Wolverine Wednesday: Last Bit of Buzz From The Sub

Since we are officially out of the Sub and game week, I wanted to give you the last post on Sub buzz on what I have heard from a couple of places.  Again, these are rumors and not fact:

• Drake Johnson is banged up.  We are not clear on the injury (or if it was from the Forklift incident) but it might keep him out a few games.   This now really opens the door for Evans if accurate.   Smith #1, Isaac #2, Evans #3.   There is also some buzz that Higdon has had a couple of injury issues as well and has missed a large part of camp.

• Kareem Walker is not in the mix right now and could be on transfer watch.  As we know he had an "issue" early in camp and were not sure it's fully been resolved. 

• The 3 freshman WR's have done very well and should see the field this year:  McDoom, Johnson and Crawford.   I like Johnson and McDoom in the Slot, I like Crawford as an outside WR.   BTW: Crawford could be sporting #1 (his roster number) on game day.   That would be something.   Some freshman numbers will be changing this week, as some may have qualified for special teams and there can't be anyway the same number would be on the field at the same time.

3 more days, 3 more days...........................

• Hawaii asked for Michigan's scrimmage tape, Jimmy declined.  

• Beyer, Wilson, Ross, and Kerridge all made the first cuts by the NFL this week.

• We still haven't seen at depth chart and not sure we are going to get one before Saturday.

Michigan Tuesday: Prediction Time

We have been on a wild ride since the App. State curse or maybe even the Adidas curse.   We have seen RR come and go, Brady Hoke have a successful first year and then drop like a rock to the bottom of the pool.  Turning the battleship was not easy and probably wasn't even needed.  

Michigan now has one of the best head coaches in the country.  A guy that attended Pioneer for only one year but played his football at the University of Michigan.   Ann Arbor is home for him and it's great to have him back.  

We're in very good shape with the head coach position at U of M. 

Michigan really hasn't had a 3 down RB since Mike Hart.  DeVeon Smith took that position with a  very nice finish to the 2015 season topped off with a great performance in the Citrus Bowl, against one of the best rushing defensives in the country.    Since Smiths running style takes a ton of contact, Michigan can go 6 deep in back-ups.

Michigan's defense has been pretty good for a few years, lead by Greg Mattison.   Greg is still there but now Michigan has hired the Barron of the Blitz or the Prince of Pressure in Don Brown from BC.    We all expect Michigan's defense should be one of the best in the country. 

Head coach - Check!
Running Back - Check!
Defense - Check!

What's missing?  A QB that doesn't fold under pressure and doesn't make the big mistake.  It sounds a lot like Alabama's winning formula doesn't?   I don't think Jimmy is trying to use Saban's blue print but he is trying to build a power football team and not a Oregon style program. 

This is why the worst kept secret is that Wilton Speight will be the opening day starter.   A guy that seems comfortable under center now and seems to make the right decision.   Yes, O'Korn has a higher upside but the hope is, Wilton will make the right read at the right time.

QB - (I will let you know in a couple weeks)

Those are all the pieces you need folks.   Add an All American TE, a couple very good WR's.   Our cup runeth over my friends and this is the year to prove Michigan Football is officially back and here to stay. 


Pre-Big 10:  All at home and all wins  (Hawaii, UCF, Colorado)

• Michigan will get tested with an improved Penn State team.  I don't see this as a blow out,  maybe a 24-13 game.  

• I'm not sure what Wisconsin has this year, they aren't ranked and open at home against LSU.  I think Michigan easily out coaches and talents this team.   Michigan 31 Wisconsin 14.

• Michigan doesn't play on the road until 10/8 with a trip to Rutgers.  I don't expect Rutgers is ready to play big boy football just yet.   Michigan wins big. 

• Home again for Lovie Smith and Illinois.   Another Michigan win

• On the road to East Lansing with something to prove.   Michigan wins a close game.

• I was not sold on Iowa last year and the Rose Bowl proved it.  This will be a cold difficult game but I like Michigan here by a field goal. 

• Maryland at home, they will be a better team by November, but Michigan will have too much talent.

• Home against IU.  Please not again.  Michigan finds a way to win. 

• This is the one game, I think Michigan might find too difficult.  Yes, the Wolverines have everything to play for but OSU has great coaching and talent.   Who will be healthy and who won't be?   Michigan loses to the Buckeyes

11-1 on the season and heading to the Rose Bowl. 

I don't like to think playoffs in the preseason, too many things can happen during the next 3 months.  Michigan's hardest games are away from the Big House (MSU, Iowa, OSU).  None of those games are gimmies for the Wolverines.  I also think Michigan has a great chance of winning in CBus this year, I just need to see this team play on the road first.  For example, it will take great QB play to win this game, is Wilton able to do that?

This team has two real question marks at QB and at LB.  That's it.  The QB will be protected by the running game and offensive line.  The LB's will be protected by a great Dline and Great DB's. 

It's a great problem to have.

Can't wait for Saturday.

Michigan Monday: Welcomes You To Game Week

Its been a long time coming and now it's here, Game Week!  We expect the two deep out today and should understand what the starters and backups look like.  

Jimmy said during his TV show that there could be up to 10 true freshman on the two deep.  He didn't give any specifics but that is a lot of freshman that could be playing early and often. 

