The Big House Report

The Curious Case of Dymonte Thomas

2013-05-19T21:58:00.001-04:00

In what might not be so curious after all, early enrollee, and potential stud freshman, Dymonte Thomas will be placed under the microscope in the coming months to see where exactly he will see playing time this fall.

By all accounts, it appears that Thomas could see quite a bit of playing time this fall thanks to his impressive play in spring practices. Granted spring practices and fall games are two completely different beasts, seeing this type of competitiveness coming from Thomas is a good sign early on.

Now, where exactly will Thomas play? There is need for him on the defense, but where will he make his mark?

Realistically, we are looking at either nickelback or competing with Jarrod Wilson for strong safety. Let's break them both down.

Nickelback:

- Depth: Courtney Avery, Dymonte Thomas, Delano Hill (?)

Has Avery done enough to secure a spot? Probably not. Avery has had every opportunity to secure a starting corner position and has failed to do so. Which might not be 100 percent his fault, he just lost out to better talent. When Raymon Taylor took over for Countess, J.T Floyd was Michigan's other corner. Avery was shuffled in and out of the lineup.

Will Hill compete for a spot? It is entirely possible that Hill could push Avery to compete harder for the starting job or the backup spot pending Thomas winning the battle. Should Michigan waste an eligibility year on Hill if other depth is there? Probably not. But, you never know what will happen come summer and fall camps.

Strong Safety:

- Depth: Jarrod Wilson ... ?

Does losing Marvin Robinson hurt? Yes, the loss of Marvin Robinson hurts quite a bit because he was expected to compete for the strong safety position. Robinson's Michigan career has been a disappointment to many Michigan fans, as he was a highly touted recruit coming in that didn't quite live up to expectations. Now, with him gone, Michigan loses a considerable amount of depth there. Even though he would be competing for a starting spot, Jarrod Wilson appears to have emerged as the leader.

Could Thomas split time between safety and cornerback? Yes, it is possible that could happen, but it's very unlikely. They'll either have him in one spot or the other. It all depends on how he adapts throughout the season. If Thomas can perform elsewhere better than where he originally place, it makes total sense to move him elsewhere. But, for now, it's either or. Michigan will find someone to back-up their starting corners and strong safety.

My Verdict? Dymonte Thomas will be your starting nickelback this season. There is a possibility that he COULD see playing time at strong safety, playing for an injured player for example, but it doesn't make sense to shuffle him around. Once Thomas gets comfortable with the pace of college football and learns the defense, then it will make sense to move him to safety once Thomas Gordon graduates. Until then, I really think Michigan fans will be seeing something special with Thomas.

If it Looks like a Chicken...

2013-05-15T11:37:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite scenes from Bull Durham is when Crash Davis instructs Ebby LaLoosh on what to say during interviews. Not having anything other than generic sound-bytes to deliver to readers and viewers is one of the most frustrating aspects about being a fan, or a pseudo reporter, much like myself. That's why people like Brady Hoke, and, dare I say, Mark Dantonio, are two of the most entertaining interviews in the business.

Coach Hoke (yes, I know, he's overweight) made headlines by saying that Notre Dame "chickened out" of one of the best rivalries in all of sports. He is right, and Notre Dame fans, alumni, and even some in the media are upset about it.

The Golden Domers' contract to play the less-than schools in the ACC, coupled with its decision to keep Purdue and Michigan State on the schedule, make Brady Hoke's comments accurate. Whether you choose to believe Michigan State is a weaker opponent than Michigan is irrelevant, but what even the biggest fanboys of Notre Dame cannot ignore is that their schedule just got less difficult by one game. Swapping a date with Michigan for a date with either Wake Forrest or Virginia is the equivalent to walking Miguel Cabrera with the bases empty. Notre Dame can posture all they want and say that they still play teams like Stanford and USC, but keeping Purdue to trounce every year, while handpicking the academic and basketball schools in the A.C.C. to play in football looks like chickening out to anyone who doesn't have Rudy on top of his Netflix cue.

Notre Dame has a history of inventing myths about its football program in order to line its own coffers. When will those who openly weep at NBC's wide-angle shot of Touchdown Jesus realize that the Fighting Irish do not belong in the same group of elite football programs in the United States? Having a wonderful past that is filled with tradition is wonderful (ahem, Michigan), but Knute Rockne's speeches aren't winning any championships. It's not 1927 anymore. Either force Notre Dame to join a conference or take away the BCS "Notre Dame Exception," and force them to play teams other than Pittsburgh, Purdue, Virginia, and Duke, for a shot at a BCS Championship. It may have been unkind and an unpopular thing to say, but Coach Hoke was right.

Five Fond Moments of the Notre Dame Rivalry

2013-05-13T15:02:00.001-04:00

As we bid adieu to our rivals from Indiana in 2014, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish will move on to greener pastures, where losing to Michigan often will be replaced by vicious victories over Michigan State and Purdue. Michigan currently holds a 23-16-1 overall record against the Fighting Irish and are looking to beat them one last time in their house as they prepare for Under the Lights II coming in just a few short months.

Me, a typical Wolverine fan who focuses on nothing but history, will take a look at five memorable moments from the rivalry that is no more.

Number Five: "His shoelaces flapping in the wind.."

What makes this moment so great is that this run happened to be longest run in Notre Dame Stadium history, all 87 yards of it. What also made this day so great is that he also capped a 28-24 victory over the Irish in the waning seconds, scoring his second rushing touchdown of the day. Not to mention, Rich Rodriguez owned Notre Dame. So it's always just a little bit more hilarious to see one of very few Rodriguez victories.

Number Four: THIS PICTURE

Shawn Crable was a beast for Michigan. Never afraid to make the big tackle, Crable lays the smackdown (first clip out of the five) on Brady Quinn. Even though Michigan went on to win this game, it was always fun seeing how awesome Michigan's defense truly was.

Number Three: "Caught, Greg Matthews!"

For Michigan fans across the nation, how amazing was this victory? An unranked and, quite frankly, not a very good Michigan squad upsets a Jimmy Clausen led Irish squad with mere seconds to go on the clock. This game created the legend for Tate Forcier -- oh, what could have been -- who then seems to go and ruin it for himself later in the season. This win was a giant milestone for Rich Rodriguez and his Michigan team. Unfortunately, the success didn't carry over for much longer. But Michigan fans can forever bask in this victory.

Number Two: "I can't believe this, Roy Roundtree!"

This game was special for many reasons. New Michigan head coach Brady Hoke had his first crack against Notre Dame, Michigan honored legendary receiver Desmond Howard, and also appeared in the first night game in Michigan Stadium history. You just knew that night would be special. After being dominated for most of the game, Michigan came back from behind and Denard Robinson delivered a ball to Roy Roundtree who would go on to make one of the greatest moments in Michigan history.

All of these moments are great in their own right. But, to me, the number one moment signifies the rivalry. This singular play is what the old-school Michigan fans will remember the most. But, it's one of the most amazing plays ever.

Number One: Fourth and Inches.. "Holy Cow! Would you believe this?"

In what was probably the gutsiest playcalls in Michigan football history, head coach Gary Moeller calls for a pass play in a fourth and inches situation. Elvis Grbac drops back and delivers a ball that was well overthrown to Desmond Howard, who made a spectacular diving catch for the touchdown and would help Michigan secure a 24-14 victory against the Irish. This catch also put Howard to the forefront of the Heisman race. And, as you are all aware, the rest is history.

Some may be happy to see Notre Dame go, others don't want to see them leave. But, at the end of the day, Michigan vs. Notre Dame brought fans excitement that will forever be remembered.

For now, goodbye Notre Dame. But, forever Go Blue.

