2 keys to "turnaround" still present....
1. reducing the ridiculously high turnover rate, and
2. added size in the trenches -- on the OL and especially DL to stop the run.
I still think those two areas will be greatly improved from last year. As for turnovers, UM finally has a experienced QB and offensive line. That should help a lot Think of the turnovers that stick out from last year (Purdue, Iowa, MSU in OT, OSU all game, etc...)
As for the size on the DL, we have added A LOT of good weight. Plus, our yound DL has added experience. The 90th run defense should be quite a bit better.
Even if the DB play is as bad as last year (it was looking improved, but see above), which is as bad as possible, I think the team wins at least 2-3 more games based on the factors above.
August 18th, 2010 at 8:27 PM ^
"experienced QB" is being a little liberal isn't it?
August 18th, 2010 at 8:52 PM ^
I think Tate had more (aor as many) career starts than our "veteran" cornerback Troy Woolfolk.
I think TW was considered "experienced."
August 19th, 2010 at 2:11 AM ^
T-'Wolf has only started 12 games, but lest we not forget he is a senior who has played in 32 games.
August 18th, 2010 at 8:31 PM ^
Agree. Our quarterbacks are awesome. I think Tate has learned his lesson and is ready to go.
August 18th, 2010 at 8:38 PM ^
A more consistent offense will mean that our defense, however young, will actually get time to rest and recover between stands
August 18th, 2010 at 8:45 PM ^
We need to chew up the clock on offense and finish the drives.
August 19th, 2010 at 2:16 AM ^
Here's hoping we start a new trend: "The No-Huddle Slow-Down Offense." As the clock runs, come to line quickly so the defense has to call their play quickly, then wait until the play clock runs down to help our defense.
August 18th, 2010 at 8:51 PM ^
It is well known that the largest gain in performance is the difference between the first year and second. Freshman QB mistakes cost us 1 or more games last year. 1 game would have put us in the bowl picture. In addition the injury to our center was catastrophic. We will go to a bowl it’s just a matter of which one.
August 19th, 2010 at 4:07 AM ^
That's a pretty bold prediction.
August 18th, 2010 at 9:50 PM ^
Isn't that the mantra? Sad for T-wolf, but the expection is the player selected to play that position will meet expections. Overall, the defense will be much improved this year, and it's reasonable to think that our coaches can develop an adequate player at Troy's corner spot for the start of the Big Ten season - stay positive, and Go Blue!