Maryland

I have a feeling Chris Evans is going to be someone to watch also.  The Blogger (mgoblog) mentioned it too.

I'm a little tired of 30-point spreads and analyzing why Michigan (and Ohio State, maybe Wisconsin) are so much better.  We'll see what Maryland's got.  You want to be a successful head coach, DJ Durkin?  Let's see your plan to win.

This is not a fan site for many reasons and it will never be one.  It sounds like a Michigan homer but just suppose...

John Baxter went back to USC.  Some backfield assistant left for the NFL.  DJ Durkin didn't stay to see it through, which is the message to recruits and players alike.  He abandoned ship.

He had been with Harbaugh before at Stanford and was offered a head position at 5x times the salary at a Big Ten school with a lot of potential and money.  None of that matters.

He has a history of moving around and Maryland is just another stop to fuel his ego until another, better gig comes along.

He has done some weird things in terms of assistants--looking for former head coaches because you have never been is a dangerous recipe.  And then there's the youngster offensive coordinator who isn't running his or a distinctive offense at all; their offense is relentless (but varied) runs with no formula or particular advantage.  Finally, there was that strange clip, I don't know what I was watching, when he was smiling and shaking everyone's hand as they were walking into some building.  I know Cary Grant only had one front tooth but the smile is too weird.  No question, there is something wrong.

Durkin, you're not going to steal it from Michigan.  Your 4-man front with a buck linebacker and uninvolved safeties is ancient history.

You learn this in big-time sports:  when you change teams or when you go pro it is not the same.  Usually, you are the enemy.

So enough with the welcome back DJ.  All these accolades and the goodwill is too much.  Yes, there will be a congratulatory handshake after the game.  Until then, you, your assistants, and your players are going to get creamed.

Michigan 48-7.