tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72451305737287593822024-03-27T00:37:05.081-06:00mgobloggingUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger761125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-86795952144865036812024-03-19T16:08:00.002-06:002024-03-21T15:31:06.450-06:00Bye Bye, Juwan<p>He inherited a decent team and then got lucky with Franz Wagner. Then he got even luckier with Hunter Dickinson. The rest was failure.</p><p>There really is a list, and not to overly punish the gone, it is long one.</p><p>Red lines that you aren't supposed to cross are sympathetic warnings; cross them and everyone looks bad. If I have it right, he went after his own son in the Jon Sanderson scandal. It was easy to predict that he couldn't handle the terrible team and would pop again at some point. He as much admitted it in the famous quote about how things were handled in South Chicago. There was never really signs of change.</p><p>Then there is the unforgivable selfishness of putting both sons on the team. It seems to me that the biggest benefit of being a scholarship athlete is you get to choose your own course. Let them grow up. And don't use the school and team as your own benefactor. Howard just did it as a matter of course. One son/player was a total prima donna, i.e., a selfish and lazy teammate , and not very good particularly in the won-loss columns, to boot. The other is in his fourth year and did not exactly help the woeful team. Yeah, as if either of them ever had a choice.</p><p>Third, there's the unforgettable year with the faux recruiting class. Who even remembers their names they were in and out so quickly--one was from France and the other from Houston. Sorry, bad joke. The departure to another college team by Dickinson was the climax of the story.</p><p></p><p>From there it has just been going through the motions and getting worse every year. Juwan Howard was terrible in recruiting and in the portal; many recruits never made it to campus and he never seemed to learn how to succeed within the system. It meant apathy for those of us who usually pay attention. I can think of one name: Nimari Burnett. Who the hell is he and what is he doing on Michigan's basketball team? When I looked at box scores I saw an awful lot of 2-10, 1-7, and the like. I mean, what is the point? Is he supposed to be someone to build around or succeed with? There was no real team or prospect(s) for a future. The staff is or was worn out. Phil Martinellii? Give me a break. On the court the team was awful. Hanging over all of it was an unproven coach and unstable man.</p><p>Halfway through the season it had to be inevitable. Everyone hung on for a bit of a dignified exit.</p><p>Now it is completely starting from scratch. It has already started--the team will scatter and recruiting has to start over. It is a necessary thing; they are all infected. A few might remain and even prosper.</p><p>There is no sign of a head coach. There is nothing there.<br /></p><p>Fab Failure is apt. <br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-69639979071320603202024-01-21T12:41:00.004-07:002024-02-05T11:10:22.845-07:00Jim Harbaugh is a (nice) Pig<p>I'm watching.</p><p>We're all watching.</p><p>Yesterday it was two NFL games. I can't even tell you what teams played. One was Baltimore, and San Francisco, and Houston or Texas. The second one the announcers kept saying it is exciting and a great game; it that were true you don't have to say it. In the first game particularly, the two marquee announcers, and I have never heard such self-promotion. If we all didn't already know that they are paid by the team and the league, we sure do now.</p><p>What a spectacle. As always it included a lot of players who are the best in the league. Each and all the coordinators are stars too and head coaches in waiting. The injured or carted-off players are obligatory too. I have always thought of John Harbaugh as a dictator; the games featured a big dose of him as the greatest thing since sliced bread. Brother Jim was on-hand also.</p><p>The self-flagellating announcers know all. Jim Harbaugh is going to be in the NFL soon.</p><p>It doesn't take much to imagine the conversations around games that are always on somewhere. </p><p>"Jim, why are you still dealing with those kids and rules?" </p><p>Man, the NFL is cushy. In the NFL the head coach is in total charge. And for Jim Harbaugh, if he wants another chance as he clearly does, now is the time.</p><p>I cannot believe what a waste the NFL is. But today I'll put it on in the background while I type again. My deceased father loved the Lions.</p><p>The parade--I need to find a picture of the parade. The undisputed, you-won-them-all championship is amazing. There are those people who traveled to the game and the fanatics in paint and gear. Michigan followers also include alumni, employees, and just about everyone raised or living in the state. For many of us the whole thing was fun to watch but sure to fade away rapidly: most of the team and probably the coach would chose to leave.</p><p>I'm now in my sixties and I cannot change the place where I earned my first college degree.</p><p>Now I remember, the loudmouth announcers also knew for a fact that Ambry Thomas scored 10 points for the opposing team. He left quickly and early from Michigan; Covid was perhaps a good reason. Anyway, I didn't shake an eyelash.</p><p>Graduating and perhaps sticking around and maybe improving some football skills are exceptions (I've never heard anyone say they are doing it for a masters degree). When you are gone you are gone. <br /></p><p>Let the justifying and rationalizing begin. Americans don't like dynasties and the Harbaughs were getting to be too much. Everyone is replaceable. It'll be fun to watch the players who are left mature. Harbaugh was gone in spirit anyway, as evidenced by a lack of results from the portal and in recruiting. He will be remembered as the who left the cupboard bare.</p><p>If I were Michigan I wouldn't give him the contract he reportedly wants. I need to find that link--I think it is 11 Warriors that called them "delusional." Actually, I believe it is a sticky issue in contract law in that you cannot have a contract which grants immunity for an illegal or unallowed action; the contract or clause would be void and you are guilty. I'd call it a "Mel Tucker clause."</p><p>The contract rumors and the delay while he interviews is more proof. Good riddance.</p><p>I guarantee you, Jim Harbaugh, you will be forgotten. And you cannot come back, even though you are doing it in a very nice way of wanting to go to the NFL.</p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-30103086740252220622024-01-08T10:40:00.052-07:002024-01-21T12:55:15.715-07:00Point Counterpoint<p>This was a stab at another, the other, perspective. Never delete or edit because a blog is a record! It was my effort at saying it is all going to be over soon anyway. My actual prediction was pretty close.<br /></p><p>As for the game, I think Kalen DeBoer blew it and he is a terrible hire for Alabama. Coach had his running back and QB injured but he kept them in with his bully-pulpit rhetoric. Alabama's stars will not tolerate that. DeBoer made several other bad decisions that could have cost them the game. His offense performed better than anyone all season against Michigan; he should have taken the ball to start the game. He misjudged Michigan's defense. Another mistake was a fourth down attempt. I think there was one or more mistake too. Oh, and he lied before the game saying RB Johnson was fine. He could have been severely injured. </p><p>--- <br /></p><p><br /></p><p>Washington could not ask for a better culmination. They conquered the Pac-12 on the way out in undefeated style. We need to beat the biggest and the best to complete it. And we will do it.</p><p><a href="https://www.sportico.com/leagues/college-sports/2024/michigan-washington-college-football-championship-1234761480/">https://www.sportico.com/leagues/college-sports/2024/michigan-washington-college-football-championship-1234761480/</a></p><p>There is no bigger Goliath.</p><p>Michigan recruits players who want the limelight. Scratch that. They're all NFL. And they think they're NFL. They can't get their minds off the NFL.<br /></p><p>Washington thinks they're the best in college football.</p><p>Here's how they have proved it all season long.<br /></p><p>Who ever heard of bonding over getting caught? </p><p>---</p><p>It is great while it lasts. At this moment, 11AM mountain time there are about 10 hours left. </p><p>Revenue sharing with players? How about <i>less revenue!</i></p><p>It has become worse every year with transfers, NIL, realignment, mock drafts and teen recruiting rankings, social media and videos. College football is not a job or career. I get it, most of the players look at it that way but Jim Harbaugh lives that way. </p><p>Who really cares about PFF?. It is not pro football!</p><p>It is natural. It is human nature. If Jim Harbaugh doesn't want us we don't want him. And it does not matter a lick what happens in tonight's game.</p><p>Things... Jesse Minter's father was the head coach at Cincinnati for quite a few years. He comes from a football family. I don't know, Sioux Falls and little education to $2 million as an OC... Eastern Michigan? I lost a lot of respect for Harbaugh when I learned at a young age his son plays. It is not enough that son "Jaybaugh" is addicted. Kaleb DeBoer seems like Ryan Day: too consumed.</p><p>It is like brainwashing. Or gaslighting. You are ignoring the rest of the data, i.e., the world. Harbaugh, the leader is the best spokesperson, football coach, and motivator the University could possibly have. But he is just a football coach.</p><p>I cannot fathom the logic of, "If I win this game it is my last." It is one game and one season.</p><p>The rest of us will still be here.</p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-86862079516581214272024-01-05T08:35:00.011-07:002024-01-09T07:42:22.367-07:00CFP Championship Michigan vs. Washington Preview<p>I want Michigan to win. I think they will, and I'll explain why.</p><p>Watching and actually paying attention to the whole Washington-Texas game was tedious but worth it. This perspective is from someone used to watching the Big Ten.</p><p>I never really noticed whether teams huddle or not and Washington did it sometimes. What was weird was no offensive motion or defensive stunting or moving around at all. No one ran downfield or to a tackle to help a teammate off the ground. There was the same kind of self congratulating after a play that everyone does, but it was not for and including the rest of the team. It wasn't the same kind of energy. It was different. <br /></p><p>With a few exceptions, Michael Penix had all day to pass; I don't know why Texas wasn't doing anything on defense to stop him and many quarterbacks will prosper in such a situation. Some or quite a few of the throws were perfect, the kind a defense will dare an opponent to complete. The receivers? Ohio State's are better and running backs and tight ends--variation--were nonexistent Texas dbs seemed to not play the ball and just crash into the receivers. Washington has very little in the running game (i.e., pass heavy) and Dillon Johnson injured compounds that (more below). </p><p>On defense, Washington allowed Texas to gash them in running and to then complete long, easy passes in the second half. QB Ewers was stationary and with a couple of exceptions (e.g., the game's last play) Washington did nothing. The running backs had not just holes, but open space. Tackling was below that of teams such as Penn State or Iowa. The dbs? They didn't stop Texas when they had to pass.</p><p>Michigan probably found a left-handed quarterback to practice against. Michigan should be able to get to Penix and rattle him. Some of the passes may lead to interceptions or fumbles. Michigan will go after the ball, the receivers, and especially Penix. RB Johnson, count him out regardless of what they say and there was no backup when it mattered.</p><p>In summary, they'll complete (quite) a few passes but I think Michigan's D will control or stifle Penix and the Washington passing attack; that is the jugular. They are the Joe Moore Award winners with only 11 sacks and it will not be easy but the pass rush, the whole d-line, the experienced linebackers, and the athletic, ball-hawking dbs will be too much. They'll find a way. No one has stopped them so far this longest-possible season.<br /></p><p>On offense, Blake Corum <i>and</i> Donovan Edwards will have field days. The rest of the o-line and the tight ends and Max Bredeson (who has finally made a name for himself) will conspire to do even better than with Zac Zinter. We've seen it before: Why do anything else when you don't have to? Passing will do just enough and people will question or criticize it.</p><p>Texas had some huge players, mostly in the bench area, or maybe it was the too tight, poorly fitting uniforms. Michigan is way bigger and more physical than Washington and seemingly Texas too. </p><p>Things like this stick in your brain. What I remember most about the game is Dillon Johnson struggling in extreme pain to walk off the field. I and millions of others also saw him doing the same the same thing on the sideline. It was cruel, stupid, and sadistic to put him back in for every meaningless carry at the end.</p><p>Then there was the ostentatious, crazy multiple lateral failed pass. Ditto the one to your franchise quarterback, Penix seemed to be taking it really easy. Kalen DeBoer, who I had seen earlier smiling and he seemed like an all-around good guy, looked more like a sleep-deprived Ryan Day on the warpath for someone to yell at. Coach showed he is prone to bad decisions.<br /></p><p>To summarize again, Washington showed an awful lot of swagger that may not be there after the championship game against Michigan. I think the game will be like the B1G Championship with Iowa--deal with their good defense, in this case Washington's passing attack--and the game may go on but it will be decided right from the start. Michigan did that all year.