CC - Denards Comments
Denards comments about CC
"If it was up to me, I'd tell them he has to come back," Robinson said. "We had a pretty good season, and our future's really bright. We've got a young team and we're just starting to jell now.
"I see us in the future winning a national championship or moving in the top 10."
http://espn.go.com/blog/bigten/post/_/id/21577/denard-robinson-rested-r…
Robinson's success this season appears to be the biggest reason for Michigan to retain Rodriguez, especially since the sophomore quarterback is such a perfect fit for Rodriguez's offense.
December 30th, 2010 at 12:06 AM ^
expressly contemplated Harbaugh moving Denard to a different position. How is it a strawman to respond to it?
For the record, no, I don't think Harbaugh would move him to running back.
December 30th, 2010 at 12:25 AM ^
Seconded.
December 30th, 2010 at 12:54 AM ^
Why the hell can't you be objective about Jim Harbaugh?
Seriously, I don't get some of you people. Taking all this waaaaaaay too personally.
December 30th, 2010 at 8:37 AM ^
We don't know if Harbaugh is willing to keep Denard if he takes the head coaching job and whether Denard will accept that. The best sell would be to convince Denard that he could be Mike Vick, with him passing more by running around the pocket. Another angle would be to tell Denard that this approach would reduce the possibility of injury. That way, Harbaugh keeps a little of what he prefers and Denard sticks around. Then, Harbaugh can make a cleaner transition (though still a spread) with Gardner.
We also don't know what kind of defense Harbaugh's going to bring in and what specific steps he will take to significantly improve the talent on defense. Again, all of these unanswered questions need to be answered BEFORE any change is even contemplated. I would even have no problem asking Harbaugh to talk to Denard and other key pieces before making the move.
December 29th, 2010 at 11:44 PM ^
here because he wanted to play QB. In RRod's offense. Lots of other places were willing to take him in other roles. He didn't choose to go to any of them. And gosh, he turned out to be able to play QB pretty well!
December 29th, 2010 at 11:45 PM ^
Save it. If you don't think the current program is going to win national titles and have a huge break through year next year, you are stupid.
The amazing information on this blog is well worth accepting that you are stupid.
December 29th, 2010 at 11:48 PM ^
you're a troll.
Trolls aren't allowed to whine that people are mean to them. They're just supposed to be happy they're getting answers instead of recipes.
December 30th, 2010 at 12:19 AM ^
To bash Harbaugh probably shouldn't be calling others trolls.
December 30th, 2010 at 12:21 AM ^
40% of my posts bash Jim Harbaugh.
December 30th, 2010 at 12:32 AM ^
NateVolk trolling? You're free to disagree with him, but to scream troll at a normal poster you disagree with is like screaming "racist" when you have no argument. And it's just as unfair a blanket label as the one I painted you with. Neither of you are trolls. Strong opinions? Sure. But differing opinions do not a troll make. And I doubt you can find NV being particularly harsh with anyone presenting his views. So save the name calling, and use the argumentative skills I know you're capable of.
December 30th, 2010 at 10:42 AM ^
I would put Nathan at about 95% cc posts.
December 30th, 2010 at 1:07 AM ^
how much we're beginning to hate each other over two guys, neither of whom we know will be superior. Both have been successful, but with all our statistics, we don't really know what will happen.
I like hearing about RR from the supporters because much they say gives me hope if he stays on.
I like hearing about JH from the supporters because much they say gives me hope if he comes.
Let's make this about the facts, information, opinions, and less the vendettas. After all, the best may come in spite of us. And perhaps we can get excited that in a couple days the wait comes to an end!
December 30th, 2010 at 1:16 AM ^
Who's going to be happy if they keep Rich, and they start winning again, or if they replace him, and we start winning again. Everyone else seems like winning doesn't matter, and 50% will be happy or sad if we win, depending on what way we go. I just want to stop sucking. Dave Brandon, choose whatever course will do that, and get it right!
December 30th, 2010 at 1:34 AM ^
M-Wolverine, I'm the other guy. We can have a party, I'll wear the hat, you bring the kazoo. Bring in the New Year with a toast to Dave Brandon's hard work, his choice, and the future. I think he'll make a good decision.
On the other hand, it must've become fun to recreate the Civil War over coaching choices on a thread that I missed.
