Posted on Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 12:23 a.m.
Rich Rodriguez says his Michigan program was on the verge of being 'exponentially' better
By AnnArbor.com Staff
Former Michigan football coach Rich Rodriguez spoke publically for the first time since being fired on Jan. 5, saying it was frustrating he and his staff "didn't get the chance to finish the job."
Speaking with an Associated Press reporter in New York as he prepared to work as a guest analyst for CBS College Sports Network's national signing day coverage Wednesday, Rodriguez said he thought the program was on the verge of being "exponentially" better.
He cited 24 returning starters, including Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year Denard Robinson who was "still learning." Rodriguez also said his recruiting class was strong "even with all the drama."
Comments
debling
Fri, Feb 4, 2011 : 2:38 a.m.
If you didn't finish the job, give the money back.
RudeJude
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 7:09 p.m.
Michigan just picked up the former Arkanasa commit, 4-star TE, Chris Barnett!
missionbrazil
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 7:47 p.m.
Barnett had offers from most of the top programs, including Oregon, Stanford, TCU, Oklahoma, USC, Fl. State,... looks like a great pick-up for us.
missionbrazil
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 6:47 p.m.
Ghost "If Michigan has a successful season this year, whatshisname and his lovers will claim credit for it--we had, after all "turned the corner." Not only will the lovers give whatshisname the credit, they will take some of the credit as well for "supporting" BH. They will also say that we could have won sooner if everyone had supported whatshisname, like they "supported" BH.
Blu n Tpa
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 9:03 p.m.
MB I don't really care who "takes" credit. I now who I will "give" credit to and that will be fine with me. (Probably with COACH Hoke too. It only helps him and the team.) Although it will be a relatively successful season, with much improved "D" and STs, changing the offense will have some growing pains. Let's take the good and the bad, and move forward. If the remaining "hangers-on" want to go along. Why not?
RudeJude
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 6:40 p.m.
(From the Detroit News article "Former U-M Coach Rich Rodriguez debuts as recruiting analyst, compliments OSU") The Detroit News: <a href="http://detnews.com/article/20110202/SPORTS0201/102020401/Former-U-M-coach-Rich-Rodriguez-debuts-as-recruiting-analyst--compliments-OSU#ixzz1CvF9Da24" rel='nofollow'>http://detnews.com/article/20110202/SPORTS0201/102020401/Former-U-M-coach-Rich-Rodriguez-debuts-as-recruiting-analyst--compliments-OSU#ixzz1CvF9Da24</a> Rodriguez commenting on Notre Dame's defensive recruits: "Brian (Kelly) understands that you have to build a program defensively," Rodriguez said. I don't know if the irony is more painful or more hilarious.
D21
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 8:52 p.m.
Both of em, man, both of em...lol.
Jen Eyer
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 6:20 p.m.
A comment that contained excessive capitalization (a.k.a. shouting) was removed, along with replies to it.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 6:11 p.m.
This interview by whatshisname is the first effort by him and his minions (you know who you are) to re-write history. If Michigan has a successful season this year, whatshisname and his lovers will claim credit for it--we had, after all "turned the corner." If Michigan has a season anything like those under whatshisname, however, the line will be "We had turned the corner under whatshisname, and Brandon and Hoke screwed it up." You can bank on it. Good Night and Good Luck
D21
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 6:08 p.m.
Blu n Tpa, Actually Theo thrives on pulling wool over our eyes with his "RR is my god" schtick whereas RR actually believe that Michigan won't be good without him around when RR mentioned "...W-A-S exponentially..." I'd have to rank RR #1 and move Millen all the way down to #2 on the The Most Delusional One Rankings.
Joseph
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 5:30 p.m.
I guess RRod was out of people to blame so he decided to throw the entire program under the bus this time.
Blu n Tpa
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 5:17 p.m.
Cutty240 So you can't really add anything to the discussion about real things like defense or special teams. Progress must be you finding the "shift" key so you could write with LARGER letters. I hope you enjoy the view from my prior post.
Blu n Tpa
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 4:17 p.m.
Cutty 240 Our heads in the sand, your's is up, well, somewhere else? What DB did was give the WCiMFH a chance to win his first, last bowl game. How did he do?
missionbrazil
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 4:15 p.m.
RR will do very well on CBS ... which today stands for College BS ... and we all know how good RR is at that.
cutty240
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 3:26 p.m.
