Bleacher Report - Articles by Ryan Jelley

The Key To Michigan's Turn—Around? Turnover Reduction

Ryan Jelley — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 21:58:48 -0400

The Michigan Wolverines' 2008 campaign was absolutely dreadful and although it is difficult to nail down the reason, one area that stands out was turnovers.

The Wolverines finished dead last in the Big Ten in turnovers allowed in 2008 (30). and second to last in the Big Ten in turnovers forced (20).

Although there are many teams that struggle with turnovers, the Wolverines' problem was when they happened and what was their result.

In the first game of the season against Utah, Nick Sheridan threw an interception in the second quarter which set Utah up at Michigan's 37; they scored a touchdown on the following drive. The Utes won the game 25-23.

The Wolverines traveled to South Bend in the third week to take on Notre Dame. After only two minutes of play, Brandon Minor fumbled a pitch from Steven Threet that was recovered by the Irish at the Michigan 11.

The Irish scored a touchdown four plays later. On the following kickoff, freshman Michael Shaw fumbled to give the Irish the ball at the Michigan 14. This time, it took Notre Dame only three plays to score a touchdown.

Finally in the fourth quarter, a Threet fumbled was picked up by linebacker Brian Smith and taken 35 yards for the touchdown. Notre Dame won the game 35-17

Against Toledo, Steven Threet threw an interception into the endzone that was then taken back 100 yards for the touchdown to put Toledo up 7-0. Then in the fourth quarter, Nick Sheridan threw another interception at the Michigan 40 which set Toledo's game-winning field goal. Toledo won the game 13-10

The Wolverines turnover woes continued against Purdue, as freshman Martavious Odoms fumbled a punt in the first quarter that was recovered by the Boilermakers at the Michigan 14. Two plays later, Purdue had a touchdown, and went on to win the game 48-42.

The Wolverines game against Northwestern didn't start out well; Michigan forced a three-and-out on the Wildcats' second drive, but Martavious Odoms fumbled the punt to set up Northwestern at Michigan's 39.

Northwestern scored five plays later, and went on to win the game 21-14.

Throughout the season, only two opponents—Miami (OH) and Minnesota—didn't score off of Michigan turnovers. Not surprisingly those games also accounted for two of the Woverines' three wins. Overall, Michigan turned the ball over 17 times that led to 103 points against 10 of the twelve teams they faced.

But Wolverine turnovers didn't just result in points given up—the miscues killed many key drives, as well.

In the third quarter of the Utah game, the Wolverines drove to Utah's 35—almost in field goal range—before a Brandon Minor fumble. Had they been able to get in field goal range, they would've had a chance to win 26-25.

Against the Irish, the Wolverines turned the ball over twice inside the Irish 10-yard line.

With three minutes left in the Toledo game, the Wolverines had put together a drive that was close to getting in field goal range before Nick Sheridan threw an interception.

After the Spartans broke the 21-21 tie with 6:49 left in the fourth quarter of the Michigan—Michigan State game, the Wolverines still had a shot to come back and tie it.

However, Steven Threet threw an interception on the first play, allowing the Spartans to easily score a touchdown and put the game out of reach.

The Wolverines were mounting a comeback against Northwestern in the fourth quarter before Steven Threet threw an interception into the endzone.

Fortunately for the Wolverines, they should see huge improvements in this area for multiple reasons.

The first reason is that in 2008, 66% of the turnovers were made by freshman and the Wolverines expect only one freshman to start. Last year, five newcomers started in all—including two wide-receivers, the quarterback, and running back.

Michigan also has 10 returning starters on offense—as opposed to just one (offensive guard Stephen Schilling) in 2008.

Not surprisingly, this was also an area of struggle for West Virginia when Rodriguez started there in 2001—the Mountaineers turned the ball over 32 times. The following year, they reduced that total by 17.

Last year Michigan lost five games due to points scored off of turnovers. The 2009 Wolverines should improve their record by two or three games—just by holding on to the ball.

Ranking the Big Ten: Defensive Lines

Ryan Jelley — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 23:26:52 -0400

There is no doubt which area is strongest this year on the defensive side of the ball in the Big Ten and that's in the trenches. With four different programs all having an argument for the top line in the conference and each boasting players with All-American capability it will be interesting to see who finishes with the best line in the conference.

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Ranking the Big Ten: Offensive Line

Ryan Jelley — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 01:52:51 -0400

The Big Ten is carrying the reputation of being one of the weakest conferences in college football right now. Fortunately one area that the Big Ten may be the strongest is the offensive-line. In the past three drafts the Big Ten has had three lineman selected in the top five picks including the number one pick in 2008. 2009 is no different with All-American candidate Bryan Bulaga and many more who could surprise.

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Ranking the Big 10: Wide Receivers and Tight Ends

Ryan Jelley — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:23:00 -0400

If there is one area on offense that the Big Ten look s especially strong in in 2009 it's receiving. Though Receivers like Penn State's Deon Butler and Ohio State's Brian Robiskie are now gone to the NFL, the two leading receivers from last year, Minnesota's Eric Decker and Illinois' Arrelious Benn both return for another year. The Big Ten has had two Fred Biletnikoff Award winners already this decade when Charles Rogers and Braylon Edwards won it in 2002 and 2004 respectively, there is a storng chance they get another this year.

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Ranking the Big Ten: Running Backs

Ryan Jelley — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 02:53:07 -0400

Over the past decade the Big Ten has seen some of their best backs ever in Mike hart, Ron Dayne, and the could've been Maurice Clarett. The Big Ten lost four more outstanding backs last year when Javon Ringer and Shonn Greene graduated and P.J. Hill and Chris Wells declared early for the draft. For some teams they shouldn't miss a beat, while other are likely to struggle while these backs gain more experience.

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Ranking the Big Ten: Quarterbacks

Ryan Jelley — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:25:38 -0400

The Big Ten has always been known as a conference with prototypical pro style quarterbacks, but with how college football is changing the Big Ten is seeing an increase in dual-threat QBs. Four years ago no one would have predicted quarterbacks like Terrelle Pryor and Daryll Clark would be starting for Big Ten powerhouses Ohio State and Penn State but who's the best?

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Wolverine Cubs: Impact Freshman Vladimir Emilien

Ryan Jelley — Thu, 14 May 2009 14:47:23 -0400

Perhaps the most pleasant surprise from Michigan's spring practice was the emergence of freshman safety Vladimir Emilien. It's no secret that Michigan secondary was possibly the most under-performing part of the team last year and must improve in 2009, Emilien could be the key to improving.

His Recruitment

Emilien burst onto the scene picking up offers from Ohio State, Minnesota, and Illinois in the first month following signing day. He then made a trip to Columbus for the Buckeyes spring game and afterwards named them his leader.

Michigan eventually Michigan followed through with an offer in May and it immediately became a Michigan-Ohio State battle with the Buckeyes holding a slight edge throughout the summer.

Emilien eventually narrowed his list to six schools but excluded Michigan. But in August Emilien suffered a major injury, a torn ACL. Some schools ended their relationship but many continued including OSU, Michigan, Wake Forest, Stanford, and Wisconsin.

Ohio State eventually fell off his list as they had already received commitments from a handful of defensive-backs and in November when Emilien decided it was between Michigan, Wisconsin, and Stanford.

His Talents

Speed- This was one thing Vlad thought he could bring to the Big Ten that teams weren't used to seeing. Emilien hails from the talent-rich state of Florida, also known for producing the fastest prospects in the nation.

Knowledge- Emilien is a very smart person both on and off the field, evident by his 3.8 gpa. On the field Emilien is a very smart player, never playing too close to the line to where receivers can blow past him.

Disadvantages

Health- The biggest thing coaches will be watching this summer during workouts and this fall during practices is if that torn ACL has hurt Emilien's play at all. He supposedly is only 85 percent so far and getting better everyday but he did have surgery on it so it is something to watch.

Conclusion

Emilien appears to be the front-runner for one of the two safety spots. He surprised everyone this spring by putting on some of the better performances by DBs. Unless Justin Turner can come in for practices this fall and just dominate it appears that Emilien should be starting when the season rolls around.

Wolverine Cubs: Impact Freshman Denard Robinson

Ryan Jelley — Thu, 07 May 2009 01:03:53 -0400

Michigan fans knew with the arrival of the spread offense that Michigan would transition from a power team to a speed team, though in 2008 it wasn't very evident other than flashes from freshman Martavious Odoms and Sam McGuffie.

In 2009 however Michigan will see much more speed even at the quarterback position in the form of Denard Robinson.

His Recruitment

Robinson had a huge junior season at quarterback which resulted in him picking up offers rather quickly from many teams including LSU, Auburn, Ohio State, and Florida. Robinson's recruitment was interesting as most teams were recruiting him to be a defensive-back or wide-receiver because of his blazing speed, teams like Michigan and West Virginia wanted him for quarterback. Robinson took all five of his official visits some with his teammate Adrian Witty. In the end Robinson and Witty both announced for Michigan on National Signing Day.

His Talents

Speed- Robinson could be the fastest player in the entire 2009 class. Although he does not have the fastest forty time, Robinson is also a track star and this spring ran a 10.44 second 100 meter-dash which was good enough for the second fastest time in the nation. This speed will be perfect in the spread and can be used in many different ways.

Multi-talented- This will be Robinson's greatest asset to Michigan. Although he will have a chance to challenge Tate Forcier for the starting QB job it is unlikely that he will get it. Instead Robinson will get reps at quarterback in all games but will also likely be used for some trick plays as he can be used as a wide- receiver or quarterback.

