Michigan Tuesday: This Weeks Goal: Beat Villanova Twice = 50% Complete

As you know, Michigan takes on Villanova in San Antonio on Thursday in the Sweet Denard.  Last night, the Women Wolverines beat Villanova at Crisler to climb to the Sweet Denard in the Womens NCAA Tournament.  Naz went for 27, the other starters combined for 17 points.  Brown off the bench scored 20 points.   Congrats! 

• Warde wants $41M for new scoreboards at the Big House.  The current ones were installed in 2011 and its hard-to-find parts to repair it and keep it updated.  For reference, Michigan Stadium was built in 1927 for under $1M. 

• Former Wolverine Jamal Crawford has retired from the NBA. Jamal had a cup of coffee in Ann Arbor before getting suspended and heading to the league.

Michigan Thursday: Hits The Links

Sorry all, I don't have much content today.  So I will share some links for your reading pleasure.

• One of the Big Ten's best WR Stefon Diggs will not play on Saturday at the Big House.

• Denard article!

• Hoke's Wednesday Press Conference. The most interesting thing that came out of it was that Hoke turned down offering Jake Ryan a scholarship at SDSU.   I think he thought that was funny, I'm more in line with him not recognizing talent. 

• Saturday's weather is calling for a high of 40 degrees rain and ice. 

• Reportedly there are 3,000 tickets left for Saturday's game.   Rain, Ice and a 3:30 kick probably won't help attendance. 

• The Michigan Basketball Team plays Detroit tonight at Crisler.  6:00 BTN

• Horford is playing well for Florida.   I will never understand that move.

• Alan Branch's football journey by ESPN.  He is playing well for the Patriots right now.

Michigan Monday: For David Brandon Faliure is an Option

David Brandon's former company Domino's Pizza current tag line is "Failure is an option".   They are using that tag line to introduce their new chicken line and remind everyone they have had other failures in the past.    That really seems to sum up David's latest comments to a Sports and Business lunch at Ford Field: (freep link)

“We all think of every home Michigan football game like a miniature Super Bowl. We’ve got to have enough going on that people want to be there to listen to it. We know who our competitor is: your 60-inch, high-definition, soon-to-be-3-D television set that you will choose instead of my $65 ticket. And we work really hard at that.”

“When Fielding Yost designed Michigan Stadium, he just wasn’t thinking about the Internet and bandwidth,” Brandon said. “We know that what our customers want is the ability to be able to sit there and be able to surf the web and call up replays and do all of the things they can do in their armchair at home. But when you’ve got 112,000 people sitting shoulder to shoulder and they all want to go online at the same time and you’ve got a stadium that’s fundamentally underground and we don’t have any second decks or third decks where we can put in the wiring and the antennas to get the kind of bandwidth we need, it’s the biggest challenge we have.” (bold mine)

What?

David, I could be wrong but Michigan fans what a competitive football team on the field and match-ups that they can get excited about.  Not games in Dallas or anywhere else you are thinking about.   The Big House is not Dallas Stadium and you're not Jerry Jones.   Don't try to sell us chicken when your main product Pizza is bad.   Fix the product on the field and the people will come.  

I have never stepped in Michigan Stadium hoping my phone would show replays, I wanted to see Desmond catch TD passes, Woodson shut down a WR and Mike Hart run the ball.   It's fine the Big House is hosting hockey games and soccer matches, but the main product is broken and needs to be fixed. 

I can't remember ever having a home schedule that didn't have ND, MSU or OSU on it.  ND and OSU is not your fault but letting the Big Ten give MSU back to back home game is.   You have sold 2 home games to Dallas and now you have let the Big Ten take MSU away this year.   What are you doing to Michigan fans?

How can you be surprised that renewal of season tickets are down, staff and facility tickets are down and students aren't interested?   David your pizza is bad and we don't want your chicken!

• As expected Jon Horford took his talents to Florida.  He went from an Elite 8 team to a Final 4 team.  Still can't believe he left with all the playing time he was looking at.

• During an NBA game this weekend it was mentioned that Serge Ibaka's brother might be getting an offer from U of M.  His name Igor and he is 6'9 and 225 pounds and plays for a junior college.  I would assume that he would be a candidate for the 2015 class.  

• We should know Aubrey Dawkins decision this week.  Dayton was his last visit.

• 4 star TE Chris Clark who de-committed from UNC a couple weeks ago who since has visited Ann Arbor and C-Bus in the past couple weeks,  reportedly has Michigan as his leader right now.