I thought it was very truthful article.I can understand why people don't like Rich,but he was telling the truth.It is a good,not a GREAT JOB AS YOU PEOPLE SEEM TO THINK,GET REAL. Coach Carr lost to Appy.State,was that Rich's fault.Your Own, Harbaugh didn't want close to the Job,Miles at LSU same thing.Coaches know whats going on up there,you people have your head in the sand in Ann-Arbor.You hired a losing Coach,because thats all you could get.What Brandon did to Rich at the end,strung him out,and tired to embrass him.Like i say Coaches watch how other Schools treat departing Coaches.Your a Mid Major School thats playing in a Mid-Major Conference.Nice Bowl Record this year.Like your Ohio State Boy Kirky said THE DARKEST DAY IN THE HISTORY OF BIG TEN FOOTBALL.
RudeJude
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 4:01 p.m.
Well, I thought it was a fair question. ; )
Go Blue
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 2:54 p.m.
Anyone want a little 'whine' with that cheese? Can we be done, over and finished with it? Took 3 exhausting years to finally get back on track and we don't need to keep hearing from RR and his further ado. Three years of 'not me, wasn't me, not my fault' always someone else. Well, yes it was and we really don't need to hear from him or about him any more. Old news that never changes is just that - old news. Move on and let's concentrate on the new direction and leadership our team now has.
D21
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 1:43 p.m.
From ESPN: Dear RichRod, You were fired unfairly. We will all miss your killer defense. You brought Michigan football to new lows never imagined. Your firing was a total outrage. You will never be forgotten. Tearfully yours, A Badger fan
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 1:43 p.m.
"Funny thing is, in about 3 years me and Theo might be the only ones supporting Brady Hoke. " Gee, when did that START? Good Night and Good Luck
missionbrazil
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 3:44 p.m.
I think that means it will start in about 3 years (?).
D21
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 1:22 p.m.
It is interesting to see some criticize AD Brandon for delaying the firing of RR and putting a huge dent in the recruiting process at the same time. So far, Brandon is a CRYSTAL clear winner in this one sided battle against RR and his minions: 1) Saving $1.5M by not exercising the $4M buyout clause. 2) Hiring Hoke who in turn has hired a great staff. 3) The recruiting being salvaged by Hoke and his staff. 4) Deliriously happy alumni, fans and rich donors. 5) The restoration of the Michigan Man image. GO BLUE!
D21
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 8:50 p.m.
Np Ben, The critics has accused Brandon of causing a dent in the recruiting process with the late firing of RR.
Ben
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 3:32 p.m.
Where is this "dent" in the recruiting process? We've got an outstanding class of commits so far.
tegel
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 1:10 p.m.
"Rodriguez said he thought the program was on the verge of being 'exponentially' better." Yes, it certainly is...
Blu n Tpa
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 1:37 p.m.
Nice! Right to the heart.
D21
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 12:51 p.m.
(Reposted from another thread) Another "not so classic" RR moment: "Witch hunt may be a little too strong of a word, but there was certainly an agenda," Rodriguez said. "That initial article that came out was agenda-driven to be as negative as it could be on Rich Rodriguez and what he was doing with the football program." Hmm, RR referring to himself as the third person, weird. Here is my "third person reference" ode to the great RR and Theo by modifying Josh Groban's song, "You Raise Me Up". "Theo Raise RR Up" When RR is down and, oh RR's soul, so weary; When troubles come and RR's heart burdened be; Then, RR is still and wait here in the silence, Until Theo come and sit awhile with RR. Theo raise RR up, so RR can stand on mountains; Theo raise RR up, to walk on stormy seas; RR is strong, when RR is on RR's shoulders; Theo raise RR up... To more than RR can be. Theo raise RR up, so RR can stand on mountains; Theo raise RR up, to walk on stormy seas; RR is strong, when RR is on Theo's shoulders; Theo raise RR up... To more than RR can be. There is no life - no life without Theo's hunger; Theo's and RR's restless hearts beats so imperfectly; But when Theo come and RR is filled with wonder, Sometimes, RR think RR glimpse eternity With Theo at RR's side forever and ever.
D21
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 12:49 p.m.
(Reposted from another thread) Hey dudes, Regarding RR's quotes: "Whatever I say in that regard is probably going to sound self-serving," Rodriguez said. "Would it have been better for the staff to know a month ahead? No question about it. When jobs come open in the college level they come open in December. "And had I been able to get on somewhere, that could have happened, too. I may have been able to get another head coaching job then." ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Geez RR, why didn't you sacrifice the $1.5 million by asking Brandon to give you the answer in early December so you and the staff can find better jobs elsewhere but no, you chose money over integrity & your staff, family and Theo212.
A2lover
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 12:42 p.m.