</p><p>There is a piece below that talks about Michigan's motivation. I think they're going to show up for the game like the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1985%E2%80%9386_Michigan_Wolverines_men%27s_basketball_team" target="_blank">1985-86 Michigan basketball team</a> in the great book about Bobby Knight, <i>A Season on the Brink</i> by John Feinstein. In the climax of the book the team led by Roy Tarpley, Richard Rellford, Gary Grant and others took control from the second they ran onto the floor. They had fire in their eyes. At that point, for the terror-like season for the Hoosiers (Steve Alford especially) forced to ride on that tiny plane with the devil himself, the Big Ten championship was lost. <br /></p><p>I remember Michael Penix from the B1G. Poor Tom Allen, the optimist, who was fired. <br /></p><p>If I am a little riled up, you can imagine what it feels like for the football team. </p><p>Michigan 38 Washington 17.</p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-52879793529260875082024-01-03T14:14:00.004-07:002024-01-04T14:11:21.530-07:00Rose Bowl -- Michigan 27 Alabama 20<p>The one thing I had to go back and check was why Michigan's offense was so bad in the third quarter. The reason is a throw through Semaj Morgan's arms and one off the body to Tyler Morris. Plus, the tight end were covered. Probably Cornelius Johnson and Roman Wilson were having a tough time too (as decoys) or they wouldn't have included the younger receivers as much. Similarly, Donovan Edwards was not thrown to much.</p><p>The whole thing is similar to Ohio State, before, during, and after. I was oh so tempted to write this beforehand: there is a good chance Michigan will rattle Jalen Milroe as they have every other quarterback this year. No he is not (yet/now) the greatest pro-style passer, but he is pretty darn all-around good. I read Alabama blogs afterward and, just like Ohio State, writers and commenters are ready to run him out of town.</p><p>The other things I recall reading are 'I thought J.J. McCarthy was overrated but I don't think that anymore.' Another is Blake Corum isn't so great. Finally, there was much to-do about how Nick Saban was outcoached by Jim Harbaugh and Sherrone Moore.</p><p>All of them were or still are wrong. It just goes to show that armchair writers, bloggers, and video talking heads are not better or smarter than the rest of us. Most are just loud. It was a close game and both teams had chances. It is not Saban's best team and Michigan simply made the plays at the end.<br /></p><p>I think the MVP is Blake Corum. The Fox announcers analyzed it at one point--he gets low, he spins and pushes, and sometimes he breaks it for more. Four-plus yards per carry in this one is excellent, and it included some big runs and receptions. Texas had 6.2 yards per run against Washington. Corum does not bode well for the Huskies in the championship.</p><p>Michigan wasn't paralyzed on offense. They had the plays and opportunities in the third quarter. </p><p>Elsewhere in terms of the who's and why's <a href="https://www.maizenbrew.com/2024/1/3/24023197/pff-grades-michigan-wolverines-college-football-playoff-rose-bowl-alabama-blake-corum-jj-mccarthy" target="_blank">LaDarius Henderson was bad</a> but the rest of the Michigan cast did great across the board. Like Brian Cook, I cheated and peeked. Too me, Braiden McGregor makes up for the lower-than-others score with height and terror--when he lines up at the end of the big DTs it just looks imposing. Like Mason Graham he is is not always squeaky clean. He has become effective and valuable in this his 5th year. </p><p>You can't <strike>always</strike> usually tell with stats, predictions, or pundits. They do it as a team, particularly the sacks. Enjoy now while you can, because they are almost all upperclassmen and next year will be different personnel. The list is posted elsewhere--who would have believed after all those mistakes? It is a talented, deep, and well-coached team. The scheme and the leader (quarterback) works. It is a world away from when Michigan played Alabama in prime time under Brady Hoke and whatshisname athletic director.<br /></p><p>One more task and post to come. I need to watch the Huskies on nfl-video.com. I love the school, the team, and the whole dang city. In college football and Michigan athletics this is as good as it gets.<br /></p><p> (The writer, yours truly, is from Michigan but has lived in Colorado for quite a while.)</p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-68690918992011578062024-01-01T14:11:00.000-07:002024-01-01T14:11:54.313-07:00Blogging on New Year's Day<p>Happy New Year!</p><p>Football-wise it started with trying to finish watching Iowa-Michigan in the B1G championship. Iowa played Michigan very tough; in the first half the only real difference was the Semaj Morgan punt return. So what happened in the last quarter and a half? I still cannot answer that.</p><p>Michigan/Corum wasn't gaining much on the ground. The tight ends were contributing, but that is too familiar for Iowa. Instead, they went to a possession game with Cornelius Johnson and it worked. McCarthy had more pass attempts than usual.</p><p>Iowa surrendered three fumbles, which was a bonus. The game was won and lost relatively early on: without mistakes, turnovers, or a fluke play, Iowa was not going to score.</p><p>OMG, Cade McNamara sighting! Of today's early games, Iowa-Tennessee was the one I most wanted to watch. For Wisconsin-LSU the ESPN banner taking up a quarter of the screen was too much; thank God for Fox. Wow! LSU won despite trailing by about two touchdowns most of the game. And I was just getting ready to write Brian Kelly has to regret leaving Notre Dame. He did have a Heisman winner.</p><p>Iowa is going to lose very badly--worse than against Michigan. Liberty could not hold up against Oregon.<br /></p><p>Just an hour left. The Vrbo Fiesta Bowl doesn't have that huge distraction of unwanted promotions at the bottom. What the hell is wrong with Disney, ESPN, and ABC? </p><p>Michigan is the better team. The offense is multifaceted and the defense is vicious. They had the better season. Alabama has had championship teams in the past. </p><p>I don't like this word or the phrase: Michigan is being disrespected. </p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-85343926870408792152023-12-30T13:26:00.005-07:002023-12-31T18:21:22.244-07:00Rose Bowl Michigan-Alabama Prediction<p>History dictates that I make a prediction. It is bizarre that Michigan football is still playing and for a national championship when the whole athletic department and system is a downer. But I have followed the team and feel obliged to put it down if for no other reason than posterity. </p><p>At this moment (Saturday afternoon) Penn State is losing to Ole Miss. Ohio State already lost to Missouri. At the same time Minnesota, Rutgers, and Maryland, teams Michigan beat handily, won bowl games. The games do have meaning, or are at least worthwhile, but it shows how meaningless they are in the final rankings. </p><p>Does 5-star automatically mean prima donna? That is what will be decided. Alabama is stacked; supposedly their whole secondary is entering the NFL. They have been at or near the top in recruiting for a decade. But so has Ohio State, and Georgia is not in the playoff this year either.</p><p>Jim Harbaugh is an iconoclast, or at least an individualist. He has to do it his way and that is who this Michigan team is. The whole Michigan vs. the world mantra is a perfect storm of collective motivation. Too bad the team's future--coach(es) and roster--hinges on this one game. </p><p>Win or lose, Michigan fans will then be treated to a long offseason (sans basketball) and its version of the opt out. There is a lot riding on it--sadness or euphoria for at least one more week. <br /></p><p>It is an extremely difficult game to predict. I have to go with the betting line--Michigan by 1.5 points, which borders on cowardice in terms of logic. Michigan will win. It might be because of pressure on Jalen Milroe; it could be because of a few long, unstoppable drives led by Corum and McCarthy. All season I have been asking myself why Michigan has almost always led and nobody could catch up and the reason is they adapt. Primarily, they have their way, but they adapt until they get there. This one is about adapting to win, not destroy.* A very good team with extra motivation > a very good team. I cannot predict the score. It is unlikely Michigan will run up and down the field as they did against Ohio State and Penn State, but you never know. It is likely under Harbaugh's <i>onfileld</i> direction that Michigan will capitalize on its opportunities and make fewer mistakes than Alabama. But really, who knows? Nick Saban is a an even more accomplished coach. This year, with all its instability, Michigan has more riding on it and that may show-up in a positive way. </p><p>Of course it could be the complete opposite. <br /></p><p>Key players for Michigan: J.J. McCarthy and Donovan Edwards (both 5-star recruits). Blake Corum will get his--yards or offensive balance--regardless. On defense, turnovers (Sainristil and Johnson) will be key for both teams. The game is unlikely to be decided by one or two points but it will be close by virtue of each team's explosiveness.</p><p>P.S. McCarthy's "clunker" of a game (3 interceptions against Bowling Green) was while Harbaugh was watching on TV.</p><p>Update: Interestingly, Brian on MgoBlog made two strong recommendations in his Rose Bowl preview: Michigan quarterbacks run 15 times and pressure instead of spying Milroe. These would be bold, unprecedented adaptations. <br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-60572741467603007832023-11-28T12:57:00.000-07:002023-11-28T12:57:00.445-07:00Ohio State and Iowa, 2023<p>Who knows what Jim Harbaugh is up to. After resurfacing he mostly talked about paying players. A more distasteful, unlikely, and unwanted topic is hard to imagine.</p><p>But the team keeps winning. Ryan Day looked really stressed, particularly in the beginning of the game. That has to be the major motivation in winning. These people are just too obsessed. </p><p>What I remember most is reading 11 Warriors after the game. I did so beforehand too and it was mostly about SCUM and cheaters. Afterward it was no confidence and extremely critical. "Honda" McCord is unfit and Ryan day (56-7) needs to go too. Of course you cannot trust loudmouths and dominant characters, but very few cast a reasonable vote. It was really curious behavior among supposed fans.</p><p>Some folks on the site did mention Ohio State playing not to lose--timidness to the point of being afraid. That I agree with.</p><p>Overall it was a bit like Penn State in terms of, why did Ohio State lose? In the second half they comfortably marched down the field running every play. At other times they did it with passing (i.e., receivers) who Michigan could not stop. Ohio State won in terms of total yards and first downs.</p><p>The loss and the Michigan win, however, was no fluke. Michigan had the mojo--made the plays--when Ohio State did not and could not. Those included a few big pass plays, Corum touchdowns, a couple of scrambles, a sack, and two interceptions. Just like against Penn State, Michigan did it. </p><p>Forget the off the field nonsense--Michigan State, Penn State, Ohio State, and 12-0 is an incredible season and the best thing about it is more games. Next up is Iowa on a cold, dark winter night. Michigan-Ohio State will continue, but this is the last hurrah for a team like Iowa. No longer will they cruise through a cupcake Big Ten schedule. In the future it will truly be the two best teams in an empirically-chosen, all-inclusive way and such a lopsided game will not happen. Iowa is going to get killed again.</p><p>It can hardly be enjoyable for Hawkeye fans. Cade and Erick All are lucky to be sitting it out. The Michigan defense will smother the Iowa offense: Deacon Hill was 11 for 28 and 94 yards against Nebraska and the rushing attack is not going to outrun Michigan defenders. But Iowa has a good defense! History, like the 2021 game, has shown Michigan's athletes will break through there too.</p><p>Time to put the distractions aside. For Michigan and its fans the Big Ten Championship is the perfect warmup for the real test. It is Tuesday 11//28/23. Four more days and there probably won't be another scandal or suspension.</p><p>Enjoy it while you can. Reading the NFL mock drafts, J.J. McCarthy is a first round pick; the rule is, if first round, you go. There will still be experience next year, but most of the stars will be gone.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-57320292450900126042023-11-24T06:50:00.000-07:002023-11-24T06:50:03.365-07:00Ohio State and the Five Things<p>For the studious and devoted reader, I predicted an Ohio State win in a previous column. Here are five things to make me look bad.</p><p>Michigan will win at home if one or some of the five things happen.</p><p>J.J. McCarthy is the biggest variable. If he plays great, Michigan will win.</p><p>Next, the offensive line vs. Ohio State is a question mark. This makes for reasons two and three as to who will win. If McCarthy is well protected as a passer Michigan may win. If the offensive line opens holes and the running game flourishes, Michigan will win. Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards are going to do their part regardless.</p><p>Number four is Michigan is without its head coach. You cannot argue about any team or person who has not lost, which includes Sherrone Moore. Can he do it?</p><p>Finally, if the Michigan defense contains Marvin Harrison, Jr. my prediction is wrong and Ohio State will lose. </p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-44361268107912572392023-11-19T09:08:00.273-07:002023-11-19T11:41:57.835-07:00Mayland 31-24<p>Jim Harbaugh is leaving his mark. He is wearing out his welcome. Winning in the woeful Big Ten (except Ohio State and Penn State) is not the only thing.</p><p>He doesn't explain. He doesn't even show up for the games. I know, he is not allowed to. Whose fault is that? In an age when the NCAA lacks power and investigations drag on with little or no repercussions, he has been suspended for half the season.</p><p>What has he done? The schedule is a joke. Recruiting is at a standstill. Every day it is looking more likely that the season, the whole year, is nothing but foreplay. Sure it is an easy schedule, but we're looking toward the post-season. </p><p>I think they are going to lose to Ohio State next Saturday and the season will be over. The luxury of an extra Big Ten game will be gone as will the added game(s) and prestige of being one of the four best. There will be no more news and expectations. There will be a bowl and announcements about who will or won't participate and who is going to transfer. Attention will return to the declining recruiting class rankings. Who even knows anymore when the portal becomes active again at it may even be year-round. </p><p>There will be rumors or news either way of whether Harbaugh will stay or go, extension or nothing at all. My guess is the NFL attention was already waning and events this season cannot help. My attention, and I won't be the only one, will be nonexistent. It really seems most of the Michigan attention these days is negative; some of it is aggressively negative.. Fans complaining about the suspension(s) only make it worse.<br /></p><p>Ah, but he didn't know. He doesn't know. What, exactly, does he know?</p><p>It is not until a Big Ten or NCAA investigation that anything is revealed. <br /></p><p>Even the coaches on the other side--Josh Gattis--are sleazy ex-Michigan assistants. Tell us, Mr. Harbaugh, what is the problem? Why are FBI agents at your co-offensive coordinator's home? You hired Chris Partridge twice, why does he have such a problem with rules and investigations? You are Connor Stalions boss and hired him, why, why, why? It sure seems like a lot of people on your gigantic staff are in trouble or do dumb things... Sherrone Moore, I am not sure you are being put in a position to succeed nor are you ready to be head coach. For those who do not know, big-time college coaches, football and basketball, are despots and egotists. They have huge salaries, budgets, and power. Now Jim Harbaugh is even making the school's president and athletic director look bad for defending him.<br /></p><p></p>
