Michigan Football: How Brady Hoke Plans to Avoid Sophomore Slump

It seems to be a popular opinion for Michigan haters that last year was a fluke, and reality will set in in 2012.

Will the Wolverines have a sophomore slump in Brady Hoke's second year? It depends on what your definition of a "slump" is.

I don't think the team's record at the end of the year can determine whether or not 2012 was a success or failure; instead, here are certain goals or achievements that must be met to avoid this so-called "sophomore slump."

Beat Michigan State

This one is a no-brainer. It is simply something that needs to happen. It would be somewhat hard to call 2012 a success if MSU is not beaten.

This game will carry heavy Big Ten title implications, so a win over the hated Spartans would be even more sweet.

The game will be played in Ann Arbor, and I think that's a huge reason Michigan will get the job done. Location is everything in college football.

Establish a Strong Defensive Line

I really don't know what to make of this team's defensive line in 2012. I'm not as concerned as I was with it a few months ago, but with that being said, it is still by far the weakest unit on defense.

I think it has a chance to turn into a very solid d-line, but I just don't know how far into the year.

I honestly could see every projected starter playing very well...or underachieving. For example, we've seen Craig Roh go through major ups and downs throughout his career.

Will Campbell is filled with potential but has never lived up to it. Jibreel Black has shown flashes in the past but will now be playing a new position.

Both Frank Clark and Brennen Beyer were only true freshman last year, and one of them will now be expected to start.

If the d-line can hold their own, that will go a long way in determining the success of this team.

Keep the Offensive Line Healthy

I guess the coaches don't have much control over this one, but it is something that needs to happen.

An injury to just about anyone on the line would be devastating.

There is simply little to no depth, and even though there is a great group of linemen coming in as freshman, we can't expect them to be great right from the get-go.

It will take a year or two until we see the freshmen like Kyle Kalis, Erik Magnuson, Blake Bars and Ben Braden really start making an impact.

I'm not at all concerned with the current starters on the line like some people are. As long as nobody gets hurt, this unit should be fine.

Win the Big Ten

There is no reason Michigan shouldn't win the Big Ten in 2012.

The Wolverines could realistically lose as many as four regular season games but still win the conference.

Would the season be looked at as a failure with four losses but a conference title included? Probably not, but it depends on who those four losses are to.

Obviously a Rose Bowl appearance would likely follow, and it would be extremely hard to call the season a disappointment then.

Beat Ohio

Beat Ohio. Enough said.