Rich Rod is still illusional as to how bad he did his job. Unbelievable! The man needs some psychiatric counseling, kept away from football and put out to pasture somewhere distant. How is family lives with such unaware, insensitive and fraudulent man I'll never know. However, the U of M administration is as much to blame. The "we can never be wrong" approach to most things they do, kept this incompetent coach here far longer than he should have been.
D21
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 6:07 p.m.
Blu n Tpa, Actually Theo thrives on pulling wool over our eyes with his "RR is my god" schtick whereas RR actually believe that Michigan won't be good without him around when RR mentioned "...W-A-S exponentially..." I'd have to rank RR #1 and move Millen all the way down to #2 on the The Most Delusional One Rankings.
Blu n Tpa
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 5:30 p.m.
D21 No, unfortunately I have to disagree with you.
D21
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 1:02 p.m.
Yep, even more delusional than our Theo!
RudeJude
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 12:24 p.m.
When you attempt to circumvent and break NCAA rules (claiming that you couldn't recollect these rules even after attending SIX rules meetings at which you and your staff were educated), fail to monitor your staff, and outright ignore Michigan's compliance staff, you'll tend to find you "didn't get the chance to finish the job." Apparently, after a quarter-century year coaching career, like his 24 returning starters, Rodriguez was "still learning." I suggest you spend some quality time studying the NCAA rule book before you take another job. Good luck with your analyst work, Rich. Go Blue
Blu n Tpa
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 11:56 a.m.
P N Lk He finally admits, if you read the article, the team was NOT progressing "defensively". Still no word on the special teams. Maybe the next interview. COACH Hoke doesn't need "conditional support", now or in 3 years.
D21
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 1:25 p.m.
Blu, LOL
Blu n Tpa
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 1:03 p.m.
@D21 Do you "feel" it? Wow, the warmth and the demeanor is truly inspiring. The words "as usual" might mean almost anything. "Maybe, maybe not, we'll see, to early to tell." I'm not sure what that means except someone's not sure. I guess. Could be. Whatever. I don't know, I'll get back to you.
D21
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 12:57 p.m.
PLB, Wear your "Hoke Is It" sweatshirt or T-shirt and we will believe ya. :)
PortageLkBlu
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 12:05 p.m.
Maybe, maybe not we'll see to early to tell. If he does need support, as usual I'll be there.
Blu n Tpa
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 11:49 a.m.
A 500 word article and he mentions defense once and ignores special teams completely, boy does that s sound familar The worst was when he blames a dead man, Bo, as a reason for the WCiMFH not getting all the support he needed. Michigan set a record for attendance, THREE QUARTERS OF A MILLION FANS watch his team this year at Michigan and he's crying about lack of support? He'll never have that kind of support again for the rest of his life. The most telling aspect is how he feels slighted, like the decision to fire him was only about him and his coaching career. Not a word about the Wisconsin or OSU games. Same with the Gator Bowl. He talks about the players in abstract and about himself in the 'third person'. Thank goodness these players will finally have a chance to play for a COACH. TiM Go Blue!
D21
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 1:01 p.m.
Blue n Tpa, Great posting!
PortageLkBlu
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 11:43 a.m.
Good for you Rich, speak your mind and stay positive. I to think you were about to turn the corner. RR is not weak and I like that. Let t he haters gossip on, stick to your ideas and you'll be fine. Your better off that you left and if Brady Hoke doesn't win fast these gossips and haters will turn on him to. Funny thing is, in about 3 years me and Theo might be the only ones supporting Brady Hoke. Now wouldn't that be a hoot.
D21
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 1:05 p.m.
Tsk! tsk! You forgot to mention yourself as the third person reference like RR did: "RR is not weak and Porgy like that" :)
EightySeven
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 10:43 a.m.
What kills me w/ RR he acts like he was rebuilding EMU. The simple fact remains he blew up the program when he got here and was unable to to rebuild it. His personal he recruited for his system were the wrong type for a physical Big 10 season. It was clear as day we were out manned in every way. So the excuse train is still rollin w/ him. I just for once would like for him to take partial accountability for what took place here for the last 3 years. I wonder when they sell their house if all the cupboards will be left bare??
D21
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 1:05 p.m.
Well said!
Mick
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 6:49 a.m.
