverines will look to them for an example of what is possible. We can and WILL elevate our performance, all of us. We will show how Wolverines are champions. Etc etc. Rather, we got the laughingstock. But as I've repeatedly said, RR doesn't get it and is a horrible fit with Wolverines. Now, what should DB do? I think we should give him time so as not to screw this up and allow him time to get his proper coach. If Dee Hart does not want to come to UM, so be it, but DB must make his own timetable and make sure that the decision is done. Whether we like DB and his style or not, he has shown a love for the University and I am hopeful that he will do what is right. But RR is just a bad bad fit and proves it every day. I hope that his replacement will be a coach with Big Ten and hopefully Michigan experience. He must know the history to succeed in the future.

mgbinTN73

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 12:52 p.m.

this alum says AMEN to that!

Blueroses3

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 12:50 p.m.

Mr. Bigelow, Why would Dave Brandon eliminate one or more of his options by making an announcement now? Certainly, the handwriting is writ large on the wall, as he has not announced an endorsement of Rodriguez. To make an announcement now, simply to ease the pain of a "good man," as you recommend, may seem like the humane thing to do for one individual, but this decision goes far beyond the comfort-or discomfort--of one person. Whatever decision is made now, whether to replace Rodriguez or to retain him if the right successor can be found, is a high stakes moment for the program. That decision, and its ramifications for the future of Michigan football is far more important than cutting the cord prematurely. Too bad if Mr. Rodgriguez makes pathetic pleas in public, backed by sappy (sorry, Mr. Groban) music, for his job. Quite frankly, if there had been any fence-sitting on Mr. Brandon's part, that should have been enough to convince him that this coach not only can't field a defense, but does not understand how to conduct himself as a representative of a great university. As Tom Hanks' character famously said in "A League of Their Own," "there's no crying in baseball." Well, Mr. Rodriguez, there's no crying in football, either. As others have posted here, feeling sorry for a millionaire who knows that college football is big business, is misplacing one's concern, which should be for the future of the Wolverines, not for relieving Mr. Rodgriguez's anxiety. I bear him no ill will, and I can imagine he's under a great deal of pressure, but that goes with the job. If he can't stand it, then he should stand aside. Mr. Bigelow, do you cry in front of your boss, and sob set to music? Probably not, or at least, probably not more than once.

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 12:47 p.m.

Exactly, michboy40. But you assume that Mr. Bigelow wants to do the right thing. Instead, he wants to "give Rich Rodriguez another year with the Michigan football team." And he wants that to happen "tomorrow."

Chilltime

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 12:43 p.m.

@AZ You make my point! Karma is.....

michboy40

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 12:29 p.m.

Pete, I usually agree with your stuff. Even when you write about the troubled side of things you come from a realistic point of view and you don't go overboard with the bashing. Cudo's for that. You are dead wrong on this one! Firing RR right now is suicide because we have no successor. This is the exact possition that Bill Martin was left in three years ago when LL resigned, and it could not have been worse for us. I implore Dave Brandon to do nothing until he is CERTAIN he has his man. If that is Harbaugh, it's going to have to wait!!! Harbaugh is not going to be a coach that leaves his team (Ranked #5) in a lurch, so if we want him, then we have to wait. We (being the media and fans) need to keep our mouths shut so this process an be worked out behind the scenes. So everyone quit your B%&@$^@*ing, what's done is done, show some patience for the process, and trust that our AD knows what he is doing!

Hanz Landa

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 12:14 p.m.

Harbaugh ain't coming. RR is back for another year. Brandon couldn't or wouldn't deliver Harbaugh so he plays this shell game with the fans. Millions in the NFL or peanuts and drama in Ann Arbor. RR and Brandon will be at the Groban concert at the Fox next week.

azwolverine

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 11:44 a.m.

chilltime, Didn't RR ditch not only his players at WVU DURING bowl preparations, but his home state and alma mater as well? He was their beloved son, one of their own, which is why they were so outraged when he left. Talk about leaving a program "high and dry."

edjasbord

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 11:42 a.m.