Disadvantages

Time- The main thing that will hurt Robinson in his competition for the quarterback spot is that Forcier has been on campus since January while Robinson will only have fall practices to prove his stuff. Although don't expect Robinson to be moved anywhere else as Rodriguez has stated that he will play quarterback.

Size- Just like Forcier Robinson also is not the ideal size for a quarterback. Robinson right now stands 6'0" and weighs 180 pounds. Once he gets on campus and starts lifting with the team he is sure to put on some muscle but his height is still relatively small for a quarterback.

Conclusion

Robinson should see the field plenty this year, often taking snaps at quarterback. He could steal the starting spot from Forcier but it seems unlikely with Forcier enrolled early. Don't be surprised to see some two Quarterback formations with both Robinson and Forcier in the backfield as Rodriguez is known to like to use trickery.

Wolverine Cubs: Impact Freshman Justin Turner

Ryan Jelley — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 02:19:20 -0400

In 2008 the Michigan secondary struggled more than any other position group on defense. Not only were safeties getting beat on coverage time and time again but all defensive-backs had glaring trouble with tackling.

In 2009 this must improve for the Michigan defense to advance from what proved to be a very disappointing 2008 campaign, as the D-line will be much younger.

This year the secondary will feature last year's starters Donovan Warren and Boubacar Cissoko, both former five-star recruits at the corners, but will have new starters at safety.

Michigan will have many players competing for the position this fall, and one of them will be blue-chip recruit Justin Turner.

Turner's Recruitment

Michigan has had success in the past in recruiting from Washington High School in Massillon, Ohio.

In 2003 they picked up star linebacker Shawn Crable and in 2009 they got Justin Turner.

Turner garnered plenty of attention early on, picking up offers from Michigan, Michigan State, West Virginia, and Ohio State but he knew where he was headed from the very beginning.

"I committed to Michigan today. That's just been my school, the school I watched growing up. It was right there, so I had to take it. It wasn't even really a tough choice", Turner told thewolverine.com

His Talents

Coverage Skills

Turner's coverage skills are some of the best in the 2009 class. Turner plays very physical which could result in him moving to cornerback if needed at Michigan.

Hands

Turner is a player who, if he gets a hand on a ball, its likely that he's going to come down with it. He was the most impressive defensive-back at Army All-American practices in ball drills and in the game had a very impressive interception down the sideline.

Speed

Turner runs a 4.49 forty yard dash which was third fastest for all safeties in the 2009 class.

Tackling Ability

This aspect of Turner's game is what could impact Michigan the most and result in him earning the starting position. As mentioned before, Turner is not afraid to get physical and this helps tons. Turner actually led the East squad in tackles in the Army All-American game.

Areas That Need Work

Footwork

This is the one area of Turner's game that he must improve in to be a very effective DB. It is easily fixable and should be worked on when Turner starts practicing with the team in August.

Weight

Although Turner does have good size standing, 6' 2", he weighs 186 pounds right now and needs to put on 10 to 15 pounds of muscle.

Conclusion

Turner will see the field this year but it may not be at safety, as the strong safety will likely be Michael Williams and freshman Vladamir Emilien, who enrolled early to take part in spring practices.

Turner will see the field somewhere as he has proved to be a do anything kind of player and could split time at both corner and safety.

Wolverine Cubs: Impact Freshman Tate Forcier

Ryan Jelley — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 11:02:01 -0400

With the transition process from a pro-style offense to Rich Rodriguez's spread offense still continuing, Michigan will see freshman and red-shirt freshman see significant playing time again this year. None more so than freshman quarterback Tate Forcier.

His Recruitment

Forcier was first noticed at the Northern California Nike camp after his freshman season. Already, Forcier had developed better mechanics than any other quarterback at the camp and colleges took notice. Forcier followed that up with more good performances between his sophomore and junior year which resulted in more scholarship offers than any quarterback in the nation except one.

It only took one official visit to Ann Arbor and Forcier committed to the Maize & Blue.

His Talents

Forcier is your prototypical dual-threat quarterback—able to make something happen when plays break down, but this was not what made Forcier a perfect fit for Michigan.

Mechanics—Michigan was in dire need of a QB who would fit Rich Rodriguez's system and Forcier met this requirement, but what was even better about Forcier was that he was one of the most if not the most college ready quarterback in the 2009 class.

Unlike many others Forcier won't need help developing mechanics as rivals.com called them "nearly flawless" after his performance at the Nike camp after his freshman year and they have only gotten better since then.

Accuracy—It's not usual that a dual-threat QB is listed as the most accurate in the class, but Forcier is just that. After throwing for 77% completions in his junior year and impressive show at camps, Forcier was ranked as the most accurate QB in his class.

Ability to throw on the run—Not something that is normally noted but is very visible on Forcier's highlight film. This goes hand-in-hand with his accuracy but Forcier has excellent ability, to while being chased down by defensive-linemen, find a receiver and hit him while on the run.

Disadvantages

Size—This was one of the few things that worried scouts about Forcier. Forcier stands only around 6'0" and weighs around 185 pounds. In comparison, Chad Henne was 6'3" and over 210 pounds. Many wonder how Forcier will be able to throw over 6'4" and 6'5" college linemen or if Michigan will have to always have Forcier roll-out putting his body at great risk.

Projection

Forcier should see the most playing time of all freshmen and possibly start after a very impressive spring game. If he is as talented as he looked in high school, Michigan should enjoy a much improved 2009 season.

Michigan Football Recruiting Update

Ryan Jelley — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 11:33:06 -0400

The 2010 recruiting season is about to get into full swing.

Michigan had their junior day a couple weeks ago and just wrapped up their first big recruiting weekend—not only with the top player in the state of Michigan on campus but also the top player in the nation.

First, let's take a look at the current members of the class. The 2010 class features six commits so far, all coming from the Midwest except one:

WR Ricardo Miller

Miller was Michigan's first commit pledging to the Wolverines in the fall of 2008. The 6'2" Florida receiver is currently the highest ranked player in the class and is supposed to be relocating to Ann Arbor this summer. Miller has great hands and would easily be considered one of the top five receivers in the 2010 class if he could increase his speed.

WR Jeremy Jackson

The son of Michigan assistant Fred Jackson pledged to the Wolverines the day after his good friend Miller did. Jackson is another outside receiver like Miller, with good hands and average speed.

WR Jerald Robinson

Robinson became the third member of the 2010 class when he committed five days after signing day. Although listed at receiver, Robinson plays both sides of the ball and could play either at the college level.

LB Antonio Kinard

Michigan received two commitments last year from players at Liberty High School, and got their first this year in Kinard. Kinard is not a hard-hitting linebacker but a very solid tackler. Although he plays linebacker in high school, Kinard could transition to being a defensive end in college.

WR D.J. Williamson

Williamson was dubbed the next Mario Manningham after a very-impressive sophomore campaign. The combination of poor QB play and defenses keying in on Williamson resulted in a much less-impressive junior season.

The 6'1" receiver runs a 4.4 forty-yard dash and could become a dangerous threat on kick returns. The Wolverines were first to offer and Williamson committed at their junior day.

QB Devin Gardner

The state of Michigan is unusually deep this year at quarterback, with three QBs sporting multiple BCS offers and two sporting double-digit BCS offers. Gardner, though not a very polished passer, is regarded by some to be the best of the three—and this is reflected in his offer list, which includeed Notre Dame, LSU, Nebraska, and of course Michigan.

Gardner had an amazing junior season, accounting for 48 TDs and over 3,000 all-purpose yards. Although he is committed, Gardner won't publicly announce it until after his basketball season is finished. If Gardner can improve his throwing mechanics combined with his elusive running, he could become a very dangerous threat to the Big Ten.

Michigan has started their spring practices and this resulted in multiple prospects, both in-state and out-of-state, coming this weekend for a peek. Visitors included RB Nick Hill, OL Skyler Schofner, ATH J.D. Pride, DE William Gholston, LB Caleb Lavey, and headliner OT Seantrel Henderson.

Henderson is listed by both Scout and Rivals as the No. 1 player in the country, and it was very important for the Wolverines to make an impression on this visit for them to have any chance at Henderson as the early leaders were thought to be ND, USC, Minn. and OSU. The Wolverines needed to make a good impression—and they did just that.

Henderson told rivals this about his visit, "Michigan was great. I loved it more than any other college I've been to so far. The campus is a really big campus, the football facilities were great, the coaches seem real cool, nice and down to earth and I just thought everything was nice where it is (located). They are doing a lot of construction that is looking pretty good for me if I do decide to attend."

Henderson added this about the practice, "The intensity was crazy. All the other practices I've been to so far, none of them get down like they get down. When they get down, they get down and I was loving that—I had to catch it on camera."

This is big, as Henderson not only loved the visit, but also stated Michigan will probably receive one of his official visits this fall.

Henderson wasn't the only big name at practice. Both Gholston and Lavey were key visitors, as both either play or could play LB which is a need in this class. Lavey, an inside linebacker from Texas, has a massive offer list including Michigan, Oklahoma, Notre Dame, and Nebraska. Although he hasn't stated a leader, he may be Michigan's to lose as his father not only attended UofM but was also an equipment manger for the team.

