Michigan football team can't overcome mistakes in 38-28 loss to Iowa Hawkeyes
Iowa's Derrell Johnson-Koulianos celebrates a touchdown reception -- his third of the game in a 38-28 win over Michigan on Saturday -- with lineman James Ferentz.
Lon Horwedel | AnnArbor.com
Updated 9:36 p.m.
The penalties, Rich Rodriguez said, were “ridiculous.” The turnovers, he said, “inexcusable.” And the consecutive kickoffs that went out of bounds in the fourth quarter?
“I don’t think I should say what I was saying to myself,” Rodriguez said.
Standing at a podium in Crisler Arena following the Michigan football team’s 38-28 loss to Iowa on Saturday, Michigan’s third-year football coach just about ran out of ways to describe his frustration.
“Turnovers, yeah, they’re ridiculous,” Rodriguez said, using the word for the second time in his post-game press conference. “We were so good early in the year at taking care of the ball.
“We’re not good enough to make mistakes and beat anybody.”
Across the Big Ten on Saturday, a classic matchup brewed between No. 18 Wisconsin and No. 1 Ohio State, Michigan State rolled to its best start since 1966, and even Purdue stayed undefeated in the conference.
Michigan (5-2 overall, 1-2 Big Ten) remained the middle-of-the-pack team that couldn’t get out of its own way.
Instead of polishing the problems that contributed to last week’s loss against the Spartans, Michigan’s errors multiplied against Iowa.
Eight penalties for 66 yards, several of which killed early offensive drives. Four turnovers, one of which wrecked a red-zone opportunity for the Michigan offense at the Iowa 14-yard line.
“It’s the Big Ten, so we’re facing a little more complex defenses, but it’s just small mistakes,” wide receiver Darryl Stonum said. “Wrong reads, guys being in the wrong place at the wrong time. We need to get that small stuff cleared up.”
Michigan had a field-goal attempt blocked for the second consecutive week, a kick that Rodriguez described as about shoulder-high.
That wasn’t the worst of it.
Following the block, Michigan’s players loitered while Hawkeyes safety Tyler Sash scooped up the live ball and returned the felled kick to midfield.
“I thought the play was dead, and then they started running it back, so I started running back after it,” said kicker Seth Broekhuizen.
In the fourth quarter, the series of special-teams mistakes reached a crescendo. With the Wolverines climbing back into the game, Broekhuizen sent two consecutive kickoffs out of bounds, giving Iowa possession at the 40-yard line each time.
“Do you really want me to say,” Rodriguez said when asked for his thoughts on the sequence.
He paused.
“Twice? You don’t want me … I don’t think I should say what I was saying to myself. He’s trying hard. Gosh, we had the wind with us. And I haven’t seem him do it in practice or in games. But we’ve got to overcome it.”
The Wolverines had a chance to do just that. Despite the mistakes, they scored 21 fourth-quarter points under the direction of backup quarterback Tate Forcier, who had replaced an injured Denard Robinson early in the third quarter.
They only trailed by seven points with 6:55 remaining.
But on a 3rd-and-9 play, the Michigan defense gave up a 17-yard pass to Iowa receiver Marvin McNutt. Later on the same drive, the Hawkeyes faced a 3rd-and-8.
The Wolverines gave up a 26-yard pass to Adam Robinson. The drive culminated with an Iowa field goal that iced the game.
“I’m sure after watching the film, our defensive staff is going to be disappointed,” Rodriguez said.
In the second quarter, the Michigan defense allowed a similar morale-sucking play. On a 3rd-and-14, Robinson ran a draw up the middle for 15 yards.
He capped the drive with a touchdown a few plays later that gave the Hawkeyes a 21-7 lead and all the momentum.
Michigan never threatened again until Forcier, who completed 17 of 26 passes for 239 yards, revved up the Wolverines offense late in the third quarter.
To a man, the Wolverines said their problems are correctable and remained adamant that this is not a repeat of last year’s collapse during the Big Ten portion of the schedule.
“My two offsides? That’s fixable,” left tackle Taylor Lewan said. “That personal foul I got? That’s fixable. If we do that, if we change the little things, we’re going to be a very good team.” Forcier echoed those sentiments.
“We kept fighting,” he said. “This isn’t last year’s team. It’s just not. It’s a special team.” The Wolverines have said that numerous times throughout the last month and expressed confidence that they can fix their mistakes.
Two losses don’t define a season, but Michigan is running out of chances to prove there’s something behind those words, to prove this team is something more than also-ran program in the Big Ten.
Right now, that's exactly where the Wolverines stand.
Pete Bigelow covers the Michigan football team for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at (734) 623-2551, via email at petebigelow@annarbor.com and followed on Twitter @PeterCBigelow.
Comments
XTR
Mon, Oct 18, 2010 : 8:06 a.m.
1) This game is easier to accept because UM fought back in the fourth quarter. There were signs of LIFE at least in the offense! Unlike in the MSU game where UM just folded like a deck cards. That is because of 2) Tate Forcier was trusted to catch up. Tate is not perfect, but he is hard to defend because he can go short, long and can even run by himself. Rich Rod is not smart enough to use BOTH QB's for his teams advantage. There are teams where Denard will shine and there are teams where Tate will shine. If the run defense is good, like MSU and IOWA's D, then Tate should have played more to spread the D. A 5'6" - 170 pound mini back will be easy to tackle in the Big Ten, use the 6 footer 220 pound back to pound the line each time. Because Rich Rod cannot use his resources properly then 3) He should be replaced at the end of season. His style is not suited for the Big Ten and on UM. These are the worst 3 seasons plus the NCAA investigation. He needs to go if UM wants to rebuild again. The replacement would be 4) Jim Harbaugh. This is his program, this is his dream job, if he is serious with the coaching profession, then he will come home to AA. he grew up in AA, played in AA, went back and played QB under Bo, he was a Heisman candidate and won many games against MSU, OSU and even at bowl games where UM finised 2 in the country.
3 And Out
Mon, Oct 18, 2010 : 4:46 a.m.
fair enuff we will see how it plays out...I think they can beat PSU even though its on the road...PSU is beat up...and has a shakey freshman QB...right now that game is probably a toss up
Skipit3
Mon, Oct 18, 2010 : 3:04 a.m.
3 And Out, Neither you nor I know that the team will or will not win the remaining games of the season; only time will tell. That's why I'm urging you folks to be a little bit more patient with the team. I do however understand your reasons to start pressing the panic button.
3 And Out
Mon, Oct 18, 2010 : 1:58 a.m.
skipit...say whatever you want...but to criticize any of us that criticize Rich Rod and to imply that we dont know what we are talking about...well scoreboard: 10 BCS wins. 18 BCS losses. 4 Big Ten Wins 15 Big Ten losses Sloppy play every week vs. BT teams Terrible defense Terrible special teams Recruiting mishaps Off field mishaps NCAA violations etc etc etc And you have questions as to why so many people dislike Rich Rod and question his coaching ability? OK.... whatever..... btw this team will not win out the rest of this year... you know that too...
Skipit3
Mon, Oct 18, 2010 : 1:53 a.m.
Out of 151+ comments on this forum so far, only perhaps two or three people make any sense. IMO, only one (truebluefan) has been logical, not because I happen to share the same view, but simply because we are just over half way through the season and we really don't have any idea how the season will end although we may think we do. You complainers and RR haters were just waiting for the perfect opportunity to start reviving your "Fire RR" chant. Deep inside, some of you were actually hoping for the team to start losing just so you could have that opportunity and try to prove your point that RR is not the right man for the job. As unrealistic as it may seem, what will you be singing if the team happens to win the remaining games of the season? As truebluefan suggested, why don't we wait and let the season unfold before we start jumping the gun? If I were an OSU or MSU fan, I would be cracking up every time I read the rhetorics of some of these UM fans. Can't you guys tell that people like stunhsif are having the time of their lives at your expense? That stunhsif guy/gal is even requesting that aa.com post MSU stories on this site. Lil Sister is really trying to take over, thanks to you complaining fans.
3 And Out
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 10:02 p.m.
btw...regarding our record vs. other top programs... aside from Rich Rod, yeah we have struggled vs Pac Ten teams...but pre Rich Rod we are still something like 25-7-1 vs. SEC teams and have beaten Florida 2X in the past decade...so we arent chopped liver national steve.... and we are the best in our conference historically...us and OSU...no one can match Michigan's 43 BT championships... so I disagree with you on that point. Go Blue!
3 And Out
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 9:53 p.m.
steve...point well taken...but any arrogance aside...the winged helmet still carries a ton of influence, the media sits up and begs for Michigan stories...note how our games and situations are always on the front page of the major sports websites, espn, cnnsi etc...no matter what... and that winged helmet will get our coaches in to the living room of just about any recruit in America... the problem I have with Rich Rod's recruiting is: a) not prequalifying kids that wouldnt qualify academically at Michigan... 1/4 of his last recruiting class couldnt qualify which is unprecedented by Michigan standards....he also had several other kids from his 2 prior classes that could not cut it academically... the problem with this is adding depth...the inability to build a solid program because so many "bounce out" before ever getting a chance to contribute... it also eliminates the potential to sign very solid kids who WOULD qualify.. and we lose those spots until the next season... bad bad bad...it has to stop. b) Lack of defensive recruiting in the trenches aka "Matt Millen syndrome".... Rich Rod has recruited a ton of his guys for offense, and wrs, and some DBs (the ones that have qualified anyway) but his numbers of defensive lineman who can play and in particular...stout run stopping linebackers is appalling... in addition to this he has not developed the ones that he has signed.... where is Will Campbell...oh yeah, getting crushed by that Iowan lineman...unacceptible development for a 5 star DT...and where are the LBs?????? Roh is out of position there he is a true DE.... Like Millen, RR has shown to be a very poor judge of talent...he has not stocked this team with talent that can compete on the Big Ten level. c) lack of size and power to compete in the Big Ten... see above.... etc. etc... I dont have the time to elaborate on all of the problems with RRs recruiting.... but that Winged Helmet does carry power for the next coach who hopefully will put it in to better use in recruiting.
libertyordeath
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 8:09 p.m.
