The Wolverines Are In Trouble

Last week, Linda and I were in Ann Arbor for our book launch. During that week, Mike Keller, Linda and I had a private meeting with Dave Brandon the athletic director. He seemed relatively calm despite the media uproar. Keller reminded Dave that the 1969 team’s record was two wins and two losses going into the Minnesota game. Not only that, Michigan was behind 9-7 at the half. And from then on the transformation of Michigan football began.

Also during the week, I presented along with Coach Brady Hoke for the Ann Arbor alumni and was on his and Jim Brandstatter’s radio show. There were a series of questions about the Minnesota offense. Coach Hoke made it clear that the Gophers had a formidable running attack, and really didn’t need to pass much for their victories. Also, the Gophers head football coach hadn’t announced, who would be their starting quarterback. Apparently one quarterback was a better passer and the other a better all-around quarterback. So, Michigan, was aware of their running attack. Coach Hoke declined to name his starting quarterback, and verbalized a lot of positives about his players.

Would Coach Hoke bench Gardner, and insert sophomore quarterback Shane Morris? It appeared that Morris was a better drop back quarterback, but that Gardner was much more athletic and explosive. Both Coach Hoke and AD Brandon appear to be likable. Is that enough in today’s football world of college sports?

Prior to Saturday’s game, Linda and I attended Richard Caldarazzo’s tailgate. Some of the players like Reggie McKenzie, Fritz Seyferth Mike Keller, Bruce Elliott, Jim Betts, and so forth where there along with Coach Dick Hunter and trainer Lindsy McLean. Then we headed to the game. There was a crowd of little over 102,000 which was below capacity. The biggest cheer was when it was announced that Michigan was ranked the number one public university in the country. Also, getting big applause was when the 1969 and 1964 teams were introduced along with the various Michigan conference champions, especially the basketball team.

There was not much to cheer about during that game. In the first half, the score was tied 7-7 and Minnesota had the ball on about their 2 yard line with a few minutes left in the half. They drove down the field, and kicked a field goal at the end of the half to take a 10-7 lead. Would the second half provide the same magic as did the 1969 team?

Well, the third-quarter was disastrous for the Wolverines. As I recall, they did not have any positive yardage either running or passing.  The game was clearly over by the end of the third-quarter. Michigan had serious trouble and difficulty either running or passing. The Wolverines also could not stop the balanced, Minnesota running the football or throwing the football attack.

Gardner entered the game in the fourth quarter when Morris was injured. And then when Gardner, lost his helmet on a play (according to the rules, the player has to leave the field) and Morris came in for one play. From the stands. It appeared that Morris had a possible leg injury, but now were told he had a possible concussion. More bad news for the Wolverines.

I must admit that I’m worried about tomorrow’s game with Rutgers. However, I’m still a fan.

Go Blue Go!