Bleacher Report - Articles by David Mendenhall

Michigan Season Preview: Wolverines Will Be Ready For Notre Dame

David Mendenhall — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 09:25:58 -0400

Michigan will be playing Notre Dame in Week Two. I believe after a good game with Western Michigan, we will be prepared for Notre Dame.

I think Notre Dame will come into this game a little too cocky because of last year's game. What they forget to remember is that we acted like the ball had a life ending disease, which set them up with good field position.

Michigan lost the game 35-17 last year. The thing people don't really talk about is that we put up more yardage in all category's than Notre Dame. We had 388 total yards to their 260 total yards.

We did a lot better in that game than people thought we did.

Here is how I see the quarterback doing. Last year, Clausen went 10-21 with 147 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. He made a couple of big throws, but he missed a lot of easy passes.

Clausen is a junior this year, but he has some bad memories from his first game in the Big House. I see Clausen having about the same kind of game, but I think our defense is going to give him trouble. Don't look for Clausen to look like he did against Hawaii.

Notre Dame's running game has basically stunk for the last couple years. Last year the whole team put up 113 yards rushing, while Robert Hughes accounted for 79 yards.

Even though our defensive line is young, I think we will hold Notre Dame to under 100 yards this year. I think Notre Dame will still have a lot of trouble running the ball.

Notre Dame has a pretty decent receiving corp. Mike Floyd and Golden Tate are there best receivers, but I think Donnavan Warren and Boo Cissoko will keep them pretty well contained.

I think one of them might have a 100 yard receiving game. Other than that I do not see them bombing the ball to all of the receivers.

Last year, Tate had 127 yards on four catches. Other than Tate, they had two guys with 10 yards receiving, one with three yards, and another with minus three yards.

Now on to the Notre Dame defense. The Notre Dame defense gave up some pretty big yards against our young offense last year. Threet went 16/23 175 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions.

They let tiny Sam McGuffie run for 131 yards. And our receiving corp was pretty equal. The only thing that hurt Michigan last year were all of the fumbles on special teams. I think that the Notre Dame defense will give up a lot more yards in all category's this year.

In final, I think that one more year in the system for us will help. Our guys will be ready to beat the Fighting Irish.

I think Tate will have a pretty good game, our running backs will rush for over 200 yards, and our receivers will compare very well to Notre Dames defensive backs.

Look for this game to be a good game, but look for Michigan to win this game. I believe that we are a lot better of a team than Notre Dame.

GO BLUE!!!!!!

Michigan Season Preview: How Ready Are We for Western Michigan?

David Mendenhall — Mon, 25 May 2009 20:45:14 -0400

It has been a couple of years since we have won in the Big House on opening day. There was the loss to App State and then against Utah last year. Michigan fans are eager to get the year started off right...I believe that this year is it.

Western Michigan is not going to be an easy game. Their QB, Tim Hiller, was awesome last year. He passed for 3,725 yards and 36 touchdowns with only 10 interceptions. He also had a QB rating of 143.81, which is very good. I know the schedule was pretty easy, but he put up some big numbers against Nebraska and Illinois. Tim is very good at spotting open receivers, and has great accuracy. I think he will have a good game against us.

Their running game does not do well in games with decent teams. The line struggles to hold the lineman and is horrible when linebackers blitz. Even though our defensive line is pretty young, I think we will definitely hold the running game down. I don't think they will get over 60 yards, though I know that is hard to say with our defense being unknown. Look for our guys to stop the running game and to make Western Michigan throw the ball most of the game.

Western Michigan's receiving corp was led by Jamarko Simmons last year. Simmons had 1,276 yards on 104 receptions and seven touchdowns. Even though Simmons is gone, they also have two other receivers that went over 700 yards. Another six receivers have touchdowns over 45 yards. Their receivers like the deep ball. I think our corners will be able to slow them down. I think the quarterback will be forcing throws in this game, so I think our corners will be ready for the passes.

Their defense was very suspect last year. They did win a lot of games thanks to their offense. They struggled with stopping the running game. Their corners were horrible about getting burned. I think their defense will struggle with a mobile quarterback with accuracy. I also think our slot receivers will have a big day.

Overall I think our chances of winning the game are good, though Western's passing game might give us some trouble. Other than that, I think our guys are going to pull this one out. This game is going to be huge for us! A win would do a lot for our guys' confidence. I think that we win this game by fourteen points. Look for the Wolverines to get their rhythm going in this game. GO BLUE!!!!!!

Wolverine Quarterbacks: 2009 Season Preview

David Mendenhall — Wed, 20 May 2009 08:07:13 -0400

The Michigan QB situation has been one of the most talked about subjects in college football this spring. The most hype came from Tate Forcier. Everyone couldn't wait to see him on the field. Then when Nick Sheridan got hurt, all of the hype went to Tate.

We also have David Cone, but he will never give up his baseball cap for a helmet. Then we have Denard Robinson coming to Michigan this summer. Denard is known for his track meet times. He should add some depth and speed to the quarterback position. Here are the guys at the quarterback spot.