The major problem is obviously the defense, but the offense also has struggled against legitimate defenses. To improve that, why not put Forcier and Robinson on the field at the same time? You could direct snap to either quarterback and run multiple formations with both on the field. It seems that Forcier is the better passer, and Robinson the better runner. You could run the option/wishbone at times and/or have either of the two pass. It would seem to me, at least on paper, nearly impossible to defend if you don't know who is going to be the quarterback.
SaveMichiganFootball
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 7:50 p.m.
Results trump excuses. Excuses are for losers. Period.
sevesteve
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 7:38 p.m.
3 and out...I went back and read your assertion that M was the "winningest" program in college football from 1970 to 2007. While responding to, I had incorrectly assumed you meant "best" when saying winningest. Certainly not relevant to the "RR must go" opinion that you and I and many others here share. But very relevant when, as an observer of M football for 50 years, the first 18 as a true Blue fan, loyal M supporters assert M has been the "best" program for any short or long period of time. That's just not accurate, from a pure success standpoint, with anyone objectively looking at the available data. The Big Ten has not been even close to the best conference over those years, and Michigan not even the best team within the conference. So winning percentage must be considered within the context of the competition, and the percentage of "big games" won vs the nation's best (not the Big Ten, and certainly not pre-conference cupcake season that most ALL big programs partake) is the benchmark. M's record in truly big games against the nation's best, anyone outside AA would say, does not stack up to the top 8 or 10 programs, period. Those are the facts and the context M will need to be realistic about when recruiting their next coach. Les Miles likely would never leave LSU to come back to M, cause M ain't LSU and doesn't currently have nor can expect in the future to have the same pipeline of talent that LSU does. Same is likely true of Harbaugh.....he has brought recruiting at Stanford to a new level, has access to the top scholar/athletes that MI has historically coveted and is in sunny California. Unless MI offers dough he "can't" turn down, there's no reason to think he'll be more successful over the next 10 years at MI than at Stanford. RR has squandered whatever recruiting advantage M might have had 3 or 5 years ago. Better broaden your sites and get a hard-working, no nonsense guy who can coach first and recruit second. M's stock has took a beating...and it ain't coming back easily, and it never was as good as many of their supporters like to believe. That's my point.
3 And Out
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 6:06 p.m.
steve...actually i have a correction...between 1970-2007 we were actually #2 in college football...Nebraska was #1 and OSU 3rd...my bad... but the point remains the same: that era is now long over thanks to the current regime... here is the website. http://football.stassen.com/records/compute-request.html
3 And Out
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 5:58 p.m.
steve...my info was based on a website that is out there (i dont have the link but it could probably be found via google) where you can punch in any period between dates and get the winningist program in those dates...and from 1970-2007 we were number one and I think OSU was number two....mythical national championships aside that is the data that I was going by there...and its solid.
15crown00
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 5:45 p.m.
Losses are NEVER manageable.You play to win.End of discussion. To be a consistent winner you ave to block and tackle well.Blue and Yellows have trouble tackleing and playing special teams. Rods Runts don't work against Big 10 Teams So far it's Good Teams 2 Blue and Yellows 0 and Rods teetering on the edge of bye bye.
sevesteve
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 4:55 p.m.
3 and out...I agree with you 100% that it's time for RR to go. No argument there and I'm not even a Wolve fan....just someone who hates to see 40+ years of tradition burned by a phoney. Re the best from 1970 to 2007...you might want to reevaluate how you evaluate the "best". In any sport at any level, winning championships is the measure of supremacy. In big-time NCAA football, that happens to mean NATIONAL championships. In the era you mention, M won a total of 1/2 of a championship (MI won the AP poll in '97, Nebraska the Coaches Poll). Game-winning percentage is important, but only Michigan fans would agree that M has had the best football program over the past 40 years, and even some of you are a bit more logical than your "winning %" method, if that in fact is the measure you are using and if in fact M leads in that category. For the record, the historical NCAA DIV 1 National Championships won by each school since and including 1970 (1/2 a championship given to each team in years the two major polls were split): Miami...4 1/2 Alabama...4 Nebraska...4 Oklahoma...3 1/2 USC...3 1/2 Florida...3 Notre Dame...2 1/2 Ohio State...2 Penn State...2 Florida State...2 Texas...1 1/2 LSU...1 1/2 Pitt...1 Georgia...1 Tennessee...1 BYU...1 Clemson...1 Michigan...1/2 Georgia Tech...1/2 Colorado...1/2 Washington...1/2 And for those of us who need a reminder that our Big Ten ain't as bad-arse as we all like to think....total # of national championships, by conference, since 1970: SEC...10 1/2 Big 8/Big 12...9 1/2 Pac 8/10...4 Big Ten...2 1/2 ACC...1 1/2 Independents...13 (ND, Pitt, Miami, PSU, FSU, BYU) So to enter into a meaningful debate on Michigan football, where it has been, and where it might be headed, one must deal with the objective facts that the rest of the country uses. Given, M gets bonus points for consistency and tradition over those 40 years vs many of the other 1/2 to 1 1/2 champ teams, but to say they are the best over that time is...simply...arrogant and ludicrous.
3 And Out
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 4:33 p.m.
Jaxon5, as you know...that popular "cupboard bare" myth was first propagated by mgoblog (aka the home of RR apologists, spinners and excuse makers) which tried to break down the numbers and spin it RRs way and anti Carr once RR started losing....which was right from the beginning of 08 actually. However facts are facts...and whatever way they spin it.... we both know that here is what Lloyd Carr left, the day that he stepped down: 7 returning starters on defense, including several who have made it to the NFL and are playing on Sunday (Graham, Trent, Smith etc.)... a top punter in the NFL draft who plays for New England... 4 returning starters on the OL, a returning QB who had started a couple of games and had enormous potential, 2 RBs who complimented each other with their skills (one basher, the other faster cut back) both of whom had started in place of injured Hart and had done well, 2 NFL wide receivers, a returning TE and a whole host of other players who have since made contributions to Rich Rods teams. In fact, one could argue that the players that have done the most for Rich Rod have been Lloyd Carr's recruits (other than D Rob and Tate)... even now guys like Stonum and Jr.... were Lloyd recruits..Mike Martin was recruited by Lloyd, Mouton etc.... and those are just the guys that stuck it out under RR.... who ran off the rest with his abrasive style. Regardless of what is happening now...the day Lloyd stepped down...the roster was pretty well stocked... whatever happened after that, is on Rich Rodriguez and not on Lloyd Carr what so ever.
Jaxon5
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 3:28 p.m.
I can't believe some people are still talking about Lloyd Carr leaving the cupboard bare. All Lloyd Carr ever did was win. All the current regime ever did was lose. The record speaks for itself.
3 And Out
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 3:18 p.m.
azwolv: +1 you totally get the point on the offensive struggles in the Big Ten. Nice post, well stated.
3 And Out
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 3:15 p.m.
stewsteve.... it is not arrogance....it is a fact.... From 1970 - the end of 2007 Michigan was the winningist program in College football during that stretch. We still are #1 overall for the time being. That is not arrogance, that is a fact.
Ron Granger
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 2:26 p.m.
Maybe the Wolverines just need more practice time? I see this as yet another coaching failure. Rodriguez has the team spend all their time drilling on his twisted system, and they do not drill on the fundamentals of the game. Bo football is all about fundamentals. That notion seems lost on Rodriguez. The sooner the Rodriguez era ends, the better. If the Wolverines must lose the rest of their games this season to make that happen, so be it. So long as Rodriguez goes. Rodriguez is building a huge house, with pool, outside of Ann Arbor. He seems to think he's going to be around for a long time.
Casey
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 1:50 p.m.
You should all stop drinking the Kool-Aid, this team lacks the discipline needed to compete in the Big Ten and discipline starts at the top. I hope David Brandon was on the phone with Jim Harbaugh last night, becasue RichRod does not have what it takes to do this job. You can see the incompetence at every Monday press conference. Particularly at the one after the MSU game, hey Rich, it isn't always about you! Was the fan base upset having lost to MSU for the third straight time, yes! But you didn't throw the three interception that cost the wolverines the game. But I have news for you, Michigan lost to Iowa because you couldn't get the team to focus enough this week in practice, and now you are on the brink of an historic collapse, one with which you have some familiarity, see Michigan football season 2009.
truebluefan
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 12:36 p.m.
I have been a staunch RR supporter from day one. I still support him. The last two weeks have certainly been disappointing but I'm not jumping off the cliff yet. As I've stated before, there is no shame in losing to MSU or Iowa this season. Both teams have veteran players dotted all over the two deep on both sides of the ball. And both will finish in the top 15, IMO. I am being patient because it's better than the alternative of freaking out and being miserable. Brandon will never fire RR before the end of the season for stuff that happens on the field. So why not let the season play out and then make a decision? The next three games will tell us all we need to know about RR. They are three opponents that we should beat. The toughest game is Illinois but we have them at home. PSU is not an easy venue at night but they are pretty bad this year and wracked with injuries. And Purdue is pretty bad as well, although they are scrappy. In any event, RR must prove this season that he can win games against lower-mid to mid-level B10 opponents. I believe that's where the bar was set for this team and why many projected 7-5 or 8-4.
sevesteve
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 12:26 p.m.