Henschke's Wednesday Rants Talks Timelines

2013-05-08T14:44:00.000-04:00

Joshua Henschke
Editor, TheBigHouseReport.com

At Michigan, the expectation for a successful season is always competing for the Big Ten Championship, participate in Rose Bowls (and winning them, hopefully), and beating Ohio State. Some unreasonable Michigan fans expect Michigan to go 12-0 every season, running the likes of Alabama out of the stadium, and dominate Ohio State every year. Though these thoughts make them all warm and fuzzy inside, especially beating Ohio State, it's not just realistic.

So, with the foundation that Brady Hoke is laying, when does everything combine to make Michigan yearly contenders for National Championships, no-brainer selections to be conference champs, and victors over Ohio State more than every once in awhile? When does it all mesh?

This isn't an open blast to Hoke and what he has done so far at Michigan. After experiencing the Rich Rodriguez experiment go awry, Hoke has done a wonderful job picking up the pieces and changing the public mindset of laughing stock, to recovering powerhouse. Michigan football is what it is, you can't deny it.

When does the proverbial "Honeymoon Period" end? Or does it ever end? Sure, beating Ohio State your first year as head coach en route to a 11-2 season and BCS victory surely cements your place amongst the good graces of your superiors, but when does the success of conference championships and beyond start to become a necessity to keep those good graces?

Personally, I give Hoke one more offseason to pull together another stellar recruiting class (which, by all means, sure looks like it will happen) and get "his guys" into the fold before I can really judge the Michigan football product Hoke and his excellent staff of coaches will bring to the table. It's obvious that Ohio State will be a huge roadblock and damper on these big plans each year. But, no matter how much they reload, Michigan needs to beat them. Even if it seems impossible, find a way. Urban Meyer will have his Buckeyes ready every year, and I expect them to compete amongst the juggernauts in college football every season, much like Michigan will. No matter how lofty the chances may be, Michigan needs to start pulling together some wins against Ohio State.

Now, don't get me wrong, this is not a plea for Michigan fans to start judging Hoke's performance. I'm also not calling for Hoke's head if he does not succeed. I am merely discussing timelines as to when Michigan fans should expect Big Ten Championships (realistically) and see them win it like years of old.

Eight or nine win seasons won't cut it. The days of Lloyd ball are long gone, and I expect big things to come for the Wolverines. Only time will tell if Michigan pulls it all together and returns to it's rightful place as a football powerhouse, just like Ohio State already has. Michigan and Ohio State together again fighting for national prominence, like the good old days. Just how it should be, and how it always should be until the end of time.

Henschke's Wednesday Rants is Not a Fan of Long Offseasons

2013-05-01T12:55:00.001-04:00


Joshua Henschke Editor, TheBigHouseReport.com

I get that a college football season is so short because the academic calendar says it should be this way. After all, school comes before sports, but I've never been a fan of the wait from January to September.

For being a huge football buff, the wait is excruciating. You get teased with spring practices, news of big football commitments, and players who are making strides in the offseason. But, when it comes down to it: "We want more, we want more. Like, you really like it. We want more."

Well said, little girl.

For me, a college football season feels entirely too short. Considering the Big Ten hadn't played a conference championship game in quite some time before being introduced two seasons ago. Back then, the wait between the Ohio State game and Michigan's bowl game seemed excruciatingly long. But, also looking back, I'm sure we needed the break to recover ourselves from the loss.

Nowadays, a conference championship will suffice for an extra filler week of college football. It won't mean that much to me until Michigan starts participating in these games, though.

The college football season comes and goes in a blur. You don't truly appreciate what it means to you until it's gone for another year. We get used to seeing Michigan on TV every Saturday and it becomes habit. The first weekend without it is tough. Eventually it becomes easier to handle until the urge for football starts to come back with the change of the season.

An offseason is not a fun time for anyone. Who really thinks, "you know, I think I'll take a 8-9 month break from watching football." Nobody. Granted, the players DESERVE that break for sacrificing their bodies for our entertainment, but I wish football was around much longer.

Even though offseasons are necessary, I'll never be a fan of the wait. Until then, I'll be counting down the days until the first snap of the season.

Player Profiles: Devin Funchess

2013-04-28T21:14:00.000-04:00

WHO: Devin Funchess
POSITION: TE
CLASS: Sophomore
HEIGHT/WEIGHT: 6-5/228

ROLE IN THE OFFENSE?: I'm sure many Michigan fans, and also those who bet on TopBettingReviews.com, feel that Funchess that will see an increased role in the offense this season. With only 15 catches for 234 yards and five touchdowns, it is safe to say that those numbers will increase in 2013. The most alarming fact of last season is how little he saw touches during the latter half of the season. Going back to the Purdue game, his production was minimal. With more pieces being added to the offense, this might allow Funchess to let loose on the offensive side of the ball this year.

POTENTIAL STATS: Considering Funchess finished with only 234 yards, I feel confident in saying that his numbers will see a dramatic increase. It is a possibility you could see Funchess seeing around 30-40 catches and around 700 yards. Also, I can see Funchess getting anywhere from eight to ten touchdowns. I believe with the weapons coming in this year that he could get free and see a lot of touches out there this season.

DARKHORSE PREDICTION: Devin Funchess will see All-Big Ten honors. Whether it is first or second team honors remains to be seen, but I feel that he will get numbers in order to get them the honors. Like I said before, Michigan is adding a lot of potential firepower to the offense this season, something has to give. Who is the person to step up and take advantage of it? I think Funchess will be that person.

Player Profiles: Jeremy Gallon

2013-04-22T19:39:00.002-04:00

WHO: Jeremy Gallon
POSITION: WR
CLASS: Senior
HEIGHT/WEIGHT: 5-8, 187

ROLE IN THE OFFENSE?: Like I've said before, I'm no betting man -- but you can place bets on online sports betting sites -- but it's safe to say that Gallon is THE MAN, yes THE MAN, in this Michigan offense. Last season, Gallon and Gardner seemed to make a great duo with Gallon emerging as a legitimate downfield threat in the process. This emergence would add a huge dynamic to the offense that would occassionally lack the "homerun ball". Gallon has supreme athleticism that allows him to make the big-time leaping grabs. Though he does lack the height to be the "traditional Michigan wide receiver", he has shown significant progress throughout his entire Michigan career and it is plausible that he ends it with another solid season.

POTENTIAL STATS: What is a solid season you ask? Considering Gallon had 800 yards receiving with 8 TD's with a mish-mash of quarterbacks (Robinson, Bellomy for one game, and Gardner the rest), I feel like he can easily reach 1,000 yards and over 10 TD's. Of course, these numbers and where Gallon lines up all depends on who emerges in the receiver/tight end corps that could possibly steal some passes away from Gallon. But, considering his speed and athleticism, he'll see plenty of action this season.

DARKHORSE PREDICTION: Jeremy Gallon will be wearing the #21 jersey by the first game against Central Michigan. Why? Because it just makes sense. Roy Roundtree has graduated and moved on leaving someone to come in and take it. Why not Gallon? He's arguably Michigan's best receiver right now and also a senior. He could provide leadership to the younger receivers and I feel he could be the best candidate to represent Desmond Howard's honor out on the field every Saturday this season.

FUN FACT: They left him alone.

Trey Burke's Draft Stock

2013-04-15T14:07:00.001-04:00

I'm no betting man, but you can bet on your favorite NBA team on Topbet, I'd put money on the fact that Trey Burke is going to be drafted fairly high in this years NBA Draft. I know you wanted expert analysis, and you just got it, Trey Burke is good at basketball.

In all seriousness, Burke wanted to come back to have one last shot at a national championship. He was close, but his legendary play this season has all but secured himself a top-ten ranking on the big board.