Gholston, the top player in Michigan, was thought to be headed to Michigan State early on in the process but since has decided he will take looks at multiple programs. He had this to say about Michigan:

"It's evolved a lot from where it was at first. I was looking, but I wasn't feeling (Michigan) as much as I am feeling them now, but that's the same with every school. I'm getting to know coaches and learning a lot about the programs, so I think now each college I've talked with, the feeling has evolved to another stage where I want to look at the school more."

I'll wrap this up taking a look at the question that always weighs in everyone's mind when it comes to recruiting, who jumps on board next? Pennsylvania DB Cullen Christian is a possibility, as he made a trip to Ann Arbor during the week last week and said this after the visit:

"At first when I took my unofficial visit to Michigan, I almost committed. Then I thought I should and check things out because I heard that recruiting heats up in April and May, so I decided I would wait it out and see what happens."

Another possibility is Florida DB Lo Wood. Wood has been high on the Wolverines for quite some time. If Wood does make it to the Spring Game on April 11, a commitment could be forthcoming.

Michigan Wolverines 2009 Offense: The Search for a Leader.

Ryan Jelley — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 09:48:44 -0400

The Michigan Wolverines 2008 offense lacked one key ingredient to being successful— consistency. Consistency is normally driven by a leader who makes a big play when needed or helps the players around him improve. The 2008 offense lacked a leader as each position group was rotated multiple times in one game.

For the Michigan Wolverines 2009 team to be successful, their offense must be consistent and sustain multiple drives from one quarter in each game. No more three and outs.

Michigan will need a leader, but who can do this on a still young and inexperienced team?

The Candidates

1. QB Tate Forcier

Primarily the quarterback is considered the leader of the offense, and Forcier will try to assume the role this year. Forcier is a prototypical dual-threat QB and looks to be the front-runner for the starting position with the departure of Steven Threet. Since Forcier enrolled at UofM in January, he has been raved over by the upperclassmen for his strong and accurate throws. Whether this will transfer over to success on the field and a leadership role will be seen come September remains unknown.

2. RB Brandon Minor

It is hard to look at a RB taking the leadership role again after four years with Mike Hart in the backfield, but Minor may be the leading candidate for it. Minor had an injury plagued 2008 season, playing only two full games. However, in those games Minor averaged 136 yards on the ground and 5.8 yards per carry.

3. WR Greg Matthews

Matthews was a highly touted receiver coming out of high school and has the ability to become a great college receiver. Matthews had to take a backseat to Manningham and Breaston early on in his career but could emerge as the Wolverines leader in 2009 with a good season. Matthews will be one of the few seniors on the team and could use his experience to take a leadership role.

4. OL Stephen Schilling

It is not normal for an offensive lineman to take the role as the leader of an offense, but under certain circumstances it can happen. In 2007, when Mike Hart and Chad Henne both went down Jake Long helped lead the Wolverines to eight straight wins. Schilling will be the most experienced linemen on the offensive side and will be moving from tackle to guard. If Schilling get comfortable he could assert himself as the leader of this inexperienced offense.

The Wolverines need a leader to emerge next season if they want to have any success on offense. It will be difficult to follow in the footsteps of Long, Hart, Henne, and Edwards, but someone must assert themselves this spring. If Steven Threet had stayed on board he would've been the most likely candidate. With him gone, I believe Minor, barring any injury, will become the leader of this team.

The Most Influential Sports Figures of the Last 100 Years

Ryan Jelley — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 04:02:31 -0500

Naturally the players and coaches of each sport are the ones who change the way a sport is played, but what about those who change the game from behind the scenes?

Commissioners, owners, and maybe a player here or there, they are the ones who change the game forever. The most influential sports figures (in no particular order) are:

1. Marvin Miller

Miller was the executive director of the Major League Baseball Players Association from 1966 to 1982. Miller's biggest impact was arguing professional sport's first-ever collective bargaining argument that increased the minimum salary from $6,000 to $10,000.

Then in 1970, Miller was able to get arbitration included in the new bargaining agreement. This allowed contract disputes to be taken to an independent arbitrator instead of the commissioner, who nearly always sided with the owners.

2. Branch Rickey

Rickey was another man who made a huge impact on baseball. Rickey, while with the St. Louis Cardinals, developed the modern-day farm system. After leaving the Cardinals, he became the GM of the Dodgers and did the unthinkable.

Riley signed the first African-American of the 1900s in Jackie Robinson. Later on in life while with the Pirates, Rickey also drafted the first Hispanic superstar in Roberto Clemente.

3. Pete Rozelle

Rozelle was the NFL commissioner from 1960 to 1989 and is known for his developing of the NFL into one of the premiere sports leagues in the world. Rozelle is most famous for negotiating the merger of the NFL with the rival AFL.

After the merger, Rozelle became a big supporter of the creation of the Super Bowl and Monday Night Football. Rozelle is infamous for his decision not to cancel games after the Kennedy assassination.

4. George Halas

Halas played for, owned, and coached for the Chicago Bears. Halas made significant impacts on the NFL by first refusing to integrate the league then later signing the first African-American QB.

He also helped perfect the T-formation offense, was the first to analyze game film, and broadcast games by radio.

Halas would also share profits of the Bears televised games with teams from smaller towns, as he thought what's good for the league would eventually benefit him.

5. David Stern

Stern is the fourth NBA commissioner and although he hasn't made many changes in the league, he has helped expand it unlike any other.

Since taking the position the league has expanded from 23 teams to 30, games are broadcast worldwide, and Stern played an intricate role in the creation of the WNBA.

6. Tiger Woods

Although not changing the game at all, Woods has played a key role in reviving the game of golf since coming onto the PGA Tour in 1996.

In his first year on the tour, Woods was named Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year and is now one of the highest-paid athletes in the world.

Woods has helped revive interest in the sport mainly through his fantastic play and rivalry with Phil Mickelson.

7. Bill Rasmussen

This is a name very few people know, but pretty much everyone in America knows his creation. In the fall of 1979 Rasmussen's creation, Entertainment Sports Programming Network (ESPN), broadcast their first game ever, a softball game.

After one year of broadcasting college football and college basketball ESPN started running 24 hours a day. Since then, ESPN has grown into one of the largest television networks in the world.

8. Roone Arledge

Before there was Rasmussen there was Arledge. Arledge was the pioneer of sports broadcasting. A producer at ABC, Arledge took sports broadcasting to a new level.

He understood how sports broadcasting needed to change so the viewers felt like they were there. Arledge was responsible for the production for all of ABC's Olympic broadcasts and the creation of Monday Night Football.

9. Mark McCormack

McCormack was the founder of International Management Group (IMG) a group that handles the the marketing of sports celebrities. In 1960 McCormack recognized the potential sports marketing had in the new TV age.

Other than representing famous athletes, IMG was the largest independent producer of TV sports programming and distributor of sports TV rights.

IMG's clients have included modern day superstar Tiger Woods, legendary golfer Arnold Palmer, and even soccer superstar Pele. In 1990, McCormack was recognized by Sports Illustrated as the most powerful man in sports.

Honorable Mention: Bud Selig, Don Canham, Kenesaw Mountain Landis, Avery Brundage

These are the legends that will never die, as their impact on sports will live on forever.

College Football: Five Freshman Expected To Make an Impact in 2009

Ryan Jelley — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 01:50:24 -0500

With freshmen being more prepared earlier on their career's and high school recruiting more publicized then ever, there are some that will be expected to contribute right away. These are the top-five that will be expected to help out this upcoming season.

1. OT D.J. Fluker (Alabama)

With All-American Andre Smith departing for the draft the tackle spot on the Crimson Tide's line is left vacant. The five-star 6'7" 350-pound tackle appears to be the heir to the position.

Fluker was ranked as the the number one offensive-lineman in the nation and third best overall player. Fluker dominated the competition at the Army All-American bowl and looks to be ready to play immediately.

2. WR Andre Debose (Florida)

The departure of Percy Harvin should hurt the Gators some but Debose could take away some of the sting. The 6'0" 170-pound Florida-native was ranked as the No. 2 wide receiver in the nation. Debose runs a 4.43 40-yard dash, and played QB, RB, and WR in high school.

3. QBs Tate Forcier/Denard Robinson (Michigan)

With the transfer of Steven Threet it appears that one of the Wolverines' two freshmen quarterbacks will be taking the helm come September.

Forcier is thought to be the early leader as he has been on campus since early January and the better passer of the two. He was ranked as the most accurate QB in his class. Whoever starts is not really an issue as the two will definitely split time.

4. QB Aaron Murray (Georgia)

Matthew Stafford is headed off to the draft and a likely top-10 pick. Who is going to take his spot? Many feel Aaron Murray is the man to take the job.

Murray received more scholarship offers than any other QB in the 2009 class and despite a broken leg early in his season, he still managed to lead his team to a Florida state championship.

5. QB Tahj Boyd (Clemson)

There will be someone new lining up under center next year for Clemson but the question is who? The Tigers have no one very experienced and Boyd became one of the most publicized prospects in the nation after his Army All-American performance.

Boyd was ranked as the 51st best player in the nation and fourth best pro-style quarter back after throwing for over 2,000 yards in his junior season.

Will these freshmen live up to their hype? Only time will tell.

A Look to the Future: 2010 Michigan Football Recruiting

Ryan Jelley — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 02:25:40 -0500

National Signing Day has come and gone, and Michigan finished with the seventh best recruiting class in the nation. With no prospects left considering Michigan in 2009, it's time to look forward to the Wolverines' next class.