Robbie....You might clear your wayward thinking by reading AZ's comments that follow your own. There is absolutely NO proof that this offense "works" as a short-term or long-term strategy, either here or anywhere else. How many National Championships has this run-quarterback-first scheme won over the last 10 years? And if you say Fla (Tebow) and Texas (Young), both qb's were very versatile....big and strong...and could take a beating...linebacker bodies playing the quarterback position. Pryor (OSU) and Newton (Auburn) are the latest versions of this type of qb...and both are significantly more durable, throwing-minded and "tough" than anyone MI has on its current roster or in the recruiting pipelines. And ANY team that has been a serious contender nationally using ANY offense has had a very strong defense...no exceptions! If you can't recruit, teach and emphasize defense, you can't beat the very good teams on your schedule. Doesn't matter if your offense plays with no opposing defense on the field. Why are you and others trying to reinvent the game in supporting a bad concept and an even worse general? Get real and swallow your pride...you are betting on the wrong pony in the wrong race!
azwolverine
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 12:07 p.m.
heartbreak, There is almost no chance of you getting a straight and direct answer to your questions. These guys don't deal in objective facts but rather in subjective defenses and attacks. You won't get an answer.
heartbreakM
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 11:11 a.m.
Robbie, Mitch, Tater (where are you Tater?) Let's look at this objectively without referring to the prior administration. What record does Michigan have to have to prove failure or success? What type of defensive performance proves success or failure? How many years to give any coach before deciding whether it is failure or success? Does being at Michigan rather than, say, Northwestern or Purdue, shorten that time horizon or increase expectations? Rather than criticize RR or promote him, let's see what your answers are and then see if this particular coach, LC, RR, JH, MB, DB (any set of initials) fits.
azwolverine
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 10:26 a.m.
robbie, there is debate as to whether the offense works. We're 4-15 in the B10 over 2.5 years, and our points per game drops dramatically in B10 play. Sure, we rang up 65 against BG this year and 62 against Delaware St. last season, but we also scored only 17 against MSU last week, 13 against PSU and Illinois last season, a total of 17 points in two games against OSU, etc. That is proof that our offense works against inferior opposition and not nearly as well against top competition. Of course, some will blame it on turnovers, but turnovers are as much a part of this offense as is a running QB. The 7 turnovers in the past two games are not an aberration, they are par for the course and have continued ceaselessly in the 2.5 years of this offense.
Satch
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 10:14 a.m.
I'll tell you how the decision to send RR packing will be made. Brandon's hand will be forced when the current debacle is obviously affecting donations, which I bet it already is. Especially if some big-time donor says, hey, I'm thinking of giving this idle 10 mil to the U, and oh by the way I'm really not sure that it's best for the University if RichRod stays on.
Robbie Webb.
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 10:03 a.m.
3, this isn't up for debate. There's no denying it. It works, period. If you want to complain about something, then complain about our secondary. Not the offense. And Carr did not leave a full stocked roster. We had Threet and Sheridan, enough said. Amongst other issues. There's no debating that as well. You can bring up Ryan Mallett and Justin Boren all you want, but they don't matter, they didn't play for us.
Greggy_D
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 9:25 a.m.
"Manageable losses"? Seriously, you believe this? LOLOLOLOL Funniest, but yet most ludicrous statement I've read in a long time. Thanks for the laugh this morning.
stunhsif
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 9:22 a.m.
Coulda, woulda, shoulda, somewhere down the road when "Jupiter aligns with Mars", Michigan will again start having winning seasons. The only dirt under Michigans cleats, really isn't dirt, it is little black rubber pellets. Worrying about next years paycheck does not pay today's bills. A question for A2.com, why do you have no coverage for MSU football? There are many thousands of fans that live right in this area and you could be attracting many more customers if you gave them some coverage. You are doing your wallets and your readers a "disservice". Go Green Go White
Disthekey
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 9:10 a.m.
Note to AD Brandon: Get Harbaugh on the phone and find out if he WILL come here to coach and if so, when. The moment Jim gives us a date, show RR the door!
SaveMichiganFootball
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 8:47 a.m.
I could have never imagined that a MSU coach (Dantonio) would have as many Big Ten wins at Michigan Stadium as a Michigan head coach (RR)after 3 seasons. Dantonio has 2 Big Ten wins (both vs UM) and UM has 2 (WI and IN) at the Big House. Could it be any worse? The answer is yes if we don't make a change SOON.
stunhsif
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 8:45 a.m.
Biblical justice for certain, especially when "Lil Sis" started the losing streak! How Sweet It Is! Go Green Go White
Jaxon5
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 8:19 a.m.
Read Sevesteve's comment for a very plausible explanation of this whole mess. Blind Ambition. Unrealistic Expectations. If true, then it could be argued not RR's fault. It could be said he's just trying to do what he was told to do. Michigan had a great thing going, but it's all gone now. The system has been destroyed. I don't know whose fault it is, just that Michigan football is just like most teams, no better, nothing special, and mediocre or worse.
oniowa
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 8:11 a.m.
The mindset/big picture strategy that's a fit with the Big 10 is not there with the UM football program. And that starts at the top. So save up, hire Harbaugh at the end of the season, and then let him and his staff be for 20 years. Ferentz is great at Iowa, but it wasn't very pretty in the first few years. Iowa is solid because it hasn't messed too much with its coaches, and because of discipline and mindset that's a fit with the Big Ten. (Credit UM legend Bump Elliott for getting all of that started with the hiring of Coach Fry.) But Iowa doesn't get the talent to be Top 15 material each year -- like the Wolverines. So hang in there Big Blue. It'll get better and exciting pretty quickly if you get it right at the top. BTW, Iowa has something like 29 seniors (and a 5th year senior QB who's 23-5 as a starter) on the squad this year. That QB kept them from folding yesterday. This just isn't the year to make a lot of mistakes and beat Iowa. Keep the faith.
antikvetch
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 8:08 a.m.
My point exactly, stunhsif. RR may be well qualified for a particular area of coaching, but the play of our defense/special teams indicates the lack of a firm hand, and a failure of overall coaching competence. Our games have almost become too painful to watch. Remember when we used to feel optimistic before a game?
ChelseaBob
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 8:04 a.m.
Harbaugh is a Michigan man. He bleeds maize and blue. He has a great job at Stanford, but when it's time to come home, he will. Not only will the football improve, but Michigan players will go back to getting an education. When they're finished with football, they will have a future, something that probably isn't happening now. I cannot wait to be proud of the program again, both on and off the field.
sevesteve
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 8 a.m.
What got Michigan in trouble in the first place with their football program is the thinking that "we are the best football program in the land" for the 40 years of the Bo+ era. The fact is, M was along with OSU consistently at the top or near the top of the Big Ten. Throw in a Wisconsin or Purdue or Iowa finishing #1 occasionally, then Penn State since joining the conference in the early 90's, and Michigan was very solid...a top ten national program no doubt. The dominance for the top spot in BT between M and OSU was back and forth during the Bo/Moeller vs Hayes/Bruce years. Then M spanked OSU under Cooper's reign and vice versa under Tressel's reign. Then the M lost their senses, started thinking they SHOULD consistenly beat OSU AND beat the top 10 powers in college football besides OSU....USC, Texas, Florida, Oklahoma, Alabama. Throw in Miami, Florida State, Notre Dame, LSU, and you have MAYBE with throwing in M, the top ten programs over the last 30-40 years in true NATIONAL relevance. Michigan was in an enviable spot of all but the top 10 programs in the country, but like a spoiled grandchild, took that for granted, forgot how hard it was to get and stay there, and made a "switch" so it could satisfy it's desire to be #1 (and consistently beat OSU). Newsflash....ALL top 30 programs want to and expect to get better and would love to be the top program in the land. Michigan is not special in this regard and you would never hear Bo/Moeller/Carr expressing a desire to trade places with ANYBODY...they knew M was good and they were. Clearly not the best, but awfully damn good. They won a ton of BT championships, which always was their #1 goal... properly so...and anything beyond that was gravy. It will be years, if ever, before M returns to a consistent Top Ten football program. All because the powers that be became "embarrassed" about a losing streak to OSU and dropping out of Top Ten status for a couple of years. But #1 program in college football?...that kind of arrogance and distortion is exactly what got M in the mess it's in right now.
belboz
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 7:51 a.m.
I was going to post earlier, but was interrupted by another penalty being called on #77, Taylor Lewan. Boy, the penalties. That, and the missed open field tackle at about the 7:00 minute mark in the 4th quarter, when it would have created a 4th down for Iowa - out of field goal range. Being down only 7 at the time, it would have been a huge play for Michigan. Sadly, the D still doesn't seem to create that big stop when needed. A bit of a QB controversy now. I wonder if Tate's dad is busy updating the family website....
stunhsif
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 7:51 a.m.
Yep, Charlie Weis is available. He is the offensive coordinator for my favorite NFL team the K.C. Chiefs. He actually has done a pretty good job thus far! Not so sure I want to lose him to Michigan and understand Antikvetch that your comment was a slam at RR, don't blame you a bit.
antikvetch
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 6:43 a.m.
Is Charlie Weis still available?
Bob W
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 6:36 a.m.
All I hear from friends is, "hey, it's a young team." Well, that's worn pretty thin. Every coach faces the same cycle, freshman come and seniors go. Live with it RR. You have to wonder when these less than great performances are going to negatively affect recruiting.. then what?? It think its time to start scouting, but not for players. [wink]
BUS
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 4:45 a.m.
I am new to this, so please forgive any lapses in etiquette. I have read and enjoyed all the posts. I have been attened the home games for almost 30 years. I support UofM emotionally and monetarily. This team's performance is NOT acceptable and should not be to anyone that considers themself a michigan fan. I can understand some mistakes on offense because of youth. Defense cannot use that excuse, defense aint that difficult. these guys hit like girls, they grab, and push, heck I expect them to start slapping. Damn it I want someones helmet laying on the turf after we hit them, if the players head is still in it, even better!! This is a violent game, quit the pansy grabing crap and tackle somebody. If RR cannot get the defense together, or is not able to see why he needs to, then he is an idiot. There is no room at michigan for idiots, we send them to MSU. There is a reason they say defense wins championships, greg robinson has got to go!!! And can somebody grab a soccer player and escort him/her to the football stadium. It would be nice to have a kicker that can kick above shoulder level.
lawrencelaundry
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 2:21 a.m.