"From the very beginning, what I really wanted to look at was 'who would be on track' and athletically would be a good enough football player to track on the two-deep," Harbaugh said. "Either a starter, a backup, a contributor on special teams. Let's look at that for the first two weeks."

"I'd say right now I can think of 10 easy that will be in the two-deep as a starter or backup -- more backups than starters."

I don't know if the following is accurate or not, but here is a possible RB depth chart that was making the rounds on Sunday night:

1. Smith
2. Isaac
3. Evans
4. Johnson
5. Higdon
6. Davis
7. Walker

Here is why I don't believe this is accurate.  Michigan will go two or three deep in their depth chart.  They don't go to seven.  I could see the first 3 being accurate, little surprised Drake Johnson isn't #3 but Evans has had a ton of Sub Buzz.   If this is accurate, I expect Davis and Walker to probably use a redshirt year.

• Michigan is a 41 point favorite on Saturday. 

• Jimmy has his Week 1 PC at 2:30.  The official two deep should be out then. Update: Jimmy didn't day much, he did say the QB's do know who will be starting on Saturday (so the internet rumor this weekend might be true that it's Wilton).   They didn't release a depth chart either.   He did call out David Long doing a great job in coverage during the last practice.

Wolverine Weekend Update: Captains and A Starter at QB?

First off, Michigan's two senior captains this year will be Jake Butt on Offense and Chris Wormley on Defense.   Two guys that have seen the up and downs with the program and two guys that could have turned pro last year.  Congratulations to both!

• A respected poster on Mgoblog has said that Wilton Speight will be the opening day starter against Hawaii at the Big House next Saturday.   If true, he did hold a slight edge over O'Korn in the Spring and must have impressed in Fall Camp.   Time to think of a nickname for Wilton!

• Speaking of next Saturday, Hawaii opened against Cal last night in Australia.  If you didn't stay up the Rainbow Warriors lost 51-31.   The Vegas line you ask?  Cal -20, how do they do that?

Michigan Friday: Walk-On's Get Scholarships

Per Twitter: 3 Michigan Walk-on's get the much prized scholarship.   If you listen, you can hear 3 sets of parents cheering loudly.  

-Quarterback Garrett Moores
-Safety AJ Pearson
-LB Mike Wroblewski

Congratulations to all 3!

• There continues to be positive sub buzz on Ben Bredeson being the starting left tackle.

• Warde says he is working on re-scheduling MSU for future years.  I don' expect anything for many years.

• Don't forget our week one opponent plays tonight to kickoff the college football season!  Hawaii vs. Cal in Australia, 10:00 PM EST ESPN

Michigan Thursday: More Players Leaving

This has been a strange week for Michigan Football.  We have seen a couple de-commitments and a kicker leave the program.   Now comes more news:


First off, 2018 GA OG Jalil Irvin decided he would join the 2018 de-commitment party.  To be honest, I hadn't remembered he even committed.    So at this point and being so early, this is not considered a major loss.


Then something that has been rumored for months happened: true Freshman WR Ahmir Mitchell transferred.  Ahmir got into some trouble this summer and was currently suspended from the team.  The rumor was that he was expected to be suspended for the rest of the year.   He obviously wasn't a big fan of that decision and decided he could find greener pastures elsewhere. 


Good thing Michigan is happy with Johnson, Crawford and McDoom as Hawkins and Mitchell didn't even make it to Labor Day with the program.


You can also tell that we are getting close to college football and ESPN is starving for news, as the mistaken thank you note to Aubrey Solomon made the rounds on all the ESPN shows and outlets.


Football can't get here soon enough...................

Michigan Tuesday: A Hat Trick of Leaving

I was starting to think things are pretty boring around the program right now as the sub seems pretty deep at the moment, then Monday happened. 


Monday was a interesting day for the Michigan Football team for it's current and future roster needs.   Michigan had one current player transfer and a de-commitment from the 2017 and 2018 classes.   The strange thing is, all of it was "sort" of expected.   Let's start with player that left the program. 


Kicker Andrew David:  Many programs handle kickers and punters differently.  Some don't even offer scholarships to those positions and expect walk-ons to cover it.   An example is, Michigan's top kicker and punter right now, Kenny Allen.   He was a walk-on but probably on scholarship now.   Andrew David the kicker with two first names was a red-shirt freshman or sophomore (depending on how you look at it) as he didn't see any game action last year.   He was originally a Brady Hoke commit and Jimmy kept him in the class when he took the job.   Michigan recruited hard the #1 kicker in the nation in Quinn Nordin in the last class and it was clear there was not much confidence in Andrew.  The practice reports were also pretty rough on the young man and going into last year there was serious concern with the place kicking before Kenny took the role.  With Kenny as a senior and Quinn looking to take the job after that, the writing was on the wall for Andrew and he decided to transfer to TCU.   Good Luck to him in Texas!


Next to jump off the boat was Ohio 2018 recruit, Leonard Taylor.   It is really a long time before signing day 2018 and it's not surprise that Leonard de-committed.   He committed very early to Michigan and insiders believed that Michigan would have to pretty much lock him in a room to keep him from de-committing in the future.   They were right and most expect him to end up in Columbus.   He is a very good player but Michigan has a ton of time to replace him in the 2018 class. 