Central Michigan Preview

Time:  3:30 EST
Location: Big House
TV:  BTN
Weather: 87 with 40% chance of thunderstorms
Line:  Michigan -31


The Chips won their last 5 out 6 games last year including The Little Caesars Bowl, so Brady Hoke will keep his team honest and prepared for Central.  Central also had the NFL's #1 draft pick in offensive lineman Erik Fisher.  Someday he and Jake Long can have a beer and talk about playing in the Great Lake State and being #1 draft picks in the overall draft.  The Wolverines shouldn't have much of an issue getting up for the first game of the year as they been hitting each other for a month and probably ready to hit someone else.

I have a feeling that both squads will want to run the ball.  Michigan will rely on Fitzgerald Toussaint who is back after a terrible leg injury late in the season last year.   Central's top rusher is Zurlon Tipton who nearly ran for 1500 yards last season.   CMU has a large and experienced offensive line and they will try to run the ball and protect their new QB Cody Kater.  I'm willing to bet Central will try to get creative and test the Michigan Safeties deep.  Scoring early and often will be Central's goals.  They would love to be in the game at the half and roll the dice in the third and fourth quarters.

Tale of The Tape

Michigan Everything vs. Central Everything = Michigan being a 31 point favorite


Michigan didn't have the luxury of playing a winnable game last year in the opener as they travelled to Dallas to meet the National Champions.  This year they do and hopefully this game gets out of hand early so we can see some young guys play and prepare for ND in a week. 

Michigan has been known to start the season slowly in openers and hopefully they have learned from their mistakes.  Keeping Central in this game with turnovers or quick 3 and outs will only give the Chips confidence.  If Central is in the game, former MSU QB and now Central head coach Dan Enos will get "creative" with some play calls.   Look for fake punts or anything that could rattle the young Wolverines.

Sing Hail to the Victors if...............

• Everyone stay healthy
• Devin has a nice day throwing the ball and stays clean
• Fitz goes for 100 yards by half time
• Derrick Greens gets at least 5 carries
• The defensive only gives up field goals
• Shane Morris gets some experience

Chomp Those Chips if....................

• Central thinks they are playing MSU
• The Chips game plan confuses the Michigan Defense
• Central scores the first touchdown early
• They hang around due to Michigan turnovers

Vegas thinks Michigan should win this game in a laugher.   Hoke hasn't lost in The Big House yet and Michigan is 31-1 against the MAC (thanks RR and Toledo).  The threat of thunderstorms reminds me of Hoke's first game as head coach when they called the game early because of lighting and Michigan's big lead. 

We will finally get chance to see Big Al's offense run by Devin Gardner who has a huge ceiling and would make a great NFL QB if he has a couple good years in Ann Arbor.   I just hope he protects himself if he runs or scrambles, the thought of losing him is pretty much a death blow to the season's goals.

Players to watch:  Drew Dileo with some nice catches and a touchdown.  Norfleet taking a punt or kickoff for a TD and Frank Clark getting more than one sack when Central feels like they have to throw the ball. 

This game could be the first step in what could be a Big Ten Championship Season.   Let's hope it's a successful step!

Michigan 41  CMU 12


GO BLUE!

Michigan Monday: Welcomes Denzel Ward

During the close call on Saturday a commit from 2014 prospect Denzel Ward, went a bit overlooked.  He is what you would call a high ceiling type of player.  This year is his first year playing football but as a junior is 6'9 285 pounds.   With some good coaching and that foundation he could be a very good football player say by his redshirt sophomore year.   His only other offer was from Purdue but had been getting a lot of attention from the likes of Iowa, MSU, Illinois, Wisconsin and USC.   He is not rated by any service at this point. 

Denzel is friends with LTT as Michigan picks up another recruit from Chicago, Illinois. 

• OSU offered Gareon Conley this weekend.

• Michigan is ranked #20 in both the Coaches and AP polls. #22 in the BCS

• Denard showed up on kick return against MSU - In other news, expect him to play DB and sell programs at halftime at the Big House.

• Michigan right now is a 3pt dog against Nebraska on Saturday night.

• Stadium Journey puts up reviews of stadiums across the world.  The review of the Big House is up. 

State of the Big Ten

• Has Wisconsin already clinched the Leaders division?  There are 4 teams that can qualify for the Big Ten Championship game, Wisconsin is 3-0 and the 3 others are 0-3.   OSU and PSU are 4-0 and 3-0 but can't make the championship game.

