Michigan Thursday: Mixed Emotions

I'm very torn right now as a lifelong Michigan Fan.  I really do enjoy the NFL but the passion I have for Michigan Football is un-match by any NFL team and its not even close.  Case in point, I would've never paid what I did for tickets for the National Championship to watch any other sport or team.  Not for The Masters, not for the Super Bowl, nothing.  I really didn't even consider going to the NCAA Final 4's when Michigan Basketball played.  Michigan Basketball is great, but they are not Michigan Football.  It's just different and I assume many of you have similar feelings.  

That is why I'm confused and twisted right now.  Being the head coach at Michigan is not a job, its a destination and right now its the best job in college football.   Harbaugh had over taken Saban (with his retirement) as the best coach in college football and now he is gone.   He was approaching legendary status at Michigan, Bo status, Fitz status, and now he is gone.   He just won a National Championship this month and now he is gone.  I know he has been Michigan's head coach for 9 years but why does it feel like a hit and run?

I'm grateful to Jimmy for turning our program around and getting it to the summit.  I really am but I clearly don't agree with or understand his passion to win a Super Bowl.  Being the 49'ers coach and being so close and then so far, I would think he would understand that winning that game is a mix of skill and luck.  You are always a QB broken finger away from a losing record.   Your always a bad loss away from the hot seat.  Bill Belichick is no longer the Patriots coach and he has had 1 team interview him.   I would take the legendary status and the stability of Ann Arbor any day over that.   That is me and I'm clearly not Jimmy. 

So now we move on.  Next Man up.  I have a ton of respect for what Sherrone has accomplished at Michigan.  He has done an incredible job with the offensive line and the entire offense.  He deserves to be a head coach, no doubt.  

My concern is, you don't learn how to be a head coach as the Michigan head coach.  I know he was the head coach for 4 Saturday's this past season but Harbaugh was still doing the day to day during the week.   That experience helps, but its not like he has run an entire program for years.   We have seen even head coaches with experience come in a flame out quickly.  RR and Hoke are good examples.  West Virginia and Ball State/SDSU did not prepare them for the bright lights of Michigan.  My concern is even an OC at Michigan will need a ton of runway to lead this program effectively. 

I like Sherrone but he is not Jimmy.  

So its really hard to net out everything I'm feeling.  So in true Big House Blog fashion, I'm going to bullet point out everything:

• Happy for Harbaugh and thankful for everything he has done at Michigan. 

• Pissed off at Harbaugh for taking this team to the summit then immediately leaving. 

• Will be really pissed off at Harbaugh if he pillages this staff by taking Minter, Herbert, and others.

• Happy for Sherrone as he deserves this opportunity

• Worried this program is going to take many steps back as he learns how to be a great head coach. 

• Worried that Michigan is going to lose a number of key coaches, players to the portal, and recruits. 

• I thought the scripted reactions from Warde and Santa were interesting last night.  Warde's was carefully written and gave Jimmy a ton of respect.  I thought Santa's sounded a bit pissed and that they did all they could do and it wasn't enough for Harbaugh to jump to an NFL team that didn't make the playoffs.

• Feel a little betrayed by Jimmy as he said, he was no longer going to pursue the NFL and would be at Michigan as long as they would have him after the Vikings situation.

• Why did Jimmy take both suspensions last year if he really wanted another shot at the NFL?  At least one of them was optional.  (of course he didn't know Michigan was winning the NC).

• Again, Sherrone is a really good choice, but not having any other options for a team that won the NC 3 weeks ago is a real problem. 

• Word is that Michigan didn't give in on Jimmy's contract demands until the 11th hour on Wednesday, when it was too late.  Warde and/or Santa was playing chicken and lost.   That is a terrible strategy.

• If I hear the name Brian Kelly again, I will throw up.

• Michigan next year, will be coming in as defending NC with a new QB, new head coach, new OC, and maybe a bunch of other roles depending on who Jimmy takes.  The key to Alabama's long run was the man at top didn't change just his staff did.  

Michigan Friday: A Freak Hamstring

After dedicating an entire post to Mazi Smith and his freakiest combine ability yesterday, he has elected to sit out some drills due to a hamstring injury.  He plans to do all the drills at Michigan's Pro Day.  Today, he did put up 34 reps on the bench press which was the highest total for any defensive lineman.  

• Mike Mallory is expected to be joining Harbaugh's non-field coaching staff focusing on special teams. Welcome Home Mike!