Mr. Brandon should make the decision after the bowl game. Its the right thing to do from a program-level standpoint, from a transitional standpoint. If there will be a transition, waiting until both coaches have ended their seasons makes for a smooth transition for both schools. Haven't we learned anything from our last transition? Transitions shape ensuing processes, including how much success they might have. A basic fact is that RR helped put himself in this position, and is currently helping to turn it into such an embarrassing, chaotic period. RR supporters, such as Mr. Bigelow, love to base their arguments on the separation of RR from the processes he helps enact. Thus, we get statements such as "Painful because a good man was placed in a bad spot..", as if RR was passively "placed" in this spot. The reality is that he helped create this spot, just as others did. For another example, we get statements such as "Painful, in that Rodriguez delivered his remarks with the man controlling his fate...", as if RR has had no role in his fate. Its all too easy to cut off the past and only argue from the present; but the present is shaped by the past, and contains the past. Its a lazy way to argue, and tells us very little of what is actually going on. RR is helping to create the conditions the program faces now - they are not simply 'happening to him'. To argue otherwise is to lose the argument before it got started.

johnnya2

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 11:34 a.m.

"Painful, because a good man was placed in a bad spot." This is the problem with this entire article. Calling RR a "good",man ignores the facts and history. He is a convicted cheater, and habitual liar. Not even man enough to tender his resignation in person. I hope Brandon has an assistant tell RR that his services are no longer required in the same way he did when he left WVU. I am sirry his family has to deal with the "hardship" of taking a salary of over 2 million dollars for three years and now will be unemployed. I know the thousands of unemployed in Michigan will take up a fund to make sure the Rodriguez family is cared for in the manner they have become so thoroughly used to. What a load of drivel. Brandon is going to fire him, because if he had any intention of keeping him he would tell him already. He has obviously been working the back channels to announce a firing and hiring on or about the same time. Brandon knows how to do this, unlike Martin who was more incompetent than Sarah Palin was at teaching her daughter abstinence. They both thought they were doing good, but were woeful failures.

angry bird

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 11:29 a.m.

Price $4M now Discounted price $2.5M January first To dismiss for cause creates unending litigation. Patience

snoper

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 11:16 a.m.

Can we go back to the beginning of what has been a three year debacle and remember what started this downward spiral in the first place? It was a panicky decision made to hire without enough thought and due diligence because the local press and loud fans were clamoring for a "big time" coach RIGHT NOW! Brandon's timetable is his timetable. Live with it. As uncomfortable as it was to watch RR ruin a night of celebration by trying to throw his own pity party, removing him now throws your (I am not a fan) program into chaos.

RudeJude

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 11:07 a.m.

Pete, come on now. "Delaying the decision any longer does no one any favors." Think harder. A delayed decision benefits any potential incoming coach, who is going to be coaching his current team in an upcoming bowl game. Dave Brandon is doing these candidates a favor by preventing a "coaching vacuum" from creating media circuses that would ultimately put heat on these candidates. Any potential candidate can promptly say if asked about the Michigan job, "They still have a coach in Ann Arbor." Also, comparing Les Miles to Rich Rodriguez is ridiculous. Les Miles chose LSU over Michigan when an opportunity to play for a National Championship was revealed, revealed by Rich Rodriguez no less! (See the timeline below) Nov 19 - Lloyd Carr announces retirement following bowl game, effectively beginning coaching search. Dec 1 (Morning) - Herbstreit announces "barring something extraordinary," Les Miles to come to Michigan. Dec 1 (Evening) - Rodriguez-led West Virginia, ranked #2 in the BCS extraordinarily loses to unranked Pitt 13-9, putting #5 LSU into position to play in BCS National Championship Game. Dec 2 - Les Miles chooses championship-bound LSU over Michigan. Dec 7 - Rutgers coach, Greg Schiano, turns down Michigan job. Dec 17 - Rodriguez accepts Michigan job, and is later is denied opportunity to lead WVU in its BCS bowl game, replaced by Bill White. If Rich Rodriguez beats Pitt, Les Miles never has the opportunity to play for crystal and becomes the Michigan coach, while Rich Rod plays Ohio State in the championship game and never coaches at Michigan. By waiting, Dave Brandon has prevented a similar dilemma for Jim Harbaugh, whose Cardinal, until last night, were dangerously close to making a Title Game. Now, waiting gives Harbaugh the courtesy to finish out the season with his team should he be offered the Michigan job in the New Year. Comparing Rich Rodriguez and Les Miles is a joke, and only less ridiculous than comparing the inept Bill Martin to Dave Brandon. Dave Brandon is keeping to his guns and playing his cards close to his chest. Before you try to force his hand with your opinions piece, how about you write a piece on the potential reasons why he would chose to wait on making an evaluation and a decision on who will be coaching Michigan in 2011. Go Blue

mrd

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 11:07 a.m.