• When will OSU drop a game?  OT against Purdue in Columbus?  That is not a good sign.  They are still un-defeated.

• Penn State is getting better.  The way they destroyed Iowa was impressive.  Still not sure that either team is very good.

• The race for the Legends division has Michigan in the drivers seat at 3-0.   MSU and Minnesota are out.  Northwestern is on the ropes and Iowa/Nebraska are hanging in there with 1 loss.   Nebraska can tie for first place if they can beat the Wolverines in Lincoln this weekend.

• Michigan State now has to go on the road and play Wisconsin at Camp Randall.  Yikes, that is a difficult schedule.

BHB Big Ten Power Rankings

1. Michigan
2. OSU
3. Wisconsin
4. Penn State
5. Nebraska

Michigan Lacrosse - OSU Preview at the Big House

(Post written by BHB reader Dave C)

As a club sport, the Wolverines had a tremendously successful program. Winning three straight MCLA National Championships (2008-2010) and eleven CCLA titles (1999-2003, 2005, 2007-2011). This year, the Wolverines took a huge step by elevating their program to the Varsity status thus competing with teams that have been at this level for years. Next year they will be a full on NCAA D1 member in the ECAC conference. At 1-9 overall this year, the road so far has proven to be a tough one. As history with Michigan Tradition and Success has proven, this team will not give up, and will continue to grow a become a force at the Varsity level, just as they were at the club level.


Next weekend, Saturday April 14th, in The Big House, tradition continues in the form of the rivalry with the team from south of the border. Ohio (State) comes in at 4-6 overall this year and is looking to get above the 50% win level, not to mention spoiling it for Michigan, as hosts in this first meeting, by beating them at home in The Big House . If you are already a lacrosse fan, you know this will be a good one to watch. If you are new to, or even if you do not know a thing about Lacrosse, come out and support Michigan as they look to go 1 up in the Michigan vs OSU rivalry.

EMU Preview

Time: 12:00
Location: Big House
TV: BTN
Weather: Partly Cloudy high of 66 degrees (is it Fall already?)
Line: Michigan -30


So Michigan's 2011 season has consisted of a weather shorten game and a big comeback against a rival.  So what will week 3 have in store for us?  Hopefully a lot less drama and many more offensive plays. 

Clearly, this is a miss match on paper and talent as EMU comes down Stadium Blvd to get a pay day.  The battle of Washtenaw County helps EMU fund it's athletic department and a chance for former Wolverines to start or continue their coaching careers.

With that said, the Wolverines have struggled in the past with EMU and played some too close for comfort games.   Will there be a let down this weekend?  I doubt it, even though Michigan is 2-0 there still remains a ton of questions that Brady and Staff hopes to start answering on Saturday.   For example:

• Can Michigan find a starting RB?
• Will Justice Hayes or Thomas Rawls get any snaps?
• How will the musical chairs at LB turn out?
• Can Michigan's offensive line dominate like expected?
• Can the Michigan offense be effective with Denard under center?
• Will Devin Gardner get some snaps?
• Can the defensive line get a pass rush with 4 guys?
• Is Blake Countess or Greg Brown ready for regular action?
• Can Michigan make a field goal?

That's a lot of questions to be answered in week 3 with a solid SDSU team coming in next week and the Big Ten season two weeks away. 

The Michigan players should take this game seriously because their playing time in future games may depend on it.   I just hope we can start to identify the clear starters at each position with a couple good options for back up (while not burning any redshirts).

I also wouldn't mind if Craig Roh mixed in a tackle or two.  I'm just hoping he is just not himself from the illness he had late in the summer.

This is not a big recruiting game, so there probably won't be a ton of top rated 2012 guys on campus.  Michigan needs to focus on the game, stay healthy and put this one away early so the back ups can get some time.   Troy Woolfolk please sit this one out.

Sing Hail to the Victors if...............

• Denard is sharp in the passing game and is healthy on the bench in the 3rd qtr.
• Big Will starts to cement his position in the starting lineup
• The offensive line gives some huge holes for the Michigan running backs
• 2 running backs have over 100 yards and neither are named Denard.
• The Michigan defense holds EMU to under 14 points
• No injuries
• Mike Hart runs to the Michigan sideline as EMU takes the field

Say Darn those former Michigan coaches and players if..............