Tate Forcier - 6'1" 187

Tate is a very athletic quarterback. He is a passer that can run. One of his biggest strengths is his accuracy. He can put the ball where only the receiver can get it. And whenever a play breaks down, he is not afraid to take off and run. He should be the starter once the Western game comes up.

Tate does need to work on putting on a little weight. Other than that I think he will do pretty good this year. His surrounding cast will make his process easier. I think that Tate is the guy for us, but he is a freshman and will make some freshman mistakes. Look for Tate to be confident and ready to go for the Wolverines this season. Oh and did I mention that he can actually hit the running back on a bubble screen.

Denard Robinson - 6'0" 185

The word speed comes to mind everytime I hear Denard's name. He is a well-known track star and football player in Florida. Denard is a pretty solid football player. His throwing accuracy is one of the only things I have found that he really needs to work on. He seems to feel when the defense is closing in. He can make a lot of things happen out of nothing.

I believe Denard will be on the field this year, but only as a backup. He is going to have a lot of catching up to do this fall. I think he will be used for the wildcat formation and some trick plays. He has too much talent to not be on the field. Look for Denard to see some playing time, but he won't be our starting quarterback.

Nick Sheridan - 6'1" 220

Well, there is not much I can say about Nick Sheridan. Everybody saw what he could do last season. He was faster than Threet but he was very inaccurate. Most of the time he seemed to be lost. He did show some glimpses of being good during the Minnesota game.

I really believe that Nick will be more of a mentor for the younger quarterbacks. He probably won't see the field unless something drastic happens to Tate or Denard. I think you will see Nick on the sidelines with Cone in a baseball cap. Look for Sheridan to ride out his career on the sidelines. He lost any chance to start when he got hurt and Tate took over the first team.

David Cone - 6'7" 222

There really isn't too much to say about the Coner. He is a frankenstein on the sideline sending in the plays. He showed during the spring game that he was probably worst than Threet. He also will be a teacher to the younger guys and if that fails, he has a chance to be a rapper. There is a video out there of Cone rapping. When I get it I will post it. It seems he is already seeking another career.

In my opinion, Tate will be the starter for the season. Denard will be used in special plays, and Sheridan and Cone will not see action this season. Look for Tate and Denard to be like Leak and Tebow. A two-headed monster. GO BLUE!!!!!!!!!

Wolverines on the Corner: 2009 Cornerback Preview

David Mendenhall — Tue, 12 May 2009 23:01:56 -0400

The secondary for the Wolverines will be looked upon to erase what happened to them last year. There were many times when our secondary got burned.

We have everybody coming back except for Trent. Plus, we have some incoming players that should add some speed to the position. I think our corners will do a lot better than last year.

Here are some of the guys.

Donavan Warren: 6'0", 187

Warren is probably one of the most talented players we have on our team. He started 10 games at corner and one at safety last year. He had 52 tackles, 3.5 TFL, five pass break-ups, one interception, and one fumble recovery.

Warren will be one of the top corners in the Big Ten this year. He has some good speed and good hands. Warren will have to help be a leader for the younger guys.

Look for Warren to at least double his numbers from last year. If Warren has a pretty good season in 2009, look for him to possibly enter the draft. But look for Warren to have a great season.

Boubacar Cissoko: 5'9", 182

Cissoko played in all 12 games, and started in two of them. He was second among all freshman with 15 tackles. He also returned 20 kick-offs for 467 yards. Cissoko was one of the best freshman on the defense. Cissoko did make some freshman mistakes last year, but he has had a year to work on it.

From the video I have seen on him in spring, he has improved his mechanics. He will be a big player in the secondary this year. He also has some speed, and hopefully he can do better on coverage. Look for Cissoko to look a lot better than last year.

Justin Turner: 6'2", 186

Turner is a big physical corner. He is not afraid to play the receiver on the line or give him some space. Turner is also very fast for his size.

He had a very good showing at the Army AA game. He was also rated a five star prospect by scouts.com. Justin is going to contribute right away. He is a Charles Woodson type corner. He can also break some plays open on special team. He is a very gifted athlete.

I think Justin will get some playing time at first, but I think he can steal a starting job towards the end of the year. He will definitely help out our secondary. Look for Turner to eventually turn into a star.

J.T. Floyd: 6'0", 184

Floyd did not play last year because he was red-shirted. He has seen a lot of time on the first team defense this spring. He is a bigger corner like Warren. He is pretty also pretty fast. He seems like he will be splitting time with Warren and Cissoko.

I don't think he will earn a starting spot this year. But look for him to prove himself this year and contribute to the Wolverines.

All together, I think our secondary will be pretty good this year. They will have to be good in order for us to have a good year. I believe that the corners will do there job, but look out for getting beat every once in awhile.

Wolverines Getting Offensive: Wide Receiver Season Preview

David Mendenhall — Mon, 04 May 2009 19:03:19 -0400

Michigan has a very good wideout corps this year.

They have one year in the system and are ready to produce some good numbers this season. One thing that is going to help them is that Tate is actually able to put the ball where they can catch it.