• Michigan Basketball lost a tough one last night in double OT to Ilinois.  The team did show some heart but missed some important shots at the end. 

• The NCAA is considering not stopping the clock on 1st downs and only doing it within the last 2 minutes.  Which seems reasonable as college football games can last forever! 

• Reports are that Josh Gattis is going to end his feud with Mike Locksley on who called the plays at Alabama and will become Maryland's new OC.  This report makes me smile. 

• Reports are an XFL QB from the Orlando franchise got cut because he gave the other the team, Orlando's plays. 

Michigan Tuesday: Hey Coach, Can You Coach QB's?

Jimmy has been hitting the phones looking for a new QB coach.  The thinking is that Moore will get the full OC gig and Jimmy is looking for a QB Coach or Passing Coordinator to replace Matt "Watergate" Weiss.  

1. Brian Greise - Former Michigan National Championship winning QB, NFL QB, Monday Night Football analyst, and currently 49'ers QB Coach (See Brock Purdy).   Would be a great hire for another Michigan Man to come home, don't know if he would be interested as his team is making a run for the Super Bowl currently.  Though, when you get the call to go home?  Brian was also very critical of Michigan Football in 2020 and prior and thought Jimmy should be removed.  I assume that situation is water under the bridge. 
2. Tee Martin - Former National Champion QB at Tennessee, played 5 years of professional football, had a number of college coaching jobs including USC, and at Tennessee.  Currently, the WR coach at the Ravens for John.  Known as a top tier recruiter. 
3. Tavita Prichard - Former Stanford QB and spent his entire coaching career at Stanford.  He is currently the OC/QB Coach.  Played for Harbaugh at Stanford of course. 
4. As I mentioned yesterday, Kirk Campbell, who is on staff, is also a candidate. 

It's hard not to want Greise to come home but Tee Martin is known as a strong recruiter and that position needs a strong recruiter.  I'm not that familiar with Prichard or Campbell, but when it comes to QB coaching, in Jimmy I trust.  I do like the idea of Greise going into a QB's house wearing his NC ring. 

• Okie as expected is following his HS head coach to play at Charlotte.  I appreciate the loyalty with Biff, but wonder if that is the right decision for his career.  He will get many more snaps with Biff but won't be on national TV every week. 

• Looks like Saban is in the market for a new OC as BOB goes back to the Patriots

• 2023 DL and Stanford commit Cam Brandt will make his decision this weekend and is coming off an official visit to Ann Arbor last weekend. 

• The best coach on the Cowboys Dan Quinn is getting a second interview with the Cardinals today and still a top prospect for the Broncos and Colts.  I'm betting he has a new head coaching gig my Friday.  Jerry Jones who has always wanted Sean Payton as a head coach, seems like he is going to let this opportunity pass him by. 

Michigan Monday: Updates Everything

Harbaugh watch update: It's been confirmed that Jimmy will be interviewing with the Broncos this week.  Many insiders feel this is another attempt by Jim's new agent to get Michigan back to the table with a long-term contract.  Sign him to a $10M a year 8-year contract with a $20M buyout, so we can stop with this Merry-go-round each year.  

One reason to consider the Bronco's interview, not that serious.  It's virtual.  They're also already negotiating with the Saints on compensation for Sean Payton.  

Today is the day where NFL coaches get fired, Lovie Smith has already been let go.  So don't be surprised if Jim's name comes up today for other jobs.  I don't expect he is at all interested in going to a franchise that has fired 2 coaches in 2 years after both only had 1 year on the job.  

My Spidey senses were correct on Carolina, who is not considering Jimmy. 

Michigan's NCAA Update: The rumored infraction the NCAA got bothered by is a lunch where Harbaugh bought 2 cheeseburgers for visiting recruits at the Brown Jug.  Evidently, Harbaugh wasn't forthcoming about the serious nature of cheese and beef.   Also, the NCAA may change the rule about not letting Analysts coach during practice.  This happens at every program and that rule does need to change.  (this was one of Michigan's level 2 infractions)

NCAA Championship Tonight:  Of course, this is bitter sweet for all of us as Georgia is still nearly a 2 TD favorite at 12.5.  One thing I'm interested in, is how many people tune in to this game?   I think it's a mistake having it on Monday night after a full NFL weekend.   The game should've been played Saturday night and asked the NFL to play at 1 and 4 or just move another game to Sunday. 

Does this game beat the Michigan - TCU high point of over 26M viewers?