To finish off the day and the hat trick of leaving was DT Aubrey Solomon.   Same as Taylor above, when he made his surprise commitment to Michigan this summer, most insiders believed he would not be in Michigan's class come signing day.   As expected, he pull the trigger on his de-commitment last night but will still take an official to Ann Arbor.   Insiders feel he is headed to Georgia.   It also seems that Michigan's recruiting team had a miss step with him as they sent his mom a thank you letter for attending the BBQ and miss spelled his name.   The issue is Aubrey didn't attend the BBQ.   Yes, that was a decent sized mistake and the loss of Solomon in this class is significant.   I also expect that the Michigan coaches understood his commitment was never written in stone and have plenty of backup plans.  With what I expect to be the best defensive lines in the country this year, I think a few players will be interested in getting coached by Brown and Mattison. 

Michigan Monday: ND Has A Tough Weekend

The countdown begins, less then two weeks away from Michigan Football.   How does that sound?


The pre-season AP Poll came out yesterday and Michigan came in ranked #7.   I actually like that spot, Michigan still has a lot to prove to folks outside the program and I'm ok with anything in the top 10.

• Notre Dame had a difficult weekend as 6 players got arrested in two different incidents over the weekend.  Senior DB Max Redfield was thrown off the team completely, senior CB Devin Butler has been suspended indefinitely, the other 4 players will be punished internally.   Max had been in trouble in the past and was sent home from the Fiesta Bowl.  Devin has a broken foot and was going to miss the first part of the season anyway.  A tip of the hat goes to ND, for handling this situation quickly and swiftly.  ND is ranked #10 in the AP poll and opens on the road against an improved Texas team.

• KJ Hamler who is a slot recruit from Michigan (who transferred to IMG for his senior year) has torn his ACL.   Good luck to KJ as he recovers.

For you Monday motivation:

Michigan Friday: A Butt Above

Jake Butt is getting a ton of press these days, as he should.   He is one of the best Tight Ends in the country and his last name is very similar to the position he plays.  


ESPN took notice and did a nice write up Jake and his family.   They all seem to embrace their last name and even have fun with it on some custom 88 jerseys.


Even Jimmy Fallon and his "Tonight Show" writers have made their wisecracks over his name. Last December, after Butt claimed the Big Ten tight end of the year award, Fallon dedicated a full minute of his opening monologue to some rapid-fire, bottom-shelf humor.


"Other tight ends are mad, but they don't want to make a big stink about it," Fallon deadpanned. "Butt would brag, but he doesn't want to toot his own horn."


Jake on his last name:


"I love it so much," he said. "I think that's one of my greatest traits. It has really allowed me to grow my platform and build my brand."


His sprawling family loves the Butt brand, too. They're easy to spot at any Michigan game. As many as 50 of them tailgate together while wearing versions of Jake's jersey, sporting his perfectly rounded No. 88 along with a fanny pack full of puns.


His father, Rob, goes with either "Head Butt" or "Papa Butt." Other family members wear jerseys such as "I Like Big Butt," "Nice Butt" and "Kick Butt." One of Jake's aunts, Theresa, added an apostrophe to her name to make her jersey read "There's a Butt."


"We taught our kids at an early age to just have fun with it," Rob Butt said. "The whole family, we just enjoy the silliness of it."

• Great story on Vincent Smith and Martavious Odoms making a difference with their gardens.

• Glasgow limped off the field last night in the Lions second pre-season game.   Rudock threw a pick but did go 8-of-11 passing for 90 yards with a TD drive.

Michigan Thursday: Freshman Hype

This is the best time of year for practice hype, during Fall Camp you have your entire football team including all the incoming freshman.   This year has been no different and there are clearly two guys that seem to be getting a ton of hype: Rashan Gary and Chris Evans.


Rashan is no surprise as the #1 player in the nation.  Getting hype during his first camp/practices is to be expected.   The surprise seems to be all the buzz around Chris Evans. 


Chris was a 5'11 RB in high school in Indy and many recruiting experts expected his role might be at CB or Slot WR at the next level.   They weren't really sure how he was going to project to big time college football.    As you know, Jimmy likes to recruit football players and he knew that Chris was one and his speed could make a difference at a number of positions. 


Chris committed to Michigan early and got a late January offer from Ohio State, many thought that offer could flip the talented athlete from Indianapolis.   He thought about it and stayed committed to Michigan.


Now he is getting buzz as a Freshman that will make an impact this year at RB. 


Here are some tweets from a players press conference yesterday:

Both De'Veon Smith and Drake Johnson both mentioned Chris Evans as sticking out.

— Josh Henschke (@JoshHenschke) August 17, 2016

Mason Cole also praised Evans, says he really knows his stuff.

— Josh Henschke (@JoshHenschke) August 17, 2016

Drake Johnson, who is roomies with Evans, says he's "mad athletic" and smooth. Makes them say "wow."

— Josh Henschke (@JoshHenschke) August 17, 2016




We are also starting to hear that Eddie McDoom is very fast and could be a deep threat this year. 


The Big Ten network called Bredeson an elite freshman and a guy that should start right away.   He was holding his own against Gary in some pass rush drills.


True Freshman we haven't heard any buzz on yet includes: David Long, Carlo Kemp, Devin Bush Jr., and Khaaleke Hudson.