3 and out, tell us how you really feel? Lol. U are right on all instances. We keep playing like this and our recruiting classes will fall so far it will take years to recover with a new coach. This is why we must find a new coach while theres still talent left.
lawrencelaundry
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 2:15 a.m.
3 and out, tell us how you really feel? Lol. U are right on all instances. We keep playing like this and our recruiting classes will fall so far it will take years to recover with a new coach. This is why we must find a new coach while theres still talent left.
Macabre Sunset
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 2:06 a.m.
Some numbers to consider: 10 - Rich Rodriguez home losses in 2.6 seasons, or an average of 3.9 per season. 36 - Number of home losses by Lloyd Carr, Bo Schembechler and Gary Moeller combined in 39 seasons, or an average of 0.9 per season. 15 - Rich Rodriguez conference losses, or a rate of 6.3 per Big Ten season. 55 - Conference losses by Carr, Schembechler and Moeller combined in 39 seasons, or a rate of 1.4 per Big Ten season. 0 - Number of seasons Carr, Schembechler and Moeller combined wound up with a.500 or lower Big Ten record in 39 years. 2 - Losing seasons in the Big Ten from Rich Rodriguez. He would have to finish the season 4-1 or 5-0 to avoid going.500 or lower a third season. 3 - The number of points *visiting* Iowa was favored at Michigan today. And the Hawkeyes beat the spread comfortably. Not in our House. Not in our conference.
3 And Out
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 1:32 a.m.
One final note: In 19 Big Ten conference games in the Rich Rodriguez Error...our team, our school's team has played exactly 1 WELL....one game that was almost flawless in its execution, well played, well coached, overall a 10 out of 10.... what game was that? Minnesota in 2008 with the 29-6 domination of the hapless Gophers. Here is the box score to remind you: http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/boxscore?gameId=283130135 That...is Rich Rod's "Signature Win" as our coach.... a late-season surprise win vs. Minnesota, with Lloyd Carr's players and Nick Sheridan as Quarterback. Wow...they scored 29 points in that game with Nick Sheridan as QB!!!! Rich Rod's offense must be the greatest ever! Rich Rod invented the forward pass and the spread and every other offensive innovation in college football history... er...no.... What we saw in that game vs. Minnesota....was the last FLASH of the Bo/Mo/Lloyd era before it died completely....40 years of domination as the number 1 program in college football in that era...died with that game. Kudos to Rich Rod for that one signature win back in 2008 with Lloyd's guys... it remains as his signature win....and the ONLY game out of 19 in the BT that he actually coached a solid, well-disciplined game. The rest have been garbage. PU.
3 And Out
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 1:02 a.m.
Our offense started moving the ball a little in garbage time and when we went to 4 wides with a better passing QB than Denard.... which is fine... it was too little to late... Outside of the bad special teams, penalties, miscues and terrible defense that have been the Hallmarks of the Rich Rodriguez Error at Michigan...it is also his base offensive system that is flawed and wont work in the Big Ten. His reliance on perimeter plays, zone blocking schemes, misdirection, trickeration and a running QB may work pretty well in September vs. undermanned teams from other conferences... slower, smaller teams who cant keep up with faster Michigan kids in a spread... However as we have seen over the past 3 seasons (4-15)....once we get to the Big Ten we face defenses that are just as fast as our offense and far more physical than we are.... the perimeter plays basically disappear, and we dont have the physical ability to work the middle of the field for significant gains... the "big plays" that Denard created vs. the little sisters of the poor go away and are gone forever in the Big Ten.... our only shot from here out would be to play that 4 wide spread scheme with Tate and try to win through the air... and mix in an ocaissional run in there... we have no shot at playing power football consistently in this scheme and the zone-read is basically a bad joke in the Big Ten. btw...this is all on Rich Rod...square peg in a round hole. BTW...running QB all the time gets your QB killed....another issue with Rich Rod's faulty scheme
sevesteve
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 12:59 a.m.
OK you half-full optimists, enough is enough. One can say that with fewer turnovers and mistakes the last two weeks, M could have won either/both of these games. The fact is, Michigan could have eliminated some/most of their TO's, reduced their other offensive mistakes (penalties, field goal ineptness) and scored 45 or 50 points in both games and they STILL would lose by 10 or MORE. Why? Their defense is TERRIBLE and any team that is superior (MSU and IOWA clearly are to any objective observer) will outscore M, get to a comfortable lead with some cushion, and play time possession offense to wrap up the game. Michigan and RR have become so obsessed with their high-flying offense that they forget one thing when claiming "we shot ourselves in the foot with turnovers"...most have occurred in the opposition's red zone, and more often than not the opponent has driven the length of the field after M hands them the ball to score a touchdown or at least a field goal. Don't be fooled by thinking less TO's and offensive mistakes is the answer. All that will lead to is higher scoring games where the defensive-minded opponents STILL win. NO defense=poor result in ANY SPORT. And if the talent isn't there, might want to move some of those highly talented, athletic offensive players to defense....otherwise, happy high-scoring loses!! But you can still win money betting on the Wolves, simply bet on the "over"!!
3 And Out
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 12:59 a.m.
Anyone who saw "good things" out of today's loss is a flat out loser. Tate made some plays in garbage time to bring it back a bit closer...but that was about it. And...anyone else who brings up App State (again) in some pathetic attempt to spin it Rod's way would also be a loser. That game was played over 3 years ago and is MOOT now, and btw it was played by a team that finished 9-4 and beat the defending NCs in the Cap One bowl leaving a FULL STOCKED cupboard that the current coach urinated away.
3 And Out
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 12:57 a.m.
PS: 4-15 in the BT Scooter/Robbie....and 10 BCS wins overall....18 BCS losses...and we both know why you want RR to stay...right? lol...
johnnya2
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 12:55 a.m.
"Losing to Appalachian State at home - something that happened on the previous regime mind you - wasn't a manageable loss." Yes because App State only WON their National Championship that year, AND the Michigan team beat the defending National Champion in their Bowl game. The "previous regime won moore Big Ten games that season than the current junta has won over 3. So keep telling yourself this is better. It is Kool AId drinking. Any critical analysis will tell you there were HOME games. Losing to number 15 is acceptable to you? So that means a loss to OSU, Wisconsin, etc will be ok? Sorry man, but beating Bowling Green is NOT impressive. The Big Ten is the ONLY thing that matters. End of story. By the way, the CURRENT guys lost to Toledo. How was that offensive performnance. Finally, how many times did Llyod Carr, Gary Moelleer or Bo put UM on probation? ZERO Never ever "the team has made progress from last year." Last year on the road versus MSU the game was an overtime game., last year AT Iowa they lost by 2, this year at home it was 10 points, and really not that close. Iowa played soft when they were winning by 21. It happens when a team is dominating the other. What aspect of the team is better? Special teams? Defense? Coaching? Their record certainly isn't In reality the record was EXACTLY the same as last season at this point if you swap Bowling Green for Delaware State. "I know Michigan fans aren't use to rebuilding" - Why would you rebuild from 8-4? Most would say you need to reload and tweak. In fact, rebuilding is like the guy who needs a paint for his home, but blows up the foundation "I'm going to watch the Wisconsin game now. Ohio State is down by 14... maybe they should fire Tressel." Is your position that Rich Rod has had the same success as Tressel? R2 has NEVER been to a BCS title game. Tressel has been to three. I can see how you think they might have equal credentials.
3 And Out
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 12:55 a.m.
Look out here is "Robbie Webb" aka Scooter from the Freep, here to stalk me again... lol...whatever Scooter... you know and I know exactly WHY you want RR to stay....so leave it alone ok...can you stop stalking my messages? nope you cant what a joke you are... The offense can not compete in the Big Ten...that is a fact...but if 500 yds in garbage time makes you feel good...well go ahead and pleasure yourself over it Robbie. But why not leave me out of it stalker? btw..if AA deletes this message, I will keep reposting it until your personal attack on me gets deleted to. Go Blue!
annarbor28
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 12:41 a.m.
Whatever particulars of this game, this is NOT Michigan football. I am sure we all got a lot more out of U-M besides football, but this is important and RR has been a disaster from the beginning. He's for our money, not for our spirit. How much will it still cost to get rid of his contract? And most important, who will make the choice about any changes? Hopefully some people who know a lot more than whoever chose RR. Maybe this should go on the ballot as a referendum...
Terrin
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 12:34 a.m.
Some of you guys seem pretty forgiving. I do not see how losing a game that should have been won is an improvement. For that last two years that has been the same story. Michigan has failed at the fundamentals. A school like Michigan, where top players up through the Carr era where flocking to come to, shouldn't have to rebuild. They just need good coaching. Michigan State and Iowa beat Michigan playing simple smash mouth football. Michigan shouldn't be trying this fancy style offense if it can't get the fundamentals right. I for one don't get the whole play Denard as the starting quarterback. Tate clearly is the better all around quarterback. Further, he had a year more experience starting. Last year Michigan's offense line was horrible, and Tate had a respectable performance. In his limited time playing this season he has shown that with this year's superior offense line he could have done much better. He likely wouldn't have made the mistake Denard made to lose to Michigan State. Tate's interceptions were at the point where chance had to be taken because time was an issue. Denard's didn't make sense because the risky throws he made weren't necessary.
A2D2
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 12:24 a.m.
I stand corrected on Harbaugh. Thanks!
A2D2
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 12:23 a.m.
And one final thought: Bringing the right coach in to Ann Arbor won't set the team back 2-3 years like so many people think. Set it back to what? A losing record? Last in the Big 10? (oops, already there....). No, bringing in the right coach, and the right staff - one that knew how to use the talent that they had, and not try to coach square pegs into round holes - would make things better Next Year!. The question is, who is Mister Right?
