Adam Rittenberg chat on ESPN regarding MSU/UM

72 posts / 0 new
Login or register to post comments
Last post
September 8th, 2010 at 10:30 PM
#1
umuncfan11
umuncfan11's picture
Joined: 01/26/2010
MGoPoints: 340
Adam Rittenberg chat on ESPN regarding MSU/UM

I'm sure you guys will like this quote from Rittenberg's chat today:

Corey (East Lansing, Mi)
Adam, Michigan State went to a bowl game last year and brought back the majority of its offensive skill and standout defensive players. Yet, somehow, Michigan is a few votes away from getting into the AP top 25 and MSU is at the very bottom? I understand Michigan played well, but still. Tell me how this is possible because UM's 8-16 record the past few seasons proves otherwise.
Adam Rittenberg
(12:07 PM)
It's simple, Corey. More people pay attention to Michigan than Michigan State. Probably not what you want to hear in East Lansing, but it's thee truth. When Michigan goes out and plays well against a team people thought would be pretty good in UConn, it makes an impression nationally more than a rout of Western Michigan. I wouldn't worry about the rankings for MSU right now. Beat Florida Atlantic and Notre Dame, and there's a shot the Spartans enter the polls.

 

 

http://espn.go.com/sportsnation/chat/_/id/34234

Top
Tags:

Comment viewing options

Select your preferred way to display the comments and click "Save settings" to activate your changes.
September 8th, 2010 at 10:33 PM | Its soo true.  Michigan (Score:1)
DreadTheLocks
DreadTheLocks's picture
Joined: 09/08/2010
MGoPoints: 165

Its soo true.  Michigan practices for a few extra hours and everyone cares.  Half of Sparty Lays a Beat Down on some nerds and noone blinks.

DREAD THE LOCKS

September 8th, 2010 at 10:39 PM | Not only nerds (Score:1)
Blue-Chip
Blue-Chip's picture
Joined: 01/06/2010
MGoPoints: 2950

Don't forget the ladies.

Your friendly neighborhood contrarian.

September 8th, 2010 at 10:34 PM | pwned. (Score:1)
Chris-sirhC
Chris-sirhC's picture
Joined: 02/07/2010
MGoPoints: 135

September 8th, 2010 at 10:34 PM | Sucks to be them.  I freaking (Score:1)
willywill9
willywill9's picture
Joined: 09/22/2008
MGoPoints: 11256

Sucks to be them.  I freaking love Rittenberg now.  What a phenomenal quote.

Touchdown Michigan!

September 9th, 2010 at 12:14 AM | actually... (Score:1)
clarkiefromcanada
clarkiefromcanada's picture
Joined: 11/21/2008
MGoPoints: 13009

I prefer this quote:

I wouldn't worry about the rankings for MSU right now.

Spoken like anyone who's watched Sparty football for any length of time.

If the haters don't hate you then you're doing something wrong. - David Cone

September 9th, 2010 at 12:39 PM | Should they ever worry about (Score:1)
Dreisbach Turne...
Dreisbach Turner Overdrive's picture
Joined: 06/30/2008
MGoPoints: 6788

Should they ever worry about the rankings?

Syracuse '03, Michigan G'05

Space bitches, space.

September 9th, 2010 at 9:56 AM | Rich Rod was plan B (Score:1)
MichFan1997
MichFan1997's picture
Joined: 08/04/2008
MGoPoints: 6238

in the same way Jim Tressel was plan B. Because nobody knew he was available. But let's not lot logic get in the way of anything here. I mean, after all, you are a State fan.

Follow me on Twitter @gfraley05

September 9th, 2010 at 1:34 PM | Yeah because MSU football is (Score:1)
duffman is thru...
duffman is thrusting in your direction's picture
Joined: 05/20/2010
MGoPoints: 998

Yeah because MSU football is all over the national media, all the time.

"We alway's did feel the same, we just saw it from a different point of view"

September 8th, 2010 at 10:36 PM | Wait, an msu fan judging how (Score:1)
BigBlue02
Joined: 06/29/2009
MGoPoints: 1853

Wait, an msu fan judging how good their football team is based on the success of U of M? I don't believe it.