Let's see what the writers think:

- Scott Howard-Cooper, NBA.com:

Even while struggling with his shot in the tournament, he used a standout sophomore season to become a candidate for Player of the Year with a well-rounded game and an assist-to-turnover ratio of 3.3-1. Also made 47.9 percent of his attempts and showed good range.

- Mike Schmitz, DraftExpress.com:

All things considered, it's difficult not to consider Burke the best point guard in this year's draft class when evaluating how much of a complete package he brings to the table offensively. Athletic, intelligent, competitive point guards who can create, distribute and score are incredibly rare and coveted assets, and despite his defensive limitations he should have no issues carving out a long career as a NBA starter, as long as he's able to stay healthy.

- Chad Ford, ESPN.com:

He led his team to the NCAA championship game, won the Naismith player of the year award and pushed his draft stock from bubble first-rounder to top-10 pick. While Burke doesn't have great size or the athleticism of some of the other elite point guards in the NBA, he has an incredible basketball IQ, can really shoot , rarely turns the ball over and makes those around him better. He should go somewhere in the top seven and will be the first or second point guard off the board.

- Chris Mannix, SI.com:

It wasn't a perfect NCAA tournament for Burke, who was so-so in Michigan's opening-round win over South Dakota State and terrible in the Wolverines' Final Four victory over Syracuse. Still, Burke's consistent play over the course of the season has a lot of GMs believing that he is an eventual starting point guard. A 24-point effort (in 26 minutes) against Louisville's swarming defense in the national title game didn't hurt, either.

- Tom Dienhart, BTN.com:

All agree that Burke is ready for the next level. He’s one of the nation’s quickest players, a force off the dribble and a deadly marksman from the perimeter who also has underrated strength. Plus, Burke has developed into a gritty, tough leader who isn’t afraid of the big shot or big moment.

The consensus feels that Trey Burke is one of the best, if not THE best, point guards in the draft this year. But, the real question is, where does he land? It is very possible that Burke could push himself into the top-five with a strong summer workout in front of the scouts considering he's on the cusp.

Now, it's time to get hypothetical.

Let's say the Pistons, Hornets and Kings get the 5-7 spots as predicted. There is no way Burke falls beyond seven, barring something catastrophic happening. All three teams have needs at the point guard position.

Pistons:
Expiring contract of Jose Calderon

Hornets:
Lack of depth behind Greivis Vasquez

Kings:
Depth move behind Isaiah Thomas

It's possible Burke would be drafted to promote competition with the point guard position in New Orleans or Sacramento. OR, considering how many needs the Pistons have, they could bring Burke into the fold. Considering the Pistons SHOULD have the fifth pick of the draft, they may need to weigh greater needs.

Either way, Burke is going to make his future NBA team very happy and they will be drafting one heck of a basketball player.

An Open Letter to Trey Burke: Thank You, Trey

2013-04-14T13:37:00.000-04:00

Trey Burke,

You have no idea who I am, or even have any clue that this website exists, but I took a picture with you a year ago. You had just announced you were coming back for a second year and had campus buzzing about it. The first time the Michigan fan base had been buzzing about basketball since we had a special group of five players in the '90s.

You are known for more than just "the shot" or even "the steal", and even sweeping all possible National Player of the Year awards imaginable. You also helped bring basketball back. Michigan basketball is relevant again, because of you. Sure, the table was set by the others that came before you. You were the one who came to eat. We speak of Michigan basketball with pride again, and the foul taste of sanctions that set the program back years is finally gone. The fog has lifted, you were the one to do it.

As you embark on your journey to the NBA, I wanted to take a moment to say thank you. For everything. The hours of film, the hours of game prep, the hours taking shots, the hours in the weight room, and the hours of blood, sweet and tears you devoted to this program. All of this hard work came full circle when you announced that you were leaving the University of Michigan today.

Just one thing I ask of you, even if you never read this, don't forget where you came from. Always bleed maize and blue. Unlike the famous five basketball players that came before you, we will celebrate you, we will love you, and we will always remember what you have done for this university. Even if you couldn't bring the National Championship home to us, your contributions and memories that you left in Crisler will forever be imprinted on the forefront of our minds, and for generations to come. It's not every day that a player like you graces our basketball team. But, after what you've done, I hope that happens more often.

I know your choice probably wasn't easy, you've had the luxury of doing so for the past two seasons, not many can say they have that luxury. Your decision is yours alone, and I respect that. The NBA provides greater challenges, greater than the one's you've exceeded at the college level -- and exceeded with ease. No matter where you end up in the draft, you will always have a fan in me. If you do one thing in your life, represent the University of Michigan with pride.

All good things must come to an end, just like this letter, but your end has a brand new beginning. Even though we won't see you on the court, the point guards who come after you have big shoes to fill. They have a goal because of you, you are the one who helped make Michigan what it is now. For me, as a fan, I'm in awe of what you've accomplished for such a short amount of time.

For a kid from Columbus who took a chance on the University of Michigan, thank you. For providing such excitement throughout your two years on campus, thank you. For gracing us with your presence on the court, thank you.

For everything, thank you.

Thank you, Trey.

Signed,

- Michigan fans everywhere

The Big House Diaries: Spring Game

2013-04-14T11:39:00.002-04:00

Saturday, April 13th brought new excitement to Ann Arbor. On the cusp of a National Championship game loss to Louisville, and pending announcements from star basketball players whether to stay or go, Michigan fans needed a savior.

This savior came in the shape of one final spring practice at the Big House.

It was a cold April Saturday -- which felt like a normal football Saturday in November -- which was the consensus around the stadium. But, you couldn't stop the weather from bringing down the brave souls who withstood it just to get a small sample size of Team 134.

A new season brings new hope, and Michigan fans are hopeful.

To me, the spring game means nothing. Especially considering there isn't a game going on. Just situational drills that provide false hope to all fans. But, there is one thing that holds true. This is Devin Gardner's team.

There's no denying the growth Devin Gardner has shown over his time at Michigan. All the patience that he has shown waiting for his moment to shine has finally come to fruition. You could see the poise, see the leadership, and see the undeniable swagger knowing that this is HIS team. Finally.

I saw football, I "heard" football as Brady Hoke likes to say it. It was glorious. Any type of football is enough for me. The stats, the plays, and everything else in between doesn't mean anything until fall. Seeing the maize and blue in action will be enough to quench my thirst for football for just a little bit longer.

But, here are my biggest observations from the Spring Game yesterday:

- They're not lying, Ben Braden is a beast. But, for being 320, he is a slim 320. If that is even possible.
- Tight end is a position of strength. With the addition of Jake Butt, that position is going to be is a strength and a useful tool in the offense this season.
- Taco Charlton is hungry, no pun intended. Charlton looks like a beast out there. Even though he is not supposed to hit the quarterback, he burst through the line and had a couple sacks, literally. He tackled the quarterback.
- James Ross is a monster. Frank Clark is a beast. Quinton Washington looked really good as well.
- Taylor Lewan has a 10 mustache -- on a scale of 10.
- The biggest area of concern, for me, is running back. Obviously with the way Michigan was practicing you aren't going to hit any home runs. But I didn't see anyone in particular look the part of a starter out there. Things will begin to take shape in the fall.
- I'm really excited for the young receivers to go out there and see what they can do. Amara Darboh to be specific. I've always loved how that kid plays.
- My biggest observation of them all: FOOTBALL IS BACK!

It Never Happened

2013-04-10T08:20:00.002-04:00

Michigan lost, and it was one of the worst sports-related feelings I've felt in a very long time. But still, I was so happy that the Wolverines represented the greatest university in the world Monday night. In a stunning (if one looks at February and the first weeks of March, it really was stunning) run that came up one game short, Trey Burke's team thrilled the faithful, and silenced their detractors.