Macabre Sunset
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 12:20 a.m.
You are mistaken. Harbaugh went to Pattengill, played Junior Wolverines, was a dominant pitcher and center on his basketball team. He did go to high school in California, then returned for college. We lost by ten points (and were down three touchdowns in the fourth quarter) at home. What's positive about that? Iowa wasn't prepared for Forcier, so he racked up some yardage and a couple of touchdowns. That was the *only* positive in the game - we discovered we're not completely dead if Robinson goes down. Other than that, being dominated at home by anyone is not Michigan football. How things have changed in the last three years.
A2D2
Sun, Oct 17, 2010 : 12:07 a.m.
Just a couple more things:. 1. For those of you who want Jim Harbaugh "to come home", please understand that he is home. Unless I'm mistaken, he was raised in California, his dad coached in Palo Alto while Jim went to High School there. He, unfortunately, just left home to go to college at Michigan.. 2. This is not Greg Robinson's mess, and this is not the special team coach's mess. This Rich Rod's mess. He is a run-and-gun offensive coach who is not going to change ho he coaches or the way he neglects the defense. The fish stinks from the head down, and this fish really stinks!. 3. An open comment to Dave Brandon: HELP!!!
A2D2
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 11:37 p.m.
Just three comments:. 1. Iowa's #94, the big all-american, made Taylor Lewan look like a red-shirt freshman (oops, he is one.....). 2. Obi Ezah played one series, and got pancaked flatter than you can imagine. Thank you Greg Robinson that you took him back out! He is embarrassing to watch.. 3. When is Coach Rod going to admit that Tate is a QB and Denard is one fine runner (but not a Big 10 passer)? Put them in the same backfield and let your two best offensive weapons do what they each do best. 113,000 interested onlookers Saturday would probably agree........
Robbie Webb.
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 11:29 p.m.
3 and Out, you still have a lot to learn. Are you REALLY still calling out our offense? We put up 522 yards of offense against the #2 ranked rushing defense in the country, and our second string quarterback rushed for a touchdown and amidst turnovers and penalties galore, we still put up 28 against a VERY good Iowa team. MSU is arguably the best in the big ten and our two losses are both to teams in the top 15. Our next three games are not going to be easy, but they will NOT be as good as MSU or Iowa. You still forget the youth we have and I'm not a fan of Greg Robinson, if ANYBODY needs to go, it's him, not Rodriguez. So once again, lay off on Harbaugh, who will not be here. Even if he was, he wouldn't have the players to run his offense, and we would go through this again. It's not offense, it's the secondary on defense...period.
modeltim
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 11:19 p.m.
The blocked field goal play where the Michigan players just stood around was inexcusable. I blame that on the coaching staff as much as the players. Coaches have to instill discipline. This is RR's 3rd year and time is starting to run out on him. I was never a fan of Bo but I have to admit he knew that part of the game 100%. It became part of the Michigan tradition and it needs to right soon.
Jon Saalberg
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 10:44 p.m.
The big question is, what is which is worse - giving RR more time to try and figure what the heck he can do to resurrect a once well-respect football program that is now not even a second tier Big Ten team, or fire him and wait three, four, five years or more for the aforesaid program to regain its powerhouse status? It's embarrassing for UM fans that the UM football team and the UM basketball team are no longer serious competitors for our in-state rivals. Really embarrassing.
mun
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 10:40 p.m.
For those who are blaming Rich Rod for the current debacle, just remember who hired him, site unseen.
mun
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 10:26 p.m.
@rnich231 "What makes any UM fan think Harbough wants to come to AA and attempt to ressurect a program that has fallen from grace?" Harbaugh took over a losing Stanford team and turned them into winners. Going from Stanford to Michigan is a step up.
braggslaw
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 10:23 p.m.
UM will win 7 games this year. Rich Rod will not be fired this year. UM will win 6 games next year. Rich Rod will be fired next year. Sorry, this is how I see it playing out.
truebluefan
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 10:19 p.m.
By the way, I would 'all in' for replacing Gibson as special teams coach. Special teams cost us field position and at least 7 points today. We can't kick a FG. Two (?!) kickoffs went out of bounds. One of them was at a critical juncture of the game. Inexcusable. Hagerup is good and will only get better but every other facet of special teams is pretty much a joke.
truebluefan
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 10:15 p.m.
az -- I will agree with you again (this is becoming my M.O. lately). I believe 8-4 is the bar right now for RR. We must win the next three and then keep the next two "respectable". In other words, we can lose to Wisconsin and OSU but they have to be competitive and relatively clean games (a turnover or two at the most and no more than one personal foul). I am going to make an excuse for the D though. That secondary is a young and inexperienced mish-mash of players. They are not going to come around this season. We can't expect solid play from that group. The offense can seriously carry this team if they just stop shooting themselves in the foot. I know the opposing D has something to do with it but a lot of what I saw the past two weeks was Michigan beating Michigan. Rich and Calvin need to get the offense executing flawlessly and firing on all cylinders if they want to save their jobs. All that said, my belief that MSU has their best team in many years is likely true. They handled Wisconsin last week. Wisconsin handled OSU tonight. Iowa is a very good team with a great D. There is no shame in losing to MSU and Iowa this season. But, at some point, Michigan needs to start looking good against B10 competition.
profdavid
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 10:08 p.m.
It sounds like some of you are drinking the purple Kool-Aid. Losing by 10 points to Iowa AT HOME is a step forward? What low expectations you now have. You should start looking through your rose-colored glasses at 6-6, or even 5-7 this year and see how the Kool-Aid goes down then. RR has got to go....and the sooner the better! He'll never be able to win the big games, and not even some of the small ones. If that is the aspirations of UM, then give him a contract extension. If not, then show him the door immediately and start searching for someone who can coach, and coach with integrity! I vote for the latter, how about you?
ohiowolverine
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 10:02 p.m.
I don't understand why Tate wasn't put in last week in the 2nd half or today in the second half. The O was moving the ball thru the air in both games, so why not have the best passing QB playing? I think we could have won both games with Tate playing.
RudeJude
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 10:01 p.m.
(Sung like the Christmas song) "It's beginning to look a lot like last year." This was my first chance to see Michigan play live this year, and sadly, they looked worse than I thought they were. Multiple botched kickoffs at critical times, blocked field goals and failing to realize the ball was live and allowing a huge return, missed tackle after missed tackle, INTs off of blind "up-for-grabs" passes, not going for out on fourth down at the end of the first half in a little-to-lose" situation. The fans were louder than the last game I attended but still had michigan fans asking me to sit down (Can't a guy stand up and cheer for his team?). Loved the new-look stadium, but it was not quite the homecoming I had hoped for on many fronts. I appreciated all the Pro-Harbaugh chatter I heard all around the stadium, though. We need a real coach to clean this mess up and bring Michigan back. Go Blue...
azwolverine
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 10:01 p.m.
win, It's nice to know that two UM fans can actually have a reasonable conversation on this forum even if we started out in seeming disagreement. That may be a first. Go Blue!
Blueman Rick
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 9:55 p.m.
Very nice job by Forcier. Some good things but obviously the team lacks discipline overall. What in the hell are they doing in practice RR?
AC
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 9:49 p.m.
2009 all over again. Michigan might manage 1 more win so they can be invited to a B.S bowl. RR experiment in Ann Arbor is failing period. Sloppy plays on offense w 7TO in last couple games vs 0 from D and uncharctaristic penalties. This team not good enough to play from behind esp. against a tough opponent like IOWA. They are one dimensional. Without a good defense and special teams (2 for 11 field goals)this team is good enough to beat some MAC teams and D2. Everything starts and stops w Denard Rob. It seems when he's struggling, the rest of the offense follows. Not enough playmakers on this Michigan team. Speed only won't bring home the trophy. The first 5 wins were nice but reality hit when M offense started facing true competition. Unfortunately this team is beating itself. No character or true identity. I don't care if we lose by 1 or 30 pts, it's an L on W/L colum. It's been a very frustrating couple weeks with more to come. One thing is guarantee for sure that Michigan will not lose next week(Thank God for the byeweek).
lawrencelaundry
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 9:43 p.m.
The good news is we had over 500 total offense against #1 scoring defense.
win
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 9:43 p.m.
azwolverine, You are right, we do agree more than we disagree. we want the same thing, a competitive, tough, smart and disciplined team competing for championships. I think we will get that next year. Give these young kids a chance to grow in this system. I do agree with you that we wait until the end of the year. And yes, if it falls apart like it did last year, and we end up 5-7, I'll be the first to say we need to go in another direction. I just think this is a better team this year than they were last year. And we do have 5 games left to improve. 8-4 with steady improvement and bowl win on New Years day against a quality SEC team. I think Michigan fans will take that and be excited about 2011. Go Blue!
Jaxon5
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 9:38 p.m.
Wow, this team was not prepared at all to play the number 15 team in the country. Penalties galore. Blocked field goal debacle. They were never in a position to win this game. Never. It just gets worse and worse.
Toonsis
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 9:34 p.m.