December 30th, 2010 at 2:08 AM ^
Me too brother, me too. I have tried, successfully, to stay out of this whole CC conversation. I am now at the point where I just want it to end so I can start thinking about the future of Michigan football again without all this noise. Errrrybody is so wrapped up in this thing,there is hardly a peep about the actual game this Saturday!
December 30th, 2010 at 7:37 AM ^
I also feel the same way. I just want this decision to be over, because to be honest there is no truly "right" answer for DB to choose, there is just what he sees best for the program. What is sad is that people are getting so consumed with this CC discussion that our fans are viewing the bowl game as some "final test" for RR and not what it truly is: a reward for our football players for getting over the 2 year hump and finally getting to a bowl.
Once this decision is over, I will be curious to see if the factions out there will hold vendettas if their side does not prevail or if they will vent for a day or two, and then jump over to supporting the University of Michigan again.
December 30th, 2010 at 10:06 AM ^
M-Wolverine-exactly. Both guys are good coaches and I trust DB to decide whether it's these 2 guys or others. I know he will get the best guy for Michigan. I just wish he would have started after the OSU game and start getting ready for next year. I would love to win the bowl game and beat the SEC, but I like to start getting ready to win the B1G and beating OSU and MSU.
And you are not the only guy.
December 30th, 2010 at 1:51 AM ^
A voice of clarity in a world of insanity. I wish this was at the top. I would bet that at least 90% of the fans will still wear their Michigan apparel, cheer for them for every Saturday until their last breath, and most importantly, move on.
While I agree that the CC threads are mostly uneeded, deserved to be derailed and nuked into Bolivia, and mostly bring nothing new to the table, attacking others based on their coaching preference is illogical. I support RR and believe he should be our coach next year, but I have no say in what happens after the Gator Bowl. If JH (not me) gets the job, then I hope he sticks the whistle so far up Dantonio's ass that is tweets when he coughs. He said bothering things about Michigan in the past, but if he really thinks that, why would he want to come back? Haven't we all said things have regretted?
RR comes across as one of the most genuine men I have ever seen coach the game. Some people shirk at the fact that he sometimes wears his emotions on his sleeve, but at least they are true emotions that show care for what he does and the school he represents. A WVU graduate that chose to come here because of what Michigan means nationwide and left his alma mater to do so! His love for Michigan football is undeniable. He has proven himself to be BCS quality and the players that have stayed have circled the wagons around him and wouldn't want to play for anyone else.
Come January 1st, I'll be a Michigan fan. Come January 4th, I'll be a Michigan fan. Come August 2011, I'll be a Michigan fan. Come the day of my death, I'll be a Michigan fan. I never attended the university...yet, but my family has lived and been buried in the state of Michigan. The university embodies so much more than just a school, football team, basketball team, etc. The team embodies family, tradition, childhood memories, passion, personality, history, progress, and something that has never or will never turn their back on me. So why should I turn my back on it?
December 30th, 2010 at 2:09 AM ^
I think I've found my first toast. There really are great things ahead. Looking back, we have a history of prestige, excellence, and honor, in the classrooms, on the field, and throughout the world.
Looking forward, we have an athletic director who exemplifies excellence, has shown his character and determination already on the job, and, most importantly to me, has a clear vision of where he's taking the department. I gather from his statements he has a real direction, and I sense him to be a man of wisdom (if nothing else, from his desire to survey everything and make informed, well-thought out decisions about the future and how they fit his plan for the department).
"Without a vision, the people perish."
I genuinely think we have good things in store, and though I know not the way, I believe we have great people and great choices. And I too believe in that illustrious M, and will root for it long after the current pieces have left the board.
Everyone needs to take a nice deep breath.
After that, everyone needs to think about what they really want. If they want us to win, then they obviously love Michigan. If they want us to be ethical, then they love Michigan enough to want us to do the right thing. If they think a certain coach will do it, then they want like heck for somebody to do the job, to do it right. Fine. But If they just want their way, then I guess I just can't talk to them.
December 30th, 2010 at 12:48 AM ^
I'll take an 8-4 record in 2011 with a defense that will make major improvements through the season. This would really set us up for 2012 with a good D and a crazy point scoring offense. I predict we'll beat AL! All we need is for RR to stay and hire the best DC possible to run the defense!
December 30th, 2010 at 1:35 PM ^
Who's Al, and why is it so important to beat him? Is he a Sparty, or a Buckeye?