Before the game, CBS showed Jalen Rose, Juwan Howard, Jimmy King, and Ray Jackson, in the stands. Then, a camera cut to a black SUV, as Chris Webber emerged from the backseat, wearing a ridiculous Michigan hat. My blood boiled. As much as I loved the Fab Five when I was 13 years old, and as sure as I still wear black Nike socks when I play basketball, the Fab Five never happened. Michigan, according to the NCAA, didn't field a basketball team those years. Ray Jackson, Jimmy King, and Juwan Howard's statuses are in limbo because of their two teammates, yet CBS, most of Twitter, and even elements of the University lauded the, "Fab Five Reunion," like it was a reunion of champions. They never won anything, and even if they did, it would be boxed and hidden away in the Bentley's basement.

I loved them when I was a teenager. They were brash, unafraid, cocky, ground-breaking, trash-talking, chirpin', and proud, young basketball players. They also became controversial to those who feared change. ESPN's documentary on the Fab Five shed light on some of the hardships they faced, just because of who they were. Alumni wrote letters complaining about how the, "...black players played. and Go Blue (white players)." When I saw that people who attended one of the most diverse universities, one that prides itself on inclusion, I was sick to my stomach. No one deserves that treatment. But what they endured does not excuse what they did. Yes, they made the University of Michigan a great deal of money, but they violated the rules that governed what they did.

They were not alone. Adults, people who should have known better, exploited their relationships with these 18 year old kids. So, Chris and Jalen are not solely responsible for their actions, but they each had a choice: take money or follow the rules. They chose not to follow the rules, and they deserve everything that happened to them. Jalen Rose told the truth to the Federal Grand Jury, and for that, he deserves respect. Chris Webber continues (to this day) to deny doing anything wrong. That is why the celebration of the Fab Five was in such poor taste.

Last November, before the Michigan/Ohio game, that school celebrated the Ten Year Anniversary of the 2002 National Championship team, and they even invited Jesus Tressel, who received a, "thunderous ovation." When asked, University President Gee said, "We're celebrating the good things he did here." Celebrating the Buckeyes' football under Tressel is akin to saying that Titanic was a very pretty ship. Yet, countless Michigan fans, the media, and even the University thought that the Fab Five Reunion was the greatest thing to happen since Thad Matta passed on Trey Burke.

The message sent is that if enough time passes, one doesn't even have to apologize for breaking the rules and bringing shame upon one of the most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the world. Chris Webber needs to admit what he did and apologize to everyone who will listen. Just because he did not agree with the NCAA rules does not mean he had the right to break them.

So, Michigan fans, it's time to forget the Fab Five. They never played at Michigan. You can love the young men who withstood vicious personal attacks on their character just because they wore baggy shorts, wore black socks, and listened to EPMD. You can respect them for being a small part of the struggle for equality and justice in the United States and for the men that four of the five of them are today, because the work that Ray Jackson, Jimmy King, and Jalen Rose do for their respective communities is noble. But the sooner we relegate the Fab Five to obscurity, the sooner the up-and-coming Michigan Basketball program (it's on the RISE, Sparty, be afraid) gets the attention that it deserves.

No Cheering in the Press Box

2013-04-09T16:58:00.000-04:00

I remember it like it was yesterday. Christmas Eve, 2005. I was standing on the sidelines of Raymond James Stadium watching the Buccaneers play the Atlanta Falcons. At that time, reporters and columnists from sports betting sites were allowed to enter the sidelines with less than three minutes to play to get a head start to the locker room. This was the last season the Buccaneers allowed media on the sidelines.

The Falcons had seemingly won the game on a TJ Duckett touchdown with four minutes left. As the game waned, Tampa Bay slowly began to march down the field. Could they tie it up? Could they force overtime? Thirty seconds left. Fourth and one from the 1-yard line. Chris Simms turned and handed off to eventual Rookie of the Year Cadillac Williams. He surged through the line and burst into the end zone. Tie game.

At the time, I was working for a magazine that covered the Buccaneers. They were seen as outsiders in the press box. So when Williams scored, and I nearly jumped in the air in excitement and shouted aloud my editor, who was standing next to me at the time, shook his head ‘No’. Other stoic, stone-faced media types surrounded us. They looked down on us. They had been trained. The joy of sports had long been sucked from their veins. There was no cheering in the press box and there’s no cheering on the sidelines. We’re media, we have to be unbiased. Objectivity. That’s the name of the game. Well, that’s what they tell you in journalism school, anyway.

I stumbled on to journalism at 22-years-old after endless paths of failed majors. I was 24 and finally a senior in college. A lot of people go to college for seven years. I was the Editor-In-Chief of my college newspaper. I had great friends who were also writers. (They’re still my best friends.) We felt like kings. After much persistence and constant e-mails, the editor of the magazine that covered the Bucs finally relented and allowed me to come on board and write as an intern. My press badge was approved. My first day at Buccaneers practice, Bruce Allen, then GM of the Buccaneers told me I was the youngest person to ever be granted a press badge for media access with the Bucs. I don’t know if that was true, but it made me feel incredibly special.

When I decided to become a sports writer, it was because I loved sports and I loved writing. What the hell, might as well combine both, right? I’d never be unhappy again. I’d be doing what I loved. Writing and sports. Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life. I’d heard that cliché yearly from my parents, teachers, professors and even my friends. I thought I had found my calling. Finally. FINALLY. I had found something that would make me happy.

Suddenly, everything that I had associated with the joy of sports writing was happening right before my eyes. It was a Christmas Miracle. Overtime. A series of heart wrenching turns for good and bad went back and forth. Atlanta lined up for a game winning 28-yarder. BLOCKED. Matt Bryant missed a field goal of the same length about six minutes later. The game was heading for a tie. The Bucs had one last shot. They got within Matt Bryant’s range. He lined up for a 41-yard field goal to win the game. This game story was going to be brilliant. So many story lines, so much drama. Playoffs on the line. First place on the line. My face lit with excitement. Bryant put toe to leather, and the ball soared through the uprights. And at that moment, I lost control. The crowd exploded. I jumped up and down screaming over the dramatic come-from-behind victory. All journalistic integrity melted away at that moment as I leapt and screamed in joy. I grabbed my editor and screamed in his face, and he smiled and screamed back. We jumped up and down together. It took us a moment to recollect ourselves.

When we looked around, all the other sports writers had smiles on their faces too. It was as if, for a moment, they all got caught up in the moment with them. This young kid, dumb with a smile from ear-to-ear, just lost his mind on the sidelines. It took less than five seconds for them to wipe that look of their faces. They returned to their sneers and looked down on the feeble specialty magazine reporters leeching their press box food and ruining their press conferences with awful questions.

The rest of the evening I went through the motions of being a normal journalist. Press conference, locker room questions, feverish writing in the press box as the sun went down. It was work, it was exhausting, and it never came nearly as close to the incredible feeling that surged through my body when the Buccaneers won that game. I looked around at all the other writers on the row. They looked just as miserable. It hit me then. I knew I didn’t want to do that job any more. No cheering in the press box. NO CHEERING? What are we here for? Everyone in that room probably started out in the same fashion that I had. But as the years wore on and the bottled up excitement had to be pushed down into their bowels, they slowly just became boring game recap artists. That wasn’t going to be me. I loved sports so much that I had to give it up. I wouldn’t write another story after that day. I was done with sports reporting. I vowed that I’d never become those zombies in the press box.

On the way home, my editor looked nervous. He was embarrassed for his outburst I assumed. The magazine was his living and he didn’t want to let his hard work crumble. I apologized for my actions. He told me not to worry about it, and I didn’t. I resigned from the internship the week after Tampa Bay was bounced out of the playoffs by the Washington Redskins.