There are a few things we can expect from the class in 2010. Michigan fans should not expect to land a top ten class next year because it will be a very small class.

Michigan's last three classes ranged anywhere from 20 to 25 recruits, and there is very little chance any juniors skip their senior season, so there should only be 16 to 18 scholarships available.

This could work in the Wolverines' favor, as now they will only have to key in on the top players in the nation instead of giving out scholarships to any three-star athlete that might fit the system.

Michigan should also regain the in-state recruiting crown. Michigan State was labeled as the winner of in-state recruiting this year, but keep in mind only three of MSU's 12 in-state commitments actually got Michigan offers.

The state of Michigan's 2010 class is one of the deepest ever seen. With two possible five-star candidates and quite a few more four-stars. Michigan's biggest challenge next year won't be keeping the in-state players away from MSU but keeping them away from the SEC and ACC schools.

In the 2010, class we can expect the coaching staff will want at least one maybe two QBs, one RB, two maybe three WRs, two OL, four DL, one LB, and three DBs.

The top targets now would be:

QB Devin Gardner

Gardner is possibly the top prospect in the state of Michigan. He holds offers from nearly every Big Ten school, Notre Dame, and Nebraska. Gardner is the prototypical dual-threat QB and is a five-star candidate.

QB Cornelius Jones

Jones is an outstanding athlete but will be over-shadowed because of the massive depth the South has next year. If the Wolverines do sign Jones, he will be a project, as his arm isn't the strongest.

QB Christian Green

Green is a very interesting prospect, as he is being recruited for a different position for each school. Michigan wants him at QB, while Florida schools are looking at him as a WR, and USC wants him at DB.

Green reminds me most of Kevin Newsome, an athlete with tons of potential but is absolute raw talent. Although I would love to land him, expect Green to sign with one of the big three Florida schools.

RB Lache Seastrunk

An athlete like Seastunk comes once every five years. After his performance at the All-American combine, he is being called the second coming of Reggie Bush.

The Texas native is rumored to be LSU's to lose, but Seastrunk has expressed an interest in Michigan due to Rodriguez's offense.

RB Ausin White- White will contend with Nick Hill for the best RB in the state of Michigan next year. White already holds offers from UofM, MSU, and Wisconsin, with offers from Notre Dame and Oregon soon to come.

White is a speedy, shifty back who runs a 4.4 forty and also has the size to play in the Big Ten.

WR Kyle Prater

With commitments from WRs Ricardo Miller and Jeremy Jackson already, Michigan will likely try to land only one more receiver and Prater will be one of their top targets.

Prater put on a better show than any receiver at the All-American combine, and since then, the offers have flowed in. The Illinois native has stated Illinois to be the early leader, but he will still be open to any school.

OT Robert Crisp

The need for offensive linemen won't be as big in this class, but Michigan would still like to sign a couple and Crisp will be the top target. Crisp has stated an early interest in Michigan, and the Wolverines should be a player in his recruitment.

OT Matt James

The Wolverines will need a miracle to pull in James. James comes from an Ohio high school that has sent nearly all their players to either Ohio State or Notre Dame, and with early offers from both programs, don't be surprised if that's where he ends up.

But there is still hope, James was excited to receive an offer from Michigan and said he would definitely look into it.

DL Jay Guy

Guy's recruitment will be interesting to watch. The Texas-native already holds offers from Michigan, Texas A&M, and Stanford but is still waiting on one special offer.

Guy has stated that he will follow the normal recruiting process, but if Texas offers he will nearly certain play for the Longhorns. So the Wolverines have a definite chance if Texas doesn't offer.

DL Derrick Bryant

I have stated in previous articles that Bryant would like to end the recruiting process early, and this bodes well for the Wolverines.

The Columbus native grew up a fan of Michigan and already holds an offer from them, so if he is to commit to anyone soon, it would likely be Michigan.

DL Johnathan Hankins

Hankins has yet to be offered but should be offered soon. Hankins goes to the same school as William Gholston, and it looks that the two may eventually become a package deal. Lucky for the Wolverines, Hankins plays a position in need of some depth, defensive tackle.

DE/LB-William Gholston

Gholston (pictured above facing Will Campbell) is the other player in Michigan vying for the top spot and should be one of the most highly recruited players in the nation. Gholston is a flat-out athlete that could play anywhere on the line or linebacker.

Although Gholston hinted toward an early commitment to OSU or MSU he has since backed off that and made multiple trips to Ann Arbor.

On his last trip, he finally met new DC Greg Robinson and came away very impressed. Michigan is the first school that has stated an interest in using him at LB, and Gholston is very much pleased at this.

DB Dior Mathis

Mathis is another prospect out of the Michigan pipeline Detroit Cass Tech but he will be a much harder one to drag in. Mathis has long stated a desire to play in the South and named Miami the leader for his services.

Many believed an early commitment was forthcoming but in a recent interview Mathis now said Michigan and Miami are neck-and-neck.

DB Marvin Robinson

Few offer lists rival this Florida native's one, with double-digit offers that include USC, Florida, Ohio State, Tennessee, and Michigan. Normally the task of getting Robinson would seem impossible, but any recruiting analyst would tell you they would be shocked to see Robinson sign anywhere other than Michigan next year. Robinson has listed Michigan at the top since his sophomore year and the Maize& Blue will be sure to get him on campus multiple times this fall. If any player is a lock this would be the one.

Big Ten Signing Day Defensive Dream Team

Ryan Jelley — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 19:04:59 -0500

The Big Ten is known for their powerful defenses because of the immense amount of talent they draw in, 2009 was no different. Michigan and Ohio State both drew in a couple of five-star athletes. Michigan landed what was arguably the second best defense-line class while OSU landed one of the best secondaries in the country.

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Big Ten Signing Day Dream Team (Offense)

Ryan Jelley — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 14:51:59 -0500

Well, it is here again, National Signing Day. The first day that high school seniors from across the nation can fax in their letters of intent for where they will play their college ball. The Big Ten once again did very well landing two top ten classes and four in the top twenty-five. Some of the players have already enrolled in their school of choice, but will be included anyways.

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The Five Greatest College Football Dynasties of All Time

Ryan Jelley — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 18:31:46 -0500

Since the turn of the century nobody has dominated college football like Pete Carroll and the USC Trojans, but have they done enough to earn themselves a spot among the best college football dynasties. College Football's perenniel powers are Michigan, Notre Dame, and Alabama but have all three dominated a decade of college football?

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Michigan Football Recruiting Update: Signing Day Edition

Ryan Jelley — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 01:18:04 -0500

It's only seven days away now, National Signing Day. The first day that high school recruits from across the nation can sign their letters of intent and solidify which school that they will play for the next three or four years.

And just like every other year Michigan is still in it for some of the nation's top players who will make their announcements next Wednesday. Michigan also finished up their final visiting weekend with a couple surprise visitors.

The Final Weekend

This past weekend Michigan played host to three official visitors: QB Austin Dantin, DT Dequinta Jones, and WR/TE Terrell Mitchell. Dantin of Florida came in knowing there was a chance he could be offered, he left without one.

Mitchell has held an offer from the Wolverines since early spring but was never heavily recruited due to academic issues. It now looks like he will qualify for NCAA standards, but not Michigan standards.

Jones committed very early in the recruiting process. He has began to waver in the past month visiting other campuses, but it looks like this visit solidified his commitment.

Besides the official visitors there were quite a few unofficial visitors in town too. Michigan commits DE Craig Roh and CB Justin Turner both stopped in on Saturday to meet new DC Greg Robinson and meet the official visitors at the basketball game. Both were very impressed and Roh was more excited than ever to join the Maize and Blue.

The two top juniors in Michigan also stopped in for the game. QB Devin Gardner was supposed to come for the Ohio State game earlier that week but was snowed in. So instead stopped in for the game on his way down to the Ohio State junior day.

This is good news because Gardner grew up an Ohio State fan because he loved the color red and is considered a heavy Buckeye lean. The more Michigan can get him on campus the better shot they have at landing him.

DE William Gholston was also at the game. Gholston is a very big surprise as he has already named OSU and MSU his leaders, but has showed up on Michigan's campus numerous times before this, could they be catching up?

What can we expect from Signing Day?

There are always some surprises on signing day, like Michigan stealing Roy Roundtree and Michael Shaw from Purdue and Penn State, but there are also those players that are certain to sign. Here is what it looks like now:

Players That Are Likely To Sign Likely To Sign Elsewhere

DB Justin Turner DT Pearlie Graves

ATH Jeremy Gallon WR Travante Stallworth

DE Craig Roh OT Marcus Hall

WR Cameron Gordon TE Terrell Mitchell

OT Taylor Lewan WR Willie Haulstead

OT Michael Schofield

RB Fitzgerald Touissant

LB Isiah Bell

RB Teric Jones

ATH Thomas Gordon

K Brendan Gibbons

WR Je'ron Stokes (Tennessee commit)

QB Denard Robinson (uncommitted)

DB Adrian Witty (uncommited)

Those are the players the analysts are fairly certain will either sign with U of M or go elsewhere, but what about those U of M targets that are have been very quiet about there recruitment or are still uncertain?

DE Sam Montgomery- Montgomery recruitment has been very up-and-down for the Wolverines. When he named his final five Michigan was included but in last place. After his visit to Ann Arbor he then named Michigan his leader. He recently visited UNC and then named everyone even again.