Isn't Mr. Brandon, the AD, the key to the future of the program? Michigan was blessed to have Don Canham who was a great sportsman and a great businessman. Mr.Goss was a poor businessman. Mr. Martin was a poor sportsman (He knows yachting). Mary Sue, like presidents of both genders, does not know how to pick a coach. Why should she? I'm hoping that Mr. Brandon is more than just an AD out of central casting: handsome, a master of cliches like the coach "needs X number of years to recruit his players." At some point, don't we Michigan fans deserve to know what he REALLY thinks? Go Blue.
azwolverine
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 9:22 p.m.
win, I'm not 'obsessed' with firing RR. I'm obsessed with UM being an elite team, beating our rivals, and competing for B10 and National Titles. Based on your response to my question, I don't know that we are actually as far apart in our beliefs as you think. Now, in fairness, I will answer your question as to whether I will support his return at 8-4. The best answer I can give is...it depends. I already predicted 8-4 at the beginning of the season and, with the next three games coming up, I don't see any reason to change that prediction. Michigan must beat those three teams and play with more poise and discipline, not simply win because they are playing sloppy against inferior competition. However, the games that matter most, imo, are Wisconsin and OSU at the end of the season. We need to play competitively and, again, with poise and discipline. We are three years in with this coach, and I don't think poise and discipline, which I feel reflect 100% on the coach, are too much to ask. So, if we can play the next 5 games with poise and discipline, beat the three teams we should beat and compete evenly with OSU and Wisconsin, I would feel it's fair for him to come back. I still don't like the long term prognosis with him, but it would be fair.
3 And Out
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 9:10 p.m.
+1 HeartbreakM...well said...it is getting tiring being challenged and taunted by those that support Rich Rod...we should all just agree to disagree...
win
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 9:10 p.m.
azwolverine, If they go 8-4 this year, will you support his return? I guess we are in two separate camps. One being a Michigan fan supporting the team, and the other obsessed with firing a coach. My position on this is simple, I expected 8-4 going in and if it happens, fine, if it doesn't I think you evaluate a solution that is best for the program. If it means he has to go, so be it. I will still support Michigan and who ever the next coach is. This is a young team. That is not an excuse, that is a fact. They will not be young next year. They will be juniors with some seniors and some sophomores. I don't expect to see many freshman seeing the field next year. Unless they are truly special players, they shouldn't be on the field at all. That team will be a Big Ten contender.
azwolverine
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 9:09 p.m.
riverraisin, You're right, I remember exactly what you're talking about. He was so emphatically waving his arms to decline a penalty that can't be declined.
stunhsif
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 9:07 p.m.
Many of you U of M fans still call MSU "Lil Sis". Well, we feel sorry for "Big Sissy". Ain't no way they go 8-4 for the season, I see a 6-6 season which would be an awsome year for RR! Go Green Go White
riverraisin
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 9:05 p.m.
To me, watching RichRod trying to refuse a false start penalty against Iowa, told me everything I wanted to know about his competence.
2bluebyu
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 9:04 p.m.
I agree with blueballs................. RR needs to rotate some new people in, this present defensive system is not working at all. Do it now coach or ALL OF YOU will be packing your bags very soon!!!
Satch
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 9:01 p.m.
Where the heck IS Tater? We all need to know why this was really a "victory" in some sense, and is another step to undoubtedly winning the Big Ten championship next year.
heartbreakM
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 8:57 p.m.
One more thing: We all talk about Harbaugh or Miles. Well, Oregon's ex-coach Mike Belloti (spelling?) is available. He quit UO 2 years ago and did not like the broadcast booth. He has shown an ability to coach defense, has almost as many wins in Michigan Stadium as Rodriguez (LOL), coaches a spread offense well (remember that shellacking in 2007?), and has been shown to be of high integrity. He coached in a big conference, and I think he should get some consideration.
heartbreakM
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 8:55 p.m.
@amaizen: there is no special teams coach. One of the big problems that LC had was loyalty to his assistant coaches, including the ones with varying degrees of competence. Loyalty was incredibly important to him, which is honorable, but it led to problems of stagnancy and Michigan really needed some assistants from outside the family to bring in fresh ideas. (Sort of like what Oregon's Belloti did with Chip Kelly). Well, RR has the same intense loyalty to his assistants like Gibson, Frey, and others who followed him from WVU. Again, good trait, but very self destructive.
3 And Out
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 8:55 p.m.
+1 HeartbreakM....well stated.
amaizenblueballs
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 8:47 p.m.
Disappointing. A coaching change looks inevitable and means yet another couple years before we return to competitiveness. I was hoping for better, but we just looked poorly coached and Iowa did not. Mistakes and coaching, not talent, were the difference in this game. Some might say the coaching kept us competitive, but there were just too many mistakes that suggested bad coaching. I would give him another year if he fired the Special Team Coordinator and Defensive backs coach tonight.
heartbreakM
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 8:45 p.m.
Mitch: I object to your telling fans and alumni of MI to 'go find another team to root for' because they don't think the coach is doing well or are willing to criticize the coach. I think that is a ridiculous attitude. We ALL root for Michigan, even if we have different opinions about who should lead the team. It is very pompous to suggest that only one kind of fan is allowed. Additionally, to compare OSU losing an away game at Wisconsin ( a top 20 team) with 4-15 B10 record over several years including one road victory and 2 straight home losses.....Well, that does not make any sense either. Tressel has won 5 straight B10 titles, and may do that this year too. Rodriguez is already out of the B10 race, and has shown no ability to make halftime adjustments, coach a defense, and eliminate basic mental errors that his teams keep repeating year after year. Good comparison. What is pathetic is results on the field, not the fans expecting more from their coach.
azwolverine
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 8:44 p.m.
win, If the team doesn't get 10 wins next year, what will the excuse be? The problem is, those that support RR blindly DON'T CARE what he does. He could finish this year 5-7 and they would still think he's showing progress and should be able to stay. He could go 8-4 this year and then go 8-4 next year and they would see that as progress. RR can lose to any team, by any score, home or away, and the blind faithful DON'T CARE! The talk was that RR had to beat MSU this season, even many in the blind faithful camp. What happened as soon as MSU beat us like we stole something from them last week? EXCUSES! They DIDN'T CARE. What is important to some fans isn't whether Michigan can compete against MSU, OSU, and the heavyweights of the Big Ten, it's keeping RR as the coach at all costs. They have hunkered into their camp and will defend him no matter what negative impact it has on Michigan. So again, my question to you is, what if Michigan doesn't win 10 games under RR next year against a schedule that will include Notre Dame, @Iowa, @MSU, @Illinois, OSU, and Nebraska? Will you want him fired, or will you make excuses?
garrison56
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 8:44 p.m.
I am not a Michigan fan, so take what I say any way you want. I did live in SE MI for 20 years, and I watched a lot of UM football. One thing this team could always do: hit on defense. You beat them or they beat you, but you came away from Ann Arbor bruised. I cannot believe any of you--even those of you defending RR--actually like the football you're seeing.
2bluebyu
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 8:43 p.m.
There are times when this offensive system of RR's looks like it could go up against anyone in the country and compete, lose the rookie mistakes and we move the ball real well.Love the way Tate made this game interesting. What bothers me the most is the lack of fundamentals, tackling, catching, fumbles, NO STUPID PENALTIES!!! The defense at times had their moments...... but man do they have a long way to go. If anyone should get fired, my vote is for Robinson........his defense is what's losing these games more so than the offense. If they dump RR now, we'll lose alot of the good recruits we have and the ones that are leaning our way. It's just my humble opinion but I say get rid of Robinson first. Forever true to The Blue. See you next week.............GO BLUE!!!
miatamich
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 8:41 p.m.
Mitch: Losers make excuses. Michigan's defense and special teams have shown ZERO improvement (they've actually regressed) under the current coach's direction. And, he still insists on recruiting more WR's, despite the fact that they already have 100 of them. The winning teams in the Big Ten do so with balanced offenses, power running games and defense. This nonsense about not having players for his system raise a point. A good coach adapts his system to his players. At a program like Michigan, you don't get five years to rebuild. The better ones reload, not rebuild.
Satch
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 8:38 p.m.
This is all on Bill Martin's disastrous tenure as AD. He doesn't even talk to Miles, Harbaugh, or Kelly, and then when the Rutgers coach turns him down, he and Mary Sue are left to grovel before Rodriguez when he contacts Michigan about the opening. Why the heck would any good coach want to come to Michigan now with the program in such a sorry state, and sanctions looming?
Sean T.
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 8:38 p.m.
TXmaizenblue, Being young does have some effect on the game but you have to be serious? There are high school teams that tackle better than us and they take better angles too! Youth can easily be improved by coaching and many of our issues are not because of youth. Our one dimensional scheme was easily halted by physical defenses and our former Heisman QB shouldn't have been the starter in the first place and we're lucky the back-up didn't transfer. We are not any better than last year and each week it has become apparent. There's nothing explosive about our offense because it sputters far too often. RR is the Head Coach and to blame...period!
Pete Warburton
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 8:13 p.m.
The experiment is over!
win
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 8:12 p.m.
azwolverine, would you take 8-4 right now if it could be guaranteed? You bet you would. Is it a good thing? No, I didn't like it when it happened with LC as coach, and I don't like it now. But I am being realistic. RR came in and totally revamped the program. (not sure why people are surprised that a coach would want to have his kind of players and run his system. It happens all over the country every year) If you wanna be mad, be mad at Martin for the hire in the first place. But he is OUR coach and this is OUR team, so I'm going to support Michigan. Right now, I believe 8-4 is about right for this team. Next year I will go into the season expecting 10 wins.
Txmaizenblue
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 8:09 p.m.
You armchair quarterbacks calling for the coaches head are beyond ridiculous. There is a reason why teams that start mostly upper-class players beat teams that don't. It has VERY little to do with coaching and VERY MUCH to due with maturity and experience. Look at the mistakes today, and you will find a left tackle who started his 2nd or 3rd game, making bone-headed mistakes, young quarterbacks trying to force things, etc. You people have to be patient. I see much to be excited about. This team played as horrible as it did with a -4 in the turnover margin and still ended up within a touchdown with under 2 minutes remaining in the game. The most alarming concern for me is the special teams....they just keep looking atrocious.
TIGERS68
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 8:04 p.m.
Let's start a "Hire Harbaugh" campaign. I'll buy the bumper stickers....
azwolverine
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:59 p.m.
win, you talk of 8-4 like it's a good thing... By the way, UM won't have any kind of B10 title run next year any more than this year because RR can't beat MSU or OSU. Add Nebraska to that list next year, and the best RR will ever do at UM is 9-3 moving forward.
barnyard
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:58 p.m.