September 8th, 2010 at 10:36 PM | Adam Rittenberg just became (Score:1)
MH20
MH20's picture
Joined: 10/30/2008
MGoPoints: 7575

Adam Rittenberg just became my freaking hero.

"The difference between a man and a boy is, a boy wants to grow up to be a fireman, but a man wants to grow up to be a giant monster fireman."

- Jack Handey

September 8th, 2010 at 10:36 PM | It shocks me that Rittenberg (Score:1)
aaamichfan
aaamichfan's picture
Joined: 10/23/2009
MGoPoints: 14217

It shocks me that Rittenberg even has to explain this.

September 8th, 2010 at 10:37 PM | We're talking about MSU fans (Score:1)
MH20
MH20's picture
Joined: 10/30/2008
MGoPoints: 7575

We're talking about MSU fans here...nothing should shock you.

"The difference between a man and a boy is, a boy wants to grow up to be a fireman, but a man wants to grow up to be a giant monster fireman."

- Jack Handey

September 8th, 2010 at 10:42 PM | True story. (Score:1)
aaamichfan
aaamichfan's picture
Joined: 10/23/2009
MGoPoints: 14217

True story.

September 8th, 2010 at 10:48 PM | (Michigan) State of denial (Score:1)
jmblue
Joined: 11/07/2008
MGoPoints: 28976

Deep down, I think ol' Corey knew the answer. 

September 8th, 2010 at 10:59 PM | He really didn't have to (Score:1)
Bill in Birmingham
Joined: 08/30/2008
MGoPoints: 2875

He really didn't have to explain it. He just did it for fun.

September 8th, 2010 at 10:41 PM | Also.... (Score:1)
PeterKlima
Joined: 08/24/2008
MGoPoints: 1424

...he could have mentioned MSU had a similar losing record to Michigan last year and UM beat a better team so far this year.

September 8th, 2010 at 11:02 PM | I was about to mention the (Score:1)
MGoRob
MGoRob's picture
Joined: 03/14/2010
MGoPoints: 2284

I was about to mention the same thing.  MSU won one more game than Michigan.  Which basically was their head-to-head that went to OT.  MSU fans need to get over the fact that they think their team is that much better than Michigan.  It's not.  And in fact, this year, the balance to the force seems to have returned via dilithium treatments

September 8th, 2010 at 10:47 PM | better everywhere, Adam (Score:1)
SysMark
SysMark's picture
Joined: 11/15/2008
MGoPoints: 5566

It's even simpler, Corey.  Michigan has better players, including the best player on either team right now, Denard Robinson, and better coaches.

Also a better stadium, better band, better University.  Need we go on?

September 9th, 2010 at 11:16 AM | I'm pretty sure the majority (Score:1)
dieseljr32
dieseljr32's picture
Joined: 04/19/2009
MGoPoints: 1498

I'm pretty sure the majority of people who follow and comment on MGoBlog never left the wagon.  We're happy we beat a UConn team that supposedly will contend for the Big East Title.

We aren't naive to think that Denard can carry 29 times each game but as the old, worn out adage goes, "if it's not broke then don't fix it."  Denard ran roughshod over the UConn's defense.  If future opponents can stop Denard from running effectively then I would assume the coaches would create a game plan so Denard can still be effective.  From the way he threw the ball he looked a lot better than the guy who threw the game clinching interception against Iowa. 

If you claim to read this blog then you know full well that the past two years have been fresh in our minds.  Why do you think we were really happy to win last Saturday? Plus, we are nervous about the NDn game.  We're going to be nervous about every game.

Your fellow Spartan fan, Corey, I believe speaks for the Spartan Nation as a whole.  A bunch of fans who constantly complain that they don't get the respect that Michigan does.  Why should they?

September 8th, 2010 at 10:46 PM | What fantasy world to spartys (Score:1)
yostlovesme
yostlovesme's picture
Joined: 01/13/2010
MGoPoints: 5518

What fantasy world to spartys live in?

September 8th, 2010 at 10:48 PM | I like Rittenberg and his (Score:1)
stankoniaks
stankoniaks's picture
Joined: 02/04/2009
MGoPoints: 1728

I like Rittenberg and his opinions.  He was at Charly's on Friday and we tried to buy him a round.  I think he declined, but I was too drunk to remember.

