Michigan Monday: Wrong Answer, Right Answer

I will try to clear up some misconceptions that are floating around regarding people and programs related to the Wolverines:

Should MSU be upset that Darius Morris made a layup to go up by seven points with four seconds left in the game?

Wrong A: Yes, MSU had given up and there was no reason for Michigan to make that layup.

Right A:  Izzo and Crew, don't go "Sparty Football" on us now. You have the better basketball program, and yes, you have been dominating Michigan for years. Don't whine when you get beat or talk smack before the game that you will take care of business in Ann Arbor, and cry that the players were talking smack back after you lose.  

Last two points, I didn't know being up by five points was a safe lead? Didn't MSU beat Michigan by 50 a few years ago? Walk off the floor, keep your head up and try to win the Big Ten tournament. What's good for the goose...


Is Ryan Mallett more like Ryan Leaf or Ben Roethlisberger? 

Wrong A: Ryan was a great college QB at Michigan and Arkansas and should be drafted in the top 10 of the NFL draft. He will be Big Ben on the field with no off-the-field issues. 


Right A: I think you can make a case for both players. I think Ryan Mallett has a lot of talent and if he gets his head on straight, he could be Big Ben on the field. If he doesn't, he could be Big Ben off of it as well.  

I have heard a lot of rumors about Mallett that could be right or wrong, and it seems the NFL has heard the same. Ryan has the arm and the talent, but I don't think he is in great shape and I would worry about him off the field. If I was an NFL GM, I would also be concerned about his decision process and throwing picks late to lose games. 

His last throw in college was a pick against Ohio State to lose the Sugar Bowl. If he drops out of the first round, I would take him in a minute; if I had a Top 10 pick, I would take a pass. Something else to consider: Does Cam Newton = Akili Smith?

With 100-plus offers on the street and no 2012 commitments, does that concern you?

Wrong A: It's still early and Michigan has plenty of time to fill up the class. Nothing to worry about at all.

Right A: I am slightly concerned that the 2012 class doesn't have anyone jumping at a Michigan offer yet. I hope the start of spring practice this month will allow recruits to attend practice and the spring game and jump on board.  

Ohio State already has five verbals for 2012. It will take some time with new coaches and staff to build relationships, but I would feel better if we had a couple of guys locked up. 

Will Denard be effective in Al Borges's Offense?

Wrong A: No, he is a runner, not a passer. Expect a step back.

Right A: I don't expect Denard to rush out to the Heisman lead next year, but I do expect that he will be more of a complete QB. Denard is working hard in the offseason taking snaps under center and working on his throws.  

Having a guy that can throw accurately and can run like the wind will be very difficult to game plan for. I think Denard will do just fine. 

Did you hear Desmond say before the Gator Bowl that Denard should be moved to WR?

Wrong A: Yes, that is his more natural position which will be better for him at the next level. 

Right A: No, someone this talented needs to touch the ball as much as possible.  Denard wants to be a QB and he should be until he heads to the NFL. 

How is Brady Hoke doing so far?

Wrong A: Great, he is a perfect fit for Michigan and the Wolverines are back!

Right A: Coach Hoke has done well since getting the job. Keeping Denard and hiring Greg Mattison were two huge wins. But the real results will come September–January.  So yes, so far so good, but let's judge him on how the Wolverines play on the field.

Any concerns with Tate in South Beach?

Wrong A: No, he has moxy and will sit out a year get his grades in order and play well for two more years.

Right A:  Yes. He didn't want to go to class in winter in Ann Arbor. How is that going to work at Miami?

I'm still concerned about Michigan's defense, can you take me off the ledge?

Wrong A: Your right, Michigan may be improved, but it's still pretty poor. These guys are not going to get good over night. 

Right A:  Let's not forget that Michigan lost its second best player on defense before the season started. Having Troy Woolfolk, a fifth-year senior at CB or at safety, will have a positive effect. 

Kenny Demens playing full-time at LB, getting Big Will to clog up the middle of the defense line, moving JT Floyd to safety, a year of experience with the freshman CBs and improved position coaching will make Michigan an average defense. I expect it to be ranked in the middle of pack in Big 10 defenses. 

Take out your crystal ball and tell me two players that didn't play last year that will make a difference on defense?

Wrong A: There isn't one.

Right A: Richard Ash and Josh Furman.