After graduation, I took a job as a copy editor at a small newspaper. That lasted for about two months. It wasn’t for me. My heart wasn’t in it. The initial reason for being a journalist in the first place was gone. I changed careers and haven’t looked back.

Whenever a feeling of excitement runs through my body because of a sporting event, I always think back to Christmas Eve, 2005. I wanted that jolt again. I had that jolt last night watching Michigan in the national title game.

That long-winded explanation has a means to an end. The Michigan Wolverines, the school I’ve devoted countless hours of time to since I was eight years old, lost a heartbreaking game to the Louisville Cardinals last night. The game was full of those incredible, exciting moments that sent that jolt through my bones time and again. Two powerhouse teams leaving everything they had on the court. Both exchanged haymakers and withstood the body blows. Louisville landed more punches in the end. I didn’t want it to end.

We journeyed with that team through heaven and hell and almost made it to the Promised Land with them. They were inches away from a historic, unlikely title. A perfect bow on a perfect season after so many years of basketball mediocrity.

As Mitch McGary tossed up that useless prayer to end the game, I felt the gut-wrenching feeling punch me in the gut. I collapsed on the couch and placed my head in my hands. It was deflating, but necessary. My wife came over and kissed me on the head and said, “They’ll be back, honey. Don’t give up hope.” I smiled, said thank you, and gave her a kiss as she retired to bed.

I sat up for a while, unable to shake the defeat. For the amazing highs that sports can bring, they can also bring unimaginable lows. The Bucs game was an amazing high. This was the lowest I’d felt about a sporting event in a long time. (2006 Ohio State Michigan will always take the cake, but 2005 Ohio State Michigan comes in at a close second. Damn you, Lloyd Carr. You punted.)

The most prominent thought in my head, though, was simple: Thank god I didn’t have to cover that game as a journalist. Thank god I didn’t have to hide my emotions. I’d have died. I’d have been kicked out of the press box, possibly the arena. I don’t have the best control over myself when my teams lose. Check my Twitter feed, you’ll see.

Games like that remind me why I’m a fan in the first place. It’s fun to lose yourself in something. To suppress that almost seems unholy. Your body shouldn’t have to do that. I guess that’s why I’ll always love bloggers more than actual journalists. Bloggers still wear their fandom on their sleeve. They still can be irrational despite overwhelming evidence that disproves their arguments. They, to me, are the lifeblood of sports reporting because they still maintain the humanity of it all. That’s not to say that there’s no place for sports reporters anymore. Far from it. Some of my favorite writers are still pulling the grind everyday. Kyle Meinke and Nick Baumgardner come to mind. But bloggers, I guess you could call me a blogger, will always have a little Kerouac in them. We’re the mad ones. We wear our emotions on our sleeves and get in arguments over ridiculous things. We follow our teams around the country under the guise of journalism. We’re not journalists. Thank god for that.

I’ll always remember this season as one of the most entertaining, fulfilling journeys in my history as a Michigan Wolverine fan. Thank you, Michigan Basketball. Thank you, Coach Beilein. Until next year.

Wolverines back in Final Four for first time since Fab Five, F4 ticket demand strongest in four years

2013-04-05T13:34:00.003-04:00

By Dan Groob, TiqIQ

It has been exactly 20 years to the day since Chris Webber’s infamous timeout-that-wasn’t quite possibly cost the University of Michigan Wolverines the 1993 NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship.

Fast forward to tomorrow and the Curse of Chris becomes at least partially lifted, as the Wolverines will be making their first Final Four appearance since Webber’s ill-advised decision to trap himself in the corner and call for timeout with none remaining.

Tomorrow evening’s contest against the Syracuse Orange will mark the first time in NCAA history that two four seeds have faced each other. But these two teams are most certainly not your average four seeds. Both squads spent a majority of the season ranked among the top 10 teams nationally, with Syracuse ranking as high as No. 3, and Michigan even reaching No. 1 for a short while.

Although both the Wolverines and Orange dropped a few games down the stretch leading to their respective under-seeding, there is no question now that they are among the very best teams in the country. In fact, this season proves as well as any that records, rankings, and seeding don’t mean nearly as much as level of competition and being battle tested. While Gonzaga finished the regular season with the best record in college basketball at 31-2, Michigan and Syracuse lost 7 and 9 tough fought games, respectively, and used the experience to win some tough ones in the tournament when it counts.

Because Michigan carries such a large and devoted fan base that hasn’t seen their team in a Final Four in two decades, demand has absolutely skyrocket for tickets in Atlanta. Also contributing to elevated demand is the relatively close proximity for the basketball-crazy fans of Louisville, the large fan base of Syracuse, and the Cinderella/one-time appeal of Wichita State as well. Add it all up and you have the most expensive average NCAA semifinals ticket price of the past three years according to TiqIQ, checking in at $801.35 dollars. Simply getting in the door will set fans back $312 dollars a pop.

Final Four Semifinal Games

Average price = $801.35
Get-in price = $312

As has historically been the case, the price for a one game championship ticket is slightly less expensive than a two game semis ticket, at an average of $502 dollars. But with get-in prices of $312 for the semis and $124 for the championship, fans are almost certainly better off purchasing an All-Sessions pass. One of these passes to all three games currently carries an average price of $1,006 dollars, representing a 23% discount to purchasing both tickets individually. The cheapest available All-Sessions pass prices at just $330 dollars—barely above the get-in price for the semis alone.

All Sessions

Average price = $1,006.28
Get-in price = $330

NCAA Championship

Average price = $502.09
Get-in price = $124

For the fan who really wants to get the full NCAA-experience, Final Four tickets are also available for the Official NCAA Mens Final Four ELITE Hospitality program. The hospitality program takes place for three and a half hours prior to both Saturday’s and Monday’s games, and is a celebration of Atlanta, southern culture, and the Final Four. Hosted by John Salley and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the hospitality program features an open bar, live music, and plenty of ATL BBQ.

Hospitality Package

Average price = $1,103.83
Get-in price = $447

Henschke's Wednesday Rant: Just Win

2013-03-27T15:29:00.000-04:00

By Joshua Henschke
Editor of TheBigHouseReport.com

Henschke's Wednesday Rants are just that, rants. This will be a weekly editorial piece that will touch on a variety of subjects regarding University of Michigan Athletics.

They say winning cures everything.

Since 1997, the year the Wolverines won the National Championship, they are 127-61, a 67% winning percentage.

Surely, that's enough to keep me satisfied as a fan, right? That couldn't be further from the truth. It's what you do with those wins and losses that mean the most.

Nine of those losses are to Ohio State--not to mention eight of them in a row to the Buckeyes-- another loss against Appalachian State, four losses in a row to Michigan State, and many others.

Now, as a fan, you expect to beat your rivals every year, though the outcome isn't usually the case, eight losses in a row to your most hated rival is enough for anyone to pull their hair out.

With that record since 97, Michigan has gone 6-7 in bowl games. The offseason is where you make your money, and it's frustrating to not see it get done.

I'm not saying Michigan needs to be undefeated every year, or blow every single team out by 50, I just want to win. I want to see Michigan start beating Ohio State. Because, quite frankly, I'm sick of losing to them. I'm sick of losing, period. Michigan is the winningest program in all of football, it's time to get back to those ways.

I'm tired of 8-4 and not competing in conference, I'm tired of going to these obscures bowls and losing, and I'm tired of seeing the SEC dominating football that was once held by the Big Ten. The standard is to win, and Brady Hoke will get us there.