Its time to cut our losses and show rich the door!! tired of the excuses that are defense is young and it takes time to get recruits. how much time do you need?? how come many other top tier programs can find recruits on the d side of the ball and here we are playin kids who probably wouldnt see the field til their senior year at other programs. Gregg Robinson?? really? how did he do at syracuse in a conference that couldnt even come close to competing in the big 10? nice hire rich!! time to spend the big bucks and get mr.harbaugh back to ann arbor!!!!!!!!!!!!
lawrencelaundry
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:56 p.m.
Settle down people!! We just lost by 10. Not bad for a bottom dwellers team. Lol. Let me guess." We just have to watch some more game film to see the breakdowns. But our young players will work on it and get it corrected". I've been hearing that the last 3 yrs. The talent is there, the coaching entirely is NOT. LET'S hope foe Harbaugh. Im sure he can do wonders with Denard for 2 yrs.
Sean T.
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:54 p.m.
Keepingitreal, Tate is the better all-around QB but he doesn't truly fit RR's system. And I know that Iowa wasn't prepared for Tate and that may have caused his success against the Hawkeyes.(I stated this on another post) But Tate is a much better passer and that's completely evident and it always has been. They both have the same record against Big Ten teams so it may be a toss up. Quarterbacks traditionally throw the ball and in that category, Denard is unqualified. I like DR too but the team is too one dimensional with him in the game.
MetricSU
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:54 p.m.
There was some Keystone Cops stuff out there by UM today. It's looking to me like RR is a great offensive mind but cannot be bothered with other details (such as making sure special teams players know when a blocked FG is live). And he doesn't seem to be hiring people who have much of a clue. RR is looking like an offensive coordinator who finds himself at the helm of one of the most successful programs in CFB history. An OC might be able to win in the Big East, but it's not looking good for the Big Ten. But the team is 5-2. They can win a few more games. I'll be watching to see whether a QB controvery develops.
TXteacher
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:53 p.m.
Any loss is "manageable" when you get used to losing. Meanwhile those "manageable" wins in SpartyLand are mounting, with a Maize and Blue scalp in the woodshed! If only the Blue could move to the MAC and play more Bowling Greens of the world, they might be able to turn this ship around. Nah, on second thought, this is too much fun. GO GREEN, GO WHITE, FIRST PLACE TONIGHT!
C-Dubb
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:53 p.m.
After 2.5 years, it's clear that RR's coaching philosophy will not work in the BT -- he's not a BSC conference coach (I don't think that the Big East has BCS-caliber teams/talent). He would be a great coach in the MAC, WAC, C-USA or Mountain West. It's time that U-M does what Alabama did many decades ago with the Bear and tells Coach Harbaugh that "it's time to come home."
TIGERS68
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:52 p.m.
Harbaugh will come because a voice from heaven will tell him to do so. That voice will tell him "you're a Michigan man, go home where you belong and remind everyone that "Those who stay will be Champions". That is why brother Jim will come home, it's his destiny!
win
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:52 p.m.
We've been beaten by the two best teams in the Big Ten. How many of you had Michigan going 12-0? Really? 8-4 is still a real possibility. Even with the worst defense in the country. 8-4 and a win in a bowl game will set this team up for a legitimate run at a Big Ten title next year. Turnovers and penalties are a lack of discipline. Some of it is attributed to youth, but most of it is a lack of discipline. We have to play smarter!!
townie54
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:50 p.m.
Unless your wearing rose colored glasses there is no progress.We squeak by crappy teams in the pre big ten and an Indiana and lose when real Big Ten teams play us.I hate Michigan State and losing to them 3 years in a row are not managable loss's to me.It grinds my gut.I hope Brandon feels the same way because this wont get much better.The next 3 games are the only chance we have to get a win to get in a bowl game because we will NOT beat Wisconsin or that team down south.Gimmicks will not win in the big ten.You gotta have a defense.Its time to cut bait and right this ship.Not with the Fraud Les Miles who was to chicken to come here in the first place.The only coach for Michigan is Harbaugh.His dad and brother are coaches so he learned from them and from Bo and molded his own style.The guy is a born coach and he is waiting for the call
3 And Out
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:50 p.m.
rnich231...we could pay "Harbough" more money...and he would be coming home to revive the program that he grew up with, that his dad was an assistant coach for, that he was the ball boy for and later an All American QB for... perhaps that is enough.....? Check out this clip of a young "Harbough" back in 1977 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QqlBGQti2RU
azwolverine
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:48 p.m.
rnich, this IS Harbaugh's program, that's why he'd want to come here and resurrect it. He played Jr. football in Ann Arbor, his dad coached at UM, he played under Bo at UM. I don't know the man personally, but I can't think of any reason he wouldn't want to come here. This program is his home.
3 And Out
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:47 p.m.
Our offense started moving the ball a little in garbage time and when we went to 4 wides with a better passing QB than Denard.... which is fine... it was too little to late... Outside of the bad special teams, penalties, miscues and terrible defense that have been the Hallmarks of the Rich Rodriguez Error at Michigan...it is also his base offensive system that is flawed and wont work in the Big Ten. His reliance on perimeter plays, zone blocking schemes, misdirection, trickeration and a running QB may work pretty well in September vs. undermanned teams from other conferences... slower, smaller teams who cant keep up with faster Michigan kids in a spread... However as we have seen over the past 3 seasons (4-15)....once we get to the Big Ten we face defenses that are just as fast as our offense and far more physical than we are.... the perimeter plays basically disappear, and we dont have the physical ability to work the middle of the field for significant gains... the "big plays" that Denard created vs. the little sisters of the poor go away and are gone forever in the Big Ten.... our only shot from here out would be to play that 4 wide spread scheme with Tate and try to win through the air... and mix in an ocaissional run in there... we have no shot at playing power football consistently in this scheme and the zone-read is basically a bad joke in the Big Ten. btw...this is all on Rich Rod...square peg in a round hole.
rnich231
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:44 p.m.
What makes any UM fan think Harbough wants to come to AA and attempt to ressurect a program that has fallen from grace? He is already leading a top 15 team in a temperate climate and certainly doesn't want start all over cleaning up a mess at UM with NCAA vioations forthcoming. It will be DECADES before UM dominates the state of Michigan let alone the Big Ten Conference.
3 And Out
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:40 p.m.
Congratulations on seeing the light Kubrick...hang in there we will get this thing back on track with a new coach who "gets it"... Go Blue!
TIGERS68
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:40 p.m.
This team will never be a big time winner as long as Rich "skip out of WV" Rodriguez is in charge and anyone with a 1/2 brain should realize it. I'm sure David Brandon does though I can't speak for the man. I would expect to see Jim Harbaugh in the not so distant future bringing his ability to win with integrity to us fans of Michigan who are truly hurting watching our prestigous football program being run into the toilet. I think UofM president and anyone else responsible for hiring RR and his staff should be fired as well. There's no way RR should have been hired in the first place. It's a shame to have this magnificent stadium to showcase and then have to sit there and watch the visitors having the time of their lives with the chants of "little sister" ringing in your ears. What dear ol' Bo created has now been laid to rest by those who Bo would've never let into the big house. It's time we went back to those roots and turn the program over to Mr. Harbaugh. He's a pure winner, does it Bo's way and we'd have him here for the 20-30 years. Wake up Mr. Brandon and deliver us a winner we can be proud of as fast as you dilvered them pizza's.......GO BLUE FOREVER!!!!!!
ShadowManager
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:31 p.m.
Keep rationalizing "a good defeat", Maize and Blue faithful. It distracts from the cruel reality that you should fire your coach and start over with a scheme that will work to actually create some wins in the Big Ten.
Satch
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:29 p.m.
Wow, Kubrick has finally taken off his maize-colored glasses and joined the "haters". Who's next? Tater?
UMfan2001
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:29 p.m.
I am running out of patient with coach R nonsense. Can we fire him and promote Fred Jackson (Running back coach) to head coach? As least he is a Michigan man and he has been in UM football team for 19 years
GettingBluer
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:27 p.m.
Makes you long for the days when the call was for the coach's head on a platter because we didn't win by enough points. Then, Lloyd got the railroaded out due to losses to Texas (nat. champ the following year), OSU (nat. champ that year), and an occasional upset (not more than one a season). But, if we are patient with RR, give him a few more years to recruit his kind of players, and a few more decades to "settle in", pay his lawsuits and fees for breaching contracts, and suffer through NCAA sanctions, I'm sure we'll be back to 0.500 seasons (which we never had before) before I die of old age.
newe82
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:27 p.m.
The coaching is bad, the players are bad, and the games are almost unwatchable. They are not even competitive anymore. I think this team is worse than last year. There is no progress being made with RR as coach. Make the change Brandon before the fans stop filling the Big House. I was planning on going to the Wisconsin game, but I don't want to watch a blow out. Pathetic!!!!!!!
maizenbluedoc
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:16 p.m.
It is time to stop making excuses for this team. There were enough mistakes made in the last two games to last a season. Fact is, this team is just not very good. They play as an undisciplined team. Last years demise was accellerated by turnovers and the same seems to be present this year also. It is painful to watch a game. I can tolerate a loss, but it appears that the players do everything possible to lose the game. Two OOB kicks are inexcusable as are four interceptions. Unfortunately, I don't expect the team to get much better. Kudos to the OL, the only really bright spot.
3 And Out
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:15 p.m.
PS: Anyone who saw "good things" out of today's loss is a flat out loser. Tate made some plays in garbage time to bring it back a bit closer...but that was about it. And...anyone else who brings up App State (again) in some pathetic attempt to spin it Rod's way would also be a loser. That game was played over 3 years ago and is MOOT now, and btw it was played by a team that finished 9-4 and beat the defending NCs in the Cap One bowl leaving a FULL STOCKED cupboard that the current coach urinated away.