He visited LSU this past weekend and loved it but LSU has just replaced some on their defensive staff and could impact his choice. Tuesday he canceled his visit to Oregon, but has one final official to Tennessee this upcoming weekend.

Despite a good visit to LSU, and being his early favorite, it looks like it could be a Tennessee-Michigan battle. A surprise pick would be for him to sign with in-state programs Clemson or South Carolina.

OL Quinton Washington- Washington has been one of the quietest and slowest with the recruiting process. Washington made a visit to Michigan back in September and since then has visited Clemson and South Carolina and will visit Miami this upcoming weekend. When Washington speaks about his recruitment, which isn't often, has spoke very highly of U of M but it will be very difficult to pull him out of the South.

DT Dequinta Jones- Jones, like I mentioned before, has been wavering from his commitment. Jones commited to Michigan after watching the ESPN title town program for Ann Arbor. He had never been on Michigan's campus and had only spoken to the coaches by phone. Now that he has made some visits and been to Ann Arbor he looks a little more solid but no one can be sure when it comes to NSD. This is a situation where Multiple SEC schools and Michigan will fax him letters to sign and we will have to see which he sends back.

Looking forward to 2010 Michigan Recruiting

DE Derrick Bryant is fairly certain he would like to end the recruiting process early and this bodes well for Michigan. Though from Columbus, OH, Bryant grew up a big Michigan fan and it looks like he could become the newest member of their class. Michigan also just offered QB Robert Bolden, Bolden a Michigan-native also holds offers from MSU, Wisconsin, Vanderbilt, and Colorado.

Now that recruiting will be picking up I will begin to write one of these each week, thanks for reading.

Five Articles Overdone on B/R

Ryan Jelley — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 21:33:04 -0500

I love Bleacher Report. Since I found it six months ago, it has easily become one of my favorite websites.

Allowing me to write about anything related to sport while also reading some very unique articles you would never find anywhere else has been very nice, but enough is enough.

This website has grown immensely over the last couple months and I know with so many members there are going to be repeats, but there are a few particular articles that just deserved to be put to rest, if not forever at least for a year.

1. "I Hate Tim Tebow" Articles

I'm not sure how many of these have been written over the past season, but there has definitely been too many. These articles tend to fall in three categories: article about Tebow not being as good as people claim he is, articles about Tebow being over-hyped by the media, or articles about Tebow not going to be successful in the NFL.

I am in no way a Tebow fan, but the attacks on the kid need to stop. Everyone knows the media is over-hyping the kid, but this is the first time in a while that there is someone in college football who isn't playing just because he wants to make big bucks in the NFL.

Finally, kids can look up to an athlete who is genuinely good and doesn't have the extra packaging of an arrest or some scandal. These articles come across as generally an upset or jealous rival fan.

2. "Brett Favre Is Overrated" Articles

I think one of these a month came out during the NFL season this year. I tend to agree with this article but we've all heard the arguments about how he threw too many interceptions and was surrounded by great players.

Pretty much everyone outside of Green Bay agrees he isn't the greatest, so really the only ones you're trying to convince is Packers fans, and they aren't going to change their minds, as he will forever be remembered by them as the greatest QB ever, so what really is the point of writing this?

3. Anti-BCS/ NCAAFB Playoff articles

I don't know what the exact numbers are, but I assume 99.5 percent of the college football world is in favor of something other than the BCS.

When you tell us the BCS doesn't work or a 16-team playoff would be better, you really aren't telling us anything that we don't already know. Do yourself a favor and just use the time for something more useful.

4. Greatest Athlete of All-Time

This one hasn't been done too many times, but that's not the problem with it. We will never know who the greatest athlete is, as each sport is so different and each requires different natural ability that you can't tell who is better.

Also, these lists tend to only include U.S. athletes.

5. College Football Pre-season Predictions

This one hasn't been widespread but I'm afraid it will. In the last two days I've seen three of these and that is too many for January.

There is a reason they need to wait: National Signing day hasn't happened yet so if Bryce Brown and Tajh Boyd both sign with Oregon then the Ducks look like a much bigger threat, players could get injured between now and September, many of these just look like the final AP poll, and we haven't seen the Spring game, which give us a much better insight of how the team is going to play.

I plead with the college football community that these don't return until June.

Please, if you are new to the site and you aspire to rise in the writer's ranking don't write any of these, learn from the experienced writers like Lisa Horne, Baby Tate, and Sean Crowe to come up with your own unique articles.

If there are any other articles you think have been written too many times or just should stop being written please leave them in the comment section.

Five Sports Predictions For the Obama Era

Ryan Jelley — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 21:36:13 -0500

Former-president George W. Bush held his office for eight years. During that time, some monumental things happened in the world of sports—the Detroit Lions became the first team to go 0-16 in the NFL, the Boston Red Sox won their first World Series since 1918, Tim Tebow became the first sophomore to win the Heisman Trophy, and instant replay was instituted in the NFL.

Now that Barack Obama is in office, what new things can we expect to happen? Could we see another 0-16 team? Here are my predictions.

The Chicago Cubs will win their first World Series and break the most famous curse in sports.

The Cubs have made the playoffs in the last two years and are poised to win the NL Central this upcoming season. This shouldn’t be difficult with the offseason acquisitions of Milton Bradley and Joey Gathright.

Chicago missed out on ace pitcher Jake Peavy due to questions about ownership. Next year under new ownership, the Cubs won't be afraid to spend and will stock up for another title run.

The BCS will be dismantled and a new system will be put in place.

After another year in which no one is certain who the rightful national champion is, the NCAA has to be considering some new way to determine the best team in the country. With so many fans complaining and the immense controversy, it's only a manner of time before we see a new way to crown the champion.

The NFL will allow the first sophomore to enter the NFL Draft.

Only a small percentage of the college football world knows the name Seantrel Henderson, but it is only a manner of time until it becomes a household name. The 6’8”, 301-pound offensive-tackle from St. Paul, Minnesota has been ready to play college football since he was a sophomore in high school.

The kid will be a senior next year and will have his choice of any college in America. No matter where he goes, it should only take him a year to prepare for the NFL.

Notre Dame and Michigan will return to the top of the college football world.

Sure, both teams have had trouble the past year, but things can only go up. Both teams pulled in top-notch recruiting classes last year and are doing the same this year. Michigan fixed their quarterback situation when Tate Forcier enrolled early and Notre Dame pulled in one of the top running backs in the nation in Cierre Wood.

It should only be a couple of years before these two historic programs are once again playing for a national title.

The Orlando Magic will win their first NBA Championship

With a few more wins the Magic could finish the first half of the season with the best record in the NBA.

I'm not saying they will win it this year because collectively they have little playoff experience, but they definitely should win one behind Dwight Howard in the next four years.

Please feel free to leave any of you own predictions in the comment section.

Greg Robinson Hired as Michigan's Defensive Coordinator

Ryan Jelley — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 17:33:21 -0500

After about a month of searching Rich Rodriguez finally named the new defensive coordinator for the Michigan Wolverines, it's former Syracuse head coach Greg Robinson. The hiring comes as a bit of surprise as many expected Michigan Assistant Jay Hopson to take the role.

Although Robinson didn't experience a lot of success as head coach going 10-37 as Head Coach of Syracuse, he has had numerous success as a defensive-coordinator winning two Super Bowls with the Denver Broncos and a Rose Bowl victory with Texas.

Robinson not only brings a great defensive mind to Michigan but also is regarded as a great recruiter. With stops at Texas and UCLA throughout his career Robinson has been able to form relationships with coaches in those state that should greatly benefit the Wolverines when trying to recruit from them in future years.

Robinson's resume as posted by SUAthletics.com:

• Head Coach, Syracuse, 2005-2008
• Coordinator/LB coach, Texas, 2004
• Defensive Coordinator, Kansas City Chiefs, 2001-03
• Defensive Coordinator, Denver Broncos, 1995-2000
• Defensive Coordinator, New York Jets, 1994
• Asst. Coach/DL coach, New York Jets, 1990-93
• Offensive Coordinator, UCLA, 1989
• Asst. Coach/DL coach, UCLA, 1982-88
• Asst. Coach, N.C. State, 1980-81
• Asst. Coach, Cal State Fullerton, 1977-79
• Asst. Coach, Pacific, 1975-7

Texas Head Coach Mack Brown was one of many that endorsed Robinson's hire and this is what he had to say about the hire, "I'm excited for Greg and Laura to join the great Michigan tradition and happy for Rich, his staff and the Wolverine program because they're getting a super family and one of the best defensive coordinators in the country.

"Greg's a high energy, creative, hard-working guy who has had success at both the NFL and collegiate levels.

"He's a veteran coach with a wealth of knowledge who the players really respond to. His season here in 2004 produced one of the best defenses in Texas history and helped set the stage for our National Championship season in 2005."

Aside from the Rose Bowl victory and Super Bowl victories Robinson has a perfect 8-0 record in Bowl Games while he held the positions of DL coach and Offensive Coordinator while at UCLA.

Michigan Got Campbell, Who Finshes Their Class?

Ryan Jelley — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 12:21:22 -0500

Well, the Army All-American bowl is over and Michigan received some very good news when five-star William Campbell recommitted to the Maize and Blue, but who else can we expect to add before signing day which is a month from now.

We can seperate this into two groups, those who have visited and those who will visit.