September 8th, 2010 at 10:48 PM | Rittenberg ftw, my favorite (Score:1)
the_white_tiger
the_white_tiger's picture
Joined: 02/07/2009
MGoPoints: 5227

Rittenberg ftw, my favorite msm guy for sure.

Maize n Brew

September 8th, 2010 at 10:53 PM | Actually, my favorite part is (Score:1)
BigBlue02
Joined: 06/29/2009
MGoPoints: 1853

Actually, my favorite part is where the msu fan says they brought back the majority of their standout defensive players....as if bringing back the only good defender you have is a positive thing.

September 8th, 2010 at 10:58 PM | Rittenberg: The gentle hand for hapless fans (Score:1)
NateVolk
NateVolk's picture
Joined: 07/19/2010
MGoPoints: 3827

I love at the end how he tries to refocus old Corey to keep his expectations in line with actual reality but still throws him a cool goal to keep striving for.  "I wouldn't worry about the rankings for MSU right now......."  but

Beat Florida Atlantic and Notre Dame, then maybe...... 

Saying no way, but there is still is hope; all at once.    smoothe

The guy could go into guidance counseling for kids who act out if the Big Ten Blogger job falls through.  His work with State fan has more universal application than he knows.

"because character wins in life and character wins on the football field....."  1-11-11

September 9th, 2010 at 6:57 AM | Times are changing. It's fall (Score:1)
dennisblundon
dennisblundon's picture
Joined: 02/23/2010
MGoPoints: 6631

Times are changing. It's fall and it is time for yet another mediocre season of Spartan football.

September 9th, 2010 at 7:11 AM | Times have been "changin'" (Score:1)
Shaqsquatch
Shaqsquatch's picture
Joined: 04/08/2009
MGoPoints: 3303

Times have been "changin'" for Sparty for the last 10 years. Every year is their year to win the Big Ten. Every year they respond in fashion with a hilarious midseason collapse. You guys are the kings of mediocrity, what makes you think this year will be any different?

September 9th, 2010 at 9:13 AM | It's a good question. It was (Score:1)
NateVolk
NateVolk's picture
Joined: 07/19/2010
MGoPoints: 3827

It's a good question. It was a combination of a lot of things with me. It was definitely the first time that we saw what Rich has been working to put together in a form that dominated good competition.

That was exciting for the fans who really follow it closely and knew those first couple years were going to likely be struggles.  

"because character wins in life and character wins on the football field....."  1-11-11

September 9th, 2010 at 9:45 AM | You think Michigan practicing (Score:1)
artds
artds's picture
Joined: 09/04/2009
MGoPoints: 2790

You think Michigan practicing for a couple of extra hours is going to cause Sparty to "emerge", do ya?

I've got news for you:  your program has its own problems, ones that can't be corrected simply through more accurate timekeeping. Your savior of a coach has seen 15 of his players receive criminal convictions in his 3 short years as head coach.  If that doesn't make a parent reluctant to send their kid off to play in his program, nothing will. It's already showing in the fact that MSU is losing the in-state recruiting battle yet again, even with Michigan missing 2 straight bowl games.

Every time an MGoBoard poster complains about a thread topic, God kills a baby panda.

September 9th, 2010 at 9:43 AM | ND (Score:1)
Blazefire
Blazefire's picture
Joined: 04/17/2009
MGoPoints: 15742

ALWAYS returning to glory.

MSU

ALWAYS changing times.

"This is the EMU game, not the emo game."
September 9th, 2010 at 9:08 AM | Yeah I did South Lyon. 6 (Score:1)
NateVolk
NateVolk's picture
Joined: 07/19/2010
MGoPoints: 3827

Yeah I did South Lyon. 6 years, 2 skins, many many more nights stumbling home from the greatness of the RIV. I loved my time there.  I have always said that you judge the success level of a coach and his program out over 5 to 10 years.  That is the mark of a program that has taken it to a higher level.

I was there for 93, 95 home wins. Both great games.  But they were just 1 game and ultimately meant nothing beyond a wild night of partying for the fans

Beating Michigan 2-4 times out of 10 (at best) doesn't make a program, even if there is 2 straight. In fact, it is less relevant then the average MSU fan cares to admit.   It is way less relevant now that Michigan is running a totally different offensive system and emphasizing different skill sets and physical talents for incoming players. The recruiting bounce is less harmful to the loser of the game.