Something I didn't know:


Moe Ways broke his foot in Spring Ball but is back healthy now.  "Yeah, Moe hasn't missed a day," Harbaugh said. "Moe's done a nice job. He doesn't seem to have any ill-effects from the injury he sustained in the spring. The play he got hurt, it was a touchdown pass, and he broke the fifth metacarpal in his foot. But he's showing no signs of that lingering or slowing him down."


Moe is expected to see significant time at WR this year. 

Wolverine Wednesday: Is Wilton Winning The Job?

The Big Ten Network watched practice on Monday and they came away with a number of observations.  Most of them we knew already but they are seemingly indicating that Wilton might still have a slight edge on the QB job.


On the rise: Wilton Speight. The 6-6, 243-pound junior QB looked good for most of practice, showing just enough niftiness with his feet along with a strong arm.


All eyes are on the QB spot, just like last season. There isn’t a lot of experience on the depth chart. But Houston transfer John O’Korn has starting experience. He is battling Wilton Speight and Shane Morris with O’Korn and Speight leading the way. In the end, I wouldn’t be shocked if Speight lands the job. He’s a steady force who looked good last year when forced into action. He moves well for a 6-6, 243-pound QB and he throws well. Speight just may be the guy when it’s all said and done.


We know Jimmy won't give up who the better QB is at this point.  It was clear Ruddock was the top QB last year and Jimmy didn't give up who was the starter until the week of the Utah game.    My take is that Jimmy feels that O'Korn is the better athlete and could get Michigan first downs with his legs and his arm.   Speight is more of the traditional drop back guy who is smart, will minimize mistakes and be a great game manager. 


I don't think the competition is over and we will see how comes out as the starter in a few weeks.




Here is the dumbest thing the BTN had to say:


More juice is needed from the ground game. I am not sure holdovers De’Veon Smith, Drake Johnson and Ty Isaac can provide it. The Wolverines haven’t had a 1,000-yard rusher since Denard Robinson in 2012. The last Michigan running back to run for 1,000 yards was Fitz Toussaint in 2011. Maybe a true freshman can help.


If Smith stays healthy, I think he hits 1000 yards easy.   With that said, who cares about 1000 yards?   I would love for Smith to be the yards leader, but if Michigan gets great outings from Johnson and Isaac that is even better for Michigan's offense.     If the Michigan offensive line plays like they did against Florida, Michigan's running game will show huge improvements.    We could also see someone like Chris Evans get some snaps for more a more explosive look.   I think Kareem Walker probably takes a red shirt.




This is pretty cool:


The staff was working out offensive lineman Michael Onwenu at defensive tackle. The guy is a load at 350 pounds and would make the front even better on defense.


Could be a great backup option at nose tackle and run stopper.   Maybe some goal line packages?  I hope they don't burn his redshirt for a couple of snaps but I love the flexibility. 

Michigan Tuesday: Buzz From The Sub

Jimmy spoke yesterday and there was some news released.   BTN also spent the day watching practice as they do every year. 


As expected, Ahmir Mitchell & Shelton Johnson have been confirmed suspended by Jimmy and then by an official announcement from the athletic department.   He clearly does not like to talk about either situation and got a little upset and left the press conference.  No time frame was discussed and Jimmy let everyone know that it will be handled internally.


He is happy about where the QB play is right now and it further then they were last year at the same time.  

• Reports from insiders and even Jimmy mentioned that Chris Evans is making an impact with his speed and athleticism.   Mostly at RB and Slot WR.  

• Of course Jimmy mentions that Gary is good at football.

• BTN and Jimmy called out the solid play of Ben Bredeson

Other notes from insiders (consider these rumors)

• Kekoa Crawford and Eddie McDoom are making an impact with their speed.

• Kareem Walker is at practice and might still be working through a minor issue

• Ty Isaac is continuing his strong play from the Spring

• Drake Harris seems to be healthy and added a few pounds this summer

Michigan Monday: Wonders If We Have The Best Harbaugh?

Jimmy doesn't think so:

"John is the best coach I know, the best I've ever come across or competed against. I'm envious of the grasp he has of the entire game. I think offensively and with quarterback play, I'm right there with him. But I've got a ways to go in terms of special teams and understanding defense the way he does. I'm half as good as John is, but I'm trying."


EPSN has a long article on the Harbaughs, It's a very good read, if you have a few minutes or an hour! :)


I agree with the article, John seems focused but relaxed.  Jimmy usually looks like he might jump out of his skin.  Either way both are ultra competitive.  I didn't realize that John was a DB at Miami of Ohio.

• RB Commit Kurt Taylor is strong and posted that he just did 27 reps on the bench of 225 pounds.  He will also visit again for the opener against Hawaii.

• Jake Rudock played well in the first Lions Pre-season game.  Per the Freep: Rudock played 27 snaps and was 8-of-11 for 72 yards with a touchdown pass to Jace Billingsley. He also scrambled well with a long run of 17 yards.  I watched some of the game on the NFL Channel and the Steelers announcer kept call him Riddick.   I also noticed that Glasgow was early at center.  Hard to know, who or what is the first time in the first pre-season game, but he was with the first unit.

• In things I didn't know, Thomas Gordon is playing in Canada and had his first interception last weekend.

• Scout has an article up that Coach Wheat is happy with the competiveness of both Kareem Walker and Kingston Davis.  There are some rumors that Walker might not be in camp.   Let's hope this is a positive sign and he wasn't talking about Spring camp.