Those who have already visited

1. Quinton Washington OL-Washington has made only one official visit so far and that was to Michigan in September. The four-star guard has made unofficial visits to in-state programs but in a interview at the Under-Armour All-American game Washington stated that Michigan is still heavy in his mind. Michigan has a chance in those one as he has yet to schedule any other officials and his mom loved the visit, but it is going to be hard to draw him away from Southern schools like Clemson, South Carolina, and Miami.

Chances: good

2. Tracis Bond OL-Bond visited the same weekend as Washington and enjoyed his visit, but hasn't mentioned Michigan since. Michigan did make his final four but he will be hard to pull out of North Carolina. Bond has officials scheduled for North Carolina and East Carolina. North Carolina may have their class filled before Bond is able to make a pledge but with a visit already to N.C. State also scheduled then that is his likely destination.

Chances: not good

Those who will visit

1. Denard Robinson QB/DB- Robinson has always been on Michigan's radar but with the QB needs filled early and DB needs filled they weren't recruiting him very hard. Now that QB Shavodrick Beaver has switched his commitment to Tulsa there is again a need for a QB and Robinson could fill it. Robinson visits on the ninth along with five others.

Although he projects as an excellent DB Robinson has expressed great interest in playing quarterback at the next level and Michigan is one of the only schools wanting him for that.

Chances: good

2. Sam Montgomery DE-Michigan is the first of five visits for Montgomery although that doesn't mean they are number one on his list. Actually Michigan is last in his final five and will have quite a task pulling this kid out of the South. Right now Montgomery favors LSU above everyone else and it seems nearly certain that is where he is headed.

chances: not good

3. Jayron Hosley DB- Hosley has showed up late on Michigan's board but is now rumored to be high on the Wolverines. Hosley though listed as a DB would most likely just be used as a special teams player as this year alone he returned five kicks for touchdowns. With a visit coming up on the sixteenth Hosley could become another great steal out of Florida.

chances: very good

4. Bennie Logan DE-Logan wasn't being heavily recruited until he sent out his senior film but since then the kid has received many offers including ones from LSU, Michigan, Nebraska, and Texas Tech. He plans on taking all five visits in the next month but will start with Michigan this weekend. As of now he has stated Michigan and Nebraska are the two recruiting him the hardest and are his leaders. The Wolverines stand a good chance with him as this is a big need to finish off the class.

chances: very good

Other Possibilities

OT Marcus Hall has been labeled as an Ohio State lock but after a weekend at the All-American bowl he has stated he wishes to take an official To Michigan. There are also some rumors that his high school head coach is talking with the Michigan staff to take the place of Scott Shafer as defensive coordinator. If Michigan does pick up his head coach don't be surprised to see Hall in Maize and Blue next year.

QB Tajh Boyd set quite a few records this weekend at the All-American game but more surprising than that was word that Boyd is now interested in Michigan. Boyd who first commited to West Virginia then to Tennessee has taken officials to Oregon and Ohio State and was supposed to make his announcement this weekend but decided he wants to take his final visit.

Rumors were that it was between Clemson and Boston College for the final visit but suddenly Michigan has come into the mix.

BCS Is Not The only One Getting Things Wrong.

Ryan Jelley — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 17:28:55 -0500

Sooners Offense Is Great, Not Greatest Ever

I know everyone makes mistakes. But to make the same one every time SportsCenter or College Football Live airs, or anytime there is a mention of the vaunted 2008 Oklahoma offense, it eventually becomes annoying.

First off, let me congratulate quarterback Sam Bradford and that incredible Sooners' offense you ran. It was the most impressive unit I have ever seen, and probably ever will. Your offense was the highest scoring of the last century and was extremely exciting to watch. As a college football fan, I watched every game that was aired in my part of the country and I do believe you are the most deserving team to be in the national championship.

Now you are probably wondering what mistake these networks have been continually making. The mistake they've been making is a big one, in fact it might have been the reason that Sam Bradford won the Heisman. The voters were under the perception that this Oklahoma team was the highest scoring team of all-time. This is in fact not true.

What, the almighty sports god ESPN actually got a statistic wrong? How could this be? Actually it was a pretty easy mistake, so easy that I will actually forgive them for it. Here's how they got it wrong.

The 2008 Oklahoma team scored 94 touchdowns, made 92 PATs, and kicked eight field goals for a grand total of 680 points. I applaud them for their success, but there is a team that has scored more, a lot more.

The Sooners are indeed the highest scoring team in the last century, so you would need to go back past 1908 to find the team that scored more. Are you ready to hear who that team was? If you know me, well, it's not too hard to guess.

The 1901 Michigan team was a good team, a great team, in fact. Yes, these were the early years of college football, but the Wolverines dominated their opponents like the USC teams of recent vintage would dominate a high school football team. That year, Michigan outscored its opponents 550-0. I know what your thinking: I said Michigan scored more. Well, technically, they did.

In the early 1900's, scoring was done a little differently then how it is today. Back then, field goals were worth five points and touchdowns four. If the Wolverines had played today, they would've scored 740 points. Yes, the 1901 Wolverines, taking today's scoring system into account, scored 100 points more than that almighty Sooners offense.

Most of you are now probably thinking yeah Michigan scored 100 more points more than 100 years ago: so what? Oklahoma could have passed that had the Sooners kept their starters in for every quarter in every game. And yes, they probably could have, but so too could Michigan. Back then, a different strategy was used then putting in reserves, since there were none. Head coach Fielding H. Yost, starting in the second half, would have his Wolverines punt the ball on every first down. So Instead of 550, Michigan could have easily scored 750 or even 900.

Now, I'm not asking for ESPN to apologize to the University of Michigan for misinforming the public and taking away from that 1901 Wolverines offense that none could rival, but when I sit down to watch the National Championship a few weeks from now, I beg FOX, please, get your facts straight.

The Five Worst Losses In Michigan History

Ryan Jelley — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 09:48:22 -0500

I know not many Michigan fans are going to like this slideshow but after all the winning we've done throughout the years I thought it would be interesting to glance back at our sour spots. And heck maybeit won't make the 2008 season look so bad. The 2008 campaign was the worst in Michigan history and there were some pretty bad losses including one of their worst in history. Let's take a look back on the five worst including a controversial clock in a Michigan State game, The biggest loss to arch-rival Ohio State, and a loss that has been called the biggest upset in sports history. Don't worry I will follow this up with the five greatest wins in Michigan's long history.

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Taylor Lewan Commitment No. 21 for Michigan Wolverines

Ryan Jelley — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 07:13:49 -0500

The day after Michigan lost one from their recruiting class, they added an even better one. Three-star Indianapolis LB Jordan Barnes decided Michigan wasn't the place for him, as he hadn't been able to connect with his position coach. The very next day Michigan added four-star offensive tackle Taylor Lewan.

Lewan is from Arizona and is one of the fastest rising prospects in the nation and a teammate of Michigan commit Craig Roh. The two led their team to the Arizona state finals last week.

Lewan started off the year as a three-star prospect, but after transferring to Chaparral High where he had an impressive senior season and some explosive camp performances, he got bumped up to a four-star.

Lewan arrived in Ann Arbor for his official visit on Friday, along with Michigan commits safety Mike Jones and kicker Brandon Gibbons. Before the trip Lewan expected it to be exciting from all Roh had told him, and this turned out to be true. Lewan told Rivals.com, "Things went good and I did commit."

Lewan's head coach, Charlie Ragle, is the former offensive line coach for Arizona State, and his offensive line coach, Rod Humenik, is the former offensive line coach for USC. Ragle has never been one to promote his players, but he had some very kind words for Lewan.

"But one thing we try to do is not over or undersell our kids," Ragle told Rivals.com. "They are who they are. And with Taylor, there's no comparison...Michigan is getting, in my opinion, the steal of this year's recruiting class in the country. And I'm not just saying that. I know that's a bold statement to make."

Ragle continued, saying, "This kid's ability on the field won't be questioned. I promise you, he takes care of business...he's as good an athlete on the offensive line as I've ever seen. He's a special, special kid."

The 6'7", 270-pound OT surprised everyone when he ran a 4.9 40-yard dash at the Nike Sparq event and then blew everyone away with his workout. He had what would've been the longest medicine ball toss in the country had he not been a hair over the line when he threw it.

Lewan had played defense his whole life, but when he transferred to Chaparral, Ragle saw a great offensive lineman in the making, and Lewan was dominant immediately.

Not surprisingly, Lewan's favorite player is offensive lineman and former Michigan Wolverine Jake Long. Lewan is expected to follow in the player's footsteps and has picked up the nickname Jake Long, Jr.

Lewan was expected to take more officials, but now it looks like this will be his last.

The Wolverines got a good one in him, as Lewan is ranked as the No. 192 player in the country and should keep rising. He and teammate Roh will be featured in the Under Armour All-American game in January.

The Injustice In The Top 25 Needs To Stop, Michigan Deserves to Be Ranked

Ryan Jelley — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 09:17:49 -0500

After pulling off their second monumental upset of the season this weekend the Michigan Wolverines had to expect to finally be ranked in the AP top 25 poll. Unfortunately for Wolverines' fans across the nation it didn't happen.

With two losses already this season did many voters feel the Wolverines didn't deserve a spot in the top 25, or was it that people thought these were still the old Wolverines who haven't reached an NCAA tournament in a decade? To make that judgement lets take a look at some of the other two loss teams and compare them to Michigan.

1. No. 12 Notre Dame holds the same record as the Wolverines right now at 6-2. Their losses have been a butt whooping by North Carolina and rout at home by unranked Ohio State. The loss to North Carolina isn't that unimpressive as North Carolina could become one of the greatest teams ever, but the OSU game was at home and before this game Ohio State was unranked.