December 30th, 2010 at 12:48 AM ^
I'll take an 8-4 record in 2011 with a defense that will make major improvements through the season. This would really set us up for 2012 with a good D and a crazy point scoring offense. I predict we'll beat AL! All we need is for RR to stay and hire the best DC possible to run the defense!
December 30th, 2010 at 1:06 AM ^
If you look at the risers and fallers in the Big Ten for next year, UM's in great shape. A 9-3 record next year is my floor (possible losses to Nebraska, OSU, and fill in) if the defense improves only in the way it will naturally with practice, weight training, and T-Wolf back in action. If there are some surprises on the defensive side of the ball, we could be in really nice shape. '11's schedule is much easier than '12's.
Edit: This is assuming RR's back.
December 30th, 2010 at 7:50 AM ^
In the immortal words of Westley (aka The Dread Pirate Roberts): "Get used to disappointment."
If you are setting 9-3 as your floor for UM in the regular season next year....you are probably SOL.
December 29th, 2010 at 11:38 PM ^
Difficult to disagree with that smile. It's even more difficult because what he is saying is obviously true.
December 29th, 2010 at 11:40 PM ^
...more...days...to...go.
Must...keep...it....together...no...matter...the...extent...of...the...mindboggling...stupidity.
December 29th, 2010 at 11:49 PM ^
Yes, this month has not been fun on the board. But look on the bright side. We've got two days to go and no one has yet died from the comments here, to the best of my knowledge.
I've noticed a change in the tenor of the CC posts as of late. Yes, they are still based on stupid subject material, and yes, I will be glad when they are gone too. But the posters seem to be "getting it" more. They aren't getting bent out of shape over some hack journalist's ignorant analysis of the state of the program. They aren't rising to the bait of the freeP. They understand the facts better than ever before, thanks to the near-constant barrage of media scrutiny.
I think this month of December has brought us closer together as a Michigan family, even one that breaks bread in cyberspace and posts pictures of lolcats for all occasions. We're smarter, tougher, and better-equipped to fight all the garbage floating around out there.
December 30th, 2010 at 12:06 AM ^
...of the state of the MGoBlogerati is refreshing. Now that I know that we are indeed good enough, smart enough, and doggonit, that people like us, I feel much better.
December 29th, 2010 at 11:52 PM ^
Why do you think it will be over in a few days? Sure, we'll know who the coach will be, but that leaves an entire offseason of regurgitating the same arguments and repackaging them as "analysis of the decision".
December 30th, 2010 at 12:08 AM ^
Becauze he haz inzide zourcez!!!!!!!1111!!!1!
December 30th, 2010 at 2:16 AM ^
If they are anonymous , I don't care.
December 30th, 2010 at 12:10 AM ^
...won't be over -- it will never, ever end. Ever.
It's downright Sisyphean, eh?
December 30th, 2010 at 1:14 AM ^
You think he's gone?? He's not gone. That's just the whole point...he's never gone!!!
December 29th, 2010 at 11:41 PM ^
I have my doubts in the present offense whether Denard will have near the impact against good teams that Cam Newton has had this year. Biggest reason is that he takes way too much of a beating and has a hard time finishing games. Newton is way bigger and stronger and isn't thrown into the zone read or lead draw play nearly as often as Denard. Those plays inflict huge punishment on the quarterback.
Denard might actually benefit from a scheme that does less of that.
December 29th, 2010 at 11:52 PM ^
I am going to stick my fingers in my ears and chant "SOPHOMORE FIRST YEAR STARTER" over and over and over again until it's all better.
December 29th, 2010 at 11:53 PM ^
I have the same doubts about his durability what with the 20 QB isos we like to do every game. I'm hoping that some better production at the RB spot in the future will lighten the load and let Denard be more of a passer. The problem currently is that he is far and away our best runner.
December 29th, 2010 at 11:55 PM ^
I believe you are right. Give him a gamebreaker at RB and Denard's carries go down considerably.
December 30th, 2010 at 11:09 AM ^
Agree. In RR's 3 years here he's had 3 different starting QB's and each year the QB has taken a pounding. In '08, Threet wasn't able to finish the year and Sheridan had to step in.
In '09 Forcier was banged up by the end of the year. If UM had a decent back-up last year, I'm wondering if Forcier would have sat a game or two. Denard couldn't throw last year and he never once ran the read option.