I think they will do a lot better than last year (which isn't hard). They have some redshirt freshmen and a couple of true freshmen that should make an instant impact this year. Here is my look at this years wideouts:

Greg Matthews - 6'3", 209 lbs.

Greg is a very good receiver that will make an impact this year. He has already shown flashes of how good he can be (the one-handed grab at Minnesota). The only thing that he lacks is speed.

Last year, Matthews had 409 yards with 35 catches and two touchdowns. His 409 yards was second on the team.

Matthews is also a senior this year. I think he is going to be a leader for the wide receivers.

I don't think Matthews is a great receiver, but he is really, really good. I think he is going to get a lot of corner passes in the end zone. Matthews should have a pretty good year. His skills and knowledge will make him dangerous this year.

Junior Hemingway - 6'1", 226 lbs.

Junior only played in four games and started once last year. He is an explosive receiver and should create some uneven mismatches for the defense.

His catch against Utah was awesome. That is the type of player he can be when he is healthy.

Junior is going to need to lose a little weight before Western Michigan. Other than that, he has some good hands and is a good route runner. I think if he is healthy, he will show a lot of people what he is made of.

Darryl Stonum - 6'2", 188 lbs.

Last year, Darryl had 14 catches for 176 yards and one TD.

He had a couple of plays that stood out to me last year. The catches were the 30-yard catch against Notre Dame and the 51-yard catch against Purdue. The 51 yard catch was the longest one for the season.

He also has some big play ability. I think he will move up the depth chart gradually as the season progresses. Toward the end of the year, he can be our No. 1 outside receiver. Look for Stonum to start a little slow, then start blowing people out of the water.

Martavious Odoms - 5'9", 171 lbs.

Tay was the best receiver on the field last season. He led the team with receptions (49) and yards (443).

The 49 receptions were the most ever in the program by a freshman receiver. He also had 1040 all purpose yards. He led all Big Ten freshman with receptions and all purpose yards. He had 20 kick off returns for 461 yards, and 10 punts for 126 yards. He had a 73-yard punt return for a TD against Purdue.

He is a quick, shifty receiver that can break it open in open field. He did struggle holding on to the ball. If he can fix his fumble-itis, he could probably be like Steve Breaston was on special teams.

I think he will be a beast this year. I think he will be our most productive receiver this year. And look for him to return some punts and kickoffs for touchdowns this year.

Roy Roundtree - 6'0", 174 lbs.

Roy was redshirted last year. He was the receiver that chose Michigan in the eleventh hour over Purdue. He is a quick receiver that has some great hands. He showed in the spring game that he can also be a deep threat.

From the practice videos I have seen, he seems to be on top of his game. I think Roy and Tate will be a very good tandem. If it is in Roy's reach, he will grab it. I think Roy will have a good season this year if he can stay healthy. I also think he will get in on some special teams.

Terrence Robinson - 5'9", 173 lbs.

Like Roundtree, Robinson was also redshirted. Terrence sports a 4.33 second 40 time. He is a burner, especially in the open field. I think he will also play on special teams.

From what I have seen from him in practice, he should have a decent year. I think Tay will be the lead slot, and Roy has come out out strong, so he will have some proving to do. Look for T-Rob to be a special kid. Once he gets some confidence, he will be tough slot receiver.

We also have Jeremy Gallon, Je'Ron Stokes, and Cameron Gordon coming in the fall. Gallon is an outstanding slot receiver. Stokes is a speedy outside receiver. Gordon is a strong outside receiver. All the returning guys and the new guys should have Michigan's receiving corps back to Michigan standard. While I don't think we will have a 1,000 yard receiver, someone is going to come close. I think all Wolverine fans should feel good about our receivers.

GO BLUE!!!!!

Wolverines on the Line: Michigan Defensive Line Preview

David Mendenhall — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 21:34:54 -0400

The Wolverines are going to have a very young defensive line this year. The D-line is going to be anchored by senior Brandon Graham. Personally, I am excited to see the D-line this year.

There is a lot of talk out there saying how the D-line will struggle this year after losing TT, Tim Jamison, and Will Johnson. Although they were a big part of the D-line, I believe it will be one of our strengths on defense. Here is my D-line preview and why I think it will be pretty darn good this year.

Brandon Graham (Defensive End): 6'2", 268

Graham is a senior this year, and he is going to be looked upon to lead the D-line. He should have a great season.

Last season, Graham had 46 tackles, 20 TFL, and 10 sacks. He was second in the nation in TFL and tied for seventh nationally in sacks. He is the active leader in sacks and TFL on the team. He was voted to the Big Ten's second team, and he was also the team's Bo Schembechler MVP.

Graham is nothing less than a monster. He spends most of his time in the opponent's backfield. I believe he will have better stats this year than last year. I also think he will be a first round pick in the 2010 draft. Look for Graham to have an All-American year.

Ryan Van Bergen (Defensive End): 6'6", 261

RVB has had a pretty good spring this year. He will most likely be the starter opposite of Graham. Ryan was not really a factor for the team last year. He is primed to have a decent/good year this season. As long as he can do a little bit, he should help out the team.