• Juwan's team lost in East Lansing.  Still need to get better if they're going to win games on the road in the Big 10.  Glad to see Sparty has a football team to root for now in TCU.  I also enjoyed that Izzo thanked Mel Brooks after the game.  That is confusing, but ok.  😀  

• The Detective Deuce Spurlock is going to take his "crime solving" skills to Gainsville.  They really could've used a good detective when Urban was there.   Billy Napier recruited The Detective out of high school and they have a huge need at LB. 

• Schoonmaker made it official and will enter the NFL Draft.  Good luck! 

• Hutch's first NFL Season is over.  With his 9.5 sacks and 3 interceptions, there are only two defensive line players to ever have those stats, Hutch and Richard Dent.  Well done and congratulations to him and the Detroit Lions on playing with heart and the turnaround this year. 

• Speaking of Pass Rush U: David Ojabo got his first NFL sack on Sunday and it was strip sack! 

• On Friday, DJ Turner decided to head to the NFL, this was expected.  Good luck DJ! 

• Remember RB Christian Turner?  He has been at Wake the last 2 years.  He has now transferred to IU. 

Michigan Wednesday & Thursday: Catch Up

Sorry BHB readers, I was traveling for business and just ran out of time this week.  Will get the Big 10 Preview up on Friday Morning.  

• Biff Gets a Gig: If you put a gun to my head on who would be the first candidate to fill one of the head coaching roles, I'm not sure Biff would be in my top 25 folks.  With that said, this is a great hire for Charlottee, the guy can coach and now has a ton of experience on what it takes to run (and turn around) a big-time college football program.  This is an A+ hire! 

• 2023 DL from Chicago Jamel Howard de-committed from Wisconsin today, he is visiting Ann Arbor this weekend. 

• Speaking of Ann Arbor Howard's, Juwan's program had a great 2nd half against Pitt last night in the Legends Classic and won in a blowout.  Tonight, they take on Arizona State and one of the Hurley brothers.  It's a late one, 9:30 tip.  Michigan can get reunited with Frankie Collins tonight. 

• Olu is a semi-finalist for the Outland Trophy 

• In sad news, Brett Bielema's mother passed away today

• I missed MACtion last night but that snow in Mt. Pleasant looked crazy! 

Michigan Tuesday: It's Big Ten Media Day

 

This is a day full of coach speak and players really not saying much, they've been trained not to.   I don't expect any controversy today, sometimes an East Lansing reporter will take a shot at Jimmy for not winning enough games or being able to beat the Spartans.   After a Big Ten Title, there shouldn't be much of that (although they didn't beat the Spartans).  Or Urban Meyer protecting his WR coach against abuse allegations which was the tipping point on him leaving Columbus.  

The reason I like this day is it's the official summer sign that camp is starting soon and Michigan Football will be in the Big House in about 6 weeks.  I also love seeing Mazi and DJ there, Cade and Erick to me are the easy picks but seeing two defenders that have really developed over the last season is pretty special. 

Jimmy will speak at 12:30.

• Levert Hill is now on staff as an intern with the strength and conditioning team

• UCF transfer Cam Goode seems to be fitting in well with his new teammates: “I thought having a transition from Florida to Michigan was going to be hard. But I’ve been going to the beach so it hasn’t been that bad of a transition,” Goode told The Michigan Insider on Sunday, a day after he spent the afternoon at Pere Marquette Beach in Muskegon. “The weather has been treating me well. People have been treating me well. Ann Arbor is an amazing place — young people, very energetic people. I’ve been having an amazing time.” ---- “Elston, that’s my guy,” Goode said. “Spending time doing film with him, just chopping it up. Cool guy. Just grabbing some food sometimes. He’s an amazing guy. I love Elston — he changed my life for the better — and I honestly can’t wait to be coached by him.” 

• Davante Jones has signed a professional contract to play in France

• I just read that diamond in the rough recruit Aymeric Koumba has a 7'2 wing span.  Yes, please!

Michigan Friday: This Hire Is like Bill Belichick but Faster

When Jimmy looks for a new coach, I have two strong preferences:

1 - A young talented coach, that brings new ideas, relates to the players, and recruits his ass off.  

2- A legacy Michigan Football player or coach that brings tradition and a love for Michigan that is un-matched.   

If you fit into either category, you are good with me.  Jimmy took #2 to another level on Wednesday, when it was announced a legendary Michigan coach is back as an analyst on Jimmy's staff.  During a summer camp at Ferris State, it was announced that Fred Jackson has rejoined the Michigan program.  