Bigelow, you got to be kidding. Brandon is going to do what is best and what is right for the Michigan Football Program. You must be writing this article just to keep the people talking about it. You cannot be serious with this analysis... if you are you must never have managed a team or a group or ever held the responsibility of a leader. You don't play your hand before its time. The "charade" is not to be avoided; only ended once and for all at the appropriate and most beneficial time. If Brandon had no options he would have endorsed RR by now. Patience.

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 11:04 a.m.

Exactly, Teebob: did Mr. Brandon ever say there was going to be a coaching change? I haven't heard him say that. Is richrod still under contract next year? Yep, he sure is. Then, why would anyone think any differently about who the coach is going to be next year. Let me remind you that the coach is the fella that is listed in the media guide and has the coach's office at Schembechler Hall. And Ben: Brandon has said over and over that he is not going to let the media or anyone else dictate his timetable. If I was Brandon, editorials like this would actually make me MORE stubborn about it. How will it look if the A.D. at Michigan lets the media tell him what to do? And Ghost: does anyone REALLY believe [Brandon] hasn't already made up his mind?

tulsatom

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 10:52 a.m.

Pete, there are probably over one million reasons why Brandon is delaying his decision until after Jan 1st. Plus, Harbaugh might want it that way, assuming he wants the job. I agree that Bill Martin royally messed up the Les Miles situation and U-M settled for a coach and a style of play that are not a good fit in Ann Arbor. Hopefully, Brandon will learn from that.

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 10:42 a.m.

Exactly what supporters have lost inetrest? Name them? Heres a few, just for instance, ALREADY from a year ago, before Brandon became AD: [Jeanne] HuangLi [president of the San Francisco-area Michigan alumni club] said game viewership parties went from a couple of hundred attendees at the beginning of this season to "two or three, depending on what time the game started" by the end of the year. Philip Maguran, vice president of the Michigan alumni club in Grand Rapids, Mich., near where [Brian] Kelly started his head-coaching career at Grand Valley State (1991-2003), said he, too, saw similar drop-offs as the season wore on. But, like HuangLi, Maguran supports the administration. I am happy with Rich Rodriguez, he said. I'm not happy with the results, but I don't think you can fire him after two years but next year, well, next year is important. At the Ohio State game, Michigan grad and Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross told The Associated Press, If he has a bad year next year, he'll have a lot more pressure. [ESPN, LZ Granderson commentary, December 10 2009] How much did they donate to the U? Ask the man who sold ketchup-flavored cardboard and called it pizza for over ten years before admitting what hed done. Have ticket sales fallen off? Have they for the Lions? Ever heard of P.T. Barnum? Theres one born every minute? Well, there is. And the man who attended, if not orchestrated, Thursdays show knows that, even if others dont. Somewhat Concerned is dead on. Dont expect any resolution of the mess the UM (as well as its football program) is in any time soon. Mr. Bigelows solution is to give Rich Rodriguez another year with the Michigan football team tomorrow. That would be continuation, not resolution, of the mess.

webtoes67

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 10:38 a.m.

I say, just stick to the time table that Brandon has set. National letters of intent can't be signed until Feb 2. Verbal commit doesn't hold anyone to anything. The only thing that driving me more crazy than RR singing "Raise me Up" is the media singing and whinning in background "I Wish I Heard It Through The Grapevine". Brandon looking at the big picture, that's hire the best coach we can and get it right. I believe he's already decided who the next coach is and will let those coaches and their kids enjoy one more game together, because they earned it!

loco123

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 10:36 a.m.

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED Uconn won last night and thus won the Big East. Yes, the same Uconn team we beat in Sept. Congrats to RR. After 3 years he finally fielded a team that could be at the top of the Big East. See, it only took him 3 years, just like his previous jobs. The only problem is that the team he's coaching now at the bottom of the B10.

