Wolverine0056

August 25th, 2010 at 9:15 AM ^

Interesting for sure. Hopefully he at least shows why he is on the list this season. He is a long shot to win it, but as long as he works hard and plays well this season you never know.

El Jeffe

August 25th, 2010 at 9:26 AM ^

Fer the corches: what should I be looking for with Mouton this year? I mean, I saw pretty clear evidence of what Obi and Stevie and Craig were supposed to do (and occasionally did) last year, but how will I know if JM is living up to the Butkus hype? Should he get a lot of tackles at the WILL, or shut down the TE, or ring up a few blitz sacks, or what? Thanks, I'll take my answer off the air.

blueheron

August 25th, 2010 at 10:07 AM ^

*** I hope he bounces back this year and I like his chances of doing so. ***

That said, I find his inclusion interesting when his career arc is considered.  As the UFRs showed, his performance declined somewhat last year.  I wonder what criteria are used to construct the list?

This all reminds me a little bit of how Dave Curtis of The Sporting News flagged Moundros as "the player who most needs to step up" for Michigan this year.  (I think Moundros will be an important player, but there are several others, e.g. Cameron Gordon, whose "stepping up" will be more critical.)

Michigan4Life

August 25th, 2010 at 10:49 AM ^

is Mouton has impressed a lot in workouts/practices.  Coaches are pleased about his progress as a LB that they are looking to move him around, similar to Roh, to free him to make plays.  He's the best athlete out of all of the LB group and he finally has the bulk to play LB.  If he can realize his potential, we wouldn't have to worry as much about the LB group well maybe with the exception of MIKE spot where it's a ongoing battle between Monduros, Ezeh and Jones(!!!!).

WichitanWolverine

August 25th, 2010 at 10:50 AM ^

Although Mouton was god-awful last year, it wouldn't be THAT much of a stretch if he were to win the Butkus (or at least All Big Ten honors). 

I think the new defensive scheme last year was like a donkey kicking him in the head.  He became completely lost on the field.  I'm hoping one more year with GERG will turn him back into the type of player were were expecting.  Up until last year, Mouton was building a very solid Michigan career. 

HailGoBlue86

August 25th, 2010 at 11:04 AM ^

I expect him to bounce back in a big way this year. I don't if it will be Butkus winning play but he should have a much better year in this system that fits his strengths.

meechiganroses

August 25th, 2010 at 11:22 AM ^

There is always a greater sense of urgency when you are a senior.  Saying that, I hope Mouton makes strides this year, represents his team well, leads, and improves his draft stock because all of that = W's.