Fred was hired by Gary Moeller in 1992 and spent 23 years as Michigan's RB coach.   He coached a long list of famous Michigan RB's including: Mike Hart, Tyrone Wheatley, Chris Perry, Chris Howard, Tim Biakabutuka and Anthony Thomas.  Fred is 71 and brings incredible experience and a love for Michigan that is 2nd to none.  

If you're not familiar with Fred, he would always hype up recruits by comparing them with another player.  For an extreme example, QB Recruit is a winner like Tom Brady, has the arm strength of Mahomes, and runs like Michael Vick.   One of his more famous lines is comparing Michigan's leading rusher and current Michigan RB coach Mike Hart by saying: This RB recruit runs like Mike Hart but faster.   Mike was a great runner but was never known for his breakaway speed. 

Love or hate Jimmy, but you have to admit he has a great sense of tradition and understands what his program needs.   Fred is obviously at the end of his career and has been out of coaching (Ypsi's Dean of Students since 2015) and now gets to finish his career at a place he loves.    This is the Michigan Difference. 

• Lots of Michigan connections in attendance at Ferris State on Thursday including: Don Brown, Marcus Ray (watching his son), Jim McElwain, Roy Roundtree, Erik Campbell.  Also attending PJ Fleck and Penn State's James Franklin. 

• Jimmy at Ferris, gave a positive update on Ronnie Bell's health.  Sounds like he will be ready for Fall Camp. 

Michigan Friday: Iowa Steals Senior Night

The high off the MSU win didn't last long as Michigan dropped one against a hot Iowa team at Crisler last night.  The 3-1 record needed off 4 straight home games is now 2-2, with a trip to Columbus still on the board this weekend.  Michigan continues to ride the bubble as they struggle to find any consistency.   It's very frustrating when talent doesn't translate to having a good team on the floor night after night. 

BTW, my take is Michigan should decline a NIT invite if it comes to that.  Best to put this season in the rear-view mirror.  

• Mgoblog points out that Michigan's depth on the DT and Oline is scary low this spring.  The team might have to go fishing in the Transfer Portal after Spring Ball. 

• Jimmy has added John Morookian to his staff.  John seems like he is an offensive line guy. 

• Nik Stauskas went off for 57 and 43 points in the G-League on back-to-back nights this week and earned a 2-year contract with the Celtics.

Michigan Tuesday: James Ross Gets a DC Role

James Ross III has been interested in coaching after his playing career.  He spent a year as the DC at Detroit Loyola then been on Michigan's staff as a graduate assistant before he took the LB coaching role at Hope College last season.  Yesterday, he was named the new DC at Hope College, and this is clearly the first step in big things to come for the former Michigan LB.  

“I’m so excited about what James Ross is going to bring to the table as defensive coordinator,” Stuursma said. “As we were talking about this, I asked him to put a little presentation together for me. Twenty minutes into that, I knew where we wanted to go. James brings such energy, enthusiasm, and instant credibility with our players. Since April, to watch the relationship he has with our players, it is really a lot of fun and exciting for me."

"James is the consummate football coach who is dedicated to mentoring and participating in the development of the young men he coaches and teaches,” Harbaugh said when Ross was hired as Hope’s linebackers coach. “He played and conducted himself at a high level as a student-athlete and later as an outstanding football coach at the University of Michigan.”

• Luke Fickell got an extension at Cincinnati for $5M a year, really strange he didn't get hired this off season.   

• Yesterday, I forgot to give congratulations to former Wolverine Blake Countess who was a late signee in the season and participated on Special Teams for the Rams.  If you remember, Blake played at Michigan, got his degree, and took a grad-transfer to Auburn for his final year. 

• Right now, ND has the #1 rated 2023 recruiting class (24/7), Michigan is #8

Michigan Thursday: Tale of The Tape - New Coaches Edition

If you have been reading and following this blog for a long time, you know I used to do Tale of the Tape for Michigan vs. the opponent that weekend.   I tried a new approach this year in writing Jimmy letters, which clearly was the reason they won a Big Ten Title.  😃

Now it's time to review all the staff changes and if it was a positive or negative to Michigan Football moving forward.  