New Nike Michigan Shoe just hit the market:




Michigan Nike Train Speed 4 Week Zero

Michigan Friday is Speechless

ESPN asks a bunch of coaches for one word about Jim Harbaugh.  Hard to believe that Urban Meyer gave the best answer.  Poor Jim McElwain is still having nightmares about the Citrus Bowl.   That's ok Jim, you don't have to face Michigan for another 12+ months. 

• Jimmy must be good for ratings on ESPN.  Here is an article on Jimmy's summer.

• Jay Harbaugh says that Zach Gentry is a TE and doesn't ever expect him to go back to QB.

• This happened a few days ago but Jimmy sent Mark Wahlberg a Jumpman Jersey and Shoes.   Mark ran into Jimmy on the range at the Pebble Beach golf tournament and Mark said he would stop by Ann Arbor when he is in Michigan filming Transformers.    Mark also has special Jordan shoes for his new restaurant Walhburgers, which I believe is opening in Greek Town this weekend.  Got to say, I love the box!

Michigan Thursday: Offensive Thoughts

We know Michigan is loaded on the defensive side of the ball.  Where the only question is the LB's.  The Defensive Line and DB's might be the best in the country.  That leaves us with the offense and what to expect.  

Coming out of Spring it was clearly an O'Korn vs. Speight battle at QB.   O'Korn is a Houston transfer and Speight was a 3 star Brady Hoke/Big Al recruit.   Michigan's 5 star QB Shane Morris played mostly WR during the spring game.    Sort of sounds like a mess, doesn't it?   If I know one thing, Jimmy can coach QB's and one of these guys will grab the 1st string job.  Even if they don't that probably means, both are both pretty good.  O'Korn got most of the off season buzz but Speight showed some serious "onions" when he stepped in last year at Minnesota and won the game.   I don't think either will be a super star but love the thought of them, using their All American Tight End, WR's and RB's to win games.   Both O'Korn and Speight spent a few minutes on ESPN's main page yesterday. 

We know who the staring RB is going to be and it's nice luxury to have.   We will also know what to expect from Drake "Forklift" Johnson, he is now made of steel and will be a great speed back.   I'm going to call out Ty Isaac as one of the biggest difference maker between good and great for Michigan's offense this year.   We know Smith won't carry the ball all the time and if Ty finds that 5 star in him, it could be a very explosive offense.  He showed well in the Spring and if he can carry it over to the season, Michigan will have 3 RB's that make a big difference.

WR is also pretty locked down.  Darboh and Chesson are locks and  Perry's best game of the year was the Citrus Bowl.   I also think we will a freshman get some snaps, but which one is a mystery at this point.   With Ahmir Mitchell in the dog house it's probably not him.   My guess would be Crawford.  I would also like to see Peppers more in the slot then at RB.  If he is going to play LB, DB and return punts, I would prefer he didn't take the extra hits at RB. 

TE is another easy one with All American Jake Butt leading the way.  I also would love to see the Twin Towers of  Butt and Bunting on the field at the same time and looking at confused Linebackers that try to cover them.   Wheat is also a huge individual and I expect him to get some snaps this year as well.   Trick plays with Gentry? 

The offensive line should be better in year two of OC Tim Drevno's system.  We saw how important the bowl practices were in the line making big improvements.   Hopefully with another Spring and Fall camp, we will see even more strides forward.   I hope the line quietly has a very good year, I'm not sure there are any NFL first round draft picks here, just good solid football players.   Facing the top DL in the country every day this month, should help them be ready for September 3rd.

Wolverine Wednesday: Checks In on Brady Hoke

I have always enjoyed watching from a far our former coaches in their next jobs.   We are so lucky to have Jimmy and I sort of like to check in on RR and Brady Hoke to see how they are doing. 

Brady has his hands full trying to stop PAC 12 offenses every week.   The Oregon Ducks even had a 31 point lead in the bowl game at the half to TCU and lost the game.   So Brady has never been a DC and now is looking to help out a defense that was barley there last year.  So let's look for some knowledge from the man that won't wear a jacket or a headset:

About his legacy as a coach and his time at Michigan:  “If you worry about your legacy then you are worried about the wrong things,” Hoke said. “You have to live day to day. If you worry about legacies, you’re not worrying about what’s important and that’s what you are doing in the present.”

Being a Yoga Teacher: “You can be flexible, as long as you’ve got the guys who can handle what you want to do,” Hoke said. “I’ve done this long enough to know you can have too many tools in the toolbox that you think everyone can understand. It doesn’t really matter what we know. It’s what they know. And how we can get them to play fast and tough and hard. That’s the most important thing.”

He is really happy to be back coaching:  “At the end of the day, the best thing I can do as a coach is coach,” Hoke said. “I’m really looking forward to doing that.”

Obviously, this is me having a little fun with our former coach.  With that said, thank goodness we have Jimmy!


Buzz from the submarine:

• Yesterday, we got a little buzz from the Sub:  Ahmir Mitchell, Shelton Johnson and Kareem Walker were not included in the team photo.    This could be for any reason from them having a class, to being in a little bit of trouble, needing to get their grades up or having a serious discipline issue.   We probably won't know until Jimmy's next press conference.   The buzz is saying that Walker's issue is not serious but Mitchell and Johnson have some work to do to get back to practice.   All 3 are still on the roster.