Teebob

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 10:32 a.m.

Actually Mr. Bigelow, this is not the time to do anything. I don't see why Mr. Brandon has to do anything except what he is doing. No one mentioned a coaching change, only an evaluation after the season concludes. And the season concludes after the bowl game or after the non invite to a bowl game. How unfair would it be to do anything else besides wait for the end of the season to do an end of season evaluation. Would it be nice to know if there is going to be a coaching change at the end of the year. Yes, but did Mr. Brandon ever say there was going to be a coaching change? I haven't heard him say that. Is richrod still under contract next year? Yep, he sure is. Then, why would anyone think any differently about who the coach is going to be next year. Let me remind you that the coach is the fella that is listed in the media guide and has the coach's office at Schembechler Hall. You mentioned a lurch, turmoil, or all the other words you used. That is created by speculation. I speculate richrod should get fired for not doing his job properly. I speculate Harbaugh should get the job because Harbaugh can do it better. It is speculation. The reality is that richrod is the coach and richrod should be recruiting and getting ready for a bowl game. Go Blue!!!!!

loco123

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 10:30 a.m.

"Personally, I believe Rich should be given 2 more years to fully enact his plan. The offense is dynamic!" His Shock and Awe Plan? To Shock college football by how Aweful a UM team can be for 3 years? Plan executed. We got it. This 'dynamic' offense averaged 6 points in the first half against IA, WI, OSU and MSU. What's dynamic about that?

IoniaDawg

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 10:27 a.m.

Whether RR stays or goes, Michigan football will be fine. David Brandon will make the right decision for Michigan. Michigan is still a premier football destination for players and coaches. Filling the coaching job (should RR be shown the door) will not be an issue. David Brandon is not Bill Martin & this will not be a Les Miles type redux. If I were a Michigan hater, I would be afraid, very afraid. The positive outcome from all of this is that a sleeping giant has been awoken in A2. If RR gets a stay of execution, he will have a degree of urgency unlike any other. He will jettison his defensive coordinator and special teams coachs and bring in a defensive whiz to take over. If a new coach comes in, it is a given that all phases of the game will get equal time. In any case; Meeechigan will break out the Ufer horn next year!

Chilltime

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 10:27 a.m.

@JNZ That's why the kids should be allowed to leave when the coach leaves. They go to the school for the coach and the program he as built not the school. Let's not fool ourselves. I believe Harbaugh has NFL dreams. He probably will not go to the NFL this year because of the lockout looming. What's to say he doesn't stay at Stanford and leave in'12 for the NFL. If he comes to Michigan, he may have to delay that dream or never get a chance to fulfill that dream because of his savior status that he as already received from the Michigan fan base. Les Miles really? He has benefited from being in the SEC and the athletes that the conference is able to recruit who want to stay close to home, plus the academic standards the SEC schools play by. He won with Sabans' players and hasn't won since. I know, he wins 9-10 games a year but that was the reason some folks wanted a change in coach before RichRod got to Michigan. So, it will be ok now when it was not before?

maizenbluedoc

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 10:26 a.m.

Regardless of when and what decision Mr. Brandon makes, there will be some fallout. If he retains RR, I don't see the program improving that much because of recruiting practices and lack of proper coaching. If he continues to delay his decsion, recruiting will suffer the most. He most likely knows what his decision is and I don't believe it will be retaining RR. Conversely, he probably cannot announce who the successor to RR is because of how other programs may be affected.Whomever the coach is, there will be negative repercussions. I can endure another year of rebuilding if the new coach is a proven winner and offers hope for a winning team. In Brandon we trust.

microtini

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 10:04 a.m.

Didja see him flopping his arms in frustration like a nine year-old on the sidelines at the OSU game? Completely unbecoming of a leader, and certainly not the demeanor of a Michigan Man. Embarrassing and pathetic.

EightySeven

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:57 a.m.

With the state of the program where it is currently at right now. I would take the chance of maybe losing some recruits and re-building the foundation. How many of RR 4&5 star recruits have either left program or not even making a impact. If he is such a great recruiter than why after his 3rd full class he has relied on so many Freshman? He should have a good mix of all classes leading the way. But he blames his problems on inexperience.

APCGuy

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:55 a.m.