Mark
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:13 p.m.
Mitch. You are my man, thanks for commenting - I really appreciate your post.
Satch
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:12 p.m.
I love the way people keep saying "Michigan scored 28" or "we came back", as if there wasn't a change at quarterback. As others have pointed out, even though Denard is an exceptional athlete, Forcier is clearly the better QUARTERBACK, and our best hope against quality Big Ten defenses. Even though he was obviously game-rusty he still put up 21 points on one of the best defenses in the country in 10 minutes. That to me is more amazing than anything Denard has done. Chance that Mr. Rodriguez will finally do something really smart and start Forcier next game if Denard isn't still injured? About zero, I'd say.
3 And Out
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:11 p.m.
Rich Rod's Big Ten record is now 4-15. Certainly all "manageable losses" though...lol. Cant wait for the change....!
BornInA2
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:09 p.m.
Sorry Mitch, but arguable minor improvements to a simply atrocious coaching issues just isn't enough for me. Getting a beat-down from the #15 team was never acceptable under Bo, Mo, or Carr. And, to me, it's not acceptable now. We can't kick. We can't tackle. We drop passes. Our starting QB can't throw down field. We make terrible mistakes on special teams. Our undersized players are getting clobbered by bigger kids. Our walking wounded list is getting longer and longer (Denard, Molk, Odoms, Martin, Woolfolk, etc). Our defense ourtight stinks. For the third straight year. RR and his crew are not good coaches, recruiters, or (at least in the case of the head coach) a good example in the way of integrity. How many games do you think we're going to win against the non-patsy teams when we're giving up 40 points/game? As for OSU, well they are currently ranked #1. Their coach has 100 wins in ten season against 21 losses. RR is likely to elipse the latter number in his third season. For OSU to lose to Wiscy would be a shock, not "manageable". I'd trade for OSU's position right now. We got shelled today. We're losing Big 10 games by a lot. Our early-season Heisman-touted QB has gotten more and more dinged up with each game. Sound familiar? It should- last year was just the same. Bottom line for me: Michigan has played under their potential each of RR's seasons and, in my opinion, that's about coaching and coaching alone.
KeepingItReal
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:05 p.m.
@seant/sunhsif: If you will recall last year, after winning the first 4 games with Tate, he fell completely apart during the middle to second half of the season. Its not unusual for a back up to come in a play well after the number #1 goes out of the game: Guarantee. If Tate was the starter, the opposing team would be prepared for him. From my observation, Tate deserve a lot of credit for his performance today but let's not get into a useless discussion as to who would be a better QB for M at this point. M has a lot of things to work on.
MichFanTex
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:04 p.m.
The utter confusion and apathy the FG unit expressed following the blocked attempt screams volumns about the state of coaching in the Michigan football program.
Dustin
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:04 p.m.
RR is the worst coach that have seen in last 25 years at UM. He refuses to adapt to Big 10 football which is smashmouth. He uses a 5'6 160lb running back. He has undersized players on the secondary that just getting manhandled. Gordon at Safety is always out of position. And as far as RR recruiting He continues to go with speed over power and size. RR abomination of a record in 3 years against the Big 10 should be reason enough to fire him. 3w 15losses and counting. Point Blank RR can not coach against Big 10 Teams! The Carr left the cubboard bare is getting expired as a excuse.
bigtenknight
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 7:02 p.m.
Guys, let's try and be optimistic here...at least they won't lose next weekend!! Hey, it's a start...
Kubrick66
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 6:57 p.m.
There is a laundry list of shocking fundamental issues with this RR led Michigan Football Program. I can no longer in good conscience support him as head coach. I will now dedicate my energy toward seeing that Rich Rodriguez is replaced ASAP as head coach of the Michigan Football Program. Go Blue!
azwolverine
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 6:57 p.m.
Mitch, I don't hate RR...I don't even know the man. I, for one, never use the word. However, I do dislike losing intensely. And no, OSU should not fire Tressel if they lose to Wisconsin, Tressel has done far too much to prove himself at OSU for his career to hinge on any one loss. RR has not done that. If you think he has, we're not from the same planet and there's no reason to discuss this further. And you're right, losing to a 14-2, three time National Champion (App St) sucked, but no worse than losing to a 3-9 MAC team (Toledo) whom Appalachain State would have crushed. Care to say App St is FCS as your excuse? Consider UMass THIS YEAR and remember: they are not nearly as good as App St. Further, I did not say to fire RR due to this one loss, you inferred that on your own. This season is not over. I'm simply saying that, as a Michigan fan, no loss is manageable. If you think they are, you might want to look in the mirror with your one word last comment.
Sean T.
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 6:51 p.m.
RR, will probably have to change the scheme a bit to mix things up. I truly wonder if Denard Robinson is going to be shelved after this game? Tate's play may have been credited to Iowa not being prepared for him but I still think he adds complexity to the offense. For the record.....progress was not made today!
lawrencelaundry
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 6:45 p.m.
Sloppy play is right. I don't understand how our special are flat out a misery. Did RR not know when Carrs players left that he going to need some. THE coaching in all phases of the game is terrible. If we win one more game this year we are lucky. Time for Harbaugh or Miles folks.. AFter 3 yrs there'd still no organization and fundamental ball.
stunhsif
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 6:45 p.m.
Forcier is the better all around QB as witnessed today. Lots of dumb and they could have won. It all goes back to coaching plain and simple. Both Iowa and MSU are better coached and better all around teams. As an MSU fan it feels good to be where we are but I do feel your pain. Best start for MSU since 1966 and we know what happened that year!
psaume23
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 6:42 p.m.
The defense is giving up yardage unlike anything I recall under Bo, Mo, or Lloyd. A TV commentator observed that Michigan has won only three Big Ten games since 2008. Fundamentals on defense seem to not be taught to the younger players. The smaller players are being beaten up by competitors in the Big Ten. The same mistakes are made by the players and the coaching staff. NCAA violations for the first time in our history. Enough is enough! Michigan football needs to change leadership after this season.
Gillete
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 6:39 p.m.
No excuses, U of M lost to two better programs (at the moment), the fact that the boys in Blue came back after so many mistakes (penalties & turnovers) was encouraging to see. Unlike teams of the past, Michigan does not outclass virtually everone with sheer talent alone. The bye week couldn't have come at a better time, the next three games are huge, still looking at winning two of the three & being 7 - 3 going against the two big boys of the conference. To me the biggest disappointment with the D is the poor tackling (due to youth?) although they seem to be playing with heart, this may payoff for them (hate saying us) down the stretch & have a positive outcome. Again no excuses but it is critically important to state that Michigan has lost the turnover battle the last two games by a 7 to zero margin. GO BLUE!!!
azwolverine
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 6:26 p.m.
Tate came in and provided a good change-up for Michigan's offense. I'm sure after preparing for Denard for two weeks, Tate was an unwelcome surprise for them. The defense had it's moments, but overall they were abused...again. The fact that Michigan has turned the ball over 7 times in the last two games is not an aberration, it's indicative of the last 2.5 years. There's no doubt this offense is explosive, but it's also sloppy and prone to turnovers which, as we have seen, lead to losses. The bye week, not to mention the caliber of our next three opponents, comes at a good time for this team. By the way, Mitch, any time a loss is "manageable," it is a bad sign of the current times. This is Michigan where even losses to Pete Carrol's dominant USC teams were met with calls to fire the coach. Ask OSU fans if they have such a thing as a "manageable" loss. Dominant programs make demands of their teams, not concessions for them. There's no such thing as a "manageable" loss at Michigan.
Sean T.
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 6:26 p.m.
What you guy's are witnessing is a better QB that brings multiple skills to the game but yet his coach insists on playing a guy because he's fast. I also hope everyone noticed that we played so much better on offense when we went to "Pro-sets'. Iowa was getting ready to slam the door shut and a blessing in disguise happened.....Tate Forcier was forced to play. Say what you will about this fancy schmancy spread, but nothing beats good ole' smash-mouth football! How did RR keep this guy on the bench is beyond me but it has to show some incompetence doesn't it?
musthaved
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 6:25 p.m.
Seriously? loosing to Iowa at home because your team gives the game away is progress? Kicking the ball out of bounds twice, not covering a blocked FG attempt, having a FG blocked, stupid penalties and ill advised passes. I've seen High School teams coached better than this. Why do you try to run a midget up the middle from the 15 yard line? Bad personal packages, mistakes repeated again and again and missed tackles. In year 3, there is no good excuse for being in the bottom half of the Big Ten except that the coaching staff is inept. This is the winning-est program in Division I College Football History and it looks like the only teams we can beat are the ones who shouldn't be in Division I. Can you imagine how bad this team would be if we hadn't exceeded the allowable practice time? This is embarrassing.
rnich231
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 6:23 p.m.
annarbor28, probably because UM didn't get completely BLOWN OUT and EMBARRASSED like last week against MSU
Jaxon5
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 6:22 p.m.
I agree we should all look on the upside. This was a game that we could have been "in" if we hadn't made a million mistakes, if we hadn't turned the ball over, if we hadn't forgotten to coach defense, if we hadn't made some really bad play selections, if we hadn't thrown away the Michigan playbook, if we hadn't fired the UM coaches in 2008, if we hadn't called in the head coach. It was really quite a win-able game. All in!
annarbor28
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 6:14 p.m.
Why is the annarbor.com reporter Pete Bigelow looking so happy about this loss. Are you an Iowa fan? Go Blue!
aarox
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 6:12 p.m.
I agree Mitch. Losing by only 10 to Iowa is a huge step forward. Let's keep the momemtum going!
Robert
Sat, Oct 16, 2010 : 6:03 p.m.
Just seems these small fast players they have either get pushed around or over-run the play.