Michigan Football: Brady Hoke Was the Best Offseason Hire in College Football

Last season, Wolverines fans were stunned to watch their beloved football program flounder under Rich Rodriguez.

This season, Wolverine fans are delighted to watch their beloved football program excel under the reins of Brady Hoke.

Michigan is currently ranked No. 12 in the nation and undefeated. All thanks to Hoke.

So what is it that makes Hoke so much better than RichRod?

Tradition. Pride. Excellence.

Those are words Rodriguez never understood.

Hoke constantly reminds his players that Michigan football is synonymous with pride. He understands the reputation of the university's program.

The understanding is demonstrated through the Wolverines' performance this season. They are seventh in the nation for rushing, and second for defense. He uses a good balance of offense, and he knows exactly what it takes to dominate the Big Ten this year.

But how does he reinforce, motivate and inspire?

Recently, Hoke took his players for a visit to the Big House. The scoreboard came alive with videos of past stars, including Tom Brady and Charles Woodson. The players sat in silence as they watched former faces take over the video screen and give words of encouragement.

Hoke then took the stage and gave a few words of his own. His advice was successful, as Michigan has risen to every occasion this season.

Hoke believes in excellence. He has reinvented a new program with colleague Aaron Wellman. Together, the two emphasize the concept of leadership to the players. It is taught in a classroom-like setting, where the athletes learn that actions have consequences.

“We force them to lead,” Wellman told Fox Sports. “You can’t just stand around and wait for your turn to lift. There’s no better motivation than your teammate telling you he needs to do this for him, the team.”

Hoke even gave every player a pitchfork, personalized with a message: 

The ethos of Team 132
Toughness Character Discipline
I accept the responsibility to uphold our proud tradition.

Hoke was not only the best offseason hire; he was the savior of the program.