This year, Denard wasn't able to finish the Illinois game and there were numerous other games where Forcier had to come in and play cause Denard had gotten banged up.
December 30th, 2010 at 12:17 AM ^
when taking over their repsective programs. Jimmy won 9 games his first two years at Stanford whereas RR won 8. If UM wins the bowl game, there will be one win separating the two in their rebuilding processes. If he loses, there will be a grand total of two.
Both had pretty much the same tasks in front of them. Rebuild the teams in their own images. RR's may have been more difficult due to unrealistic expactations, based solely on a completely different approach to the game and having to reload with his players. At Stanford, not much has been expected since the Walsh years.
In his fourth year, JH proved that he could rebuild a moribund program in four years. RR hasn't had that opportunity at Michigan. The pieces seem to be in place and any honest fan will admit the opposition RR faced was the complete opposite of JH's honeymoon at the farm.
I don't know why this is so difficult for fans of UM to understand. If we'd brought in a disciple of the pro-style offense preached first under Mo, than wisely duplicated by Carr, I could more easily understand the fans' unrest with RR. However, I think it's a testament to him and his staff that they were able to put together a winning team here in just three seasons with the future looking bright. And they did so facing arguably the most insidious and vile UM sports writers I hope I have ever witnessed.
Hope we keep this man. If he can perservere through what he's went through and actually still want to stay here, I hope Brandon has enough common sense to keep him. He certainly didn't help him by hindering his recruitment for the upcoming season, so maybe the marraige should have be annulled, because afterall, the AD runs the ship. And if you can't support your current coach after a winning season, then move on Brandon but please be wiser than you have been.
December 30th, 2010 at 12:33 PM ^
All this ignores where the programs started when they came in. Stanford was coming off a 1-11 season. Michigan finished 9-4.
December 30th, 2010 at 1:42 PM ^
Stanford was a vastly underperforming 1-11 team. They were a team that had the talent to at least contend for a bowl game. That's why the coach was fired. Harbaugh came in a did what the guy before him should've been doing. RichRod came in and inherited an offense that was all but devoid of any talent. And please, for the love of god, don't even try to bring up the situation with Mallett. That issue was settled (him deciding to leave) before RR was even hired.
December 29th, 2010 at 11:43 PM ^
that i've supported rich rod from day one and still support him.
December 29th, 2010 at 11:52 PM ^
Denard is the most of exciting player to hit Michigan in some time. I notice that outsiders and fans of other teams are enamored with him just as much as Michigan fans are. I hope he has the chance to finish his career here as a QB in a spread offense. If he is able to play the next two years in this offense I believe he will become a mythical creature by which all future spread quarterbacks will be measured. Cam Newton will prove a Milli Vanilli, whereas, if given a chance, Denard will be Mozart. I know no player is more important than the team, but shit, Denard growing in this offense is reason enough for me to think a coaching change is ridiculous. A little defensive improvement and a year of wisdom for Denard and this young offense and I see a team on the cusp, and a very exciting team at that.
December 30th, 2010 at 12:00 AM ^
then "a little defensive improvement" to improve dramatically. If you cannot stop anyone you will not compete for titles.
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<br>All a defense has to do with this offense is gum up the works. They just need to slow it down like Cal did vs Oregon and MSU did vs Auburn. Yeah, both were games UO and AU had to depend on good defensive play to win.
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<br>UM is far away from having a good defense.
December 30th, 2010 at 12:15 AM ^
Defensively, I believe Michigan is closer than you think. If this offense explodes next year, the defense will merely need to be serviceable to compete for a B1G title. A more experienced O will be a more efficient O, and a couple more stops a game will equal a couple more touchdowns a game, and Michigan is right there. Under the current coaches Michigan probably won't have a D like the days of old, but with with this O we won't need too. For me, the glass is half full. I simply think about all the squandered possessions following defensive stops that I believe will be points next year.
December 30th, 2010 at 12:15 AM ^
Closer than we think?
Did we all watch the same Wisconsin and Ohio State games? Hell, Wisconsin didn't even pretend to try to do anything else but smash it down our throats every down for the entire second half. And it worked.
And to argue that we don't need a good defense because we have a good offense is sheer insanity. What happens, like in the aforementioned UW and OSU games, when said good offense struggles? "The D of the days of old" won Big Ten Championships even when the offense sputtered/was mediocre. The D of today won...