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<p><br /></p><p>Today, Sunday Nov. 19, Michigan is a 4-point favorite against Ohio State. That is equal or less than the home field advantage. I think, Ohio State will be better prepared and focused. That is because, watch and read above.</p><p>After the jump, the Maryland game.</p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p>Sunday morning and the replay. Michigan 31 Maryland 24. Yesterday--read above--I was more or less uninterested.<br /></p><p>Earlier, I struggled to make a prediction or write much. I knew Maryland would come prepared and aggressive--playing to win. Their start to the season makes them confident as well as "punchy." I expected Michigan to be strong but with weaknesses exposed. One last caveat: my praise for the effort against Penn State even though I feel the Nittany Lions lost it, may have been misplaced. Michigan's no pass and sometimes barely moving on the ground offense may have been partially a result of desperation, i.e., which J.J. McCarthy will show up? In other words, it may not be a given that Michigan has the best quarterback in the Ohio State game.</p><p>My prediction would have included Tua Tagovailoa (25 years old) is explosive but he turns the ball over and can be rattled in the pocket. That proved true again. He said it himself in the pregame--he has never had a signature win.</p><p>This was the closest game Michigan has played this year (TCU was 12/31/22). <br /></p><p>Tua's mistakes are probably the biggest reason Michigan won. He threw two interceptions, fumbled for a Michigan touchdown, had quite a few sacks, and an intentional grounding for a safety. The Michigan defense caused them and took advantage. </p><p>On offense, Blake Corum fought for every one of 94 yards; he was not stopped but running game was not dominant either. Stop Corum and you beat Michigan. J.J. McCarthy--a handful of effective passes, no runs, one interception and several passes that could have been, was average--average for an average quarterback, not someone with his ability. He was pounded more than a couple of times by Maryland and was supposedly hurt against Penn State too.</p><p><u>Ohio State</u></p><p>I have watched several Ohio State games this year. I haven't watched the 37-3 win over Minnesota, which is a similar score to Michigan's win (52-10). With TreyVeon Henderson they have a strong running attack. With their receivers they can score in a few minutes at any time.<br /></p><p>Corum will get his 100 yards on 25 carries. Michigan will have to protect McCarthy and he has to help by running; he is the better passer and runner over Kyle McCord but Marvin Harrison and the Ohio State receivers make up for it. Likely, Will Johnson will partially contain Harrison. Henderson is back, healthy, and he had 146 yards against Minnesota, which does not bode well for Michigan.</p><p>I'm watching the Maryland game still. It was a one-score win. Michigan's offense under Sherrone Moore did almost nothing in the second half while the defense kept fighting. I don't feel Michigan has improved in recent weeks. I don't think they are peaking. They are not dominating on the ground or through the air. The offense must be more explosive, they are going to need more points, to win against the Buckeyes. </p><p>Ohio State is rolling. Michigan is in neutral, as if they are waiting for the next scandal and for Coach to come back. Maybe, just maybe, he won't be back while the season matters at all. <br /></p><p>I see it as around 35-25 Buckeyes. The team needs a full-time head coach. </p><p><br /></p><p>Mason Graham, dirty play. Lots of peons holding Michigan flags to shield the player meetings during timeouts. Too many distractions.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p> <br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-45056799485421572322023-11-16T20:17:00.001-07:002023-11-17T09:06:30.038-07:00Spygate and Penn State Part 3<p>https://mgoblog.com/diaries/legal-analysis-big-ten-rules-don%27t-allow-insta-punishment-michigan</p><p>A promise is a promise. I'm reminded of this:</p><p>https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2023/11/13/trump-georgia-case-videos-overturn-2020-election/</p><p>Mr. Rym, I'll start with you. The name escapes me--at one point he volunteered as a source for Michigan's vehemence. Today Harbaugh the University/legal geniuses surrendered. There was no explanation; it was complete capitulation.</p><p>On the face of it, Mr. Rym is wrong. Per something on ESPN the gist was "a motion asking for an emergency temporary restraining order along with a breach of contract complaint." I learned something--a preliminary injuntion is even more absurd in that it, the awful suspension, hasn't even started yet. Breach of contract--and an emergency? Michigan wasted a lot of money and it and they look foolish at this point too.</p><p>I thought it was weird right from the start. Who sends a letter before a meeting (Ono)? The Michigan legislature should have better things to do. The facts were clear (idiot Stalions) and Michigan didn't deny it. Even their high-priced rebuttal and court action were terrible. </p><p>The sportsmanship policy has teeth and the commissioner has the power. It is similar to what used to be said of the MLB commissioner--virtually unlimited power for the good of the game. I thought it was refreshing to see a quick investigation and punishment. That will put the fury of the league and ultimate question--did Michigan get where they are because of the signs--to rest. For Jim Harbaugh it comes with the territory and role and an in-game suspension only is pretty harmless anyway.</p><p>The other link sticks in my mind. It is a failed, inappropriate conspiracy by lawyers. Sam Bankman-Fried's parents... More lawyers run amok. Perhaps I'll write more and finish this another time. </p><p>Update as Mr. Rym is at it again. Still. He had an amicus brief ready to go with 1,700 signatures.. But he is going to keep courting the media and fighting. My guess the plaintiffs realized there was a very good chance the judge would say What? You're wasting my time with this! And, Mr. Rym, your amicus brief is probably the worst, dumbest, most contemptuous thing I have seen in (fill in years) on the bench!</p><p>There are follow-up posts on Mgoblog and he just won't let go. It does no good to drag his firm's name into it. I can only imagine hiring a lawyer in a time of need who will stand before a judge and say, "But judge, they violated Rule 32. of the handbook!" Maybe the term is rulebook; at least I didn't write <i>codebook</i>. I'm dubious of even calling it a contract, and exactly who, and how were they, damaged? </p><p>I would expect Michigan athletics could receive better counsel in-house--from someone employed by the school. Maybe they did, and that is why they went to a costly outside firm. </p><p>It is just a really bad time when the lawyers, who are supposed to be responsible counselors above all, make things worse.</p><p>Maryland should be fun because as with everyone on the schedule, Michigan is always the opponent's biggest game of the season, and this one's at home. They fell all the way to 6-4, but that is better than most in the Big Ten.<br /></p><p>Then, OMG, the potty-mouthed, very emotional former offensive coordinator will be coaching at home against Ohio State. It will likely be 11-0 vs. 11-0.<br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-19905490524555926512023-11-13T11:41:00.001-07:002023-11-13T11:41:16.033-07:00Penn State Aftermath<p>The question is why did Michigan win or more precisely, why did Penn State lose?</p><p>But first the obligatory Jim Harbaugh comments. I still have one more document to read: the diary by the Michigander/Santa Monica lawyer. The argument for a them against us conspiracy, with respect to Spygate only, is a strong one, i.e., theirs too is unsportsmanlike, plus collusion and conspiracy. That's the downside of being the champion. And it is a byproduct of Harbaugh and Michigan people rubbing people the wrong way. The argument is procedural at best. It is not about us vs. them when you break the rules.<br /></p><p>It is not and was not so bad for Michigan with Harbaugh partying seven miles away (and on video) with his entourage. You got caught. Hopefully, serve your penalty. Much more importantly, own up to it.</p><p>As for the game, it was an unusual one. Michigan football carried its audacious attitude into it in a show of bush-league coaching. Penn State, they are so talented, how did they lose at home to a team undergoing all that?</p><p>Blake Corum is healthy and back and that is the main reason Michigan won. Sprinkle in other running--Donovan Edwards and J.J. McCarthy--and Michigan's running attack was awesome. Defensively they were good enough to stop two outstanding running backs and harass non-freshman Drew Allar enough to make him look awful.</p><p>Allar isn't that terrible, and he may even turn out to be very good. The Penn State defense was so good against passing Michigan smartly avoided it entirely. This killed Penn State's speed and secondary too. Harbaugh of course set it; it was a brilliant execution of strategy. Like a basketball team, Michigan can play it different ways and adapt given their depth and that is why they are so good.</p><p>The first big reason Penn State lost is the failure of Allar. Penn State didn't put him in a position to win and offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich was fired soon after the game. Many of his passes were not close and Allar fumbled too. Allar is known as a strong-armed passer and not a runner and Penn State has two top backs anyway.</p><p>The other reason Penn State lost is James Franklin just can't do it. His long-term record against top teams and in big games is atrocious. In this game a trick pass play to Allar and a risky-against-getting-clobbered run by the qb right up the middle for a touchdown worked for the head coach. Aside from that, what can you say? His calls and coaching didn't win the game. Once again a really talented Penn State team lost to Ohio State (by 8) and Michigan (by 9) in similar games.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-9242237158517359272023-11-11T07:34:00.006-07:002023-11-11T07:34:58.880-07:00Penn State Prelude 2023<p> </p><p> <br /></p><p>In a statement released Friday afternoon, the league said it has found
U-M in violation of the Big Ten Sportsmanship Policy "for conducting an
impermissible, in-person scouting operation over multiple years,
resulting in an unfair competitive advantage that compromised the