Notre Dame is the highest ranked two-loss team at the moment and biggest win was against No. 8 Texas. Notre Dame's opponent combined record is 32-28

2. No. 14 Purdue also has the same record as the Wolverines at the moment but have yet to beat a team and was obliterated by Duke at home and shut down by Oklahoma. Purdue was at least supposed to put up a challenge for Duke, but were embarrassed at home by a team Michigan would beat the following weekend.

The Boilermakers best win so far has been against Boston College. Boilermakers opponents' combined record at the moment is 30-30

3. No. 16 UCLA has a record of 5-2 at the moment and has yet to post an impressive win. Two weeks after falling to Michigan at the Madison Square Garden the Bruins then fell to Texas. The rest of UCLA's schedule was full of cupcakes that included Prairie-View and CS Northridge. UCLA's opponents' combined record right now is 24-24

4. No. 18 Michigan State is by far the least deserving team to be ranked as high as they are right now. After getting thrashed by 18 to an unranked Maryland on a neutral court they then proceeded to lose by 35 to North Carolina in Detroit. The Spartans have not looked great in their wins as they had to come back to beat Wichita St. and this was a team that was supposed to be Final Four bound. Opponents' record is 28-14

Now for Michigan's resume. The Wolverines have knocked off two teams that were ranked No. 4. UCLA they beat on a neutral court and Duke they handled at home. They lost to Duke the following day of the UCLA game on a neutral court and just fell short to Maryland by five on the road, a team that MSU got whipped by at a neutral site. Their opponents' record is 37-22 at this time.

If this isn't enought to convince you that they deserve to be in the top 25 then lets look at just the records of the teams they have beaten.

Michigan-(23-17) .575 winning percentage

Notre Dame-(11-28) .282 winning percentage

Michigan State-(17-16) .515 winning percentage

Purdue-(14-29) .325 winning percentage

UCLA- (12-21) .364 winning percentage

Michigan has had the hardest schedule out of these five teams and has beaten the toughest opponents so far. In fact Michigan's schedule has been rated as the fourth hardest in the nation because of the three match-ups already and a trip to Uconn later this season.

Now I don't mind these teams being ranked but you at least have to give credit when it's due. To have Purdue and Michigan State both in the top twenty and not even rank Michigan seems just a little unfair. I have no doubt that these teams will eventually get on their game and be in the top 25 at the end of the season but at the moment Michigan looks like the strongest team.

Michigan Football Weekly Recruiting Update: Dec. 8

Ryan Jelley — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 16:47:13 -0500

Surprisingly, December has been the most active for Michigan recruiting. This week's update will feature a look into how Michigan's big recruiting weekend went, the new offers that went out last week, and a look at some of Michigan's major 2010 targets.

There could not have been a better weekend for Michigan to host prospects from around the country. This weekend the Wolverines were supposed to host 11 visitors. Sadly, that number dwindled to eight as Donovan Tate, Je'Ron Stokes, and Jamal Patterson all had to back out. Tate committed to UNC on Tuesday and immediately canceled all other visits.

Stokes, a Tennessee commit, spoke to new head coach Lane Kiffin and afterwards canceled his visit. Stokes did later say that he still planned to take an official to Michigan later this month or in January.

Patterson, a Stanford pledge, also had to cancel because his mother was going to be unable to make it. Patterson's mother later said, "He's not coming this weekend, I'm not feeling well, so we're going to come some other weekend. We're still talking about when that is going to be."

It's sad that they weren't able to come, as this was probably Michigan's biggest basketball win this decade. Every recruit that did make the trip gave Michigan high marks. Michigan's two biggest targets in town were five-star defensive tackle William Campbell and junior college target Pernell McPhee.

McPhee came away saying, "I loved it, everything was positive." McPhee also was able to take in Michigan's monumental win over Duke and said, "It was a nice experience. The atmosphere was good, and I didn't know Michigan's basketball game was that good, to tell you the truth."

Surprisingly, this wasn't the biggest surprise of the weekend for McPhee. Being from Pahokee, Florida, McPhee had never encountered snow. Unlike most southern visitors, McPhee had a good reaction to it: "I hadn't ever been around snow. That was my first time. When it was snowing, it was nice, but Friday it was freezing."

McPhee plays defensive end for a junior college in Mississippi and is ranked as the No. 3 juco prospect in the nation. Michigan needs some depth at this position as they haven't signed a defensive end since 2006. McPhee now has Michigan in his top two with another school of which he is unsure of. Michigan looks in good position for McPhee going down the stretch to signing day.

The number one recruit on Michigan's board was also in town. William Campbell, a former Michigan commit, came for his official along with teammate Michigan commits Teric Jones and Thomas Gordon. Campbell came away saying he felt very comfortable at Michigan.

Campbell lives only half an hour away in Detroit and has been to the Michigan campus over a dozen times in the past year but was able to see a bit more on his official. "I had a lot of fun and I got to see a lot more," Campbell said. "I talked to a lot of the players in their dorms and got to see everyday life. I'm very comfortable there."

The three teammates spent nearly the entire weekend together with their hosts, including former Cass Tech teammate Boubacar Cissoko. "Brandon Graham was my host and I was with Brandon Smith and Boubacar. They were showing me a lot. It was just a lot of fun.

"They said they would love to have me on the team. They showed me a lot of things to do and said they have a lot of academic support. They were telling me the other side of recruiting—the truth. It was positive. They said it was fun and at Michigan the degree goes farther than a lot of other schools."

Campbell played both offensive tackle and defensive tackle in high school. Campbell could play either at the next level but projects better on the defensive side of the ball. He was able to discuss with the coaches about that this weekend. "They said it would be great to have me up there and I'd have a good chance of playing with the linemen that are leaving," Campbell said. "I'm just going to try and get up there and take a spot."

Campbell had canceled all other visits earlier this week, but an in-home visit from Miami coaches peaked his interest, and he scheduled the visit again. Surprisingly he will also take a visit to Florida next weekend and then Miami the next.

Now I'm no expert, but it sounds to me like he might be taking these because he can, not because he is interested. Florida is a great place to vacation in December, but Florida had never been on Campbell's radar until now. Plus recruits get treated like royalty on their visits.

Aside from the big recruiting weekend, there has been a lot of stuff happening in recruiting outside of Ann Arbor, as coaches are allowed to make in-home visits now. A couple Michigan coaches were on the road this week heading to different parts of the country and making new offers.

One coach found himself sitting on the couch in the home of Texas star Demontre Hurst. Hurst, a three-star defensive back from the lone star state, had an outstanding senior season and after sending out tape was offered by both Michigan and Miami this week. Hurst now lists a top three of North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Miami, but says Michigan is definitely under consideration.

Two others who received offers were DEs Alex Williams and Bennie Logan. Both were offered by assistant coaches during visits but have to be affirmed by head coach Rich Rodriguez and nearly always are.

I know it is still more than a year away for 2010 signing day, but the top juniors across the nation already are getting offered. Michigan has already handed out over a dozen scholarships, and these are the top prospects on their board. Here are just five names to know.

1. Devin Gardner

Gardner will be one of the premier quarterbacks in the nation next year. He is a dual-threat quarterback and already has offers from programs throughout the country and should easily rack up many more. Gardner will likely be a five-star prospect and would be a perfect fit for Rodriguez's spread.

Gardner plays for Inkster High School in Michigan, but his favorite college team was Ohio State. Don't let that fool you—it was OSU's red color that made him a fan when he was young. He has stated that Michigan is probably the best fit for him.

2. Robert Bolden

It is the year of the quarterback in Michigan, as Bolden is another prototypical dual-threat quarterback from St. Mary's High School. Bolden, like Gardner, has racked up a long list of offers. He hasn't received a Michigan offer but will any day now. Bolden will likely be a four-star prospect.

3. Marvin Robinson

Robinson is a defensive back from Florida and has already been offered by all college football powerhouses. Robinson lives in Florida but was born and raised in Michigan. His mother is a Wolverine alumna, and Robinson was expected to commit to the Wolverines this fall but has now stated that he will explore all options. Robinson is another likely five-star prospect.

4. Christian Lombard

Lombard is an offensive tackle from Illinois. Lombard boasts a rather long list of offers that Michigan is on. Lombard has already started friendships with Michigan commitments Jeremy Jackson and Ricardo Miller. As of now Michigan and Notre Dame look to be in the driver's seat for Lombard.

5. William Gholston

Remember that vicious DE for Ohio State that ripped Michigan to shreds the last couple years? Well, this is his cousin. Gholston already has an offer list that is better than his cousin's. Although he favors MSU and OSU right now, he has expressed a lot of interest in the Maize & Blue and was in attendance this weekend with all the other recruits.

Honorable mention: Christian Green, Dior Mathis, Darryl Baldwin, Lo Wood, and Derrick Bryant.

That's all for this week. I'm not sure if I am going to continue this week as recruiting tends to slow down around this time, but I will pick it up when it gets closer to signing day.

All quotes courtesy of rivals.com

Can Michigan Go 9-3 In 2009? It's Not a Dream, It's a Possibility (Part II)

Ryan Jelley — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 16:27:12 -0500

In part one of this series I broke down what were the biggest problems with the 2008 Michigan team and how they will be fixed. Now I will break down the schedule and each of the Wolverines' opponents in 2009.