• The game is uncomfortably close
• Michigan can't stop the run on defense
• Mike Hart suits up for the Eagles
• If Michigan has let down after the big win last weekend

Look for EMU to try to run the ball a lot and take some shots down field if the Michigan safeties are out of position or giving big cushions.  Michigan will work on the basics like running the ball and trying to improve Denards's accuracy with some short throws.  Michigan will take plenty of shots deep but they really want to get some yards out of the RB position and not put Denard in harms way.   Let's hope Big Blue jumps out to a big lead and the defensive holds tight. 

Michigan 41 EMU 13


GO BLUE

Michigan Monday: Helps Kelly With Anger Management

David Guralnick/The Detroit News

Kelly Anger Management

10 turnovers in 2 games is enough for any head coach to lose his mind on the sideline.  Brian Kelly has spent a lot of last week explaining his behavior on the sideline of the South Florida game. 

He had a couple of flare ups during the Michigan game but nothing major and do you want to know why?

He had a Grad assistant or team manager tap him on the back or shoulder when he started to lose his cool. If you re-watch the game, check it out.  It is pretty clear on TV a couple of times.  Many times, Kelly turns his back to the TV cameras when talking to players on Saturday Night.

I heard a Kelly interview about a month ago on ESPN radio, he said the #1 key to a successful season was success early.  They are now 0-2 with MSU paying a visit to South Bend this weekend.  Call in the tapper!

BTW: How did ND's last two trips to the State of Michigan turn out?  80 yards in 28 seconds for a loss at the Big House and the fake OT field goal in East Lansing.   Not a very good home coming for the former GVSU and CMU coach. 

2013 in the house!

The excitement of the entire day has moved at least one kid to verbal to Michigan.  The first player to drop a commitment for Michigan is Ohio athlete Dymonte Thomas.  Dymonte plays running back and safety in high school but probably projects to safety at the next level.   Mgoblog did a great write up of  Dymonte, so I won't re-create but he is a nice addition to 5 star QB Shane Morris in the 2013 class.    DT had offers from Illinois, Iowa, Michigan State, Notre Dame, Pitt, Tennessee, UCLA, and West Virginia, he also had interest from Ohio State, Alabama, Florida, Cincinnati, and Northwestern.  He is expected to be a 4 star recruit when the rest of the 2013 rankings come out.

The wild card here is that Dymonte is cousins with 2012 RB Brionte Dunn.   This can only work in Michigan's favor of persuading Brionte to Ann Arbor next Fall. 

2012 Recruiting Updates

• The uncommitted 3:  Banner, Payton and O'Brien all had incredible things to say about the ND experience.  There was even a rumor that Danny O had committed on Saturday.  That turned out not to be true and his tentative announcement date is 10/7. Keep an eye on Payton for commitment watch this week. 

• Yuri Wright is planning to visit A2 for the SDSU or Minnesota games.

• The rumor mill is also saying that Michigan just needs to get Amara Darboh's guardians on campus in Ann Arbor for the Iowa WR to commit to the Wolverines.

Wolverine Wednesday: 10 Things I like to see from Michigan before I buy a condo at the Villages

#10: A Wall of Fame, A Circle of Honor something that honors the great former Michigan football players.  I agree that retiring numbers may not be the right thing to do but there are so many great former Wolverines and there should be some lasting memorial somewhere at the Big House.  Name it the Gerald R. Ford Memorial: Circle of Champions.

#9:  Tom Brady gets close to U of M.   When Tom is ready to hang up his cleats, I would like there to be some type of partnership between Tom and U of M.  Is it a Tom Brady Scholarship? Is he the associate AD?  I don't know but having Tom close to the program has to be a good thing. 

#8: The Michigan Baseball team gets more TV exposure.  I have always thought there would be a nice fan base for the Michigan Baseball team if they got some more exposure.

#7:  Mike Hart on the Michigan coaching staff.  He seems the perfect candidate when Fred Jackson retires. 

#6: The Michigan basketball team makes an un-expected run to the Final 4.

#5: The Fab 5 plays an exhibition game against the current Wolverines for charity.  Maybe to re-open the "new" Crisler Arena?

#4: Michigan Football Dominates Midwest Recruiting. I want Michigan to be able to recruit like Texas does. Bring in all the top players in from Michigan, Ohio and neighboring states. Give the kids offers right there and then and give them 48 hours to accept or decline them. Michigan would have 70% of it's class full in a couple of days.



#3: Keith Jackson to do one more Michigan - Ohio State game in the Big House.

#2: Michigan goes on a new winning streak against MSU and OSU.