Jim Harbaugh 2021 vs. Jim Harbaugh 2022 = Harbaugh 2021

Jimmy has seemingly had the NFL in the back of his mind for a long time.  If he is truly committed to Michigan Football for as long as they will have him, that is a huge positive.   If the Patriots come calling when Belichick retires then it's a negative.   I'm assuming this NFL coaching hiring process proved to him where home is.  Either way, the best Harbaugh is the one that has something to prove.  Not sure he can beat Harbaugh 21 but I hope he can.  

DC: Mike Macdonald vs. Jesse Minter = Push

When Coach Mac turned in his one-year lease on Michigan's Defense, I was concerned that any hire was going to be negative, but Jimmy found his schematic doppelganger and a guy that likes to recruit.  This one is so close, you could give both a win, so we go with a push. 

OC: Gattis vs. Weiss = Weiss 

I like Josh Gattis and I'm not turning down $2M a year in salary either.  Michigan was running Harbaugh's offense last season and Jimmy loved what Matt Weiss brought to the table.    Congrats to Josh on the award and a bag of cash but Speed in Space never left the ground.  

DL: Nua vs. Elston = Elston

Shaun had a bit of a roller coaster ride at Michigan.  He recruited poorly and then recruited well.   His unit performed poorly and then played really well this past season.   I think he is a good coach that still developing.   We know Mike Elston is a good DL coach and former Wolverine.   Big win for Big Mike. 

TE: Jay Harbaugh vs. Grant Newsome = Newsome 

Both guys are still on staff, so this isn't really a fair match-up.   This is Grant's first on field job and Jimmy loves him and it was rumored he was taking Grant to the Vikings with him.  I love Grant is getting this role and we know what Jay can do.  The Michigan TE's will really know how to block! 

New But Different Roles:

Ron Bellamy goes from Safeties to WR = WR   

This is Ron's natural position to coach.  This is a win for Michigan's WR.  

Jay Harbaugh from TE to Special Teams Coordinator. 

Michigan had really good Special Teams last season and Jay will need to continue that level.  He also will have safeties, but this is a Minter specialty and guessing Jay will have a limited role. 

Same Roles

Sherrone Moore is still Co-OC and Offensive Line coach.  Did a tremendous job. 

Steve Clickscale got promoted to Co-DC and will continue to coach CB's. Did a tremendous job. 

Mike Hart got promoted to Run Game Coordinator and still RB Coach.  Hopefully this shuts down his NFL interest.  Great year 1 for Michigan's leading rusher. 

George Helow will still coach LB's.  Another Harbaugh favorite and look for him to get interest from other programs next season. 

• These Wolverines got invites to the NFL Combine: Vincent Gray, Hassan Haskins, Dax Hill, Chris Hinton, Aidan Hutchinson, David Ojabo, Josh Ross, and Andrew Stueber.

Michigan Tuesday: Lets Figure Out the New Coaching Staff

Just to recap, Michigan has lost both Offensive and Defensive Coordinator roles.  So how will Jimmy backfill?  

It was rumored mid-season that Matt Weiss would be the Gattis replacement when he moved to a new head coaching role.  Gattis left and now I believe this is a lock.    It's expected that Matt will be Co-OC with Sherrone Moore.    Moving Matt will open a spot for former Wolverine offensive lineman Grant Newsome to be on the coaching staff.  Reports are he will be the TE coach and Jay Harbaugh will probably move to defense.  

DC is a little bit cloudy, but with some rays of sunlight.   Reports are that Larry Foote and Chris Partridge both declined to interview.   The current Vandy DC and former Ravens assistant Jesse Minter could be the front runner for the job.  He is 38 and can run Coach Mac's defense.  He interviewed on Monday with Jimmy.   

Another candidate includes former Michigan coach Anthony Campanile, who is currently on the Miami Dolphins staff.  The Dolphins just hired a new head coach and Anthony might need a new gig and prefer a promotion to the DC role.  

If either guy is hired, I believe they will be co-DC's with Coach Clink. 

I like Jesse Minter because he knows Coach Mac's defense and is a young analytics guy.  Using the same defensive scheme from last year and making it better has a high probability of success. 

A favorite for me and the Michigan fan base, Mike Hart might consider roles in the NFL.  The thought here is he might be promoted to Assistant Head Coach and get a nice salary bump.

• Speaking of former Wolverines Khalid Hill and Daivd Dawson are both going to working on Cass Tech's coaching staff.  Congrats to both! 

• Lovie Smith is back! Now as the head coach of the Texans.  He was the DC for the Texans last season.  

• Michigan's Womens Basketball Team is up to #4 in the nation!  