integrity of competition."</p><p> </p><p>Jim Harbaugh has found (and earned) a cushy existence. I don't know all the perks of course, but he earns about $10 million a year now and made tens or hundreds more before that. These suspensions are really goofy--earlier this season he missed one-fourth of the schedule, but only for games. Now he is seemingly suspended for threee more, which makes for half the season. The season is only about three months or a fourth of the year anyway. </p><p>Obviously it is longer than that with training, practices, recruiting, and all the other functions. Harbaugh has an enormous staff and budget for that. Still, it all hinges on him, his leadership, experience, expertise, network, and all that goes with it.</p><p>Will he and they damage that? As noted, he is already comfortable and situated in his life. Think about Sam Bankman-Fried and risk. What are he and they risking? Perhaps it includes bad blood from the season-beginning suspension and everything before that. </p><p>He and they are taking that risk. They all feel it is worth the smaller downside.</p><p>They know fully they are the "big boys" in any fight. They are Michigan, the biggest game on everyone's schedule. They provide the ratings. More to the point, they know everyone is gunning for them, especially when they are good on the football field.</p><p>Even realizing that, they feel a legal fight is something they should or have to do. It goes all the way up to the president and the board.</p><p>Read the first paragraph of this column. These are serious infractions.</p><p>It is 7AM Mountain Daylight time in Colorado. The Penn State game starts in three hours. You know, it doesn't matter much for the game. It is more or less a figurehead, symbolic penalty anyway. Jesse Minter and Sherrone Moore are capable of running the team and they have done it before. The actual players in the game have done it before too.</p><p>One thing, before I close. Connor Stallions is an idiot of epic proportions. Michigan should sue him instead of the Big Ten.</p><p>Everyone is expendable. The game stars in 2 1/2 hours.</p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-26039975393624222002023-10-20T11:01:00.004-06:002023-10-24T12:45:55.125-06:00Next!<p>Well, Jim, they are starting to pile up.</p><p>This guy Connor Stalions is a self-confessed Michigan football and warfare fanatic. He has volunteered for different positions and traveled around at his own expense. He is a "low-level" staffer in reports. No age is mentioned; I assume he is at least a generation behind me and tech savvy. They (the NCAA and probably others too) are asking for his computer because he and they are accused of going too far in their competitive analyses.</p><p>Harbaugh has said he doesn't know anything about it. Once again, that is not an answer and it is not relevant either because he is required to know and he is responsible either way.</p><p>I can't really call myself a fan of Michigan sports anymore, I'm just a watcher. They are all so totally void of caring about anyone else but themselves that they are an embarrassment. I am writing specifically about coach Harbaugh and AD Manuel. They keep getting themselves into these messes and you'd think by now they would know how to get out of them. Their continued lies and cover-ups are a disgrace.</p><p>Anyone who doesn't care or notice because they are undefeated and #2 is blind. Sorry, that is disparaging to people who actually have lost their eyesight. </p><p>At least get the message right. The suspensions--suspensions!--of the head coach and at least one top staffer still have not been addressed. Current news says they are still being investigated by the NCAA. The beginning of this year (1/20/23) Michigan fired co-offensive director Matt Weiss for what appear to be similar, electronic spying, offenses. </p><p>The football season is barely eight weeks in--two-thirds over. I don't even care about the specifics. Can you do anything without an incident, scandal, or lie?</p><p>First you ruined the start of the season. Now you did it during Michigan State week. And in between was the Shemy Schembechler affair.<br /></p><p>Truth>fan.</p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-24010443116871085952023-10-15T13:05:00.002-06:002023-10-20T10:28:12.153-06:00Michigan 52 Indiana 14<p> I did extensive research for this column by Googling "Indiana coach." Mike Woodson is 65. Recently Indiana basketball has had a few high draft picks and big recruits but the team has been a disappointment. But Woodson has been better than Juwan Howard.</p><p>Michigan only has one big-time sport because Howard has been such an embarrassment as well as a disappointment. </p><p>I like Tom Allen. He is smiling in his picture. Maranatha Baptist University. He makes $4.9 million. Granted, I don't have to work with or play for him, but I like his optimism and communications skills.<br /></p><p>First, the game.</p><p>Indiana won the first quarter. That says something, but it didn't matter in terms of the outcome or the rest of the game.</p><p>Second, the accolades about J.J. McCarthy and the offense are overblown. While he is excellent--almost certainly one of Michigan's best or most productive since Henne, Rudock (overall offense), or Denard. It is also true that when McCarthy improvises it usually works. Still, he does get sacked, fumbles, and is intercepted in some fairly stupid plays. To me he is the biggest big-game question mark. If he is off or rattled, and Blake Corum and the running game is stopped, Michigan will be in trouble.</p><p>Aside from the explosive offensive players, Michigan's biggest strength is it's defensive line. Six to seven strong they offer run stoppers, rushers, strength, speed, and endurance. Against Indiana's redshirt freshman quarterbacks they were a constant threat. And they stopped the running game.</p><p>Fourth, Indiana is not very good. In Big Ten power rankings they have been at or near the bottom all year. I don't know if Jack Tuttle acted like a Cade or not (transfer in the middle of the season) but he and A.J. Barner are valuable additions at Michigan. I cannot recall any real stars on the team. In the age of a market economy and transfers Indiana is not getting the players.</p><p>Finally, this Michigan football team is remarkable. They stand out; they look different than any team I can remember. </p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p><br /></p><p>I love watching these games. It is maybe 30 hours a season.</p><p>Mason Graham jolly? Jesse Minter has nice teeth. Did you see Sherrone Moore's look at Donovan Edwards?</p><p>You can't see it all live. And it has to be a commercial-free replay.</p><p>Suspense... I already know how it turns out. This team is all in. You have to want to. That is who they look for: people who want to be leaders and play in front of 100K people and on national tv.</p><p>The change that Jim Harbaugh made is that he is going to let the leaders lead. They're young(er) so you don't know how they're going to do it. But you have to give them a chance and an opportunity. Harbaugh has been consistent in supporting NIL, transfers, and paying players. <br /></p><p>The Michigan players always cheer for each other. Some are older--Michael Barrett, CJ, and a few grad transfers. Some are younger--OMG, Keon Saab, who did you think was behind you? You have to really watch the games or boxscore details. There are emerging names, and another round from the portal too. It is a perfect mix.</p><p>No way--you can't make Cade and others do it if they don't want to. It is culture you have to want to be a part of.</p><p>Yes, I already know. They are going to put Donovan Edwards in again and he will score a touchdown.</p><p>Everyone says it, Michigan hasn't played anyone. J.J. can be kind of a bonehead at times too, but the confidence makes them explosive and extremely dangerous, at least until they are beaten.</p><p><br /></p><p>P.S. The one downside I wish I hadn't seen. The strength coach vomiting on the sideline.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-49418068264751179332023-10-05T14:30:00.012-06:002023-10-07T11:09:44.897-06:00Minnesota Week<p>I should have been a criminal lawyer, except that I don't like crooks. </p><p>My education used to lean more toward psychology but now it is closer to law. When I see something rotten I usually start with criminal law. It is documented and it stems from <i>mens rea</i> or intent. You can't really be jailed for being dumb or making a legitimate mistake. You certainly cannot be convicted if a disability caused the incident, or if you acted lawfully or correctly. The prosecutor has to show you did it with intent.</p><p>An allocution, a confession or admission, may be considered the solution to the criminally-illegal act. In psychology it is the admission, the acknowledgement, and the coming to grips that leads to healing.</p><p>Today I was trying to read real news on washingtonpost.com; more like, instead of watching videos I wanted to learn something and preferred to read. I even logged-in to my old account. Scrolling down the page for more I learned Pat Fitzgerald is suing for a huge amount. At least in terms of the football team and program, when they're gone they're gone.</p><p>Personally, I always thought Pat Fitzgerald was an average coach and a weird guy, sort of like PJ Fleck. <br /></p><p>Quick Google search: how did Hugh Freeze leave Mississippi State? He resigned. As I recall, he admitted, and now he's back in good graces as the head coach at Auburn. Typically, when you resign you have either agreed to something or you now agree to go away.<br /></p><p>Same goes for Mel Tucker. Please recognize the destruction you have caused.<br /></p><p>For Pat Fitzgerald, the memory becomes fuzzy or opinionated. There was enough. There was enough there to embarrass a university paying millions of dollars. The best thing for everyone is to take your lumps and move on. And it doesn't have to be about criminal or even civil guilt.</p><p>I think Minnesota is going to lose big this week. It'll be pretty and well-attended in cold Minnesota. It will not be a close game--like Nebraska and Rutgers, get used to your place in the new Big Ten. The best of the West is coming.<br /></p><p><br /></p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p> </p><p>Sam Bankman-Fried, and his parents, are fried.</p><p>The story here is you can't go around thinking you are smarter than everyone else. There are a few exceptions, but most of those didn't have exactly happy lives; Oppenheimer, for example; I don't know about Einstein or a couple of others I can think of.</p><p>The problem really shows itself when they react with, or relate to, the rest of the world.</p><p>If you look at Sam Bankman-Fried, he shakes. He is playing a video game. H is shuffling or moving something with his hands. Apparently he has an extreme case of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and he is also dependent on depression medication. </p><p>These cannot add-up to a very stable or smart person. That is exactly the case against him: he was not adequately in charge. What is particularly suspicious, and criminal about it, is he lied. He tried to cover it up by saying everything was fine. Specifically, the $8 billion siphoned from FTX to Alameda Research is well known. There was code and there were rules to allow it. Now, what has come out is that he has admitted they changed the code and it, the money, still wasn't there. It was gone. It was then he announced to customers and the world everything is fine.</p><p>Mistakes? No, it is planning, plotting, lying, and intentional. There is no way not to admit that he is responsible. Even his former friends, co-founders, and employees admit it. They are doing the smart and healthy thing.<br /></p><p>It is rare to see a case this strong. He has serious psychological problems in failing to acknowledge it. His crimes are that he is a danger to others. For the safety of us all, and since he cannot do it himself, he must reform and/or be put safely away.<br /></p><p>His parents and counselors are long-time, and previously-respected, lawyers... If anything proves the difference between academics and the real world this is it. They are going down too.<br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-11774688959433275022023-10-05T13:58:00.001-06:002023-10-05T13:58:47.359-06:00MIchigan 45 Nebraska 7<p>This was written days ago and not published until days later. Never delete, I write. I had to remind myself I do not want to write about the football team, I mean, the players. Deep down, I don't think it is the right thing to do with your life, your career, your college opportunity, and your health.</p><p>This game, Nebraska, is still worth remembering. It is an example of the Big Ten as a few strong programs, with more to be added, and all the rest in a league of their own. It is hard to comprehend why anyone would "play" a sport like major college football if they don't want to be, or never will be, or cannot be, for a myriad of other reasons, a champion. Aside from Michigan, Ohio State, Penn State the only other Big Ten team with chance to be better than average is Maryland.</p><p>Most importantly, this game shows the Michigan difference. The game was widely publicized as the biggest game of the season for not-yet rebuilding Nebraska team. It is going to happen again this week in Minneapolis--the place will be rocking, everyone will be optimistic, and it is in prime time with a huge Michigan audience. If the Golden Gophers win they'll be famous. Maybe they're calling it their biggest game of the season too.<br /></p><p>--- <br /></p><p>NFL-video is the site and these 100 minutes are precious. It is nearly impossible to watch them live because of the ads, programming, and studio shows. And you cannot tell until you watch the whole game, with replays and tolerable if not better announcing.</p><p>Finally, nearly halfway through the season, the season and the landscape are taking shape. Remember, the thirteenth game is a bonus, as is anything beyond that. There are only 7 games left.</p><p>Them guys ain't dumb, as the old Dire Straits goes, I can hardly wait for next year.</p><p>Everyone, Michigan, Ohio State, Penn State, and undefeated Maryland plays the same ridiculous schedule against themselves, the East bottom-feeders, and the West. It is not yet apparent if Maryland will survive; last year they were pretty darn competitive against OSU, whom they play next Saturday. Penn State could absolutely be the real deal.</p><p>Michigan sits in the catbird seat by virtue of the fact that they have stayed the same or improved over last year. Players at this stage or age get better, and Corum, Edwards, McCarthy, Wilson, Keegan, Zinter,Jenkins, Grant, Graham, Colson, Barrett, Johnson, Moore, Sainristil, and Paige were all starters/stars last year. Several Michigan players from last year--Barnhart, McGregor, Loveland, etc. have virtually reached this stage as have transfers Nugent, Henderson, Stewart, Hausmann, and Wallace. The kicking game has been solid. Now, finally, we are seeing new or old/new names emerge as part of this year's team: Semaj Morgan, JD Barner, Derrick Moore, Quinten Johnson, Fredrick Moore, and QBs Tuttle and Denegal. I have failed to mention quite a few names, of course. These players know the limelight and their role. It is impossible to predict who will stay or go. For the next seven games there is depth behind the many stars.</p><p>One thing that needs to change is Nebraska talking or thinking about the Big 8, past days, and a return to glory. The stats don't show it--Nebraska had two or three big plays amounting to nothing. Many predictions suggested Nebraska has settled and improved under Matt Rhule; they have a top running defense; and to bet against Michigan and the spread. The stadium was beautiful and all red. It is possible Rhule will succeed but it may be just as likely he will fail. Michigan destroyed Nebraska.