#1: Big Shocker Here:  Michigan has an un-defeated National Championship season where they beat OSU twice and USC in the BCS National Championship Game in the Rose Bowl      


Honorable mentions:  A night game at the Big House (next year), A huge music festival at the Big House with all the top bands,  Michigan and Michigan State play one or two games at Ford Field to help the downtown economy,  Zack Novak's number retired, Michigan signs the #1 rated high school prospect in either football or basketball or both!, an August pre-season exhibition football game against an opponent not on the schedule (yes I know this is more of an NCAA rule/issue) and Michigan doesn't need to hire a new football coach for the next 15 years!

Game Day Video: Michigan vs Wisconsin 2008

This was a no brainer on what to put up here today.  It's the Michigan 19 point second half comeback against Wisconsin in 2008.  It's Michigan first year under Rich Rod and the 500th game at the Big House. 

Like the game today, you can enjoy it in HD!

Enjoy Michigan's last home game of the year.  (side note: Where did this season go?  It seems like Michigan was just in fall camp a few weeks ago).  

Michigan vs UConn Preview

Date: September 4, 2010

Time: 3:30 EST

TV: ABC/ESPN 2

Location: Ann Arbor, MI
Weather: 65 degrees
Line: Michigan -3

Final pre-season rant: 
Harvey Danger has a song called Flagpole Sitta that has a line that states:  "I'm not sick but I'm not well".  This line best describes the Michigan football program the last 3 years.  Yes, the last 3 years.  The last year in the Lloyd Carr era was full of lows and highs with some things that were just un-excusable.   We all know what has happened under RR the last two years.  This program is not sick but it's not well either. 

The time for change is now.  Not a year from now, it's f'ing now!   It's time to flush the past 3 years down the toilet and start playing Michigan football.  I don't want to hear about the Freep, Stretching Gate, players leaving, players with out wings, past records, or hot seats.  I want to see some GOD DAMN Michigan football.  I want to see fast, physical, smart football.  On Saturday it doesn't matter if your a freshman or a senior, it doesn't mater if you love or hate the new Big House.  On Saturday it's time to STAND UP and play Michigan Football.  Play hard, Play for the men that came before you, Play for MICHIGAN!

Ok, I feel better.  Thanks for the letting me get that out. 

Game Preview:

I don't expect any surprises on Saturday.  Both teams are pretty familiar with each other.  The reason being is; Michigan is full with a Big East coaching staff and UConn of course is a Big East Team.   Rich Rodriguez and Greg Robinson are two former head coaches in the Big East vs Randy Edsall.   It's clear both teams are better on offense then they are on defense and whichever team get more stops is going to win.  Pretty simple, right?

Opening games are normally sloppy, full of penalties, with a number of turnovers, and special team mistakes.  If we even those things out with both teams, then the game prediction is pretty clear in my mind. 
Let's go to the tale of tape to see if what I am thinking is right.

Michigan Offense vs UConn's D = Michigan

UConn's Offense vs Michigan D = UConn

Special Teams = Push

UConn's offense strength is in the running game with junior RB Jordan Todman who ran for 1,188 yards in 2009.  Michigan defense is the strongest up front with a good defensive line and experienced linebackers (I know - I said experienced).   Michigan weakness is clearly in the secondary where they have a ton of youth with zero experience.   Still I don't expect UConn to go Texas Texas and start throwing the ball around the yard.  They will still try to run the ball, unless they get down big. 

Michigan on offense has two sophomore QB's nicknamed the "Fed-Ex duo"  that can beat you via the air or land.   I expect Tate Forcier to get the start but Denard to get a ton of time.  I also expect some sets with both Tate and Denard in the backfield.  (Maybe Tate pitches to Denard and he throws or runs or maybe he is just a decoy).   This unit with an experience offensive line is the strongest unit on the field for either team.  UConn is also young in the defensive backfield and could give up some big plays in the passing game. 

Whoever plays the best defense wins the game. 

Players to watch for Michigan:

• Michael Shaw at running back
• Cullen Christian at cornerback
• Taylor Lewan offensive line
• Cam Gordon at Safety

Sing Hail to the Victors if...............

• Michigan has a RB over 100 yards
• Michigan limits turnovers and negative plays
• Both Tate and Denard play well
• The freshman CB's know where to lineup
• The senior linebackers play like seniors

Worry if...........

• Michigan has trouble stopping the run
• There is little pressure on the Zach Frazer UConn's QB
• The Big House atmosphere doesn't rattle the young Huskies 

I expect that Darryl Stonum will be the difference at WR and in the return game.  He catches 2 touchdowns passes and one deep.  All the Michigan running backs play and they play well.  The offense line dominates and the new Big House shakes! Michigan wins 31-21.