Michigan Tuesday: Welcomes James Hudson

James is a 4 star DT/SDE from Toledo who committed to the Wolverines two days after the BBQ.   Insiders were very confused on where James was leaning, at the BBQ most were calling for a MSU win and that changed early on Monday morning when they came back to the Maize and Blue.  

Big James "on the" Hudson is the 19th commit and joins Solomon and Paea at DT in this class.  He is 6'5 and 280 pounds.  He was clearly a priority for the Wolverines as they put Gary on him at the BBQ.  He is rated as a 4 star on Rivals, ESPN and 247, Scouts comes in at a 3 star. 

His offer sheet was pretty impressive but didn't include the Buckeyes but did include: Alabama, CAL, Cincinnati, Illinois Iowa, Louisville, Miami, Kentucky, MSU, Nebraska, Penn State, Pitt, Purdue, Rutgers, Tennessee, and WVU.

James has a nice path to playing time with Godin and fellow Toledo high school star Wormly as seniors.   There is also some buzz about the big man playing on the offensive line as well.   We know, Jimmy isn't afraid to have players change positions and that type of flexibility is something he loves.

I don't see how this class gets to be above say 25 and as of right now there are 19 spots taken (20 if Johnson does enroll in January).   Can we get a WR commit please?  We are looking good for 3 or 4 guys but none of them have committed.    If you think about the guys that are strong Michigan leans, I think we can easily say this class will finish in the mid to high 20's. 

• Every year Mgoblog does a great job of over reacting to the new roster and weight gains.   I love their premise:  All weight gain is new muscle and power and all weight loss is best shape of their lives and increased speed & agility.   You can look at the difference each player has seen in weight gain or loss.   What jumped out to me was potential starting QB Wilton Speight is 243 pounds.  Former QB Zach Genty is now a TE and he weighs 244 pounds.  LB's Mike McCray is 240 and Ben Gedeon is 248 pounds.

• The Big 12 is reportedly down to Cincy, Houston and BYU for expansion.  

• Snoop Dog's Son has quit the UCLA football team for the second time and I assume the last time.  Seems his heart was never in football.   He was a 4 star WR in the 2015 class coming out of  Las Vegas.  He is still enrolled at UCLA.

• If your wondering no news is good news from the submarine.  We have no news from Day 1.  

Michigan Monday: Is Full of Information!!

First off the new Jumpman Jerseys released this weekend for sale.  Here is an example of the away jersey.

Get yours Today!

Love the new jerseys, I think Michigan and Nike missed an opportunity by not making a Peppers Jumpman Jersey. 

As we know,  Michigan opens fall camp today.  In the words of Jimmy: 

“Yeah. It’s the beginning of the year. It’s one of the two special days, to me, in the entire calendar. I’ve said it before: a lot of people look at January 1st being the start of the new year. People look, those who espouse Christianity, Catholicism, look at Christmas as the start of the liturgical year, but us in football, first day of preseason training camp is the new year.

“It’s like being reborn into football. Coming out of the womb into the bright light, into the chaos, into everybody looking at you. It’s where the team’s forged, under the sun in the August heat. Sun shaping the body, carving the mind. Very excited.”

 

 

• Speaking of Camp, Michigan released a new roster and two players were missing:  Freddie Canteen and Brady Pallante.  I had high hopes for Freddie at WR when Michigan needed bodies at that position.   He seemed to struggle in practice and kept moving from WR to CB.   He had some type of major injury in practice last year and we aren't sure if he took a "medical" or not. Brady Pallante was a two star defensive line recruit, who saw little game action and probably saw a long road to playing time.  We now can confirm that Brady took a medical. 

 

• Chesson's injury from the Citrus Bowl was a torn PCL.    

 

• With the loss of the those two players, Michigan now has 21 spots open in the 2017 class.  They are recruiting for many more players, which means we are going to see more attrition. 

 

• Michigan Basketball picked up a 2017 commit last night from 6'8 205 pounds forward from K-Zoo Isaiah Livers.  He picked Michigan or MSU and CAL.

 

BBQ Buzz:

 

• Michigan didn't get any public commitments over the weekend, there is some buzz that someone committed silently to the coaches.  We will see.   We will also know very soon about visitor James Hudson from Ohio.  He is announcing his decision today.  It seems to be a Michigan vs. MSU decision.   Insiders seem to be calling both teams. Update: James Hudson is Blue.   Update will be in Tuesday's post. 

 

• Michigan seemed to make some serious inroads with Alabama commit and #1 rated player and RB Najee Harris.   Still lots of time to go in his recruitment, but it was nice to make an impact on the top player in the country.  Harris doesn't talk much to the services, so we really don't know how well it went.

 

• Same could be said of 5 star DB from California Darnay Holmes as well.  He was tweeting like crazy on Saturday and really seemed to be having a good time.

 

• Oliver Martin the WR that blew up at the Opening also had a good time and told Scout's the trip exceeded his expectations.