The real tragedy here is the fact we may be losing recruits due to the "indecision". As others have mentioned, the choice may have been made and must wait until after specific bowls have been played. Personally, I believe Rich should be given 2 more years to fully enact his plan. The offense is dynamic! The defense will catch up via recruiting and the maturation of those freshman that have played extensive minutes this season. Jim Harbaugh? Dynamic and successful @ Stanford, for sure. My only caution is this: If Dave Brandon decides to make a change, there is the possibility that more years will be added to whatever equation is in place to bring Michigan football back to the level that all Michigan fans and Alumni expect: Top Five program and regularly beating The Ohio State University! After all, that is what really matters...

Terrin

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:49 a.m.

The Hart guy changed his mind because he came to the Wisconsin game and was likely embarrassed for Michigan. Further, the friends he brought with him probably teased him and made him rethink his choice. The reality is people like that want to play in the NFL. Their chances are increased when the team they play for is good and of National caliber As far as Brandon goes, he is not going to decide before January for two reasons: 1) it will cost MIchigan an additional 2 million to buy RR out (as per the terms of his contract); and 2) it wrongly puts stress on all the parties involved. Michigan still has a game to win. YOu don't want the players absorbed in a negative atmosphere. It wouldn't be their fault RR isn't what Michigan needs. Michigan always has people who re think their commitment choices. With RR here though, it will likely be a higher number.

JNZ

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:45 a.m.

Chilltime, using your thought process no coach would ever leave. There always are kids at the school they are leaving they have recruited so no matter when they leave they are leaving kids behind they recruited.

rensational

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:37 a.m.

Pete--I'm sure you're aware that over the past week or so a lot of articles have been written basically telling Brandon that it's better to make a decision now. So, do you think you are influential, or did you just want to be incredibly repetitive like, apparently, every other journalist nowadays seems to be? I mean, look--I agree with trespass...I have been really confused about what Brandon is doing, but the stories about what went on at that banquet flipped a light on in my head. I finally just listened to the recording on RR's speech, as well. Between the stories and hearing the speech, RR's breaking down like that at the banquet just lets me know that he has a strong sense that his fate is WAY beyond just on the hot seat. The speech was ridiculous--too long, too off-track with the purpose of the event, too much about the current struggles of the program, basically lecturing Wolverines who are not on his side and trying to lay some guilt trip on us suggesting that if we are not blindly with him and what he has done then we are not with Michigan. I now believe that Brandon, being fully aware of how the media played a part in wrecking Miles-to-Michigan, spoke with Harbaugh in private after the Ohio State game and Harbaugh said, "I will come to Michigan if you agree to let me stick with Stanford through the bowl game." I just do not think Brandon is as clueless as Bill Martin is--it's too unusual to sit and wait until after the bowl game, and, as others have said, he has seen more than enough to make a decision. He and Harbaugh have a secret deal, and Brandon's honoring it--my opinion. I could be wrong about a secret deal, and if I am...you know, I am not assuming Harbaugh will drop everything and come to Michigan. I worry that he won't come, but I also weigh the fact that his style of football is different and think about other great coaches out there who do run the spread and manage to play defense...and then I worry about whether or not any of THEM would come (i.e. Gary Patterson, Kyle Whittingham, Chris Petersen). I also worry about Michigan coming up with a list of guys who are subpar, i.e. a bunch of Randy Edsall, Al Golden, Brady Hoke, Greg Schiano, Randy Shannon, Kevin Sumlin type of coaches with the media talking about how great they'd be for Michigan when they really haven't done anything all that impressive where they are outside of maybe ONE season (and it has already started with Hoke just because he used to be on Michigan's staff..oh, but SDSU still lost to TCU AND Utah).

marlon glenn

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:35 a.m.

Fire him! Don't fire him! Wait! Don't wait! And the beat goes on and on and on and on... This entire problem stemmed from the UM not having a succession plan in place for Lloyd Carr. Bill Martin was asleep at the switch so he rushed to find someone...anyone. That is not RR's fault. He performance is his fault to a degree. You can make a case for keeping or firing him. One thing is clear, UM football is currently a national joke. If DB waits all this time to KEEP him, that will truly be the final punchline to a very pathetic situation.

XTR

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:34 a.m.