Brock Mealer you are an inspiration to everyone!    I'm looking forward to you walking across the field! 

Go Blue!

Wolverine Wednesday: Opens the Big House to All Comers

Today is the day the public can take a tour of the new Big House.  I hope they draw my name for the free luxury box for the year (just kidding they are not holding that contest).   Take the tour today and see if you agree with the way Bill Martin spent the 226 Million.  From last years games and the photos I have seen, I think they did a very nice job. The folks that decide to take the tour today will get the first look at Michigan's new Field Turf.  "For FieldTurf to be on the hallowed ground of Michigan Stadium is an honor for our company, and it is a responsibility that we take very seriously. We pledge to continue to provide the very finest and safest turf available in the world today."

The Big House is the biggest once again.  The offical capcity is up to 109,901 and the largest college or pro football stadium. 

• Fall out from the NCAA investigation?  Brad Labadie, director of Michigan football operations, who was involved in the Countable Athletically-Related Activity (CARA) forms that were mishandled and a focus of the NCAA investigation, has resigned.    Brad has taken a job a Blue Cross and Blue Shield.  David Brandon:  "I absolutely don't think people should" think his departure has anything to do with the NCAA investigation.   Speaking for myself; If I was in Brad's situation, I might find a new job as well. 

• Drew Henson remembers his former Boss and the late George Steinbrenner.  (Freep Link)  As a baseball fan, I always thought it was interesting on how George always put winning first and built his Yankee empire.  As a Michigan fan, I wasn't real happy that he took maybe the most talented (skill wise) QB Michigan has ever seen a year to early.  

• Ford Field says, Big Ten pick me for your Championship Game!

• Charles Woodson escapes a home that was on fire this weekend. 

• TomVH from Mgoblog gives us a quick update on Cyrus Hobbi's visit yesterday to Ann Arbor.  In short, it went great and he will seriously consider Michigan in his recruitment.

Michigan Monday: What's a Half a Mill between Friends?

Don't you just love when reporters don't do their homework, continue to have "Chicken Little" disease regarding the Michigan football program, and try to sell their papers for their dying business by writing headlines that really don't equal fact? 

I don't either.  We all know what I am talking about and who the real "guilty" party is.

With that said, comes the report that the University of Michigan paid nearly a 1/2 a Million Dollars in legal fees to investigate what turned out to be mis-communication and a couple of guys asleep at the wheel in the athletic department.  The exact figure is $446,971.

I can think of a number of ways to spend a half a million dollars if I was the U of M Athletic Department.  I bet you could as well.  So in the spirit of the band "Bare Naked Ladies" famous song,  "If I had a million dollars".   Here are my thoughts on how to spend the money:


10. Hire a few coaches from Detroit Southeastern and Southwestern.  (Sorry Sparty, just had to go there.)

9. Construct a petting zoo for Mike Barwis wolves.

8.  Buy maize "We Believe" Towels for every Michigan fan entering the UConn game.

7.  Hire a private plane and keep it near USC's campus with free flights to the Ann Arbor Airport.

6. Put permanent lighting in the Big House.  (I'm sure it would cost a few dollars more)

5. Help fund Tedd Ginn, Sr. Football Camp Tour Bus.

4. Fund a Rich Rodriguez Football Camp in Orlando, Florida.

3. Repaint the numbers (farther apart) on the seats in the Big House.  Give us at least one "cheek" more. 

2. Pay it all to Keith Jackson to announce one more game in the Big House.

1.  Build a "Ring of Honor" and have a half time dedicated to the induction of the late great Bo Schembechler and Bob Ufer.   Michigan wouldn't have to "retire" numbers but this is also a place were we could recognize great Michigan players and Heisman Trophy winners of the past.

Michigan Tuesday: News and Notes

• Demar Dorsey is now at Louisville and the first transfer from USC after the NCAA brought the hammer, linebacker Jordan Campbell is also transferring to Charlie Strong's ball club. 

• Adam Rittenberg at ESPN wonders out loud where Michigan's 2010 recruiting class now ranks?  It's a fair question on a slow news day but this is life on the recruiting trail.  Not all students you sign make it to campus, it seems to happen every year.   Don't blame RR for Michigan admissions department or kids not being able to get the work done in the classroom or with the SAT or ACT.

•  3 star Safety from Columbus, Ron Tanner is expected to pick Ohio State on Friday. 