I picked MSU to win 9 games this year because of the schedule and the fact he is in year 4. He should be winning 9 games at this point. I felt like they could win their home games outright and then find two road wins.  I am less steady they can win at U of M then I was a week ago.   Rivalry game so who knows.

I'll give you stability, but I am withholding judgment on whether they are on the rise.  The trend seems to be downward the greater opportunity Mark has to recruit and coach his own players. That isn't good. We'll see. Again 5 to 10 years of consistency, 8 plus wins, competing for championships yearly is the benchmark in my mind.

I can see why you'd have hope because Mark projects the right image for the program in a lot of ways; but so does Tim Brewster at Minnesota.  And all you heard about was his good recruiting the first couple years too. 

State fans generally though needs to stop the indignant stance, and no respect talk like Corey on this live chat. Rittenberg did a great job of throwing down the reality of the situation.  Beat good teams consistently and you'll get all the respect there is.  Although I doubt State will ever be the team of note that Michigan is, unless the Rich thing implodes.  And it looks like the opposite is going to happen.

Always great to see some fans of other teams on here. See you October 9. It is a huge game for Michigan and I give State a world of credit for making it that way.

"because character wins in life and character wins on the football field....."  1-11-11

September 9th, 2010 at 10:49 AM | This is definitely a logical (Score:1)
Shaqsquatch
Shaqsquatch's picture
Joined: 04/08/2009
MGoPoints: 3303

This is definitely a logical analysis of the situation. What irks me about most State fans I talk to (mostly family members), is how much they love Dantonio, despite him not really doing anything of note since arriving (barely averaging over .500 in his first 3 years). Yes, he's managed to beat UM, but I feel like that's been more on our shortcomings the past two years than MSU's prowess.

And while the in-state recruiting has increased, as mentioned above, that's partly because UM and MSU are rarely going head-to-head on recruits anymore, with RR looking for a much different style of player, and doing a lot more recruiting in the South.

To be honest, I'd love to see MSU do well (not well enough to beat us), and become a big name in the Big Ten. I just can't stand Dantonio, and really don't understand most MSU fans' unwavering support for him despite nothing but mediocre seasons.

And yes, I see the parallels there with Rich Rod, but Dantonio didn't have to do a 180 with the type of players he wanted on the team, and didn't inherit a depleted roster.

September 9th, 2010 at 1:21 PM | The MSU way (Score:1)
NateVolk
NateVolk's picture
Joined: 07/19/2010
MGoPoints: 3827

My answer as an MSU outsider:

Michigan State fans like their coaches mid-west, hating Michigan and beating Michigan, and their offenses basic smashmouth. Add into it that Mark does a great job as a public face for that program, and he'll definitely get extra patience capital from that fan base. He fits their profile.

Not that they need me to instruct them how to perceive their coaches, but they need to be careful to hold him to a high standard. So you make a good point.

The Yankees and like Alabama are driven most of all by insane fan interest and expectations by their fans that they be the best.  The Mets and Dodgers make tons of money too but they don't feel the need to spend like the Yankees. Alabama is rural state, but they'll drop 5 to 6 annually for Nick Saban.

I say that as long as Michigan fans  keep their expectations really high, this will all turn out ok.  A Coach must know what is on the line and have the ability to reach that height. I have no doubt Rich does.

Maybe Mark will prove he does over the long haul too. Let's get that game sizzling hot in the new division set up.

"because character wins in life and character wins on the football field....."  1-11-11

September 9th, 2010 at 4:10 PM | I don't mind saying that I (Score:1)
NateVolk
NateVolk's picture
Joined: 07/19/2010
MGoPoints: 3827

I don't mind saying that I like that you have gained some points. We aren't worse off having a provocative chain pulling voice on here.  Sharpens us.  Keep it up and you might get to around .500 and match State's big ten record since they started allowing integration in southern schools. lol

A: I think probably all the above. Plus the fans who really like Rich feel like the media has treated the two men way differently in how events have been covered and it ticks them off. It definitely pisses me off. I won't lie.