RVB is hard to profile because he didn't play his freshman year, and he really didn't play too much last year. I think he has made big strides to become the starter. So look for RVB to come off a little slow but continually get better as the year progresses.

Mike Martin (Defensive Tackle): 6'2", 291

Mike is a big filler in the middle. Last season, he led all freshmen with 20 tackles. He also had 4.5 TFL and two sacks. Mike showed what he could do with the playing time he got. He is ready to take the DT position and run with it. He is one of the strongest and fastest guys on the D-line.

I think he will be equal to what Taylor was last year. He will be a big part of making sure the line is up and going. He will also help Big Will learn his position. Look for Martin to be a man-beast this year and rack up some great numbers.

Will Campbell (Defensive Tackle): 6'5", 315

Will was one of the most sought out defensive tackles this year. He is very strong but very green. Will has had a pretty good spring. The biggest thing was his loss of fat and gaining of muscle. He has had to work hard on fundamentals this spring. He will not be able to push around whomever he wants in college. If he can get lower and learn to use his weight, he will be a great tackle for us.

I think Will is going to start off a little slow and have some huge progression during the season. He will continue to grow and be a big time player. I can't wait to see Campbell and Martin plugging the middle for us.

I think this will be our starting line this year. Anthony LaLota is going to redshirt, and Craig Roh will not. Roh should bring some good pass rushing this year. Everyone knows that our backups are good but not great. Hopefully our line will stay healthy. Other than that, I still believe the line will be one of our strengths this year. Look out for the Wolverines' line this year.

GO BLUE!!!!!!!!

Michigan Running Backs: Position Preview for the 2009 Season

David Mendenhall — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 10:25:15 -0400

The running back situation at Michigan is looking very bright for the upcoming season. We probably have more depth at running back than we have had for a couple of years. Our backs are going to have to carry the offense this year, and I think they can do it. I am going to give you my projected depth chart, and what these guys are capable of. Look for some big plays and big yardage out of these guys this year.

1) Brandon Minor - 6'1 216

Minor took over the position the last couple of games last year. He showed his ability to break big runs, bust some tough yards up the middle, and he is a great blocker. Minor is a senior this year and he has taken a leadership roll in helping the team out.

Last year Minor had 103 rushes for 533 yards and 9 TD's. He also caught five passes for 59 yards and 2 TD's. He lead the team with 11 TD's, and 66 points. He will definitely be a key role to our offense this year. He will be looked upon to carry the load for the running backs(and block his but off to make sure Tate doesn'tt get crushed). Look for Minor to to get a lot more TD's and yards this year.

2) Carlos Brown - 6'0 206

Carlos Brown had been one of the most injury plagued running backs we have had. When he is healthy, he is a beast. Brown was injured for most of last year. He did get a chance to show his stuff against Northwestern. He had 23 carries and 115 yards that game. He showed the speed and strength he has when he is healthy.

Brown has had a great spring, and has only had one minor injury(which is great for him). If Brown can stay healthy, he will complement Minor very well. Can you imagine Brown and Minor in the backfield together and healthy...WOW. Brown will hold down the No. 2 spot if he can stay healthy. Brown is one of the fastest guys on the team. He will help be the lightning to Minor's thunder.

3) Michael Shaw - 6'0 177

Last year Shaw had 215 yards on 42 carries. He also caught 6 passes for 32 yards and 1 TD. Like Brown, Shaw was also plagued by injuries most of last year. Shaw is basically a faster Brandon Minor.

Shaw is a quick shifty back. He can make some good last second cuts(the Minnesota game). Shaw has been out this spring due to surgery, but I think he will still be the No. 3 back on the depth chart. Shaw does need to work on his ball handling skills. Other than that, look for Shaw to contribute to the position and add some depth.

4) Vincent Smith - 5'6 158

Outside of Tate, Vince has been the talk of the town this spring. He has showed that his size is just a number. From the video's I have seen, he is probably the most athletic back we have. He can cut and juke like no other. And he is also as tough as nails.

I think No. 3 and 4 on the depth chart are going to get about the same amount of playing time. I put Shaw ahead of Vince due to Shaw has had game experience, and Vince is a freshman. But if Vince can show his stuff when he is in, he will probably move up to No. 3.

5) Kevin Grady 5'9 226

I know I am going to get a lot of grief over putting Grady at No. 5. My reasoning is that Grady is going to be more of a fullback/third down back for us. I don't see him taking to many reps as a super-back. I think he can be a good third down back. His size and strength will help get those little yards we need for a first.

Grady has been known to cough up the ball on occasion. He really didn't contribute to much last year. He was suspended for the first game, and only rushed for a couple of yards in the other games. I think he can succeed in his new role. This is probably the best way for Grady to contribute.

I know our backfield will succeed this year. We have too much talent and depth for it not to. Look for some big numbers to be put up this year. Next Monday I will be doing my preview for the Wide-outs. GO BLUE!!!!!!