• Jon Bills a Michigan Football Player is doing well after a serious car accident.

• Anthony Zettel's top 6 are Cincinnati, Iowa, Michigan, Michigan State, Penn State and UCLA.  Michigan is still his leader and best.

• Mvictors shares some new photos of the stadium. 

Inmates Run The Big House Day #6: Michigan Game Day Dress Code

First off, I’m into fashion and big Michigan football fan. I have noticed enough fashion disasters at The Big House in the past few years to move me to write a post on what to wear and what not to wear on game day.

What not to wear:

• Too much logo gear. Two items is the max. Three Michigan logo items is way over board. Don’t be that guy.
  
• Michigan logo items not produced by Nike or Adidas. If you bought your logo gear at Wal Mart or off a street vendor in China, don’t wear it on game day. Mostly that fake leather jacket (Starter?) that looks like a billboard.
  
• If your Michigan gear was purchased in the 1980’s please retire it.
  
• Too many layers in August or early September. Even if it’s in the high 60’s, it’s still hot in the Big House and you will not get cold with 100,000 of your closest friends sitting in your lap. There isn’t enough room for your sweatshirt anyway.
  
• Black Michigan gear. Michigan’s colors are Maize and Blue, not black.
  
• If you have graduated from college - no face paint.
  
• No matter if you’re a fan of another team, don’t wear that team’s gear at a Michigan - MAC opponent game at the Big House. Nobody cares if you root for Illinois.
  
• Michigan scrunches’ are fine for little girls but not for women over the age of 18.
  
• Grown men in Michigan Jerseys. Really guys?
  
• If your planning to wear sweat pants to the game, keep them in the drawer for the gym.

What to wear: After that list you should be able to put together a fine game day outfit but if you still need some ideas, here are some of my thoughts:

• In late summer early fall, a tee shirt with shorts is a good choice for any male attending the game. A Michigan hat is a good choice as well.
  
• For colder games, a Michigan jacket is not needed. Wear your regular pull over or sweatshirt with a Michigan hat. Having a Michigan jacket might break the 3 logo items rule above. When it comes to Michigan logo wear, remember one rule: less is more.
  

I hope these tips were helpful and Go Blue!

Gail from Saline

A Night Game at The Big House!

Brandon has been in the job a few weeks and already has a night game scheduled at the Big House in 2011 against ND. He better expect some nasty snail mail from some blue haired Michigan fans. This game will for sure conflict with Matlock!

What's next on the list?

• A hockey game in the Big House? Check
• Suites? Check
• World Cup? Not yet
• The Rolling Stones? Are they still alive?
• Slippery Rock? Why not? Bring those boys back!
• A un-defeated season? We can dream, can't we?

Michigan Friday: Hoping for Upsets

Well, it's do or die for the Wolverines in the Big 10 Tournament as we speak. They need to win this tournament to find any happiness out of this season. Ohio State - Michigan is going on right now.

• 3 Wolverines are on the College Football Hall of Fame ballot this year. The 3 are Desmond Howard, Jumbo Elliott and Robert Lytle. I hope they all make it! Go Blue!

• Position changes in the wind for Spring Ball include: Cam Gordon at free safety, Mike Jones at weak side linebacker, Mike Williams at the "Spinner" LB, Teric Jones at strong safety.

• Rich Rod is obsessed with making Michigan a "winner" - That makes two of us coach! Welcome aboard! "We think about it every day," Rodriguez told host Ryan Ermanni. "And I know a lot of our great fans do as well. But I'm obsessed with it, and I think our staff and I think certainly our players are obsessed with it, too. And we know the last two seasons haven't gone the way any of us would like. But at the same time, we've made some progress, we've kind of put the foundation down, and now we're ready to start getting going with more wins."

• 70% of the "New Big House" suites are sold. Better hurry up and get one. On a related note, It's still Free to visit the Big House Blog!

• It seems Iowa might be looking for a new basketball coach. Michigan been apart of 3 of their 22 losses this season.

• Don't forget about the Night of Champions this weekend. It would be great if Michigan picked up a couple of verbals. Michigan landed 2 last year and Devin committed shortly after.
  

Michigan Monday: The Victors Rally

Rick Leach and others are hosting the first annual Victors Rally at the Michigan Theater in Ann Arbor on Sunday, February 21st. This will be a celebration of Michigan Football past, present, and future. The guest speakers include Rich Rodriguez, Rick Leach, and other former players and coaches. I also expect a number of current players will be on hand to sign autographs. They are also saying there might be a few surprises??