Thankfully, the Wolverines play one of the easiest schedules in the nation next year with two-thirds of their games at home.

Michigan Wolverines 2009 Football Schedule

1. Western Michigan Broncos

2. Notre Dame Fighting Irish

3. Eastern Michigan Eagles

4. Indiana Hoosiers

5. @ Michigan State Spartans

6. @ Iowa Hawkeyes

7. TBA

8. Penn State Nittany Lions

9. @ Illinois Fighting Illini

10. Purdue Boilermakers

11. @ Wisconsin Badgers

12. Ohio State Buckeyes

Five of these, I believe, can be marked down for certain wins, while three I think we will certainly lose. The remaining three could go either way.

1. Western Michigan Broncos 09/05/09

The Broncos improved vastly from 2007 to 2008, going from a 5-7 record to a 9-3 record. The problem for the Broncos is they lose their starting QB and receivers and lose nearly all their starters on the defensive side of the ball.

Michigan has had its troubles in openers the past couple years, but Western Michigan should be having just as many with a new QB and many new starters on defense. Michigan takes this one easily.

my prediction: Michigan 28, Western Michigan 7

2. Notre Dame Fighting Irish 09/12/09

As bad as you think you it is in Michigan, it could be worse. You could be a Notre Dame fan and watching your team continue to underachieve.

The Irish pull in a top-five recruiting class every year yet only manage average and sub-par seasons. Unless Charlie Weis pulls a few tricks out of his hat during the offseason, the Irish don't look like they will be getting any better.

Notre Dame barely became bowl eligible in 2008 with close calls against San Diego St. and Navy. Notre Dame got its win in South Bend, so now it's Michigan's turn in Ann Arbor.

my prediction: Michigan 35, Notre Dame 14

3. Eastern Michigan Eagles 09/19/09

The Eagles posted a terrible 2008 campaign, and head coach Jeff Genyk got will be relieved of his duties after the season. Eastern Michigan should be having the same troubles Michigan had this year, which means the Wolverines should have no trouble rolling over the Eagles.

my prediction: Michigan 38, Eastern Michigan 0

4. Indiana Hoosiers 09/26/09

The Hoosiers were the only team worse than Michigan in the Big Ten this year. The Hoosiers lost to two MAC programs this year and had only two wins against FBS programs.

The Hoosiers will have improved a little next year but should still hang at the bottom of the Big Ten next year. The last time Michigan and Indiana faced off in football, the Hoosiers had negative rushing yardage and had yet to break the century mark in passing by halftime.

my prediction: Michigan 31, Indiana 7

5. At Michigan State Spartans 10/03/09

The Spartans were supposed to be one of the programs on the rise in the Big Ten this year, but weren't they also supposed to be on the rise in 2003, 2000, 1997, 1993, and 1988?

You can go all the way back to the 1950s and Michigan State was supposed to be a program on the rise. After 50 years, you would think that people would learn that MSU will never be a national power again.

And the Spartans firmly believe they will be back. Spartans fans sound like a broken record to me. I'm sorry, I'm not a believer that they will rise to power. Enjoy this year, Spartans fans, because it is the only one you are going to get.

RB Javon Ringer was the heart and soul of this team, and he'll be gone next year. The Spartans also won't have an established QB, and Wolverines fans know that without either an established running back or quarterback, you aren't going to be a threat.

Also, MSU will lose most of its offensive line and secondary, too. Dantonio had his year and that's all it's ever going to be—one year.

my prediction: Michigan 28, Michigan State 3

6. At Iowa Hawkeyes 10/10/09

Iowa appears to be another Big Ten program on the rise. The Hawkeyes went 8-4 this year with their largest loss coming by five points. They also managed to knock off No. 3 Penn State, diminishing the Nittany Lions' national championship hopes with a last-second field goal.

The Hawkeyes will be a force to be reckoned with in 2009. They return 14 of their 22 starters, including consensus All-American running back Shonn Greene. This will be the Wolverines' first loss.

my prediction: Michigan 10, Iowa 24

7. TBA 10/17/09

Hasn't been determined who we are going to play this week. Might be a bye week, but we would be under 12 games, and I'm sure Rodriguez wants to play all the games he can to make sure he can get the six wins to be bowl eligible.

Anybody for a rematch against Toledo or App. St.?

8. Penn State Nittany Lions 10/24/09

Michigan's winning streak against Penn State was shattered last year, and I don't believe it is going to be back next year. The Nittany Lions were senior-laden this year with 16 starting.

Next year, the Nittany Lions will most likely return only four starters. The 16 seniors will be leaving, and juniors Aaron Maybin and Navorro Bowman will probably declare for the draft.

As bad as that may sound for them, they will have 12 seniors starting and the rest juniors. The Nittany Lions will again be a national championship contender and should beat the Wolverines.

my prediction: Michigan 21, Penn State 35

9. At Illinois Fighting Illini 10/31/09

A Halloween matchup, my favorite. Juice Williams silenced the Big House this year when he set the record for total yardage by a player there. Sadly for the Fighting Illini, the Juice seems to be going sour.

Illinois went from the Rose Bowl to not even being eligible for a bowl. Illinois went 5-7 in 2008, with wins against Iowa, Michigan, and Indiana. Illinois will be losing star linebacker Brit Miller and possibly Juice Williams to the draft.

Illinois, like Michigan State, was a one-year wonder and will again fall to the bottom of the Big Ten.

my prediction: Michigan 21, Illinois 17

10. Purdue Boilermakers 11/07/09

Sure, Purdue lit Michigan up for 48 points this year, but next year will be a little different. Purdue will undergo the process of instituting a new coach, new QB, and a whole makeover for the program.

As bad as it looked for Purdue this year, it is probably going to get worse next season. The Boilermakers are also bringing in the worst recruiting class in the Big Ten. Plus, this game is in Ann Arbor.

my prediction: Michigan 24, Purdue 7

11. At Wisconsin Badgers 11/14/09

A visit to Camp Randall, just what the Wolverines need before "The Game."

Last year, Michigan was too busy looking ahead to "The Game" and got trounced by Wisconsin. In 2008, Michigan had their second biggest comeback ever to upset the Badgers.

The power everyone thought Wisconsin was becoming under Bret Bielema seems to be slowly fading away. Next year doesn't look much brighter, as they are losing 10 starters from this dismal team.

my prediction: Michigan 28, Wisconsin 21

12. Ohio St. Buckeyes 11/21/09

"The Game", the most anticipated game of the season for both sides. A horrible season can easily be forgotten with a win in this game. It didn't happen this year and, sadly, it doesn't look like it's going to happen in 2009.

Yes, Ohio State has had its problems in the past with the spread. Yes, Ohio State might lose 10 starters to the draft, but the Buckeyes just have too much talent to overcome.

An experienced Terelle Pryor may be the most dangerous quarterback in the Big Ten and chances are Beanie will be back. All this adds up to another butt-whooping.

my prediction: Michigan 17, Ohio State 31

Will the Wolverines improve from their 2008 campaign? Yes, for Rodriguez's sake, they better hope so. Will the Wolverines contend for a Big Ten title or national title? Not yet.

I don't think that is coming until 2010 or 2011.

Thanks for reading, all comments are welcome, but please be intelligent and use facts when arguing.

Michigan Football Weekly Recruiting Update: Dec. 1

Ryan Jelley — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 06:58:49 -0500

December tends to be a dead period for recruiting and that has held true for Michigan although a couple things happened last week including a new Wolverine and scheduling for a big recruiting weekend.

The Wolverines added their 20th player to their class this week when Vladamir Emilien announced his decision to attend school in Ann Arbor. Emilien is a safety from Florida and is one of Michigan's most important pick ups as safety play was very poor this year for more him check out my article http://bleacherreport.com/articles/85344-vladimir-emilien-becomes-the-next-michigan-wolverine.

While adding Emilien Michigan lost on the sweepstakes for Emilien's teammate Josh Robinson who will be headed for Central Florida instead. Robinson has continued to express an interest to play in-state and expressed an interest at playing wide-receiver while the Wolverines were recruiting him for defensive-back.

Michigan will have their biggest recruiting weekend this week when the Wolverines host the Duke Blue Devils in basketball. On the 6th, ten prospects will be in town to check out the campus including current pledges to the Wolverines and other teams.

The players are: William Campbell, Pernell McPhee, Jamal Patterson (Stanford commit), Donovan Tate, Fitzgerald Touissant (Michigan commit), Justin Turner (Michigan commit), Isiah Bell (Michigan commit), Thomas Gordan (Michigan commit), Teric Jones(Michigan commit), and Je'ron Stokes (Tennessee commit). The key players in this visit will be Campbell, Stokes, and Tate.

Campbell was Michigan's first pledge of the 2009 class but decommitted when he decided he wanted to take visits to other schools. Stokes a Tennessee commit has been wavering since Fulmer announced he was leaving and this would be the Wolverines chance to get him to switch.

Tate said in a recent interview that he would like to announce soon and that he may not take any other visits. Tate already canceled out on two other visits two days before he was supposed to leave so don't be surprised if this one is canceled too. There were a few other who were supposed to visit also this weekend but rescheduled for the 13th.

There have been rumors out that recent commit Pearlie Graves was waivering from his pledge to the Wolverines. All rumors have been determined false as they started when Graves announced that he would still be taking some other officials as a Wolverine.

That's all for this week. Next week I will recap the visits focusing on Campbell's reaction as he is now Michigan's top target in this class.