Michigan Thursday: Sheds a Tear for Coach Mac

I guess it really was a Harbaugh-on-Harbaugh crime.   All indications point to John coming back for Michigan's DC Mike Macdonald to fill the Ravens DC role left when he fired Wink Martindale.   So that's not great.  

So now what?  Some have speculated that Jimmy makes Coach Clink and Elston as Co-DC's.  I'm 100% confident this wasn't a surprise for Jimmy and that he has been thinking about this for at least a couple of weeks.   Insiders are reporting this morning that Jimmy has reached out to Tampa Bay Bucs OLB coach and former Wolverine LB Larry Foote.   That would be interesting.  

Either way, Michigan can't take a Don Brown step back with this hire and needs to play NFL multiple looks moving forward.  

No new news on the Harbaugh front.  Some Bears websites are saying Jimmy is looking for a $100 Million+ contract.   In a league, that will fire a head coach after a year or even during their 1st season (Urban Meyer) most NFL teams won't sign up for that type of long-term contract (Gruden).   NFL head coaches are hired to be fired.  

• Michigan Basketball had a nice comeback win over NW last night. 

• Iowa's AD says the Big 10 is considering getting rid of divisions.  Hard to do a Championship game without divisions.

• Broncos has hired Green Bay's OC as its next head coach.  Denver was never in play, but at least one NFL job is off the market. 

• We know Andrew Gentry future Michigan offensive lineman can only work out for a 1/2 an hour a day, EJ Holland on twitter shows us some highlights from his apartment workout room.  

• Primetime's son and Jackson State QB has signed an NIL deal with Gatorade.

• Coach Elston's salary will be $600K a year with increases every year for 3 years. 

Wolverine Wednesday: New Analyst Hired

Jimmy has hired another resource to his non-field coaching staff.  His name is Kirk Campbell from ODU, where he was the OC/QB coach.   It seems he worked with Gattis at Penn State.  Here is his write up from ODU's website:

Campbell joins the Monarchs as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. He has spent the last three years at Penn State as an offensive analyst. While at Penn State, he assisted Rahne in all QB meetings, scouted future opponents and was a part of game planning. While at Penn State, the Nittany Lions won 31 games and went to two New Years’ Six Bowls.

Over those three seasons, Penn State averaged 36.8 points per game and all three offenses finished in the top-9 all-time at Penn State.  Campbell was the offensive coordinator at Alderson Broaddus (W. Va.) for five years prior to his time at Penn State.  Over five years his offenses averaged 34.7 points per game and, in 2016, led the startup program to a 9-2 record, just their fourth season of football.  

That season, Alderson Broaddus had three All-American’s and 13 all-conference performers. Prior to joining Alderson Broaddus, he coached the wide receivers and tight ends at Tiffin (Ohio), and started his coaching career as a graduate assistant coaching the wide receivers and tight ends at West Virginia Wesleyan. @CoachKCampbell / Twitter

Kirk is expected to join Jimmy's staffer as an offensive analyst.   

• No new news on the Jimmy to Raiders front. EMU's Maxx Crosby supports Rich B as its next head coach. Update: Rich Bisaccia is interviewing today for the permanent head coaching job. 
• Michigan Basketball showed a pulse last night and beat Maryland 
• Michigan has also reached a settlement in the ugly Dr. Anderson situation

Michigan Monday: News and Notes

• Michigan's Women's Basketball had a big win over #5 Baylor this weekend 

• Dearborn Divine Child C/OG Dylan Senda is announcing today.  He is a 3-Star OL with offers from Michigan, Iowa, MSU, PSU, Northwestern, Miami, UK, and more.  Dylan is 6'5 275 pounds. (Michigan has 100% of the CB's) 👍

• LA Times named recent signee Mason Graham its HS Player of the Year. 

• Huge Congratulations to The Ferris State Bulldogs for being Division II National Champions in dominating fashion!!!!  The State of Michigan Universities sure did have a good year on the field. 

• Harbaugh staffer Steve Casula will serve as Don Brown's OC at UMASS after the CFP. The word is Steve is a top-notch offensive mind and played a big part in Michigan's offense this season. Ironically, Steve was also at Ferris State the last time they made a run to the NC game in 2018.  

• Chaundee Brown got his first points in his NBA career and then took a charge on the next play

• Bo Nix is a Duck and will have 2 years to play 

Wolverine Wednesday: News and Notes Edition

• Ohio State hired Oklahoma State's DC Jim Knowles.  If you're looking for a DC you usually don't go to the Big 12, but Jim's unit had a good year.   I watched a couple games this season and wasn't impressed.   