The 2006 team had a chance to win it all and was playing like the best team in the country until it's close loss to Ohio State. A loss that should have never happened. At any rate, there is no excuse to get their butts kicked in the Rose Bowl by USC that year. Since 1997, Michigan is 0-3 in Rose Bowls and hasn't been back to Pasadena since 2006. Something needs to change, and that change is winning.

Sure, Hoke has us headed in the right direction. But it's up to the team to win. Hoke can only do so much, the players need to take it the rest of the way. I believe this will happen. With the mess left behind from Rich Rodriguez, the stench that loomed in Ann Arbor has finally passed and we are ready for a bright future.

In order to be the Leaders and Best the Michigan Fight Song says that we are, we need to act like it. The University of Michigan has that outside of athletics, but Michigan needs to take over the reigns of being the best like they did in 97. In order to be the best, you need to beat the best. We saw how to stack up against Alabama, that's the measuring stick. We still have more room to grow.

At the end of the day, the team has made remarkable progress towards getting better and to start winning Big Ten Championships again. The years of frustration losing to Ohio State builds up over time. All I want is a win, it doesn't matter if it's a one, two, or thirty point victory. I just want to see a W in the left-hand column in the standings.

As Al Davis once said, "just win, baby!"

We're looking to expand!

2013-03-24T22:34:00.000-04:00

Attention all Michigan fans, TBHR is looking to expand! We would like our reach to touch all facets of Michigan sports and we can't do that without YOU!

I am very interested in hearing your ideas on how we can expand and how you can implement this expansion. So, if you:

- Are knowledgeable in a sport you'd like to see added
- Are "in-the-know" with your sport and could report on it thoroughly and properly,

This might be the opportunity for you!

I am always looking to expand the TBHR product with the BEST and CURRENT news/unique opinions on the web.

If you're interested in writing about a sport we don't touch on here, feel free to email me with your ideas and thoughts on how you can expand TBHR! I'm always willing and happy to chat!

joshua@thebighousereport.com

See Michigan Live With Great Prices From TiqIQ

2013-03-22T15:16:00.001-04:00

Every March, college teams across the country hold their collective breath as the NCAA selection committee convenes to assign seeds and sites to the 64 best teams in the country. For many teams, the simple luck of the draw could mean the difference between cross-country trips on a few days rest, or home court advantage just miles from campus.

This year, quite a few draws hold significant promise for a handful of teams. Schools like Georgetown, Ohio State, Michigan, Michigan State, Kansas, and Kansas State have benefitted significantly from the seeds bestowed upon them by the committee, and look to ride an implied home court advantage to the Sweet 16.

The Palace of Auburn Hills in Auburn Hills, MI, will play host site to both Michigan and Michigan State. Two of the more under-seeded teams in the tournament, home court in the first two rounds could be exactly the recipe for Beilein and Izzo’s squads need to get hot and make a run to the Final Four.

You may recall back in 2009, Michigan State was the two seed behind Louisville in the Midwest Region, and marched through Indianapolis to the Final Four at Ford Field back home in Detroit. Michigan State was able get by UConn before ultimately falling in the Championship Game to UNC. This year, if they can get past Louisville once again, they could very well be cutting down the nets in Atlanta.

The Palace of Auburn Hills (Auburn Hills, Mich.)

Session 1: $140
Session 2: $143
Session 3: $233

For great deals on NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament tickets, from the first four all the way to the Final Four, visit TiqIQ.com.

Why the Opposition Should Fear Mitch McGary

2013-03-21T20:45:00.002-04:00

Call it a Seniority Complex.

The Michigan basketball team has an interesting dynamic - the notoriety isn't about the Seniors. Maybe it's because the good ones leave before their last year. Or maybe it's because they slowly take a back seat when new recruits come on.

Maybe we should blame it on the Fab Five. Or maybe the one year minimum college ball rule. Either way, it's all about the freshmen.

When Tim Hardaway entered, he was talked about from every angle. He had spunk, determination, and a real go-getter attitude. Over the past two seasons, we've seen him make those glorious three's, but we've also seen him ice cold. And although his stats are still pretty striking (14.1 avg ppg, .400 from the 3-pt line) his accomplishments usually get overlooked. Why?

Photo courtesy of Mlive.com

Enter Mitch McGary.

The freshman from Chesterton, IN only averages 6.2 ppg, but he is 250lbs of solid energy. He has played in all 33 games, coming off the bench in 31 of them. His first career start was at Michigan State. Why? Because Michigan had just come off a terrible loss in OT to Wisconsin and was about to face their in-state rival. Nothing was needed more than a new burst of energy, a new life, which is exactly McGary's role. He isn't afraid to get physical. In fact, being physical is his strong suit. He has a never-back-down attitude that rubs off on the rest of the team.

However, McGary isn't the ideal freshman. He commits unnecessary fouls and has a high number of turnovers. But the one thing he has that will scare opponents is his ability to learn from his mistakes. He's a gutsy player and when he commits fouls or makes a lousy pass, he learns. McGary has consistently improved throughout his entire debut season. With every game he's made smarter plays, held onto the ball more, and caused the other team to commit more turnovers.

Photo courtesy of Mlive.com

He's been Big Ten Freshman of the Week twice. Holds a 57.0 percent shooting record from the field and grabbed 182 rebounds equaling 5.5 rpg. He also leads the team in blocks with 21. His mere presence intimidates opposing teams.

Which is again why he was chosen to start against South Dakota State in the first round of the NCAA tournament. In fact, at the half he was over his ppg average with 7 points. The 6'10" freshman with infectious energy is a monster that won't go away. After all, they don't call him "White Thunder" for nothing.

Opponents, this is your warning.

March Madness Tickets

Top 5 Michigan Football Individual Bowl Game Performances of the 1990'sand 2000's

2013-03-19T17:47:00.002-04:00

The 1990's & 2000's under Lloyd Carr and Gary Moeller featured some outstanding wins and individual performances. I'm going to do my best to rank the top 5 individual bowl game performances.

5.) Chad Henne, 2008 Capital One Bowl

Henne had been injured for a large portion of the 2007 season but saved his best performance for last. Henne threw for 373 yards and three touchdowns sending out Lloyd Carr on a winning note over the heavily favored Florida Gators, led by Urban Meyer and Tim Tebow.

4.) Tie: Braylon Edwards, 2005 Rose Bowl & David Terrell, 2000 Orange Bowl

Terrell was named MVP of the 2000 Orange Bowl, catching ten passes for 150 yards and three touchdowns in a 35-34 win over Alabama. Edwards caught ten passes for a 109 yards and three touchdowns in a 38-37 defeat vs. Texas.

3.) Tom Brady, 2000 Orange Bowl

This game foreshadowed what Brady would become in the NFL. Brady was 35/47 for 369 yards and four touchdowns, leading Michigan to their first and only BCS game victory under Lloyd Carr.

2.) Tyrone Wheatley, 1993 Rose Bowl

Wheatley only carried the ball fifteen times, but he put up some huge numbers, rushing for 235 yards (15.7 yards per carry) and three touchdowns. Wheatley was named Rose Bowl MVP as the Wolverines defeated Washington 38-31

1.) Brian Griese, 1998 Rose Bowl

Griese did not have as an impressive of a game statistically as the others on this list, but played the best game of his career, in the biggest game in the modern era of Michigan football. Labeled as a "game manager" Griese cut it loose in the Rose Bowl. He went 18-30 for 251 yards and three touchdowns, leading his team to a national championship and being named Rose Bowl MVP.

You can follow me on twitter @JamesALight

Greg Mattison's Blitz Package, Creating Chaos With Confusion

2013-03-11T19:34:00.000-04:00

When Brady Hoke hired Greg Mattison I was excited but still cautiously optimistic after watching three years of the worst defense in the history of Michigan football. I know I was thinking, how much could Mattison accomplish with the hand he had been dealt? Turns out more than anybody could have possibly expected. Mattison turned around the defense instantly. He took a group that could only be described as moribund and transformed them into one of the best defenses in the country statistically.