Wild Wolverine: Weekly Wolverine Discussions No.4

David Mendenhall — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 15:43:08 -0400

Hello again, I am doing my questions today because I know a lot of people will be busy tomorrow with the spring game. I have been very impressed with the team so far in spring. I have seen a lot of improvement from last years practices. So, I hope every one enjoys the game tomorrow, and if you can't go, they will be having live video on MGOBLUE.com. So here we go with this weeks questions. Also, for those who havn't seen the Michigan pre-Spring game video, here it is. http://www.mgoblue.com/Multimedia/MultimediaCenter.aspx?id=172826&categoryId=81876

1) Do you miss seeing the No.1 jersey out on the field?

2) Do you have any superstitions on Saturday's during the season (wear a certain jersey, etc)?

3) Do you think we will get any commits this weekend?

4) How do you think Justin Turner is going to do this year/what position do you see him playing?

My answers -

1) I really miss seeing the No.1 jersey out there. The player that wore that jersey was the best wideout we had. I really hope RR will bring back the No.1 jersey.

2) I wake up early and watch College Game Day, put on my maize #1 jersey, and wear my lucky Michigan hat that I have had since I was ten. I will have to get a new hat though, because it got pretty beat up last year.

3) I hope we get at least three commits this weekend. I know they are going to be some big time recruits in AA this weekend. I know that CJ Olaniyan said there is a possibility that he could commit this weekend. Marvin Robinson's coach is still getting in the way of him committing, so I do not think he will commit this weekend. I do think Marvin will commit after his season is over. Other than that, I hope we can pull some guys in this weekend. Stephan Hopkins is another commit that I think we can pick up. I don't know about this weekend, but I think we will get him.

4) I see JT playing safety, but I think he will eventually move to corner. I think he will contribute a lot this year. I think he can be a great playmaker in the secondary. But, like all freshman, he will make his mistake, but I think by the Iowa game, he will be a starter. I look for him to be a special kid.

Well I hope everyone enjoys this weekend, and has a great week. GO BLUE!!

Wild Wolverine: Weekly Wolverine Discussions No.3

David Mendenhall — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 09:16:03 -0400

Another week, and another great set of questions. Spring is still in the air, the game is only one week away. I hope everyone else is as excited as me. Still good news coming out about Vince Smith.

From all of the video's I have seen, he is doing really good. I can't wait to see what he can do in the spring game. Tate also seems to be doing better. He seems very comfortable in the pocket, and has been making some great passes. So, here are my questions for the week.

1) How do you feel about Devin Gardner's commit?

2) What do you think the RB depth chart will look like at the start of the season?

3) Who do you think is the most underrated player for the Wolverines, and why?

4) I know it is early, but how many games do you think we will win this year?

My answers -

1) I think Devin was a great pickup, but he really needs to work on his passing skills. I seriously believe we will red-shirt him. But, he is a great athlete, and I think he could be a great QB at Michigan. Here is a video of Devin. As you can see, his throwing technique will need a little work, but he can sure bomb the ball.

http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=38129077

2) Minor, Smith, Brown, Shaw, Grady

3) I think the most underrated player is Stevie Brown. I know this guy has caught a lot of crap, but he is probably one of the most athletic guys on our defense. I know when people here his name, they think he always gets burned. While that did happen A LOT last year, he showed he could do pretty good. I think the move to the hybrid type LB will help him out a lot. Watch for him do have a really good year.

4) I honestly think we could win 8-9 games this year. I just think the offense will be a lot better than last year. And the defense should do a lot better under Robinson. From the interviews I have seen, the defensive players have a new attitude about them. I think Robinson was a great hire, and I think he will have the defense pumped for this year. And the schedule we have doesn't hurt either.

Thanks again for reading, and have a great week. GO BLUE

Wild Wolverine: Weekly Wolverine Discussions No. 2

David Mendenhall — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 21:41:37 -0400

Yes, it is that time of the week again: It is my weekly set of questions that I ask my fellow Wolverines.

The spring game is near, and good things are being said from practice. I am on the Tate train, but I wouldn't mind having Sheridan healthy.

So, here we go, my questions for the weeks are:

1. Other than Tate, Denard, Big Will, and Justin Turner, what incoming freshman are you most excited to see and why?

2. What game are you most excited to see this year, and why?

3. I know it is early, but other than our commits, what 2010 recruit would you like to see come to Michigan and why?

4. Since 1998 till now, who was your favorite player, either offense of defense?

My answers:

1. I am most excited to see Jeremy Gallon.

I have kept track of him for a while and his Army All-American performance during practice and the game impressed me.

I think with his size and mobility, he will be able to get open and break some big plays for us. I don't think he is going to get a mass amount of playing time, but who knows, when he gets here in the summer, he could blow everyone away.

2. I know most people will pick Ohio State or Michigan State, but I am picking the Western Michigan game.

The reason is simple, it is our first game, and we will get a feel for our offense and defense. This will be a very important game for us. Plus, I don't want to lose another home opener.

3. I know I have said this before, but I am hooked on Jeff Luc. I know the knowledge isn't there, but this guy is a monster.