Seems overall the BBQ was a success, we will see if it drives any commitments in the next week or two.   The recruits seemed to love it and even the parents as well.   Michigan's team mom "Mama Gwen" also continued to make a great impression on the parents as well.   Michigan also offered the top player in Michigan in the 2019 class, who has played one year of HS football.  :-)

 

 

Michigan Friday: Time For the BBQ At The Big House

Thanks to the real Jimmy's BBQ in Malvern, PA

This is always one of the most exciting recruiting events of the summer for the Wolverines.   It means, Fall Practice/Camp/Submarine is about to start and that Michigan will be hosting some of the top talent the country for a BBQ. 

Just to remind everyone, Michigan has to charge a couple of dollars to each guest, so they don't break any NCAA rules.    Recruits are not yet able to take official visits so this trip in on their dime.   This is an invitation only event.

A majority of the current commits are planning on attending, just 3 out of state guys won't make it in (Aubrey Solomon, Kai-Leon Herbert, and AJ Dillon). 

High priority 2017 recruits attending (per 24/7):

Nation's top prospect - five-star RB Najee Harris
Five-star wide receiver Donovan Peoples-Jones
Five-star cornerback Darnay Holmes
Four-star athlete Sione Heimuli-Lund
Four-star athlete Markquese Bell
Four-star wide receiver Nico Collins
Four-star wide receiver Oliver Martin
Four-star wide receiver Tarik Black
Four-star tight end Josh Falo
Four-star offensive tackle Isaiah Wilson
Four-star offensive tackle Aaron Banks
Three-star offensive tackle Toryque Bateman
Four-star defensive end Deron Irving-Bey
Four-star defensive end James Hudson
Four-star linebacker Jordan Anthony
Four-star linebacker Will Ignont
Four-star cornerback Ambry Thomas
Four-star safety Jaylen Kelly-Powell


Thoughts on the above:

Would love for Michigan to grab more interest from Najee Harris a current Alabama commit, but we have a long road there.   The WR group is very deep for the visit including DP-J, Nico Collins, Opening Star Oliver Martin and Tarik Black.   To follow that up, most expect that Josh Falo is Jimmy's top TE on the board. 

Darnay Holmes like Harris is picking up his own tab in flying in from California, so he is serious about Michigan but probably not the leader in the clubhouse.

Michigan's top offense lineman will also be in attendance.  Isaish Wilson has always been high on Michigan and Toryque Bateman should be on "commit watch".  There isn't much room on the boat will the recent commits, I think Bateman dropping is likely.

The instate guys don't need to see the campus again as they all have been regular visitors to Ann Arbor.   Will someone from this elite group pull the trigger on a commitment?  Jaylen Kelly-Powell, Ambry Thomas or Donovan Peoples-Jones?  I doubt it, with official visits starting soon, I think these guys would like to see some other schools.

Another guy that says he is ready to commit is OH DE James Hudson.  The issue is, most feel its to MSU.  We will see if Michigan can grab his attention over some Ribs and Chicken. 

This weekend is also for 2018 and 2019 recruits and there will be 8-10 of those recruits as well. 

I'm excited for the recruits to get to check out the official Jumpman gear and be in a relaxed environment with the coaches.   This event usually drives a few commitments that will happen immediately or during the next week.   Hopefully, some of the guys can stay and watch practice on Monday.

I will post any commitments as soon as I hear about them, with more details coming on Monday.  
Enjoy your weekend!

Michigan Thursday: Tops It Off

I thought today, I would continue my series on my favorite Nike/Jumpman Hats:

Michigan Wolverines Brand Jordan Sideline Vapor Coaches Performance Flex Hat - White

Michigan Wolverines Brand Jordan Head Coach's Wool Fitted Hat - Blue

Michigan Wolverines Brand Jordan Heritage 86 Adjustable Hat - Navy



Michigan Wolverines Brand Jordan Sideline True Adjustable Hat - Gray

Hat #1 : Is a modern lightweight Dri-Fit that is great for hot days.   It also comes it 3 colors. 

 

Hat #2:  Is the classic coaches/Jimmy Hat - Can't go wrong with a classic

 

Hat #3:  Just like the look of this one, Michigan Football and Jumpman!

 

Hat #4:  More modern flat billed and combines 3 colors 

• Jimmy Speaks:  This line from his Nike press conference was  from his discussion from Michael Jordan :  “The other thing he said that I thought was profound was that- he told me, you know what Nike means to Oregon, you know what Oregon means to Nike. Michigan will mean that to Jordan. And that, I thought, was very powerful. I thought that was very profound. But he had me at ‘hello’ in that conversation.”

• One question mark we do have going into Fall Camp on Monday is the health of Jehu Chesson.  Jimmy hinted he was cleared by the doctors but might not be cleared for football practice.
  
• Michigan sent out the official offers to seniors this week, the last paragraph which is clear reaction to the Swenson situation last year: "We expect you to continue to strive for excellence as a student and as an athlete: this scholarship should serve as motivation towards continued growth, not an excuse to become complacent."

Wolverine Wednesday: Lots of New Things Around Here

As promised here is another version of my favorite Nike/Jumpman things.  Today, I will look at something we all need: T-Shirts!

You know where to go! Free Ship by noon and delivery by Friday!

Michigan Wolverines Nike Logo Legend Dri-FIT Performance T-Shirt - Navy

Michigan Wolverines Nike Dri-FIT Touch T-Shirt - Heather Gray

Michigan Wolverines Brand Jordan 2016 Football Practice T-Shirt - Gray

I highly recommend going with a Dri-Fit T-shirt vs. non Dri-Fit. I have found the Dri-Fit stands up to the washer machine and dryer much better.   Many of the shirts come in different colors and the middle Heather Gray shirt has been very popular so far.