</p><p>Add Washington, Oregon, and USC. The Big Ten is going to be an upper division and a lower division. <br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-26676091498021142642023-09-10T11:26:00.027-06:002023-09-30T13:07:25.333-06:00The Fall of Mel Tucker<p>Update Saturday 9/30/23 12:43 Mtn</p><p>Waiting for the Nebraska game. The Fall colors are amazing. But I wouldn't want to travel through--doesn't google the distance--miles of wind and dust just to go there.</p><p>We had to wait a short while for the story of Mel Tucker to conclude. It went very fast for these things--we're going to fire you, I claim this and that as a defense, and you're fired anyway.</p><p>For those who are arguably not as old as I am nor as proficient a typist, this is the decade-and-still-going of empowerment. Who the hell is Brenda Tracy? She is someone who brought down Mel Tucker all by her lonesome. Hers is an unusual route to such heights but that is exactly the point: anyone can do it and for any reason. She may be the most successful rape victim protagonist in college football history, and what that means for her future is anyone's guess.<br /></p><p>We may never have to deal with the question of who is in Mel Tucker's coaching tree. His resume of a year or two at college and pro levels, and with pedigreed names, is meaningless because if he survives in football it will be as starting over.<br /></p><p>He leaves Michigan State with an overall win. They are rid of him quickly and at a reduced cost. Most of the noise about how the administration covered it up and it is the same old same old is just that.</p><p>MSU holds the high ground in what is left. This is what contracts are for. They are defending whoever or what authority did the smart for the short- and long term-thing.</p><p>All that is left is Tucker and his money-grubbing lawyers. They are all whores. <br /></p><p>--- <br /></p><p> </p><p>https://www.theringer.com/features/2017/11/6/16599528/brenda-tracy-advocate-against-college-football-rape-culture</p><p>This is an enlightening crafting of Brenda Tracy's story. It is uplifting in that she seems to have found solutions to her problems and purpose in her life. These include her work, her therapy, her communicativeness, and her realizations about herself. These are of course work-arounds and the self esteem problems are still there.<br /></p><p>There are people who just won't read it. For others maybe it will be a light skim--it is long and not always pleasant--and support for beliefs they have about just about anything conceivable. </p><p>For me and even more of us, it is a difficult read or listen and that is exactly Ms. Tracy's point. She also has learned it is a story that can get through noise and clutter because it is comes from a real person. </p><p>Something still bothers me--she told Mel Tucker she wanted a boyfriend
to pay her? She is still consorting with the likes of Mel Tucker. I have concerns or questions. What is her motive? She put herself on that 36-minute call. All for an annual speaking gig?</p><p>For Mel Tucker it is clear his future at Michigan State University is over. He has already shown a tendency to fight and prolong and that will just make it worse. <br /></p><p><br /></p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p><br /></p><p>The names <span>Donnie Corley, Josh King and Demetric Vance resurfaced after a quick search. </span>Auston
Robertson was the worst of that (football) bunch. Mark Dantonio got out
while he could, i.e., before he was formally implicated. Tom Izzo has had similar issues before or continuously. You can't even search
the internet without more Michigan State student-athlete names coming
up and getting in the way. There was Larry Nassar, whose legacy still
lives and whose shadow will not go away. In February, 2023 there was a mass shooting (this is really something different). </p><p>Personally, I was surprised to see MSU as the 19th largest university in the country; I remember them as one of the biggest. They were the state school in a system--Western, Northern, Central, Wayne State etc.--any state except California would be envious of. Michigan State had a bit of an "ag school" reputation and history--one of the best--which was fine so as not to compete directly with U of M. They were the state school for an excellent education and rounded social life for the good to excellent college bound kids everywhere in the state. My high school, Grosse Pointe South, probably still sends 40 freshman there every year.</p><p>They know they have problems. It shows in their turnstile management and board. They are still trying. Izzo will retire eventually; they should never have hired a thug like Tucker.</p><p>Sports writers do not dictate these decisions nor do they control the millions of dollars involved. But the writing is on the wall. Almost always, when close-to-the-situation people start issuing suspensions, crossing t's and dotting i's--procedures surrounding a hearing--and bring back retired coaches, it foretells what will happen. "Fired" and "over" are not just rumors. </p><p>Logic suggests they have an out and they will use it.</p><p>Details, such as how much it will cost and how long it will take don't really matter. They will find the resources. Details around Tucker's excuses do not matter either. At least at first he didn't take it seriously and he lied. Whatever the reason(s), the circumstances are so disgusting he is simply no longer wanted around, let alone in a visible position of responsibility. The language is in his contract for a reason: he is an "embarrassment." <br /></p><p>His family--probably affected--is none of my business. As far as I'm concerned, he is gone. It'll be slow but I don't want to watch. Some day he may pop-up as an assistant somewhere.</p><p><br /></p><span><!--more--></span><p><br /></p><p>Back to our story and Brenda Tracy.</p><p>She could have and should have hung up the phone; she "froze," I get it. She should have never contacted him again. She should have acted in a professional, business-like manner--'this is someone I don't want to do business with.' She needed to decide if she wanted a social or intimate relationship; apparently she didn't. She needed to follow her own advice and set firm boundaries (or expectation(s).</p><p>There are a lot of Title IX speakers and consultants out there. There is a lot of competition. In 1998 she survived an awful rape experience; in 2016 (around the time of Donnie Corley et. al) she started her speaking business. I looked at her website; nothing special. There are no testimonials or evidence of success beyond sales. Seemingly all she does is give the same talk she has provided for years. Not on her site, but she probably sells "Set the Expectation" t-shirts as well. She has not expanded her business or skills. And, if you want to be professional and stay away from the likes of Tucker, rent an office, don't use your best friend as an assistant, and don't talk, chat, or text with clients personally.</p><p>And please, stop claiming you are still a victim.</p><p>Maybe someday I'll write some more about this. I could make a list. I wonder about the tens of thousands of football players and others who have sat through her speeches. How many have said she made a difference?</p><p>Seeking an administrative hearing with a bunch of lawyers is not something most people would do. She has repeatedly said in interviews that she is vulnerable. Her version went something like 'people treat me like sh*t because I feel like sh*t.' She frequently considered suicide in the past. There is something a off.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p>----<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>But things have changed--actor Danny Masterson is going to prison for a long time because of rapes committed 20 years ago; Trump lost a "rape defamation" case. Is her message as relevant as it was 20 years ago? Is it unique?</p><p><br /></p><p></p><p>In 1998 Tracy was a 24-year old mother of two dating a former Oregon State football player. She lived near the OSU campus and her sons were 5 and 4 at the time. She is attractive and as she has learned she was and is vulnerable. She was in the wrong place at the wrong time with rapists and very strong case.</p><p>Since then she became a nurse and earned a BA or BS and a MBA, and she has raised three children. She has traveled and has met and worked with many influential people. She is a moderate success. So why Mel Tucker? <br /></p><p><br /></p><p>Mel Tucker has been a disgrace and a ticking time bomb since his arrival. Luke Fickell turned them down and Tucker was the wrong hire. If you saw anyone as angry and aggressive in an alley you'd run. He is Juwan Howard without the humility.</p><p>$10,000 for a day of giving the same talk to different football teams isn't a bad gig. Given the turnover these days, it is guaranteed repeat business. But then Tucker made multiple employee-employer passes. He lied about where he was, a private plane, expense reports, all the while pressuring her to meet him privately. Then he yanked the speaking engagement, ghosted her, and used State staff to run interference. She says there was some kind of retribution threat. No surprise his marriage is broken. And he did what over the phone after midnight?</p><p>Tucker was the executive thug behind the Michigan tunnel assaults. This season already Tucker administered his own CTE protocol. After the win over Richmond he announced MSU won't adhere to the '24 hour rule' and will start preparing for Washington immediately. </p><p>Hours later, things changed dramatically.<br /></p><p>Sports writers do not dictate policy, particularly at Michigan State--they hired him and were or are still behind him. Still, rumblings in major Detroit and Lansing publications are saying there is no way back from this. How can he even show his face? </p><p>It is hard to picture, especially without video or audio, this as criminal sexual harassment. I don't even see it as civil or intentional infliction of emotional harm. It is just insensitive and incredibly stupid professionally. It is... desperation. Over the phone? She may have lost one speaking engagement but others will follow. I think she can handle it.</p><p>They tried to buy her off and she said no.<br /></p><p>A suspension, plus a loss at home to Washington next Saturday, will be humiliating--apparently the local writers can envision that. Also, they know Michigan State plays Iowa, Minnesota, and Nebraska in Big Ten crossover games this season. Factor in Michigan, Ohio State, Penn State, MRI (Maryland, Rutgers, Indiana), and the Spartans are maybe 50-50 to finish with another losing season. The offseason--transfers--has not been kind to Tucker and crew this time around and most predictions have MSU finishing in the lower division. </p><p>They are saying this is a way to get out from under the a) the contract and b) the man. Michigan State has (another) interim president and that may be a lot to ask. Regents and voting will take time and create a spectacle. But a suspension, hearing, and then dismissal--dot the i's and cross the t's--is the quickest and best course</p><p>Of course he will negotiate and fight--pugilist until the end. He has shown before (e.g., his tunnel incident press conference) he will only get himself into more trouble. As a responsible D1 head coach Tucker is a fraud.<br /></p><p>Yes, Ms. Tracy, things have changed. Some people won't. You are in the driver's seat on this one.<br /></p><p>--<br /></p><p>"The idea that someone could know me and say they understand my trauma
but then re-inflict that trauma on me is so disgusting to me, it's hard
for me to even wrap my mind around it," Tracy told the USA Today. "It's
like he sought me out just to betray me."</p><p> </p><!--more--><p></p><p>This is what led to the uproar and suspension and will probably lead to the end at Michigan State for Mel Tucker:</p><p>https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/investigations/2023/09/10/michigan-state-football-coach-sexual-harassment-claim/70679703007/</p><p>ESPN with their FOIA requests couldn't do it. Kenny Jacoby did it when no one else could. The expose has been revised, updated, and improved.<br /></p><p> </p><p class="gnt_ar_b_p"></p><blockquote><p class="gnt_ar_b_p">Tucker was “absolutely shocked,” he would tell the
university’s investigator. In subsequent correspondence, he and his
attorney suggested Tracy’s motive: She held a vendetta against Spartans
athletics because of its history of sexual misconduct scandals and
falsely accused him for financial gain.</p><p class="gnt_ar_b_p">“To say
that I have learned from this situation is an understatement,” Tucker
wrote in a letter to the investigator on March 22. “I will never again
allow myself to be duped by kindness.”</p></blockquote><p> </p><p>Language is a part of culture (anthropology) and personality (psychology). Ten months ago when MSU players kicked and swung helmets at Michigan players in the tunnel, I studied Mel Tucker's next-day press conference carefully. <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/posts/7245130573728759382">It was never published</a>. He appeared in over his head. He was a gangsta in a large, educated, rule-based institution. The narrative just didn't hold up. Yes you want your team to be proud and aggressive, but you have to recognize all the other people and arguments against you. You cannot deflect, you must address and correct.<br /></p><p>Here, in the above clip from USA Today, MSU problems and Tracy financial gain are bizarre, out of thin air arguments, as is his effort at victimization. They show someone who is not only willing to lie in an official proceeding, but someone who is out of touch or who doesn't even care. He is simply not in touch with this, or the other side of things. It is not going to work in the upcoming hearing either, so after that he'll be fired for cause.</p><p>"Tucker would tell her that he deletes his messages regularly because he receives so many." Same thing.</p><p>"Tracy said she did so in a panic after their last phone call, feeling she needed to cut all ties with him." Uh oh. </p><p>This incident with Tucker is reminiscent of the Hugh Freeze escort affair. It is as though he couldn't wait for the next business trip so he could get on with his personal business. It is probably not the first or only time.<br /></p><span><!--more--></span><p><br /></p><blockquote><p>At the hearing, planned for October, both sides will have the