Mr. columnist is an RR lover. Those crying and appealing to pity are old gimmicks of RR in West Virginia so don't feel bad for RR, he is a big boy and gets paid like a big boy. DB is in control. He is waiting for the buyout decrease in January, waiting for RR to finish the bowl game and waiting for the replacement to finish their bowl game. After that, everything will be in place. So the 5-8 RB went to Alabama? lol! Once the ex NFL QB gets to be Michigan coach, all of the NFL wannabees will flock to AA to play for UM lol!

a2citizen

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:31 a.m.

Pete, You sound like a whiny teenager that wants to know what he is getting for Christmas. Brandon said "after the bowl game". Why is that so difficult to accept? Think about it....if Brandon fired RR this afternoon...for the next four weeks headline speculation would be who Brandon was going to hire. And I wouldn't hire a coach that told his team before a bowl game that he was leaving them after the game for Michigan. It's a character issue. So enough with the demands. Go outside and play.

Jarhead

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:30 a.m.

Hmmmm... DB has said all along that he will take his time to decide. If he kow-tows now to the fanbase or the press, he certainly will not be viewed as a strong leader. Tough spot. Personally I think, if DB is behind RR why not say so now and put a few of the fires out. Waiting will not help recruiting. Kids change their minds in seconds, however parents want continuity. And changing coaches every 3 years? Well just look at Notre Dame. On one hand, if you keep RR and see what his juniors do along with redshirts available, and the redshirt juniors who will be 5th years with the true seniors, we will have a more mature group. On the other hand, if and its a big "if", Harbaugh does come, I think there will be a lot of healing going on no matter the win/loss record in 2011. A lot would hinge on the timimg of the announcement. If he is hired soon then not many recruits will bail. If hired late it'll make recruiting a tad more difficult. I do beleive Harbaugh will be very successful in 2012 and here is why; It takes a long time to change a program over to the spread, you have to have particular players at skill positions and speed, and those players have to grow and develope. changing our team back will be easier, linemen learn blocking schemes and the change dosen't much affect them. Def players train for who they are playing against. And any fast skill players will be welcomed to the new coach, but they won't be playing QB. Harbaugh's first 3 years similar to RR's. Will RR's 4th year produce a 11-1 or 10-2 record? At 11-1 Harbaugh is prime to cut a big contract somwhere. His stock is high. But maybe he and his family are happy where they are. I support RR, he's my coach.I like the spread as well as all kinds of schemes. That's what fun about football, so many posibilities. If Harbaugh comes, I will support him also and whoever is here. Go Blue!

XTR

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:26 a.m.

It seems that the column writer is an RR lover lol! Crying and appealing to pity is old news and gimmicks by RR. Here see all those gimmicks used when RR is at WVU. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tuto6jugPfs Brandon is in control. He is waiting for the buyout decrease, he wants RR to finish the year and is waiting for the replacement to finish his year with his team. After all the bowls are over, then everything will be in place. Yeah the small sized RB went to Alabama! lol! When an ex NFL player is hired as UM coach, all of the NFL-wannabees would flock to Ann Arbor to play for UM. lol!

Holmes1

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:22 a.m.

Exactly what supporters have lost inetrest? Name them? [sic, sic] Heres a few, just for instance, ALREADY from a year ago, before Brandon became AD: http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/commentary/news/story?page=granderson/091210 Just because AnnArbor.com doesn't report something doesn't mean it isn't so. How much did they donate to the U? Ask the man who sold ketchup-flavored cardboard and called it pizza for over ten years before admitting what hed done. Have ticket sales fallen off? Have they for the Lions? Ever heard of P.T. Barnum? Theres one born every minute? Well, there is. And the man who attended, if not orchestrated, Thursdays show knows that, even if others dont. Somewhat Concerned is dead on. Dont expect any resolution of the mess the UM (as well as its football program) is in any time soon. Brandon was brought in as AD to help the UM administration weasel out of, not fix, the mess IT brought on. Mr. Bigelow's answer is "give Rich Rodriguez another year with the Michigan football team." Rome didn't fall in a day.

win

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:21 a.m.