The biggest thing is that when you go through a tear down like this and you suffer some losses, it isn't pleasant. So you aren't pleasant as a fan at times.  The last thing you'll tolerate is a guy who isn't afraid to get in your grill.

The positive is that it sure has made me appreciate winning and the process it takes to build a big time winner.

When I started watching Michigan, Bo already delivered it to me on a platter.

"because character wins in life and character wins on the football field....."  1-11-11

September 9th, 2010 at 12:43 PM | brain food for brainier people (Score:1)
NateVolk
NateVolk's picture
Joined: 07/19/2010
MGoPoints: 3827

I guess I felt a little too dumb to hang out at the Peanut Barrel. It seemed like it attracted academia and the people following in their foot steps.  I probably just operated out of ignorance. I was only there once in 6 years. 

Riv had those 1.75,  25 once mugs of Labatts on Tuesdays and you got a good middle of the road crowd and usually a nice cross section of the more mellow sect of  attractive MSU  coeds.  

But back to business. lol

I think Dantonio can win at that school.  He has set the tone in recruiting a certain type of player and with the style of play. And beating Michigan is meaningful to that program, no denying it.  And he made me take serious notice of that game.  I think it is a huge game for the Michigan program this year. But so are Iowa, Wisconsin, OSU.  The issue of matching up toe to toe with big rugged "Big Ten" type teams and winning is not only a physical question but even moreso a perception question. 

Last season's partial unravelling those last 6 games hangs out there until a team wins to over come it. I see it happening but actually doing it makes the difference.  Similar to State's efforts with their program.  I can say Rich will have us running around and through all competition by year 5, but consistently doing it makes it real to everyone. 

I got as much say in that happening sitting behind this keyboard as a popcorn vendor at the Big House. None.  

Last week was a growth spurt, but it wasn't a destination, nor was it some accident against trash.

 

 

"because character wins in life and character wins on the football field....."  1-11-11

September 9th, 2010 at 4:02 PM | Berkey Hall I (Score:1)
NateVolk
NateVolk's picture
Joined: 07/19/2010
MGoPoints: 3827

Berkey Hall I believe.....

Had a cojillion classes there.

"because character wins in life and character wins on the football field....."  1-11-11

September 8th, 2010 at 11:02 PM | Rittenberg (Score:1)
goblue9683
goblue9683's picture
Joined: 09/02/2009
MGoPoints: 215

Usually, my only issue with him is just how much of a dweeb he is.  His content is normally pretty honest and true.  If he says something negative about Michigan, it's usually not too far off.

Speaking of ESPN, I normally think Herbstreit is tolerable and calls things how he sees them.  He just has a problem seeing sometimes (like before this Saturday), but usually overcompensates when he's wrong (Saturday night).  Still not terrible w/re: to Michigan considering that he was knocked the f**k out by a Michigan D.

September 8th, 2010 at 11:22 PM | herbstreit actually seemed (Score:1)
Bb011
Joined: 09/02/2010
MGoPoints: 1746

herbstreit actually seemed happy to see michigan do well. I was surprised... 

September 8th, 2010 at 11:09 PM | I enjoyed the whole chat (Score:1)
UMich87
UMich87's picture
Joined: 09/07/2009
MGoPoints: 3792

Particularly calling out the Domer in disguise (Jay from Boston, IIRC) and trying to break it to the Hawkeye fan that 8-4 may be more realistic this year.  Go, Rittenberg!

September 8th, 2010 at 11:48 PM | Corey is probably burning a couch or (Score:1)
6tyrone6
Joined: 02/18/2009
MGoPoints: 469

turning over a cop car about now.

September 8th, 2010 at 11:55 PM | Boom. I hate MSU. (Score:1)
jrt336
jrt336's picture
Joined: 01/16/2009
MGoPoints: 4490

Boom. I hate MSU.

September 8th, 2010 at 11:58 PM | Screw MSU (Score:1)
the_big_house 500th
the_big_house 500th's picture
Joined: 09/04/2009
MGoPoints: -129

they are going to be limping out of the Big House when were through with them on October 9th.

Stuck in Columbus.

September 9th, 2010 at 12:00 AM | Adam also predicted both UM (Score:1)
btjabrone
Joined: 08/23/2010
MGoPoints: 122

Adam also predicted both UM and MSU will be undefeated in October when they stop for a little revenge. That would be an amazing game.