 

 

• Speaking of new things around here. Looks like the Wolverines will be sporting a new helmet next season with a matte finish.

• As you saw, the uniforms were released on the internet yesterday.  I think the changes that were made were slight and the Jumpman is not too large.   The numbers went from the side to the top of the shoulder pads (on the whites) and we know the White on White is hear to stay on the road uniforms.

 

• Nike will also be making a special Jimmy Khaki Pant.   

 

• Can't wait to get the reaction of the recruits at the BBQ on the new Jordan gear this weekend.

 

• Seems the normal schedule poster has some new swag as well:

Fall Calendar & MOTHER’S CLINIC

FALL CALENDAR

For a copy of the Fall Calendar, with practice and game times, click here. The Google Calendar (available by selecting "Calendar" in the menu above) is also updated.

***********

MOTHER'S CLINIC

Forget the husbands, kids, and house and come on out Friday, August 5^th and learn some football!

10:30pm – 11:30pm:  Hickman Football Game Field

1 hour clinic conducted by the Hickman coaching staff.

OBJECTIVES:

1.  MEET THE COACHES

2.  MEET OTHER MOM’S

3.  LEARN SOME FOOTBALL

4.  LET YOUR SON PUT YOU ON SOCIAL MEDIA

5.  HAVE FUN!!

The mothers will go through a 40 minute simulated practice working at the same positions as your son.  You will wear his jersey with shorts or sweats and tennis shoes.  The “practice” will not be physically demanding, but will be informative and fun!

Stick around for midnight madness practice and watch your son.  The TD Club will be serving breakfast after practice at 2am, any help would be greatly appreciated. 

This event should be a big hit.  Come on out Friday and join the fun!

GO 2016 KEWPIES!!

New Jumpman Uniforms Preview

The white pants are here to stay

Michigan Tuesday: Likes Sweatshirts

As I mentioned yesterday, I will pick a few favorites of mine out of the new Nike Michigan Collection that is now available at the Fanatics Michigan Page.   Please check out the link or the click on the banner on the left to find your new Nike gear! 

Today, I will highlight 3 new Nike sweatshirts/sideline jackets.

Michigan Wolverines Brand Jordan 2016 Elite Coaches Dri-FIT Half Zip Jacket - Heather Gray

Michigan Wolverines Nike AV15 Fleece Pullover Hoodie - Navy/Charcoal

Michigan Wolverines Brand Jordan Elite Player Touch Full Zip Performance Jacket - Heathered Navy

 

These are my top 3 picks of the day  (there are plenty more options on Fanatics ) and will preview some more gear the rest of the week.  

 

 

 

• Thanks Biff! Biff Poggi, father of current Wolverine Henry Poggi is joining Jimmy's staff as the associate head coach.   "I felt like if I was ever going to do it, this is like the sun, the moon and the stars have lined up and I really am very comfortable with Jim and the coaching staff," Poggi said. Poggi's job will be to advise Harbaugh on strategy and organizational structure. His position does not count as a coaching position and he won't be coaching the players, coaching the team or recruiting, according to the Michigan job description. Biff was the head coach at Gilman in Baltimore for 19 years before leaving after last season.

• Former Wolverines Jeremy Gallon and Devin Gardner are playing football in Japan.  It sounds like DG was considering Canada but picked Japan.  Talk about life experience!

•  AL OT Toryque Bateman will be on commit watch when he arrives for the BBQ this weekend.

• Many fans are wondering if Michigan really has a chance to land Alabama commit and #1 rated CA RB Najee Harris.   Coach Wheatley coached him at one of the satellite camps and he is spending his own money to fly in from California for the BBQ.  Yes, there is a chance, maybe a slight one, but there is a chance!



Michigan Monday: Nike and News

Today is the first day of the Nike contract as the week moves forward, I will give you my thoughts on some of the best items available.   The jerseys are scheduled to release on Saturday. 

Speaking of Saturday, that is the scheduled BBQ at the Big House a holdover tradition from the RR days.  This is Michigan's biggest on campus recruiting event of the summer.    It's meant to be a laid back event where coaches can spend time with recruits and parents.   If your wondering, Michigan does charge a couple of dollars per person, so it doesn't break any NCAA rules.  

This event usually gets Michigan a couple commitments during or right after the event.   So it's considered one of the most important recruiting events of the summer.   Practice also starts a week from today, so I expect a few players will hang around and get a tour of the submarine. 


Some of the top out of state players that have confirmed for the event include:

• 6'8 AL OT Toryque Bateman
• NY OT Isaiah Wilson
• CA OT Aaron Banks
• OH SDE James Hudson
• TX TE Major Tennison
• CA RB Najee Harris (rated #1 Player on 24/7, #1 RB and Alabama commit)

I will continue to update the list during the week.  I also expect a ton of instate recruits to make it in as well. 

Speaking of Nike and Jumpman. Here is a sneak peak at the players cleats.  These won't hurt recruiting any.  

💦💦😍 thank you for blessing us @Jumpman23 🙌🏾 pic.twitter.com/EmaDCvCBJu

— Moe Ways (@MoeWays) August 1, 2016