If G-Rob could get his hands on him, he would kill people for a living.

4. There are a lot of people to choose from.

You have Tom Brady, Drew Henson, Braylon Edwards, Mike Hart, and the list goes on. I would have to say my favorite player was Braylon Edwards. This guy was a beast.

He made some amazing catches. I loved watching him take over a game. He was a game changer.

I hope everyone enjoys the questions, and keep counting down till Sept. 5.

1998-2007 : The Top Individual Offensive Performances From Each Year

David Mendenhall — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 17:57:29 -0400

Michigan football has seen it's share of great athletes in the years. I am going to pick one game from each year from 1998-2007, and share a player who took over a game and helped the Wolverines to a victory. I have gone deep into the archive for this, so get ready for some vintage Wolverines. The games I picked, were games that were close in score. They were games that count. I hope you enjoy my picks, and I hope to hear from everyone who they would have picked from each year. Go Blue

Begin Slideshow

Wild Wolverine: Weekly Wolverine Discussions

David Mendenhall — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 21:01:36 -0400

Hello fellow Wolverines,

I have decided to do a weekly discussion that allows others and myself to see how they feel about different subjects. I will also continue to write, but I think this could be a fun interactive discussion. I want more people to interact and actually discuss subjects. Instead of just reading the article, I actually want people to respond to the article, and also have some good ole arguments. I will be posting my answers as well. So that being said, here is this weeks questions for you.

1) Which returning player are you most excited to see play this year and why?

2) Who do you think is going to step up big for us this year?

3) Is the offense or defense going to be our biggest strength this year?

My Answers-

1)I am most excited to see Brandon Minor. If he can stay healthy this year, he will explode this year. I want to see how much of a leader he can be, and I also want to see him run some people over.

2) I think Brandon Graham will step up big for us. He is going to have to control the line and be a vocal leader for the younger guys. I think he could destroy some people this year.

3) I think the offense will be our biggest strength this year. The O-line and running backs have more experience this year, and I think that will loosen things up for our quarterback (whoever it is).

Devin Gardner Becomes Michigan's Fourth Commitment

David Mendenhall — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 13:42:34 -0400

Devin Gardner has decided to play for the Michigan Wolverines. He will make his announcement in the next couple of days. This is a huge pickup for the Wolverines and will add depth to the QB position. Hopefully this guy can also help with some of the in-state recruits.

Here is the article from the Detroit News.

Michigan Wolverine Quarterback Battle: To QB Or Not To QB, That Is The Question

David Mendenhall — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 21:06:26 -0400

The most talked about thing in college football these days is Michigan's quarterback battle. Every where you look, thats all you see about Michigan. Who will win the battle? Who will get the most snaps this offseason? Do they have the right guys for the job? It is a never ending story.

While nobody knows how the quarterback situation will turn out, we can feel good about what we have. Yes, I said it, feel good about having two freshman, Sheridan, and lurch(Cone). Tate is already studying the playbook and getting ready for spring.

Sheridan does have game experience, and can help bring the two younger quarterbacks up to speed. From what I have heard, Denard is a quick learner, and he is definitly in the quarterback competition. And Cone, will be the best sideline signal caller we have ever had lol.

We almost have everything we need. The only thing missing is game experience. Sure Sheridan played in a couple of games, but would you trust that guy when the game is on the line.

High school and college is a lot tougher than people think. Even if Tate or Denard becomes the starter, they are still going to make freshman mistakes. All in all, they should make there presence felt.

Every Wolverine fan has there own opinion about the quarterback situation. We have all heard almost everyones opinion about. I personally think that Tate will start, and Denard will also get some playing time. I think Sheridan and Cone will be used to coach the younger guys.

So, the point of this whole story is to get other Wolverine fan's input. My questions to you are,

1) Who will be the starter in the first game?

2) How will Denard be used this year (if he is not the starting QB)?

3) What will be Sheridan's role this year?

4) Who do you want to see at starting QB, and why?

These are a few questions from me to you. I can't stand when there is no football. For that reason, it is limited on material you can write about. The good news, spring practice is almost here, followed by the spring game, and next thing you know it will be football season!! Go Blue

To QB or Not to QB: That Is the Question

David Mendenhall — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 20:57:20 -0400

The most talked about thing in college football these days is Michigan's QB battle. Every where you look, that's all you see about Michigan.

Who will win the QB battle? Who will get the most snaps this off-season? Do they have the right guys for the job? It is a never-ending story.

While nobody knows how the QB will turn out, we can feel good about what we have. Yes, I said it, feel good about having two freshman, Sheridan, and lurch (Cone). Tate is already studying the playbook and getting ready for spring.

Sheridan does have game experience, and can help bring the two younger QB's up to speed. From what I have heard, Denard is a quick learner, and he is definitely in the QB competition. And Cone, will be the best sideline signal caller we have ever had.

We almost have everything we need. The only thing missing is game experience. Sure Sheridan played in a couple of games, but would you trust that guy when the game is on the line. And high school and college is a lot tougher than people think. Even if Tate or Denard becomes the starter, they are still going to make freshman mistakes. All in all, they should make there presence felt.