One of the reasons why Mattison has been successful are his NFL style blitz packages. Mattison does a great job of disguising his blitzes. He confuses the offense by showing similar looks that have a myriad of different calls, keeping the offense off balance and guessing.

In the first example Mattison shows six on the line of scrimmage indicating to the offense that a blitz is coming. While it looks like pressure from the alignment, Michigan is actually playing a full zone and only rushing two.

Later in the first quarter Mattison dials up a similar look to the first example. From the seven Michigan defenders on the line of scrimmage the alignment again looks like it will be a heavy blitz, but it’s not. It’s another full zone and Michigan is only rushing four. Michigan brings three rushers to the short side of the field. The idea is to get one on one matchups for their pass rushers, or get an overload rush if Ohio State slides the protection the wrong way. Braxton Miller gets confused by the call and has to throw the ball away.

What those two calls have done is set up the opportunity for Mattison to bring the heat from the same look. Michigan shows another six man front on the line of scrimmage. This time Mattison is bringing heavy pressure in the form of a zero blitz. A zero blitz means that Mattison is bringing one more player than the offense can block and playing straight man to man behind the blitz.

Braxton Miller and the Ohio State coaching staff see the same look that has brought no pressure in the previous two third down situations. They obviously believe that Michigan is going to play passive again. They don’t change the protection, or account for the extra rusher coming from Miller’s front side in the form of Frank Clark, who’s only job now that Mattison has him coming unblocked is to seek and destroy the quarterback.

Mattison has Miller guessing. Due to Miller guessing wrong Clark gets a kill shot on Miller that forces fourth down and long, ending the Buckeyes' drive. Miller did an unbelievable job just to hang on to the ball. Most times this would be at a minimum a turnover and quite possibly a touchdown for the defense.

That’s the brilliance of Mattison. Not just being able to put together and teach multiple defenses from the same pressure look, but knowing the precise time to dial up the maximum pressure blitz to make a big play.

You can follow me on twitter @JamesALight

Brief Offer Reaction: Ian Bunting

2013-03-11T19:19:00.003-04:00

Ian Bunting, a 4* TE from Illinois was finally offered by Michigan today, he tells me via text. I feel like this offer was a long time coming. As the days passed, I would get many texts from Bunting telling me who has offered. I figured this day would come eventually for him.

At any rate, I briefly spoke with Bunting to get his reaction on the offer:

- On the offer: "It feels great. I'm very excited about it and hopefully I can visit sometime in the near future."

- On where Michigan stands with Bunting: "They're definitely a school I'll strongly consider."

- On why he is interested in Michigan: "It's a great academic institution with a lot of history. I visited this season when they played Northwestern and I really liked the school, the campus and game atmosphere a lot."

It feels to me that Bunting has a long way to go as far as deciding which schools are in his top and when he is going to make significant cuts to those lists. I feel he is far from a decision, but I still feel pretty good about Michigan's chances here. Obviously, it's too tough to tell right now. But mutual interest is a good start. Anything can happen from there.

Positional Breakdown: Quarterbacks

2013-03-02T13:26:00.000-05:00

Key members: Devin Gardner (SR?), Russell Bellomy (RS SO), Shane Morris (FR)

What we know: It's pretty clear that Devin Gardner has the starting QB position locked down. His performance and ability to run the offense was more often than not impressive. With Denard Robinson's presence on the field and the need to feed him the ball gone, this is 100% Devin's team. Gardner has the abilities to stretch the play with his legs and is a very capable passer, as we saw many times during the season last year. Though we have seen stranger things happen, spring/fall practices could have a major impact on who starts. With that being said, Hoke has proved time and time again that the best players take the field, no matter the class standing. We could see something similar to a Henne situation his freshman year. Henne wins the battle because of a Gutierrez injury in camp, and we all know what happened with Henne after that. Until Hoke says so, we will assume that Gardner is the man at the helm of this offense.

Is this Gardner's last year?: Will Gardner's medical redshirt become a distraction? This question will be looming all season as Gardner's medical redshirt status has yet to be announced. We might only see Gardner become a full-time starter for only one season compared to two years. That could be a critical blow considering the QB's behind Gardner have very little experience and will have to be thrown to the wolves. This situation will be examined closely throughout the season.

Do you RS Morris?: This is also a very interesting topic as a dependable backup has yet to be established. The Bellomy experiment didn't exactly work out against Nebraska and it wasn't his fault. No one expected Robinson to get hurt, that was Bellomy's first in-game experience of actual minutes. The past is the past. Is Bellomy capable of being a backup? Or is Morris too talented to sit? These questions will be answered during camp but red shirting Morris doesn't sound like a bad idea. Shelving Morris for a year would allow him to work on learning the offense, working on mechanics and other skills necessary to becoming a Michigan quarterback. Let's play the devil's advocate, what if someone gets hurt? Depth is a serious issue with the QB's, especially if someone goes down. Gardner is the only QB with considerable experience, would you sacrifice a RS year so Morris can be a backup? It's a risk you may or may not have to take. Like I said before, it all depends on what happens during camp.

What to Expect?: Gardner is the starter, there's no doubt about it. I expect him to have a solid year at quarterback. Gardner had a favorite target in Jeremy Gallon and I expect more of the same to continue. Since Michigan finally has a QB that is capable of delivering the deep ball, I expect the offense try to push the offense deeper downfield with longer passes to Gallon and other athletic receivers Michigan has on roster. I think it is reasonable to say that Gardner can see some All-Big Ten honors come his way at the end of year, though which team will remain to be seen. I think it's a bit early and a touch unrealistic to deem him "Heisman worthy". But, the sky is the limit for him.

Reasonable Stats: I think it's safe to say that Gardner could throw for at least 2200+ and around 20+ TD's (Which puts him in line with other past Michigan QB's). Gardner can and will expose the lesser defenses with ease. His athletic ability on the ground will also aid him as well. 500 yards on the ground and at least 5 TD's is a very real possibility. The coaching staff knows that Gardner isn't Denard and designed rushing plays don't have to be as frequent as years past. With that being said, Gardner will be able to pick up his own yards if plays break down and he sees openings.

Michael Ferns and the genius of Project 135

2013-02-25T20:58:00.001-05:00

Brady Hoke has the ability to recruit, it's no secret that he can do such things. Together with his staff, they've potentially set themselves up for many successful years in Ann Arbor. You don't need me to tell you this stuff.

But, Hoke was given a big boost last year by having someone like Shane Morris work the recruits hard where Hoke and staff couldn't. It proved to be a valuable asset as Michigan secured a top-five recruiting class in the country. This doesn't necessarily mean that this was possible with or without Morris, but it sure didn't hurt.

Would anyone live up to first commit hype? Michigan fans didn't have to wait very long with Michael Ferns. In other words, the future of Michigan football recruiting is here.

Ferns has a dedication to the University of Michigan that is virtually unheard of, especially considering how early he committed. Once Wilton Speight was officially on board, the two have teamed up and essentially have changed the way many view recruiting.

Ferns' Project 135 is an absolute gamechanger.

Here's a kid, a JUNIOR IN HIGH SCHOOL, making waves around the nation with his way to commercialize the Michigan Difference and bring attention to the University. Simply by using t-shirts. This special project has been covered by the likes of ESPN, CBS, and many more news outlets.

Ferns has established something that no one has ever done. A precedence, if you will. Ferns has set the standard so high that others who will come after him have large holes to fill. Something that won't easily be done.

The movement is pure genius. How genius? We will have to wait until NSD next year to find out for sure.