Wow, I found myself getting so angry reading that whole article. Allow me to rebutt you RR: -"Everybody's got their own theory of it", yeah, mine was you stunk up the joint with your arrogance and stubborness. -"It can be a great job if everyone is supporting you and pulling in the right direction". It can be a great job?, please, it still is, especially now that you're gone! Everybody was pulling for you initially till many of us saw the writing on the wall, for me that was about 6-7 games into season 1, I knew, I just knew. -"But it's still a great place. It's a really good job". Gee, uh.........thanks, I'm so glad you think so, I can rejoice now. This guy is a piece of work, this tells me he doesn't get it. He still doesn't look within himself and just wants to deflect. Some of you might scoff and not like what I'm about to say but too bad. He created an environment of fear within the team, not unity, the fact that the players love each other is despite RR, not because of him. Players who couldn't play anymore were given duties of spying on their ex-teammates, he had certain staff members watching the media and particularly the blogs to see if any of the players were saying things against him. They were afraid of the guy, not respectful. That's why guys didn't look like they were making a great effort or missing field goals, etc. Did you notice how so many players seemed relieved in their tweets or other avenues of information? I have inside info on this, I'm not making it up. Sorry, I can't divulge my source. Go away RFraud, I don't care what you do, we only want to talk about the current coaches at U-M, sound familiar buddy? I know about your act, you don't fool me, good riddance!!! TiM, Go Blue!!
ViSHa
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 7:06 p.m.
i've heard similar stories as Mick. funny how much looser tongues are at bar time.
truebluefan
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 6:41 p.m.
"He created an environment of fear within the team, not unity, the fact that the players love each other is despite RR, not because of him. Players who couldn't play anymore were given duties of spying on their ex-teammates, he had certain staff members watching the media and particularly the blogs to see if any of the players were saying things against him. They were afraid of the guy, not respectful. That's why guys didn't look like they were making a great effort or missing field goals, etc. Did you notice how so many players seemed relieved in their tweets or other avenues of information? I have inside info on this, I'm not making it up. Sorry, I can't divulge my source." I have an inside source that says that you are fabricating these claims.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 6:05 p.m.
Mick and 1st Down--GREAT posts!! Good Night and Good Luck
missionbrazil
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 3:37 p.m.
Very interesting stuff Mick. After reading the article and your post all I could say was "wow". You need to add the words delusional and paranoid in front of narcissist ... Delusional Paranoid Narcissist. It all fits though with whathisname, doesn't it ? You could see on the sidelines alot of the stuff you were talking about ... ie - players more afraid of making mistakes and afraid of being belittled in front of others ... many of them did not seem to respond well to his "motivational" techniques. Definitely more fear than respect. Wow. Wow. Wow.
D21
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 1:11 p.m.
Mick, Cool posting! GO BLUE!
1st Down
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 9 a.m.
Mick...you posted some interesting insight regarding the behind the scenes stuff...very interesting. Hoke is not like that...its going to be great to see a refreshing return to accountibility.
1st Down
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 8:57 a.m.
He should just let it go Mick...but he doesnt and completely puts his foot in his mouth with every statement he makes. Coaches are 'hired to be fired', especially when they go 13-22+2 (non BCS) and 6-18 in conference at the winningist program of all time that had 40 straight non losing seasons before he came in and screwed it all up.... The guy cant accept this responsibility because he is a narcissist...pure and simple...and these types of self-serving, self-aggrandizing ("like the statement about his having won bowl games and challenged for BCS titles LOL!) just show that they guy is either a) delusional b) has to constantly spout off to try to reinforce his own insecurities and c) constantly has to try to spin public opinion in his favor... if he was smart, he would just let it go.... i expected this, and I expect even more from Rich in the coming weeks.... he is not very bright when it comes to PR, and his narcissism can not be covered up in these interviews...he needs to put a lid on it and move on... Its insulting to everyone at the Michigan program for RR to infer that factions forced him out. No, they didnt... LOSING forced RR out and he is soley responsible for that! It is insulting for RR to blame DB for leaving him hanging.... hello?? Wha??? how many of us have any choice to what our employer does regarding our employment?? NONE of us...and we dont earn 3 mil a year either with a 2.5 mil buyout! really the nerve of this guy.. narcissist, self serving...non appreciative of his good fortune.... totally did not fit in with the culture of the MICHIGAN blue collar people...not even the university itself but the hard working people of Michigan who have to listen to this crybaby spout his woes off.... so many people work just as hard and have it much worse than that clown. Makes me sick to read this garbage over and over...always pointing the finger at someone else... have a good night Mick...nice to be here in So Cal with the nice weather!
1st Down
Wed, Feb 2, 2011 : 6:44 a.m.
"Excuses, excuses...point the finger at you...it wasnt my fault... my system works... it was a conspiracy..." bla blah blah...vintage Rich Rod... so glad he is gone. This is the age of accountability, no more mamby pamby excuse maker leading the way. Go Blue.