"For today, goodbye. For tomorrow, good luck. And forever, GO BLUE!" - MSC

September 9th, 2010 at 12:04 AM | This is what drives me crazy (Score:1)
dieseljr32
dieseljr32's picture
Joined: 04/19/2009
MGoPoints: 1498

This is what drives me crazy about Michigan State fans.  They beat Michigan two years in a row, still go under .500 and think that their team will contend for the Big Ten title.  You guys went 6-7 last year!! You won one more game than Michigan did.  What the heck?

Michigan State doesn't have nearly the tradition Michigan has.  Two years in the grand scheme things is nothing but a hiccup on the otherwise illustrious football program.  Compared to a Michigan State football "tradition" that involves beatdowns on the field and off the field, starting out hot and then fizzling at the end.  Michigan State will never be on the same page as Michigan.  Ever.

I dislike Michigan State fans more than I do the team. 

September 9th, 2010 at 7:51 AM | Hey!  I knew the girl whose (Score:1)
willywill9
willywill9's picture
Joined: 09/22/2008
MGoPoints: 11256

Hey!  I knew the girl whose porch it was and she's an exaggerator!

Touchdown Michigan!

September 9th, 2010 at 9:14 AM | I've read all your posts (Score:1)
Greg McMurtry
Greg McMurtry's picture
Joined: 02/25/2009
MGoPoints: 4043

on this thread and have one question: This is a Michigan blog, what do you expect people to be saying?  You seem to be very sure that MSU is going to "be good this year" and that UM is not and that UM fans are arrogant because they're saying UM will "be good this year."

...confidence is the stain they can't wipe off...

September 9th, 2010 at 9:36 AM | Why do MSU fans have such a difficult time... (Score:1)
aaamichfan
aaamichfan's picture
Joined: 10/23/2009
MGoPoints: 14217

......with the distinction between "players committing crimes while being on the roster" and "players who are not on the roster"?

Is this really such a tough concept to wrap your mind around?

September 9th, 2010 at 9:59 AM | The couple of (Score:1)
MichFan1997
MichFan1997's picture
Joined: 08/04/2008
MGoPoints: 6238

State friends I have were indeed pleased with last season. One of them actually said "We beat Michigan, that's all that matters"

Follow me on Twitter @gfraley05

September 9th, 2010 at 1:02 AM | MSU (Score:1)
bleedzblue
bleedzblue's picture
Joined: 09/03/2009
MGoPoints: 1146

BAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. That's great, thank you Adam.

HAIL TO THE VICTORS VALIANT, HAIL TO THE CONQUERING HEROES!

September 9th, 2010 at 9:34 AM | I love how Michigan's 8-16 (Score:1)
artds
artds's picture
Joined: 09/04/2009
MGoPoints: 2790

I love how Michigan's 8-16 record over the past TWO seasons "proves otherwise" to that guy but Sparty's losing record last year isn't even relevant.

Every time an MGoBoard poster complains about a thread topic, God kills a baby panda.

September 9th, 2010 at 10:06 AM | But after one UCONN game, I (Score:1)
artds
artds's picture
Joined: 09/04/2009
MGoPoints: 2790

But after one UCONN game, I would submit don't think 8-16 is completely in your rear view mirror either.

LOL, thanks for your concern, sport. The truth is, it doesn't matter what you think or what you think we think. We'll all find out what this team is about this weekend.

As for October 9th, I really don't think it's looking good for you. You guys struggled at home last year against a kid playing in his first ever road game, and you won the game through his freshman mistake (throwing an INT in overtime). Well, that guy is our 3rd stringer now, and Cousins, who has showed a tendancy to choke on the road, has never had to play at the Big House before. If we aren't favored by 4-5 by the time that game rolls around, I will be very surprised.

We'll see how your program holds up then, but I suspect the Spartans who went 3-7 against Michigan during the 2000s will start out the 2010s 0-1 against them, kicking off yet another decade of UM-dominated football within the state. 

Every time an MGoBoard poster complains about a thread topic, God kills a baby panda.

Theme provided by Roopletheme; sidebars adapted from Chris Murphy.