opportunity to present evidence and make arguments. Another outside
Title IX attorney hired by the school will then decide whether the
evidence shows that Tucker likely violated school rules.</p></blockquote><p> </p><p>Brenda Tracy is a very formidable opponent. Very few people have a network of such lawyers/friends. Probably no one else has the inside insight into the problem on college campuses that she does. She has been doing this for 25 years; many of the lawyers associated say the same thing (25 years) on their websites, but they don't visit campuses nationwide and text and socialize with the players and coaches. <br /></p><p>Is this the only time things almost became "weird" for Ms. Tracy? It is possible she receives more texts than Mel Tucker.</p><p>It probably is not hard to find a Title IX complaint form online and submit it. (I have never done it.) If so, she has every right to do it. It appears to be a process most people would not go through--trying to prove a violation of school rules to another lawyer. At this point it is hard to argue that the complaint is not responsible for bringing down a $95 million college football coach.</p><p>I too am a complainer who understands the concept of institutional betrayal... <br /></p><p> </p><p>Here, someone in Mel Tucker's position has... <br /></p><p> </p><p> </p><p class="gnt_ar_b_p"></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-29540689542112536232023-08-26T13:02:00.013-06:002023-09-15T12:44:26.140-06:00M in 2023<p>It is starting--Navy at #13 Notre Dame. Quick! What conference is Notre Dame in?</p><p>God, what a disaster. It could hardly get any worse.</p><p>Washington, Oregon, Southern Cal, and UCLA. are all exciting football teams that are likely to stay that way. Michigan always could have played them if they were willing to give away their their cupcake, revenue-producing, cinch starts to every season. Now even the rest of the schedule doesn't matter much. Yes it will be nice to get rid of Rutgers, Indiana, and Maryland all the time and not to have the likes of Nebraska, Purdue, Minnesota, etc. as replacements. Wisconsin and Iowa are pretty much off the schedule. Uh oh, who is left in the former B1G West? Maybe it isn't such a bad thing schedule-wise. </p><p>But they're still going to have those dumb out of conference games, and now far less incentive and opportunity to schedule big "out of region" games. There is no region. Inter-conference isn't needed because everyone is in the playoff anyway.</p><p>Back to Michigan, the schedule is, who cares? It is all just, what's the word... foreplay.</p><p>Seriously, there is nothing until Ohio State. Who ever heard of a season where it doesn't matter if the coach is suspended? It is a horrible shame because they are going to have a great team.</p><p>Long ago I wrote Blake Corum is a tough guy to like and I could not have been more wrong. I did it because he seemed to, when he scored touchdowns (which he does often) he seemed (past tense) to shun teammates for fan adulation. That--high-fiving the fans--doesn't make sense as a criticism either. Anyway, he is completely the opposite. His quote, an audacity, in claiming he "Thought Tuck was coming" is a classic. Then, while there is a little chance that his injury could linger, he came back. If he wasn't there, Donovan Edwards would be an even bigger star. But Blake Corum is back, and he is one of the best, all-around, ever.</p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p>Geez, it is 14-0 Notre Dame. Wait, that was a replay of a touchdown and these are all commercials! All I heard was the clock doesn't stop any more and that quarter really went fast. 1:03 left in the first quarter. At least Vipbox still works. I only thought there were a couple of games but I guess that just the top 20. What is this, week zero?</p><p>Did anything happen? I missed it. Now the quarter is over. More commercials. 1:15 MDT. I have come to really enjoy MLB (Braves) games and the bootleg telecasts block-out commercials. And there's a site that has all the games in full the next day, also sans commercials. It is fun to listen to the announcers from different teams. You can watch something else, and do something else with all that time without commercials. Speeding up the games actually helps, and it is not bad given games almost every day.</p><p>Alright, it is 1 o'clock in Colorado. What the hell time is it in Dublin? Sh*t, there was some kind of play and a challenge and now loud commercials again. I hate these overseas games; they remove everything about a college campus and a rivalry. </p><p>I will watch Michigan games. But please, just give me a replay the next day.</p><p>Let me see, the Braves come here from San Francisco. After that, in L.A. will be a preview of things to come and a super series.</p><p>My God, they are reviewing again. In about a half hour the Giants-Braves game starts. </p><p>The Notre Dame quarterback played FIVE seasons at Wake Forest. The college football game has gone to hell.<br /></p><p><span></span></p><!--more-->Back to Michigan. <p></p><p>I learned I would rather watch the schedule than that football broadcast. Other games feature Don Brown and Brady Hoke. The only way to tell is to watch the whole game but that is too difficult. Who would have thought when I went to Michigan. These are schools and students.</p><p>Which brings us to where we are. Last year's football team was sensational until the ending. Since then there has been nothing (in terms of high-profile men's sports).</p><p>Juwan Howard has been an abject failure. The next basketball team is going to be awful and it won't be about waiting for any class or anyone to mature. We can only hope it is the last year.</p><p>I don't know why everyone isn't screaming bloody murder. He is quite a bit like Mel Tucker in that he got lucky once, but for him the prospects are far bleaker due to issues. Those would be character issues, and "this is the way we do it in South Chicago" isn't going to cut it. The permeate everything, from recruiting dropouts (or never enrolled), to last chance or surviving on ego transfers, to a one and done flake of a son whose stay was so brief I cannot remember his name. Who is more representative of a father than his son? He <strike>is</strike> was the third Howard on the roster or staff who proved to be nothing more than a distraction. Watch, he'll try to do an overhaul and blame it on his effete coaching staff.</p><p>Their best player throughout Howard's tenure left in completely appropriate and humiliating fashion. <br /></p><p>Right now, the program is running on fumes. That they can even fill up a team or an auditorium is only because they're Michigan. The players are not very good, temporary, or worse.</p><p>To put it in quantifiable, justifiable, or identifiable terms, with some exceptions, making the NCAA tournament should be the threshold of performance. That is not going to happen again this year (start) or next year (finish) in this season too. The players may put in a little effort--sort of like some foreign team cobbled together for a new league. Championship material? No way. And it could get ugly--their leader is a ticking time bomb.<br /></p><p>So it is going to be another short season and year, starting with three out of conference games and no head coach.</p><p> </p><p><span></span></p><!--more-->9/1/23 <br /><p></p><p>Once again, the season starts with bad wishes for Harbaugh. Yes, the season is going to be mostly boring. Then the coaches go ahead put their two cents into it.</p><p>They were minor infractions that were self-reported and it is supposedly self-enforced. Plus, they are weak opponents and it is the beginning of the season.</p><p>And besides that, Trump didn't do anything wrong and global warning is a fabrication.</p><p>Have you ever been to a Michigan home season opener or have you seen one on TV? It is a lot of fans who have waited a long time. Why don't you just say out loud that you don't give a rat's ass about anyone else but yourself.</p><p>In law if you plead no contest you are considered guilty. And if doesn't matter if the crime is self-reported or done so by the sheriff. But who needs a head coach and an offensive coordinator? What arrogance.</p><p>Here's Sherrone Moore in his first game as sole offensive coordinator and he is suspended.</p><p>You have to be one of those addicts on one of the sites (it shall remain nameless) where people live for the prestige of go-points to half understand it. The most-repeated rumor I have heard is one of the upstairs coaches coaching downstairs, i.e., on the field. It is almost bound to happen when you have a hundred of them. </p><p>This was after, during, or before the business of peeping into other people's email that got Weiss fired in the offseason. Harbaugh sure is a standup guy.</p><p>The team, meanwhile, is on its best streak in probably 30 years and the same formula and players are in place to do it again. Depth is probably improved over last year and the crybabies (e.g., McNamara) are gone. We are almost coming to the season, here and tomorrow.</p><p>But first this. When Jim Harbaugh did come out of his high profile and likely self-congratulatory offseason, he made a fool of himself. His devotion and reaction-to the fans features a 6-minute rant on his organizational, economic, and political wisdom. I don't know, I tried to watch it, it was about paying players. <br /></p><p>Yeah, Jim, that's a great idea. How about a salary cap of $5K to even the playing field?</p><p>Too bad, in his return, he doesn't have to go to New Jersey.</p><p><br /></p><span><!--more--></span><p>I do like the 10AM (MDT games).</p><p>Spencer Tillman--he's the guy who can't seem to stop talking as if he is trying to get it all in before the next commercial. I've been watching baseball lately and, even with the quickened pace it is easier to watch. What was so awful about a stopped clock after a first down? Central and Michigan State.</p><p>Sure it is a bunch of criminals. Worse yet, it is a bunch of criminals who don't mind getting their necks broken. Central Michigan had a 9:35 running/short pass drive. Then one of the hoodlums committed some kind of crime and the Chippewas got a first down on the MSU 6. Jim McElwain looks more like a whale than a shark. </p><p>Please... the first quarter is about to end. Tucker is scowling. By virtue of the long drive, the Spartans couldn't do it, CMU looks better than MSU. The whole thing is rushed and herky-jerky. They're CBS announcers now on FS1; I'm tired of hearing about TV deals. Anyone who sits through the commercials is brain dead. Spartan Stadium is "packed" and I have to ask: why? I stayed tuned long enough to see if Michigan State could do anything with the ball. No. Halfway through the second quarter it is completely even in mediocrity. I can't say I have heard a single player's name in terms of standout performer. I think the guy with the key personal foul is Carter, a highly-regarded transfer.<br /></p><p>BTW. This game started with a Spartan carted off after the kickoff. It happens frequently in the NFL. It is no surprise at all as recent announcements have confirmed that amateur athletics causes CTE too; perhaps you are still immune if you can only make an NFL practice squad too. It is suicide and not a smart thing to participate in.</p><p>EDIT: The suspensions are due to recruiting violations during the Covid period. News, more concise news, came out at the start of the season.</p><p> <br /></p><p>Michigan football has never given a rat's ass about fans or alumni. That is the same way I feel about the school after attending. Many of the players--Corum, Edwards, Sainristill--try or succeed. This year, so far, it has been a boring show and it is not because anything on the field is lacking.</p><p>This morning Friday 9/15/23 I made the mistake of reading Brian Cook's preview of the Bowling Green game on MgoBlog. He has virtually lost it. This has been visible for a long while and it continues downward. </p><p>I cannot see criticizing a team (or quoting my own employees or forum junkies) that beats its rivals, wins its league and plays in the national championship, and the next season is undefeated in blowouts. </p><p>We'll see. Tomorrow, Saturday, I'm looking forward to Washington and Michigan State more than Michigan-BGSU under the lights.</p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-9872431990539356202023-03-02T15:44:00.005-07:002023-03-02T15:45:12.478-07:00Immovable Man<p>Juwan Howard.</p><p>Illinois is coming up in basketball. It is probably the biggest event in Michigan (men's) sports since the football team pooped-out. I am anxious to see the outcome. I may even watch.</p><p>A while back I tuned in for 20 minutes of the Wisconsin game. I was aware that they had won some improbable games--I watched the boxscores. Then I watched the second half.</p><p>Will Tshetter is terrible, you can see it in the stats and the game. Joey Baker, generally speaking, same goes. Jace Howard is aware and can spell a guy, but his minutes or contributions have never increased. Terrance Williams, he too was better as a 5-minute guy off the bench. Tarris Reed, he of recent fame, looked awfully slugish and immobile to me.</p><p>Michigan won the game on a lucky play. Wisconsin is nothing to write home about. Still, Michigan could have won in regulation and did win in overtime with three players.</p><p>Hunter Dickinson has been the go-to guy since he arrived. Last season was depressing all-around. Michigan basketball is going to be lost next year without Dickinson regardless how many freshman or transfers they bring in.</p><p>Dug McDaniel--this was my first look and I'm a big fan of top of mind reactions--is capable and much needed as a ballhandler. Against Wisconsin he had zero assists and rebounds. He has some hot dog. He is lucky to be in the spotlight and playing big minutes. He is young and inexperienced but overall, is is doing okay in an important role.