Every Wolverine fan has their own opinion about the QB situation. We have all heard almost everyone's opinion about.

I personally think that Tate will start, and Denard will also get some playing time. I think Sheridan and Cone will be used to coach the younger guys.

So, the point of this whole story is to get other Wolverine fans' input. My questions to you are,

1) Who will be the starter in the first game?

2) How will Denard be used this year (if he is not the starting QB)?

3) What will be Sheridan's role this year?

4) Who do you want to see at starting QB, and why?

These are a few questions from me to you. I can't stand when there is no football. For that reason, it is limited on material you can write about.

The good news, spring practice is almost here, followed by the spring game, and next thing you know it will be football season!! Go Blue!

Michigan Wolverines To Watch This Spring

David Mendenhall — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 23:24:42 -0500

I know, after last year, everybody can't wait until this spring. Spring is the time for us to see what players have improved, what players are potential starters, red-shirts from last year, and, most of all, we can see the new guys at work. It basically gives us a chance to get an outlook for our team for the 2009 season. I'm going to give my watch list of players for this spring. We already know who the stars on the team are, but here are some of the guys to look for this spring.

I am going to start with the new guys.

QB - Tate Forcier 6'1" 185

I believe that Tate will have the biggest impact of all the players. Michigan's lack of quarterback last year was one of the main reasons for their horrible season. Tate is a passing QB that can run. He can make plays when things break down in the pocket. His biggest asset is his accuracy; completing around 70 percent of your passes is great, no matter what level you are at.

Tate won the Elite 11 accuracy award. He will bring the type of skills and confidence that we need in a QB. Enrolling early will allow him to learn the playbook and get a feel for the guys around him. We need to remember that Tate is still a freshman, and freshmen will make mistakes, no matter what. But look for Tate to make an instant impact.

QB - Denard Robinson 6'0" 180

I know it seems weird I would put a second QB on here, but Denard has raw talent. I don't believe that Denard will be the starting QB, but you better believe he will see a lot of time as QB. I think you will see Michigan run some wildcat and two QB formations. I mean, Denard can run a 3.9 - 40. He is also a very good passer. He also likes to take off out of the pocket and run like Forrest Gump.

He will be a big part of the team this year. He is one of the guys who wants the football in his hands when the game is on the line. Expect to see Denard get a lot of playing time. Here is a link of Denard in a track meet. Denard is the last guy in the 4 x 100 relay. Trust me, you will be able to tell who he is. This is speed at its best.

He is in red.

http://horseshoes-and-handgrenades.blogspot.com/2009/02/denard-robinson-...

CB/Safety - Justin Turner 6'2" 185

Everyone has heard the comparison between Justin Turner and Charles Woodson. While Turner has a long way to go, he has shown some signs of greatness. He is a big athletic type that can pursue the ball with the best of them. He is a ball-hawk wherever he is on the field.

I think that he will play more safety than corner, but he could eventually turn into a shutdown corner. If you watched the US Army All American Bowl, you saw how he could be a great corner. The fourth quarter interception did remind me of watching Charles Woodson making his athletic interceptions. Turner also played running back in high school. He rushed 193 times for 1,349 yards and scored 11 touchdowns as a senior and caught nine passes for 116 yards and one TD.

He could play both sides of the ball, but I see him staying on defense. He will definitely make an impact right away. I also believe he will be starting as a freshman. He has the physicality and quickness we have been looking for in a defensive back. Look for Turner; he will be the one wearing No. 2.

William Campbell - DT 6'5" 317

William Campbell is a beast of a man. He will be playing defensive tackle for us this year, which is what he played in high school (in addition to also serving time on the OL). Due to lack of depth at that position, he will definitely be a starter. Campbell is a big guy who will draw a lot of double teams. He can also overpower the offensive linemen and get at the QB. He is pretty quick on his feet for a big man.

We are going to need him to contribute right away for us to have a decent line. If Campbell can stay healthy, I see him being a four-year starter; he is like a young Terrence Taylor. Expect Campbell to make a huge impact on defense this year. Can't wait to see the big guy in maize and blue this year.

Notable mentions - Jeremy Gallon (WR), Vincent Smith (RB), Jeron Stokes (WR), Anthony LaLota (DE), and Craigh Roh (DE)

Now to the red-shirts. (red-shirts are harder to evaluate)

Brandon Smith - S 6'3" 210

Smith is a big physical safety, unlike Stevie Brown. I believe that Smith will have a very good shot at starting this year. He is a fast guy who can hit really hard. Since we never got to see him on the field, there are good things being said about Smith. He should be able to contribute right away. If he doesn't become the starter, he will get ample playing time.

Terrence Robinson - WR 5'9" 170

Terrence was red-shirted last year due to injury. He was one of the most highly talked about freshmen last year. He is a burner who can find himself open a lot. His smaller size makes him more difficult to find in crowds; if he gets into space he is a goner. He is also very hard to tackle once he gets going. Terrence will bring a Martavious Odoms type speedster this year for us. Expect to hear a lot about Robinson this year.