Even if Hoke cannot comment on the current situation, Project 135 is waiting to explode. It's just a shame the '14 class has to be much smaller than last year. With commits coming from Ohio, Virginia, Utah, and Florida. The movement is beginning, with states slowly being covered, Project 135 is coming to a state near you.

Twitter Recruiting: The Creepy and the Creepier

2013-02-19T18:06:00.001-05:00

Twitter Recruiting (verb) - The act of taking to Twitter and openly recruiting high school kids to come to your favorite university. Often seen by grown men or overzealous fans.

thehand54 we'd love for you to be a #Hokie.Come learn from the best DC in the business! #LunchPailDefense #Foster
— Jordan Long (@JordanLong_4) February 12, 2013

It's become a pandemic on Twitter these days. Am I allowed to tweet recruits? Is my tweet going to make a difference in this kids recruitment? Can I be best friends with said recruit? When the coaches take a vacation, can I recruit for them via Twitter? The answer will forever be a resounding NO and will always be no.

Regardless of holding booster status or not, a fan is absolutely not allowed to tweet recruits. Especially in the form of openly tweeting (or recruiting) players via Twitter or any other social media platform. Not to mention it's very creepy seeing a much older man tweet a high school kid like they've been best friends for years.

@drizzygetbusy01 you have no reason not to stay with MSU not that the idiot Roushar is gone.
— Nick Tafelsky (@Tafelsky) February 16, 2013

@drizzygetbusy01 Check your facebook inbox...sent you somethin.
— Brian Berrios (@Brian_Berrios) February 17, 2013

A word to the wise, never trust a man with an "egg" avi.

It's a really bad look for your fan base, not to mention yourself, to take to Twitter and put these high school kids on blast to pick your school. Considering these kids are making life altering decisions about their future, do you really think they'll listen to you and your desperate pleas?

Wake me up when a recruit says that John Doe from El Paso tweeted "Hook 'em Horns!" to him one sultry February afternoon, and that forced his hand to commit to Texas. I'll hang up and listen.

@joe_mainmixon Great place to announce to the world you are gonna be a #Hog One and only Razorback fam
— Drew Witter (@wittydwitter) February 19, 2013

@joe_mainmixon You will easily be invited.....remember You can give a silent verbal to Ohio State. Before then
— Daniel Novak (@Harbordan) February 19, 2013

Thanks for the advice, kind sir. Where would Joe Mixon be without you? Oh yeah, that's right. Earning over 30 scholarship offers.

Yes, every fan base has these "Twitter recruiters", including Michigan. When it gets to the point that every recruit that is looking at Michigan will "become a legend" if they commit to Michigan, it's time to be a tad realistic.

@thehand54 you will be legendary at Michigan #GoBlue
— Goblue23 (@Goblue231) February 18, 2013

Granted, Da'Shawn Hand has a boatload of talent and will probably be a instant impact kid on the field immediately. You're not helping Michigan's case, fella.

The practice of Twitter recruiting has overrun Twitter timelines at alarming rates. People encourage, poke and prod these recruits and it's just embarrassing to see. These 17-18 year-old kids will never be your friend, and will most likely never listen to what you, a nobody to them, has to say.

Boosters are not permitted to Tweet, Facebook or contact recruits in any way. Let the coaches do the recruiting.
— Michigan Compliance (@umichcompliance) February 19, 2013

Preach, UMich Compliance. Preach it from the mountain tops. Let the coaches, you know, coach.

What is a booster? The NCAA spells it out for you, here. But, if you are incapable of clicking links, I'll say it loud and proud for all to hear.

A BOOSTER IS A FAN. YOU, YES, YOU! FAN. YOU. BOOSTER. YOU=FAN=BOOSTER.

Did you purchase a ticket (or season tickets) to attend any athletic events recently? How about one of those nice WEON shirts or ANYTHING from the MDen for that matter? If you answered yes to any of these questions, YOU MIGHT BE A BOOSTER. Actually, yes you are a booster.

So, what are boosters not allowed to do? Say it with me kids, "DON'T TWEET RECRUITS".

I can't stress how important getting rid of Twitter recruiting is. It's an annoyance, it's creepy and did I mention that it is incredibly annoying for fan bases all over the country? You wouldn't pick a random kid from a high school and tweet to him, why is tweeting a recruit any different?

The sad part to all of this is it's never going to end. Because it's not going to be governed and looked at by the NCAA. The NCAA will never take the time to find Twitter recruiters and punish the university for it.

It's a violation committed every day, a violation that will never be governed. In the history of ever. So before you tell a recruit "GO BLUE, or O-H!", think to yourself, am I really a creep?

@damewebb had me scared for a sec. Didn't see it was you retweeting at first. We need/want you Webb!! #gobucks
— Zack Shell (@ZackWShell) February 15, 2013

Visit Reaction: Daniel Helm

2013-02-18T19:38:00.001-05:00

Daniel Helm just finished with his two-day visit to Michigan and it appeared to have went very well. Helm, a '14 4* TE, is high on Michigan's list of TE's they are recruiting this year.

I spoke with Helm and here are the highlights of our chat.

- On the visit: "The visit went really well, I really enjoyed the experience. I also learned some very valuable things about Michigan. Overall, it went very well."

- On what he considered the best parts of his visit: "It was all really good but I think the most beneficial for me was meeting with the academic counselors and then with Mr Bob Kennedy from the business school and Dr Alec Gallimore from the school of engineering. They all helped to give me a much better insight in to what being a student athlete at Michigan is really like. We got to meet a number of coaches and players too including Denard Robinson, which was pretty cool. Coach Ferrigno and Coach Borges really helped to show me how the TE will be used in the future as well. I know that doesn't really narrow it down that much but it was all pretty cool and very helpful."

- On how the visit shapes his opinion on Michigan: "Well, I don't think it shakes up my view of Michigan at all. I already had a very high view of the school and the coaches. If anything it just reinforces how I view them."

- Helm has no updated timeline in his commitment process as he is still fairly inexperienced.

- One final note he wanted to share, "One thing that stuck out to me about Michigan is when I was talking to Coach Hecklinski and he asked me about my plans heading home. I plan on visiting Notre Dame on the way back and I was a little hesitant to say that but he and Coach Singletary actually encouraged me to visit other schools. They want me to make the best decision for myself and they also want me to compare Michigan to other schools. That just kinda stuck out to me."

I believe Michigan has a great chance to land Helm when the time is right. Notre Dame will be a tough foe to beat for his services,

Quick Hits with Brady Pallante

2013-02-17T22:06:00.002-05:00

Brady Pallante ('14 DT) was just recently offered a greyshirt with Michigan. For those who don't know, greyshirt scholarship offers are an offer where the school wants to delay your enrollment, so your elgibility doesn't start until you arrive on campus. Essentially meaning you would have to play somewhere else (locally for a junior college or something to that nature) for a year.

With that being said, I spoke with Pallante to get his thoughts on the offer:

- I asked him his level of surprise with the offer and it seemed to me that he wasn't really surprised, but very grateful. He says he's been talking to the coaching staff last May around spring practices. He was hoping he would get an offer and he is very grateful for the opportunity.

- Pallante says he has been a Michigan fan ever since he was a little kid.

- Pallante says it is such an honor to be offered a scholarship to UM. As a kid, he grew up dreaming of playing for the Wolverines.

- I asked him what his plans were now that he has the possibility of making his dreams come true and I will let him answer this: "As lucrative as the offer is I do need to take the time to discuss my options with my family. We are going to make sure we make the right choices and not rush into any hasty decisions."

- He plans on going up to campus the first opportunity he gets and will discuss what the plan is in regards to his place on the team.

That should squash any potential commitment rumors.