• Josh Gattis won the Broyles Award last night.  Congratulations to him! 

• Tom Brady SI Sportsman of the Year

• Junior Colson was named to the On3 Freshmen All American Team

• Michigan Basketball loves to play Nebraska and put up 102 points on them last night.  Brandon Johns and Terrance Williams both went for 20 each.   Wow! 

• One week away from the Early Signing Date for College Football Alert!  

• Jimmy's staff is all over the country visiting commits and prospects. 

• The Staff will visit 2022 WR Kaleb Webb this week but he is trending hard to Tennesse right now

• A name to watch in the replacement for Courtney Morgan's role is former UM student and current CMU's Director of Player Personnel Albert Karchnia.  From his CMU page:  

Albert Karschnia is in his fourth season as the director of player personnel for the Central Michigan football program.

Karschnia worked in 2015-16 on the football staff at Michigan, serving in various roles including that of assistant recruiting coordinator.

In that capacity, Karschnia was responsible for the oversight of recruitment of offensive players, directed on-campus recruiting efforts, and managed the program’s preferred walk-on program.

A Michigan native and a graduate of St. Mary’s Preparatory in Orchard Lake, Karschnia earned a bachelor’s degree with a major in sport management from Michigan in 2015.

While at Michigan, he served as the Director of Professional Development and Alumni Relations Chair for the University of Michigan Sport Business Association.

Michigan Monday: Would Watch Megan Fox

The latest news is that 3 star OLB Micah Pollard is expected to commit today at 4:00, he was an Auburn lean but now all the CB predictions are to the Maize and Blue.   Pollard is 6'3 200 LB from Jacksonville who has offers from the likes of Auburn, Arizona, IU, Penn State, UK, Louisville, Ole Miss, VA Tech, and more.  

This is a position of need and sounds like a good pick-up.   

• Biff Pogi is back and will be on Harbaugh's staff again.  He and Jimmy must have a very strong relationship. 

• I've never thought rapper Machine Gun Kelly was the brightest bulb in the room, until he brings his girlfriend Megan Fox to the UFC Fight in Vegas, is in the second row and never takes his eyes off her.  I stand corrected. 

• If the U19 games are any indication, Caleb Houstan is going to be a superstar in Ann Arbor. 

• Michigan makes the top 5 for the #2 player in the class DT Walter Nolen.  With Bama, FL, Georgia, and TN. 

• Juwan has offered 2022 4 star Center from Orlando Ernest Udeh Jr.

• If you ever look at the tipping point of Michigan Football's downfall and think "if they had hired Les Miles" things would have been different.   Here is the reason why he wasn't hired.    People in the industry are very aware of who Les is and isn't.  

Michigan Tuesday: June Will Be Visit Month

Football recruiting and official visits are opening back up for business in June.  Every program in the nation will try to host their top prospects so they can make a great first impression on these talented players. 

Michigan will have a long list of visitors in June.  Thanks to a Mgoblog user, here is a list of the attendees as it stands right now:

June 4-6

3*(FL) DT Hayden Schwartz

3*(FL) OLB Micah Pollard

 June 11-13

4*(TN) ATH Kody Jones-commit

3*(VA) ATH Tyler Jones

3* (CA) QB Nate Johnson

3*(TX) WR Jeremy Patton

3*(NC) DE Beau Atkinson

 June 18-20

5*(MI) CB Will Johnson-commit

4*(GA) CB Marquis Groves Killebrew-Georgia commit

4*(FL) DE Mario Eugenio

3*(GA) OLB Joshua Josephs

4*(MIN) OT Lucas Heyer

3*(TX)  DE Joseph Adedire

4*(IN) DE Joe Strickland

3*(GA) S Mumu Bin-Wahad

3*(NV) DT Sir Mells

4*(VA) RB George Pettaway

4*(AL) DE Justice Finkley

3*(TX) WR Dillon Bell

3*(FL) DT Tawfiq Thomas

3*(SC) RB CJ Stokes

3*(IL) S Austin Brown

5*(TN) DT Walter Nolan

 June 22-24

4*(GA) TE Oscar Delp

 June 25-27

4*(OR) WR Darrius Clemons

3*(FL) W Chandler Smith

3*(MD) DE Anto Saka

3*(AL) WR Marquarius White

You can tell June 18-20 will be an important weekend as they are calling it Victors Weekend and will host 5 star commit Will Johnson and the #2 player in the nation Walter Nolan.  