</p><p>Last of the three players, in no particular order, is Kobe Bufkin. Someone has to shoot when Dickinson is triple covered. Like I say, first impressions--when I turned on the game Bufkin was diving for a ball, a player, and the floor for no particular reason. He takes a lot of bad and very quick shots. Quick checks boxscore again--he had some rebounds, assists, and steals against Wisconsin. I think he is a very good all-around player, but this is just his first year of extensive minutes. Like McDaniel, there is no evidence yet he can handle different teams, defenses, and all the rest that goes with playing in the NCAA tournament.</p><p>Dickinson is simple. Don't even mention being confined or limited, he has improved everything from his motivation to game.</p><p>There you go. That is the Michigan basketball team in 300 words or less. They still play hard and win. Now they are in second place in the Big Ten and with a strong finish against Illinois and Indiana... They could win a couple games in the tournament (and in the Big Ten tournament).</p><p>Sorry, then there is more of the Howard family, Jett. Right. Good call. A real memorable addition to Michigan basketball lore. Everything I have read is that he is going to be a NBA lottery pick or at least a first-rounder; when that happens, you go. I can't even remember the names of the two from last year. Everything <i>else</i> I have read about Jett Howard is that they run a lot of plays for him and he is a capable scorer while the rest of his game, especially defense, is terrible. I cannot write positive things until I see them. The team has had their biggest wins, including Michigan State (he played, injured, 23 minutes), without him. He was 1/7 3-point shooting. <br /></p><p><span class="CellPlayerName--long"><span>Illinois is apparently without their point guard. They are 4.5 point favorites. I saw an unusually confident preview: bet the under, it is going to be a slow, grinding game.</span></span></p><p><span class="CellPlayerName--long"><span><br /></span></span></p><p><span class="CellPlayerName--long"><span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p><span></span></p><p><span><br /></span></p><p><span><br /></span></p><p><span><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZq6X4DV3DCrODTOl-OPyEsNoFjdUakQ-ojFj8L2bjsyhKA7wl_IqWJC4zSL2Ds36i-ITDnRkuO7nv5i08JhqMylyYJGBVwLU1I0c7AXqPoVJs23EqEgA02QnoJz2P_Nb3xedwNzFDjEYkXMOaevQ3bXXmbSQONfA4dt5dvJHU0SDIrTRRpzzE6xbtbw/s1400/juwan.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1400" data-original-width="1400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZq6X4DV3DCrODTOl-OPyEsNoFjdUakQ-ojFj8L2bjsyhKA7wl_IqWJC4zSL2Ds36i-ITDnRkuO7nv5i08JhqMylyYJGBVwLU1I0c7AXqPoVJs23EqEgA02QnoJz2P_Nb3xedwNzFDjEYkXMOaevQ3bXXmbSQONfA4dt5dvJHU0SDIrTRRpzzE6xbtbw/s320/juwan.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span><br /></span><p></p><p><span>I was hoping they would lose. Juwan Howard is violent, into BLM, looks out only for his sons, and is obsessed with foreign one and dones who are upset because of the lack of NIL money.</span></p><p><span>The problem is that he is a good basketball coach. Some players respond to him. Quite a few others have left. He can recruit the very best players but he cannot build a stable roster; each year is a risky, win or lose rebuild. </span><span>He is an excellent playcaller and X's and O's coach. </span><span>Somehow the team remains above .500 and in the NCAA Tournament.</span></p><p>In Howard's first year Michigan had Livers, Teske, and Simpson and the team was decent. In his second, Dickinson filled in and Davis stayed; Franz Wagner turned into one of the best Michigan players in the last ten years; Smith and Brown were perfect fill-ins; Livers (injured) too; the team was excellent. Last year, Howard's third and 19-15 was ugly and without promise.</p><p>This season isn't over. They have all survived. <br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-15332761317341358062023-01-24T08:01:00.014-07:002023-01-31T11:36:45.687-07:00Weiss and others<p>"Matt Weiss already exists. Do you want to overwrite it?"</p><p>It is not worth doing again or even finding the image. But co-offensive coordinator Matt Weiss, he of the $850,000 salary, is gone. It was one of those things--you don't get two weeks notice, severance, or even a lot of (unsupervised) time to clean out your office. "For cause" will forever hang over it.</p><p>In the image, he appears disheveled, unshaven, and lacking sleep. They think you are smarter if you look like that. Plus, it makes it look like the job is almost impossible to perform and it requires 20 hours a day 24/7. Only the best and the brightest can do it with that kind of stress and work load.</p><p>The position could otherwise be described as a cakewalk. "Catch the ball and run" might be the extent of the required verbal skills. Despite all the hiring and firing news, it is not a meritocracy; instead it is all about fitting-in, following instructions, and getting along. How else could the same person be brilliant one year and effete or incompetent the next? But of course all the uprooting, moves, and family tension has to be worth it. Just don't mention that word... It is not inconsequential!</p><p>Entitlement is the word, not empowerment. It comes with a fat head. The facts are not clear because Harbaugh and Manuel haven't said a thing. I am trying to cure the addiction of following stuff like this, but at least I can claim it purely as a non-vocational diversion. I do not get paid. It is a way to relax. Probably is is also a continuing effort to rationalize why I never liked the place anyway.<br /></p><p>Weiss was accused of unauthorized computer access and breaking the university/employee agreement, code, or online user agreement. Per journalists and gossip, an IT employee reported it. The breaches occurred more than once and over several days. They were tracked to Schembechler Hall and Weiss.</p><p>I infer it was a university system as campus police responded to Weiss's home. I also assume no serious harm was done because nothing else legal occurred. It appears it was intentional and proven.</p><p>How stupid is that?</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgibqtj7tBvunyyfgpa1dbGU96VUIhN7hvikK9T7a2sfv0fP5Pei_uEWPHpYUe4ROytBM4foTz_B4V9fhWIcBNGOUIf_UiHzMVXNYCgOHuSshzsMZ6zUEle-rTi6Yk07a0IVB6djPWOBn4uCuE6yS5-mlyAxI5zmoGzO2KF1nCyXgDSN8AHfMQxfiVi0Q/s1280/matt-weiss.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgibqtj7tBvunyyfgpa1dbGU96VUIhN7hvikK9T7a2sfv0fP5Pei_uEWPHpYUe4ROytBM4foTz_B4V9fhWIcBNGOUIf_UiHzMVXNYCgOHuSshzsMZ6zUEle-rTi6Yk07a0IVB6djPWOBn4uCuE6yS5-mlyAxI5zmoGzO2KF1nCyXgDSN8AHfMQxfiVi0Q/s320/matt-weiss.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><span><a name='more'></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><p></p><p>Weiss will land somewhere because he has the resume and it is all about connections and loyalty; wins don't hurt either.</p><p>How someone makes their money is always a comment on character.<br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcABOGRZsUf8_0k6pJDwteHK5MH2Q1nO7vnVHopHfuzEvalW4JDvltdbxs2BtIAkVqcYM47fCp_PIDE-xOakNi-V4AtCauev9IFuL9z9BQMVhcu_dqdkKkKPNjlQxsdOD5SO0Da31lMiyNE1xdFyVnN6rXwd_nP6_tNPmmMXGvDEZGY1pD9A4LteF4Wg/s1898/Screenshot%202023-01-24%20at%2006-38-19%20Unverified%20Voracity%20Developed%20An%20Immunity%20To%20Piddling%20Horsecrap.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="890" data-original-width="1898" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcABOGRZsUf8_0k6pJDwteHK5MH2Q1nO7vnVHopHfuzEvalW4JDvltdbxs2BtIAkVqcYM47fCp_PIDE-xOakNi-V4AtCauev9IFuL9z9BQMVhcu_dqdkKkKPNjlQxsdOD5SO0Da31lMiyNE1xdFyVnN6rXwd_nP6_tNPmmMXGvDEZGY1pD9A4LteF4Wg/w320-h150/Screenshot%202023-01-24%20at%2006-38-19%20Unverified%20Voracity%20Developed%20An%20Immunity%20To%20Piddling%20Horsecrap.png" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p> </p><p>So that is what Jett Howard looks like. Thankfully for all, it is not likely that I will be joining the team. If I did, I would not wear a BLM patch. And if I were Japanese, Chinese, Mexican, or from any of the other 191 countries in the world, I would question it also.</p><p>Please lose and remove Juwan Howard ASAP. I check the scores. I hope they lose. It is way more than the patch.</p><p>Think about it. How bad will the team be when he runs out of kids? <br /></p><p>Which brings me to... I looked for something from mgoblog and Brian Cook; you know, click bait and all. This writer doesn't give a rat's ass about anyone in the Howard family drafted or playing in the NBA. Same goes for PFF ratings and the NFL draft. Reposting from ESPN doesn't help a lot either; at least add that every one of the names on the transfer out list was a problem or non-contributor.</p><p>Finally, if Harbaugh is guilty of a Level II violation he is guilty. Known or should have known is not that vague.</p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-61824013018332891862023-01-12T06:02:00.003-07:002023-01-22T11:32:00.671-07:00Harbaugh and Manuel<p>You can go through the posts here if you are either suicidal or really bored. They point to Jim Harbaugh as difficult to understand. </p><p>In retrospect, the only times he has been really annoying is when he doesn't say anything or explain or when he is portrayed as something somewhere that is untrue or only partially true.</p><p>A quick Google search of "former michigan mississippi" leads to Chris Partridge, Matt Dudek, Devin Bush, Sr. and others. Josh Gattis, also, has not proven to be a loss for Michigan and Miami has yet to prove anything resembling a turnaround.</p><p>Those schools that have seemingly come out of nowhere include TCU, Kansas State, Florida State, Washington, Oregon State and others. And Michigan can be added to that list. Three, four, five years ago there was no indication Michigan would win the Big Ten, get to the CFP, and win against Ohio State and Michigan State.</p><p>If Harbaugh was similar to the individually-created, now despicable former Prince Harry he would go on every talk show, write management or self-help books like Jim Tressel, or smash motorcycles with slut staff to prove himself. Or, like Nick Saban, what is it, insurance commercials?</p><p>Thankfully, he doesn't do any of that. It just isn't him.</p><p>Remember when he first started as Michigan coach, all the things he was involved in. First, there were the camps, tryout, expos, or whatever they were called. They were harmless and completely voluntary. Who would have known that would be controversial in any way? There were some other fights or issues too, maybe with the school or NCAA. I don't remember--he was jetting off with the likes of Hillary Clinton and he was sticking his nose in things and getting a lot of attention.</p><p>That all changed or stopped. <br /></p><p>Then, the seasons went well but they always finished poorly. Call it the Karon Higdon syndrome.</p><p>Concentrate on football. 13-0. Throughout, Jim Harbaugh has been the one constant.</p><p>Michigan football has weathered the NIL, transfer, crime-probe environment pretty well and better than most. How is Texas A&M doing on the field? Transfers come and go for a while or a bit longer; Cade McNamara and Erick All turned into distractions. Transfers out are overwhelmingly players who can't crack the lineup or for whom it is time to move on. Harbaugh--a lot of contacts--and staff have found ways to plug holes and deal with the university. Aside from the one psycho linebacker several years ago, Michigan football has been criminal and major-distraction free.<br /></p><p>Blake Corum, probably Michigan's most dangerous player since Denard, is coming back. Last year too, there have been quite a few rational, best-for-the-long-term decisions. Everyone cannot play at once; player development is working. There is relatively little disharmony.<br /></p><p>The other day I read a comment somewhere that the only thing Warde Manuel has done right is hire Juwan Howard. The Michigan football team is doing a whole lot better than the basketball team and it doesn't have a team comprised of family, BLM patches, a violent coach, or players who don't give a sh*t about...</p><p>That's the thing. The Michigan football brand is complex. It was way too much for, you know the former athletic director's name. Every opposing coach says it: "They're Michigan." </p><p>It is kind of like, either you understand and you are in, or you are not. Either that amorphous thing draws you to it or it does not. And when it doesn't, it is a great new world with plenty of options.<br /></p><p>FWIW, Harbaugh is less crotchety than Lloyd Carr, who wanted to leave and couldn't/didn't. Overall, he is the best coach and Michigan representative since Bo Schembechler.</p><p>---</p><p>My $.02. </p><p>I don't think there is any question that being an NFL coach is rosier--private practice complex, first class everything and, like college, complete control. In the NFL the only one(s) you have to please are the owner(s). Huge dollars but likely only a few years. We have all been there: sometimes it is hard to get it out of your head.<br /></p><p>Those following this second NFL courting have speculated, or proven, that it is more or less a ploy. That is in theory because all the news is rumor or tidbits anyway. </p><p>Harbaugh: 'I've someone gives me the keys and the bucks, I'm gone.'</p><p>Why not? Who wouldn't.</p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p><br /></p><p>I do not see the NFL offering anything better than Michigan. NFL owners have their people too, and just like in San Francisco, nobody gets an entirely free reign. It is just too risky--there is no guarantee Harbaugh can turn an NFL team around in the three or four years that coaches gets, and everyone, including Harbaugh, is going to be worse off than they are now. <br /></p><p>Who the heck is Santa Ono, the Canadian immunologist? </p><p>---</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXYfikxbU5XEoxStsSHUizSQmBNAe0NcXMVJPg3_WtV8r5R6Ar1u9tu_etQH10c2l8Apz3R8_nfW3VTy-hvHXM8g-9Dx3r0w2coqKNvJtyK4ZPlVHL7UtqEDrGwAqJOnp5Y-vRFVnmDQjKpkPZ8AmOb9NvyzHU6TZyklkJl4JBjqdbpSmYcrdBsFTnTQ/s1629/Screenshot%202023-01-16%20at%2009-00-33%20The%20Washington%20Post%20-%20Breaking%20news%20and%20latest%20headlines%20U.S.%20news%20world%20news%20and%20video.