The banquet was the very last straw for me. I was one of those people who did support RR. Even after all the nonsense we saw on the field and some of the unfortunate nonsense that we saw off the field. I wanted to see RR succeed, mostly because I wanted to see MICHIGAN succeed. But the singing of "you raise me up" at the banquet was pitiful!!!!! This is MICHIGAN. The only thing that "raises me up" is singing the VICTORS!! At Michigan we sing the VICTORS after Wins, Big Ten Championships and Rose Bowls!!!!!! Get rid of this clown. He has embarrassed our program for the last time!

SonnyDog09

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:11 a.m.

Coaches are hired to be fired. If RR cannot handle the pressure, he should seek another line of work. If Brandon wants to wait until he has his ducks in a row before announcing a decision that he has already made, so be it. When the axe falls is immaterial.

Howard the Duck

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:01 a.m.

It's obvious the decision has already been made, contingent on the availability of a big time coach. Otherwise, a good manager would not allow this situation to continue. If the coach of choice is not willing to come Brandon plans to tolerate RR for another season. I'm not particularly a RR fan but I hope he tells UM to shove it if Brandon asks him to stay!

Brad

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:59 a.m.

" not Indiana or the Detroit Lions" Oh, they are very much the Detriot Lions right now.

The Ben

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:53 a.m.

One more comment. I also think that Brandon is trying hard not to be like "everyone else." If Michigan holds itself to a higher standard than the average program, does he really want to fire his coach in midseason? The season is technically not finished. I honestly don't think Brandon is keen on the idea of firing a football coach at all. This is Michigan, not Indiana or the Detroit Lions. Especially if Harbaugh ultimately has his sights set on the NFL... I don't think Brandon wants to create a coaching carousel at Michigan.

Chilltime

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:53 a.m.

@ChelseaBob If Harbaugh cared about his players, he would not leave them high and dry for another school.

David

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:38 a.m.

I have a question for anyone reading this... Is the playing record of any UM head coach's team stipulated in their contract? If not, then based on RR's win-loss, we are inserting terms into his contract. Yes, we can terminate a coach if there are illegalities--which applies to any UM employee's appointment.

InsideTheHall

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:31 a.m.

Somewhat - Exactly what supporters have lost inetrest? Name them? How much did they donate to the U? Have ticket sales fallen off? I'm "Somewhat Concerned" about your lack of facts.

Brad

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:31 a.m.

"Brandon has said over and over that he is not going to let the media or anyone else dictate his timetable" So what? The decision will be made in consultation with the accountants and Ms. Coleman. In the end it's all about money.

The Ben

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:27 a.m.

"His willingness to let Rodriguez run the program into the ground, in terms of results and in terms of integrity and class, makes Brandon the wrong guy. While Brandon dithers and Rodriguez destroys, program supporters lose interest." Didn't Brandon just start his duties over the summer? I don't think RichRod ran the program into the ground in 3 months. You make it sound like Brandon has been supporting RichRod for five years.

TFR

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:26 a.m.

It seems arrogant to me the way Mich people assume that if Harbaugh is asked to come to UofM that we will just drop everything and come. Typical.

The Ben

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:24 a.m.

Brandon has said over and over that he is not going to let the media or anyone else dictate his timetable. If I was Brandon, editorials like this would actually make me MORE stubborn about it. How will it look if the A.D. at Michigan lets the media tell him what to do? Also: This decision is much bigger than any one recruit or number of recruits that might waver due to the uncertainty. If Brandon lets some high school kid in Florida affect his timetable, that's even worse than letting some reporter dictate things.

stunhsif

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:22 a.m.

We MSU fans are hopeful that coach RR get at least another year.

Somewhat Concerned

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:19 a.m.

So far, Brandon has not done a thing to demonstrate that he is capable of being AD of a Big Ten school. I get it that he was a successful CEO and that he played for Bo. That doesn't qualify him to be AD (and it doesn't disqualify him). His willingness to let Rodriguez run the program into the ground, in terms of results and in terms of integrity and class, makes Brandon the wrong guy. While Brandon dithers and Rodriguez destroys, program supporters lose interest. If Brandon doesn't fire Rodriguez by the end of the week, Mary Sue should fire Brandon. (If she has time to think about it, given her busy schedule of serving on corporate boards, running around giving speeches, and campaigning for a presidency elsewhere).

ChelseaBob

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:01 a.m.