• DT Hayden Swartz will be on commit watch during his visit as he is trending to the Wolverines.  

• More folks join the recruiting staff, Jarrett McElwain (son of Jim McElwain) is now the Director of Scouting.  He has been on staff since 2018 and Christina DeRuyter joined from Vandy. 

Michigan Monday: Congrats to C-Webb

Michigan didn't have anyone in the Basketball Hall of Fame prior to Saturday (No Cazzie Russell?).  That changed on Saturday when Rudy T went in and now another Wolverine will join him next year when Chis Webber makes it into the Hall.    Congratulations to both!  

• Jordan Poole went off for 38 points on Friday.  He is really starting to find his game in year 2 and after a stint in the G-League.   Iggy scored 21 points for the Magic as he continues to try to make an NBA roster. 

• Aashon Larkins has been promoted to Director of Recruiting which was Matt Dudek old role.  If your wondering, Courtney Morgan is the Director of Player Personnel.  How are the roles different under Jimmy?  No clue, but both will focus on recruiting. 

• Willie Allen has picked his 20th school, its UMass.  Good luck to him! 

• Ohio State game will be at Noon of course on Fox

• Michigan continues to look good for Oregon State DT transfer Jordan Whittley.  Next season could be Jordan's 7th year.  He might be older then some of the new assistant coaches.  :)

Michigan Thursday: A Tough Road

I'm a bit old school when it comes to goals for Michigan's sports.   I want Big Ten Championship and then everything else is icing on the cake.   In basketball, I want the regular season championship because the Big Ten and NCAA Tournaments are unpredictable where you have to be lucky and good.   The true sense of accomplishment for the season is winning the regular season BIG 10 championship.  

Michigan will have to play their best basketball in the next two weeks to accomplish that goal.   It started on Sunday and continues tonight as the Wolverines host #9 Iowa at home.   Michigan can't overlook the trip to IU on Saturday, then a tournament like week starts.   Where Michigan hosts #5 Illinois and plays 2 games against rival MSU.    If Michigan can get through those games, they will have earned that Big Ten Title.  

Here is Michigan's new football coaching staff:

We believe this is finally final for Michigan's staff changes.  

• MSU beat Illinois on Tuesday, tonight they have OSU.  

• Michigan's Pro Day is 3/26, with no Combine this year, a very important day for the Wolverines who want to get drafted.  

Michigan Monday: No, You Can't Take That Away

It what was an instant classic between 2 Big Ten heavyweights, Michigan got a great win over Ohio State in Columbus.   (In my years of writing this blog, I'm not sure if I have ever gotten to say that).  

Ohio State's game plan in the first half was to try to take away Michigan's inside presence and the Wolverines shot the lights out from 3.   Then in the second half OSU had to guard the 3 point line, which opened it up for Hunter.   They also tried to take away Livers and Wagner so Brown and Brooks stepped up. 

This team is sure as hell fun to watch and a huge hat tip goes to Juwan and his entire squad.  Michigan is clearly one of the best teams in the nation and when guys have off nights, others step up.   I think everyone outside of Austin Davis could go for 20 any night.   Biggest win since Michigan made its latest run to the Final 4.

Huge win over the Buckeyes!

• What to know what type of coach Juwan is?  CJ Baird was not on the bench on Sunday, but he drove down to Columbus to watch the game and be with his team in the stands.   After the time expired, Coach Howard turns around and points at him to recognize his effort of being with the team.   

• Today is the first day of spring practice! 

• Brian Jean Mary took a role at Tennessee.   Which seems more like a push out then a change he wanted to make.  It seemed to me Brian was doing well on the recruiting trail but something was a little off because he has been actively interviewing for jobs.  

• As soon as BJM was gone, Jimmy hired the Ravens RB coach Matt Weiss as Michigan's next QB coach, who was on Jimmy's staff at Stanford.   So the plan was to hire Matt along and rearrange the defensive coaches as a LB coach left and a QB came in.  

• So now the plan is to move Coach Bellamy to safeties, Coach Helow to LB, Gattis will again take the WR's, 

• Ben VanSumeren is heading to MSU to play.  Hope he finds a position. 

• Michigan's updated basketball schedule if you haven't seen it:

Thursday: Iowa

Saturday: @ IU

3/2: Illinois 

3/4: MSU

3/7: @ MSU