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="1629" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXYfikxbU5XEoxStsSHUizSQmBNAe0NcXMVJPg3_WtV8r5R6Ar1u9tu_etQH10c2l8Apz3R8_nfW3VTy-hvHXM8g-9Dx3r0w2coqKNvJtyK4ZPlVHL7UtqEDrGwAqJOnp5Y-vRFVnmDQjKpkPZ8AmOb9NvyzHU6TZyklkJl4JBjqdbpSmYcrdBsFTnTQ/w480-h185/Screenshot%202023-01-16%20at%2009-00-33%20The%20Washington%20Post%20-%20Breaking%20news%20and%20latest%20headlines%20U.S.%20news%20world%20news%20and%20video.png" width="480" /></a></div><br /><p>It is strange how the NFL gets our attention. Harbaugh must realize that it is more fleeting than his days at Michigan. He is concerned with his success and legacy. Despite his wins as a coach, but given his age and history of not getting along (at times), he knows his future is more secure at Michigan.</p><p>In the Big Ten this past season began with Northwestern vs. Nebraska in Ireland. Maybe if they were really great teams it would have been an event, but then again, if they were, they wouldn't be doing it. College football is about rivalries, championships, and venues--that is where the security comes from. Those experiences, and how they are virtually ingrained in fans and alumni, is carries it on. Say what you will about jobs or careers in the NFL, it can never last the legacy of Michigan football.</p><p>That is why they are all scared to death of saying a thing. It is a continuous blow to the loyalists. <br /></p><p>The ultimate, inexplicable example that I cannot get out of my mind is mgoblog.com. The whole thing is ruled by an insatiable discussion forum. They are glued to it as if permanently. </p><p>I admit I find it an addiction. But there haven't been two more successful seasons in at least decades. Stop the reflections, predictions, and the endless waste of time and just watch the games when they are on.</p><p>As for the NFL, that's all it is too, just a game on TV. It is fine and all, if you want your body and perhaps mind too to hurt for the rest of your life. You know, I think that is a problem these days--people who stay too long. Some jobs (and sports) are not supposed to be careers. </p><p>Sometimes you have to do something risky, or controversial, because you may want something different or more. At 60 years of age though, like Harbaugh, you should know. The rest is just playing or a negotiation game. Of that, Coach Harbaugh is guilty again.</p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-18173498350814279922022-12-28T07:56:00.001-07:002023-01-10T17:24:22.964-07:00TCU Comin'<p><br /></p><p>The reason to cheer all-in for Michigan football, still this year, is more games. That's right, we've already had number thirteen. Fourteen is coming up and it is winnable so there could be <i>FIFTEEN.</i> A 15-game season with the potential to be 15-0 is possible. </p><p>Michigan's team this year, it is awfully dry, but look at this:<br /></p><p><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2022_All-Big_Ten_Conference_football_team">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2022_All-Big_Ten_Conference_football_team</a></p><p>It is a balanced with a lot of stars. By this time--13 games--there are more standout players like Donovan Edwards, Colston Loveland, Kris Jenkins, Mason Graham, Michael Barrett, Will Johnson, and Mike Sainristil. </p><p>Normally this leads to a lot of looking toward next year. You cannot predict that.</p><p>Granted, it is the biggest game in 20 years at least for each of these teams, but there is nothing more to analyze or prepare for until New Year's Eve until for this one. The endless blog posts don't offer a thing that's original. You can spy on practices, but they are not going to tell us who is injured. Analyzing the games? There hasn't been one for a month.</p><p>This is a once in a lifetime game for the players and you don't want anyone on the trip to Arizona who is not all in. Those who were that eager to run to Iowa, or Connecticut, or Massachusetts are gone. Their loss.</p><p>Michigan's team this year has come a long way. Who they are now is not who they were at the beginning of the season, starting with Blake Corum. The hit on his knee was legal and happens often to running backs. That he decided to try and play against Ohio State may mean it isn't serious and he gets to choose his future these days. He is probably the best, or most successful, running back many Michigan fans have ever seen. That was obscured because Donovan Edwards was injured.</p><p>Edwards has been amazing. You don't see many guys who can outrun Ohio State's backfield. Even with the cast they threw to him in the endzone! Edwards is of course the same person he was at the start of the season. I know we've seen the receiving before, and I've noticed some attempts at power inside, but now he runs with power inside. His speed is uncatchable! We definitely didn't know he had the moves before Purdue and Ohio State. The way the offensive line is playing and with him in the backfield, anyone would be a fool (e.g., Jim Knowles) to load the box. </p><p>I've always felt that is plus for the Michigan team--if you're a 5-star who is grounded enough, you will play. J.J. McCarthy and Donovan Edwards are in the same recruiting class. (Before I forget, McCarthy and Ronnie Bell are working fantastic with each other.) The QB and running back were both <a href="https://www.maizenbrew.com/michigan-football-recruiting/2021/1/19/22238475/michigan-wolverines-football-recruiting-early-enrolled-players-2021-class-jj-mccarthy-andrel-anthony" target="_blank">early enrollees</a>; together with others (like Junior Colson), these players have already completed virtually three years of football at Michigan.</p><p>Even if JJ and Donovan get demolished nineteen different ways by TCU, at their age they'll recover. If you are a star in three years, which pretty much means good enough to start, your life choices are your own and we wish you the best.</p><p>Pressure? The highest rated game all season? Purdue's Aiden O'Connell kept Purdue in that game. Michigan may never have a 6th year quarterback, but Alan Bowman will be there! It is that never-defined, always-known Michigan brand. You don't go there and you certainly don't get this far if you cannot take it.</p><p>It isn't even about the names I'll try and mention. It is about the 2-deep.<br /></p><p>For TCU fans reading this, it is about why Michigan is a dangerous team. For Michigan fans it is about the season so far. <br /></p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p>cont'd</p><p>The only thing that matters is more games. I enjoy watching them and usually record them.</p><p>The B1G championship and CFP are a lot better than an opt-out bowl.<br /></p><p> </p><p> </p><p><br /></p><p> <br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-81763406030711806872022-12-21T09:19:00.020-07:002022-12-24T06:10:12.131-07:00The Prima Donna Diaries<p>National signing day and Cade McNamara are hardly news.</p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCPXZzziT0EYPYNqDOzGIzGqnB-5ora5JNiV8Ze6MDn0muggRnjNdq330xGlBOws9Nft1n9PxgPNHHq9pSl6KX1Ljtc1VR0pE_3dUYaS0ZYKBhue1kPgdhwifN3V5a7RQ-GQ7EsO8d7FUyXDcqnbtSC4k5debxgad7l1k0tNLOjEt3JRhdsyMU-dvLRw/s1015/4f3e4b1c-f6bb-4690-a1ca-9d6372030f54-large16x9_Fi7ySJfVIAAYWrY.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="571" data-original-width="1015" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCPXZzziT0EYPYNqDOzGIzGqnB-5ora5JNiV8Ze6MDn0muggRnjNdq330xGlBOws9Nft1n9PxgPNHHq9pSl6KX1Ljtc1VR0pE_3dUYaS0ZYKBhue1kPgdhwifN3V5a7RQ-GQ7EsO8d7FUyXDcqnbtSC4k5debxgad7l1k0tNLOjEt3JRhdsyMU-dvLRw/w503-h283/4f3e4b1c-f6bb-4690-a1ca-9d6372030f54-large16x9_Fi7ySJfVIAAYWrY.jpg" width="503" /></a></div><p> </p><p>Michigan is smart to go after the portal hard and fast. The market has changed and there are things you cannot control. Don't sit back. You want the success to last.</p><p>The drama that is really innuendo with McNamara and Erick All has, until now, pervaded. Now that the cast has been officially reset, the stench can diffuse all the way to Iowa. My God, the team is playing for a national championship, for the second time with experience under their belts, and you desert the team?</p><p>Get used to it. You are there because of physical achievement. Injuries and a short career are part of it.</p><p>Michigan did the right thing by replacing them when they had the chance. Birds in hand can get messy. The whole thing is a mess full of opportunities. </p><p>If the team is near or at the top of the Big Ten again next year we will have a chance to learn their names. One of the portal transfers looks to take a position on the O-line; another is a starting B1G tight end; one is a fast, young edge; Hausmann is the equivalent of a top-250 recruit with a year of experience; finally the Stanford transfers provide depth for Michigan's bread and butter of mauling. The 2-time transfer Indiana QB (Jack Tuttle) fills the Alan Bowman role--experienced teammate (he knows what he is in for) in case of a disaster.</p><p>In case of another Cade disaster, that is. It is smart as hell. Why groom the kids when their replacements are right there on the shelf? And we know they are all capable students.<br /></p><p>The great part about it is everyone knows where they stand. Certainly these kids know the Michigan roster, as do the coaches. It is a win-win.</p><p><br /><span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMYQJ919jydPO7jpldVGgPdu-auGDT5ItFH4j-UJoskEfcIMNckv7PhcI7No9H_WOn8kgJmxJrxANJARsTq3aV8WsvOjzyeBBBjdTveGHR-5UPLaV-F-Lk1RVTUf1iVmug6tGoMX6zKwo3jOOH6Rg5ld5RGhRLesyyKpLkHRyrceKVp2y-gRQs6jsEzQ/s1898/Screenshot%202022-12-21%20at%2010-52-32%202023%20Consensus%20Football%20Team%20Recruiting%20Rankings.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="890" data-original-width="1898" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMYQJ919jydPO7jpldVGgPdu-auGDT5ItFH4j-UJoskEfcIMNckv7PhcI7No9H_WOn8kgJmxJrxANJARsTq3aV8WsvOjzyeBBBjdTveGHR-5UPLaV-F-Lk1RVTUf1iVmug6tGoMX6zKwo3jOOH6Rg5ld5RGhRLesyyKpLkHRyrceKVp2y-gRQs6jsEzQ/w439-h290/Screenshot%202022-12-21%20at%2010-52-32%202023%20Consensus%20Football%20Team%20Recruiting%20Rankings.png" width="439" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>
</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><iframe class="twofourseven-embed" frameborder="0" height="200" src="https://247sports.com/college/michigan/Season/2023-Football/Commits/Embed/" style="max-width: 100%;" title="Commits Embed" width="600"></iframe></p><p></p><p><br /></p><p>While ahead in the win-loss standings, Michigan is behind a lot of teams in terms of rankings and NIL. On3 publishes the NIL money. Blake Corum comes up at around $1.4 million in value.</p><p>Is this the new reality, that Michigan is 15-20 in national recruiting rankings, or right around where they should be based on payouts?<br /></p><p>If Blake Corum is worth $1.4 million his career starts there. He is looking to maximize and extend that. Every other kid and player on each team, those temporarily or not in the portal, and each high school or younger student good enough to be recruited is doing the same thing. </p><p>Corum could redshirt and work on his degree. He could play for Michigan next year and risk being the workhorse again. Or, he could--and probably will--rehab, work toward the combines, and continue his career in the NFL as a mid-round draft choice. <br /></p><p>There are many options--good options--for many of these players cum students. Some will prosper and many will fail. And that forms the basis of, what is the point of going through your entire life pointing to a college football career? These decisions have always been there, but now they have a great big dollar sign on them for all to see.</p><p>The dollars are immediate. More importantly, they show the intent, the motive, and the trajectory.</p><p>In terms of the recruiting class, I look at the number of recruits in the 300-plus range as likely to be starters if they stay four or five years. They are odds-on players to be paid after college at least on a practice squad basis. They can legitimately realize their goal of being a part of pro football. This is not to say others in the class do count--there may be sleepers, injuries, kickers, who knows.</p><p>Stretching things for offer list, upward movement, and Michigan's resources in terms of scouting, this class has 8-10 recruits in this range. Add 5-7 already experienced 4-stars, the signees in the top national recruit category is 13-17. Penn State this year--down to #14 has 14 4-stars and one 5-star. For Michigan it is a strong recruiting class, especially given it is for both the future and next year. <br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7245130573728759382.post-41013870280852700522022-10-31T14:25:00.001-06:002023-09-11T09:57:19.386-06:00Aftermath<p> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/g-BHNOMCygs" width="320" youtube-src-id="g-BHNOMCygs"></iframe></p><p><br />See the tweet from 7:15 AM on Sunday. This is worse. Don't know why Mel would swing at someone who touched him; haven't seen the door slam or hitting of the wall. He often looks angry, upset, and threatening.</p><p>We've seen it before. Juwan Howard has an anger problem. Articulateness is not his forte either. <br /></p><p>This continues to gain steam and Tucker seems to be doing the wrong things.</p><p>He appears in over his head.</p><p>I'd ask him what the matter was</p><p>But I know he don't talk.</p><p>Oh, mama, can this really be the end?</p><p>To be stuck inside...</p><p> </p><p>I think it is going to get worse for Mel before it gets better. The season is severely harmed. Making a bowl is going to be more difficult than it was last week. It seems to me all he cares about is the won-loss record. <br /></p><p>He is not as bad as Dantonio, but it is pretty clear he says things and does things that cause trouble. You don't constantly criticize the opposing team and tell everyone how you are going to exploit them, particularly when you are badly beaten. It still shows: he is not talking about the victims, the Michigan win, or the rot on his own team. Now, late afternoon in Michigan on Monday, no one has been been kicked off Michigan State team and Tucker still hasn't attempted to heal things with Michigan. He seems unable. <br /></p><p>For Michigan, it spoils a nice win. It is just a football game and it is supposed to be about that.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0