Brandon is doing things the right way. What would the point of firing RR be now? Harbaugh isn't going anywhere until after his bowl game. He cares too much about his players to jump early (That's why we want him). Brandon should stick to his timetable, and perhaps the answer to avoiding more embarrassment is to give RR a gag order. No more talking about himself, just do his job. If he can.

NoBowl4Blue

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 7:34 a.m.

Cry baby has thoroughly embarrassed Michigan with sanctions, his bail out from WVU paid for by Michigan, poor recruiting especially on defense and of course failure on the field. Only the delussional think things are going to change. DB has to have some in place and I suspect wan't to save the 1.5 mil but I agree, to delay could be worse. Already a national joke, the bleeding has to be stopped!

KeepingItReal

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 7:23 a.m.

The way things are being handled is going to come back to haunt the M in the long run. No matter who the new coach is, this is gong to hurt the M's program for a long time to come.

utownie

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 7:18 a.m.

Pete, You break my heart. "Painful, because he spoke straight from his heart about the anguish the job uncertainty had caused his family. (Something, unfortunately, far too many in Michigan can identify with these days)." You are comparing RR to someone who might lose their job in the bad Michigan economy? Most of us do not have a deal where we are paid millions to leave. Most of us did not have an ugly deal from our previous employer (WVU) where we took money from a community who believed in us...most of us do not have real estate deals where we wind up in court...and we are not paid millions per year. You break my heart when I think of poor RR having to get food stamps next year so his family can eat. Give me a break! You raise me up! What a national joke. RR has an ability to always make the topic about Him, not His players. That is part of the problem. You suggest compassion. What about the players who complained about NCAA violations and were shown to be correct? Did RR ever say -- you were right? Of course I do not know for sure, but I do not recall any public statement directed toward the players and staff who complained that in the end they were correct. First ever violations for Michigan football? Previous players not given a chance to continue their scholarship commitments when RR came to town. Devildog says it best -- gone are the days of class... I am optimistic that Dave Brandon can bring it back. That does not mean a decision needs to be announced tomorrow.

BlueGator

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 7:11 a.m.

I absolutely do NOT think that Brandon should change his timetable, about which he has been very clear all along. RR apparently knows that the performance of the team has been unacceptable to date. He openly fosters competition for playing time for his team members. RR should practice what he preaches. What kind of example is he setting for the team now? "When the going gets tough, the tough break out in song and cry?" He should just be out there diligently preparing for the upcoming bowl game. Try to show the team by personal example how to work through adversity. Dave Brandon has not said that he is firing RR. If RR believes the situation is hopeless, the only right thing for him to do is resign.

Blu-n-Tpa

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 7:01 a.m.

Timing vs money! Money almost always wins. And, in this case a lot of money. As you noted this is not a strong economy and the UM Athletic Dept doens't want to take a $1.5 MILLION hit if it's avoidable. I agree that it's uncomfortable to watch some of this. It's a slow motion train wreck and nearly everybody's craning their necks to see if there's any blood. And just like a train wreck, there's collateral damage. Loss of recruits, negative feelings about the football program from other coaches, and the sense of helplessness not being able to do what you want, when you want. But, just like the last time Michigan went hunting for a new coach, there are contracts in the way, obligations to be fulfilled, and other people's futures being affected. Michigan wants great coaches and, if they're successful, they're still playing late in the bowl season. You can't have it both ways. Get a coach now but bad mouth him and the AD later if things don't pan out. DB, take your time, do your job, and get the right guy. Once that's in place then you go get the players that fit Michigan and Big Ten football the best. Go Blue! It's been three long years, I think even the most anxious of Wolverine fans, (and writers), can handle the next few weeks.

devildog

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 6:38 a.m.

Heartbreaking what is happening at UM. Gone are the days of class and tradition - who ever heard of the annual banquet turning into a crying match. Someone there needs to be a grown up and take charge. The more this goes on - the further away you are from getting a great coach such as Harbaugh - who would want to walk into this mess.

trespass

Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 6:32 a.m.

A decision must have already been made. Either Brandon has decided that RR will get another year or he already has another coach in the wings, such as Harbaugh, and cannot announce the decision until the other coach finishes his bowl game. If this is not the case, it would be irresponsible not to begin a search as soon as possible.