Here are the logistics again: Michigan Theater, this Sunday from 1:00-3:30. Tickets are $5 for Adults, Students $2, and kids 12 and under are free. 734-668-time.

• Michigan has offered 2011 WR prospect from Massilon, OH Devin Smith. Devin is 6'1 and 175 pounds. Michigan will most likely only take 2 WR's in this class, so they will be very picky on who they offer. Devin right now has offers from MSU, Toledo, and Ball State. OSU is showing interest. Recent Michigan signee from the 2009 class, Justin Turner is also from Massilon.

• The New Big House Club Seats and Suites are selling well: Parker says 58 of the 81 suites are spoken for and 47 of them have been paid for completely, adding he's confident the other 11 will be soon.---- Parker said the school has commitments for 2,822 of its 3,685 club seats. How much you ask? Suites range in price from $55,000 to $85,000 and include 16 tickets, parking and a three-, five- or seven-year pledge. Club seats cost between $1,500 to $4,000 per seat plus the cost of tickets and include a one-year term. Eighty percent of costs for the suites and club seats are tax deductible.

• Former 5 star LB Arthur Brown leaves the University of Miami's program and heads home. His dad said that he was the one that made the decision: "I thought it was time for him to come home. He needed the support,'' Arthur Sr. said. " He has spent a tremendous amount of time away from people who love him." The above article states that Arthur was having a hard time grasping the Canes Defense the past two years.
  

The Big House and The Victors

Well it's not 2006 where the #2 Michigan Wolverines played the #1 Ohio State Buckeyes for a spot in the National Championship and the Big Ten Championship (that was still a terrible personal foul call - I'm still not over it) the day after legendary coach Bo Schembechler died. Nope, it's the 5-6 Wolverines vs #10 9-2 Ohio State Buckeyes who are favored by 12.5 points.

Can it still be a historic day? You bet!

Michigan could pull a big upset or The fans in the Big House can all play the "Victors" from their cell phones. Bongo Tones.com is running the "Hail to the Victors Campaign" and asking fans to download the "The Victors" ringtone for free and play it right after half time.

Here is an excerpt from their press release:
The campaign plans to bring together 106,201 University of Michigan students, alumni and fans to download “The Victors” ringtone free of charge to their mobile phones prior to the Ohio State-University of Michigan game at Michigan Stadium on November 21, 2009. During the game, shortly before halftime, all fans in attendance will be invited to play the ringtone to generate unprecedented noise and support for the University of Michigan football team. A Guinness Book of World Records representative will hopefully be present to verify that the event indeed sets a world record.

Since I know were all about free:

To access “The Victors” ringtone and support the campaign, either:
1) Click on the “Hail to the Victors: 106,201 Campaign” graphic on the BongoTones.com homepage.
2) Go directly to http://www.bongotones.com/goblue or click here!

Michigan Tuesday: Who is Starting at QB?

• The Detroit Free Press attended Rich Rodriguez press conference yesterday and had this headline on Monday: Tate Forcier to Start on Saturday, then today they run a headline that says: Denard Robinson Might Start on Saturday. Really? Which one is it? If Tate is 100% he will start, if he isn't Denard will. That sentence really didn't need two stories did it?

• Tate's brother Jason says Tate's shoulder is worse then you think: “His shoulder is more injured than I think the public realizes. It’s the same thing (Oklahoma quarterback) Sam Bradford did. Maybe not as severe, but an AC joint is an AC joint. Once you injure it, it’s hurt for the rest of the year.”

• Sounds like there are some "fake" Michigan Football Tickets out there. Be on the look out. If there is a picture of Beanie Wells on the ticket, the odds are good it's not a real Michigan - Delaware State ticket!

• The bag ban at Michigan Stadium continues. Leave your purse and fanny pack at home. If you own a fanny pack, please check your calendar and make sure it's not stuck on 1984.

• How about that Chad Henne last night? Did you watch the game? He played very, very well and even hooked up with Ted Ginn for a long touchdown pass.

• Hollywood Hills senior defensive end Clarence Murphy is planning a Ann Arbor/U of M visit for the Ohio State game.

• The Florida - LSU game took in a 6.8 TV rating on Saturday and the Michigan - Iowa game took only a 3.0.

• GVSU had it's first conference loss in five years. Yes, 5 years!

• Delaware State is 1-3 with a win over Hampton; losses to Florida AM, Delaware, and to Bethune-Cookman.