Honorable mentions - Dan O'Neil (OL), Roy Roundtree (WR), and Brandon Moore (TE)

Finally, players returning from last year.

Mike Martin - DT 6'2" 285

Martin played in all 12 games as a true freshman; he had 20 tackles as the primary backup at defensive tackle. 4.5 of those tackles were for losses, with two of them being sacks. He is also another big plugger in the middle. He will be starting due to lack at depth for defensive tackle.

He is a guy who can make some big plays. If needed, he can jump into the starting position, as he demonstrated last year. He will make a huge contribution to the team this year. This is a guy that we will need to be a leader for our young defensive line. He is going to need to be at his best for our line to be where it should.

Michael Shaw - RB 6'0" 205

Shaw rushed for 215 yards and averaged more than five yards a carry while being injured for most of the season. Shaw is a faster Brandon Minor; he is a speedster who could break a big play at any time. If he can stay healthy, he will get a lot of playing time this year. I believe he will be the No. 2 back, behind Minor. If he is healthy, he could possibly be starter material. Look for Shaw to battle for as many snaps as he can get.

Darryl Stonum - WR 6'2" 180

Stonum played in 11 out of the 12 games; he was suspended for an alcohol related incident. Before the suspension he managed to catch 14 passes for 176 yards. He wasn't used as much as I thought he would be. He is an explosive receiver that can use his strength and speed to get open.

He will definitely get more looks this year. He may even move into a starting position. Stonum can go up up and snatch the ball out of the air with the best of them. He will be used a lot this year. Expect him to be a starter about three games into the season.

Honorable mentions - L.B. Fitzgerald (LB), Justin Feagin (WR), and Kevin Koger (TE)

These are some of the guys that will either make names for themselves or become starters. Spring practice is right around the corner, so let's get ready for some Michigan football in '09.

Steven Threet to Transfer

David Mendenhall — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 08:24:22 -0500

Steven Threet has decided to transfer from the University of Michigan. He will make an announcement sometime today to release a statement. Threet has already received his release.

I know Threet wasn't the greatest QB ever, but his experience will be missed. I know he wasn't the fastest or most accurate QB, but I seriously thought he would have a chance to stay the starting QB.

So, there you have it—it will either be Tate or Denard getting the nod to start. I know most people thought that one of those two would get the nod anyway. Everyone knows that we don't ever want to see Nick Sheridan on the field again.

Michigan Will Return to the Top!!!

David Mendenhall — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 10:20:24 -0500

Michigan Football has not gone anywhere, it was just in a transition period. A lot of people have been hating on Michigan for having a down year. I believe Rich Rod is the man for the job.

He only had a month to recruit his first class. Then he had to work with what he had. I watched every game this year, and I seen a huge improvement from game one to game 12.

I think Rich Rod's spread offense will lead us to alot of big ten championships and hopefully a national championship. If you look at this years recruiting class, he filled alot of holes with some quality players. I am just tired of everyone saying Michigan is never going to be the same.

Michigan will return to being a national powerhouse in the next year or two. And for an early prediction for 2009 (Michigan 28 - Ohio State 21). I just hope every can see that it takes Rich Rod a year or two to get his players and get results. If you look at everywhere he has been, he has always struggled in year one.

Year two is a different story. Here is what I am talking about.

Year	School	Record	Bowl/Result
1988	Salem	2-8
1990	Glenville State	1-7-1
1991	Glenville State	4-5-1
1992	Glenville State	6-4
1993	Glenville State	10-3, WVIAC champion
1994	Glenville State	8-3, WVIAC champion
1995	Glenville State	8-2, WVIAC champion
1996	Glenville State	6-4, WVIAC champion
2001	West Virginia	3-8, 1-6
2002	West Virginia	9-4, 6-1	Continental Tire/L, 22-48 (Virginia)
2003	West Virginia	8-5, 6-1 Big East champion	Gator Bowl/L, 7-41 (Maryland)
2004	West Virginia	8-4, 4-2 Big East champion	Gator Bowl/L, 18-30 (Florida State)
2005	West Virginia	11-1, 6-0 Big East champion	Sugar Bowl/W, 38-35 (Georgia)
2006	West Virginia	11-2, 5-2	Gator Bowl/W, 38-35 (Georgia Tech)
2007	West Virginia	10-2, 5-2 Big East champion	Fiesta Bowl (Oklahoma)

NAIA/Division II (8 seasons): 45-36-2
Division I (7 seasons): 60-26
TOTAL (15 seasons): 105-62-2

Just look at what he has done with schools. I understand he was is some under the radar conferences. But you cannot look past what he can do with a program. He will will have Michigan up and running this year, and for years to come. Just give the guy some time.

I am a die hard Wolverines fan. I will admit that when Rich Rod was hired I was really optimistic. I have seen what he can do am I am excited about the future. This is also my first article for BR, so please post comments to tell me how I did.

Early 2009 Predictions

Michigan's Record: 8-4

Michigan beats Michigan State, Penn State, and Ohio State.