The BIG HOUSE Blog

Michigan Friday: Where Are They Now? - Former Michigan QB Edition

2026-08-21T09:49:56.418-04:00

Michigan Football has a ton of QB's come and go over the years. Some were former 5-star's and others were backups: just in case of an emergency. Either way, many have found new homes and new schools this season.

As we reported yesterday, Davis Warren has been named the starter at Stanford. We wish Davis all the best after beating OSU and then tearing his ACL in the Bowl Game.

Next is Jake Garcia - Who was the "break glass in case of emergency QB" last season. He got into one game. His former stops were Miami, East Carolina, Michigan and now Furman. He will be the Week 1 starter for Furman against Tennessee.

Jayden Denegal will start for the 2nd year at SDSU. Jayden threw for over 1,800 yards last season with 9 TD's. He has really taken advantage of his 2nd chance!

Alex Orji former Michigan starting QB is also in his 2nd year at UNLV, he lost his job last season and also got injured. This year he is fighting for the starting job with former Auburn QB Jackson Arnold.

Mikey Keene, who was expected to start last season and let Bryce ease into the job. Either was injured coming to Michigan or got injured as soon as he arrived. He never played and is now at Arizona State battling it out with UK transfer Cutter Boley. Side note: Kenny you turned down Michigan for this? You are also talking about it a ton, which makes me believe you regret the decision, which is the proper reaction.

Lastly, this story makes me a bit sad. Former 5-star QB Jadyn Davis struggled at Michigan in pretty much every QB category, throwing motion, reads, etc. He elected to transfer to East Tennessee State this year, which you might remember, that is where Cade played his last season of college football at in 2025. Davis was not named the starter, as former Louisville QB Mason Mills got the nod. Davis is a back-up with another name we might recognize Jake McNamara (Cade's brother).

From Beck's presser yesterday, it sounds like BFN is learning the offense and is closing the gap with Carr for the back-up QB role. We need someone with experience if Bryce gets nicked up.

There continues to be momentum in Roddy Gayle rejoining the Wolverine basketball team. We will see what happens.

Michigan Thursday: Advertising Inside The Big House

2026-08-20T08:30:14.968-04:00

As Michigan fans, we really don't want advertising in the Big House or patches on the iconic jerseys but we know its coming. NIL has raised the stakes and athletic departments now need to be run like a Fortune 500 company instead of an academic athletics organization. Michigan announced that Google, Meijer and Coca-cola will all have their logo's in the Big House in a few weeks. Now, it seems to be tatesly fully done and will give each company plenty of exposure. The last thing we want is the Big House to look like a Nascar.

One area that is really starting to get some good buzz out of camp is the offensive line. Yes, an 18 year-old Bryce struggled at times last year but so did the pass protection. Michigan by all reports are much improved on the offensive line and have great depth pieces as well. This should be great for Michigan's run game and giving Bryce a few extra seconds to find an open WR or TE.

In a surprising development, Michigan Basketball has added another Guard for next season's team out of the transfer portal. Kenny Noland from Columbia averaged 17 points per game and 3 assists last season. He can play backup point or play off the ball. The team leaves for Europe today and it will be interesting to see if he is with the team or not.

Former Michigan QB news, Davis Warren has been named the starting QB for Stanford. I'm planning a story on all the former Michigan QB's still around on Friday.

Michigan kicker commit Ryan Jung is now eligible to play his final HS season in Georgia.

Wolverine Wednesday: "I'm Your Captain Now"

2026-08-19T08:49:45.107-04:00

When the undisputed GOAT says the biggest honor he ever received playing football was being named a Captain of the Michigan Football Program, it should give you chills. Tom won every award a professional football player could receive and the honor he received from his teammates meant more then any other football award he received.

Michigan announced their captains a couple days ago:

Bryce Underwood, the Sophomore QB will have the season and this teams success riding on his shoulders and his play. It's a ton to ask for a 19 year-old but him being voted a captain must mean he is putting in the work and being a leader at the same time.

Jordan Marshall, is Michigan's star RB. From all accounts he is a great guy and perfect fit to lead on the offensive side of the ball.

Rod Moore, is a no brainer. The guy should be in the NFL but injuries has cost him playing time and he is back for one more go. Can't ask for a leader with more experience.

Trey Pierce, I don't know a ton about, but the coaches have him in very high regard. So much so they even brought in his brother to the team. This will be his senior year in Ann Arbor and the expectation is he is set up for a big year.

4 great choices as we approach Game 1 in a few weeks.

Michigan comes in at #16 in the first AP poll. OSU is #1 then Oregon and IU is #6.

Najee Harris gets signed by the Giants. Just get on the flight to DTW and pick up the rental car Najee! Now he will have played for 2 Harbaugh's

Don't forget the Michigan Basketball Team is set for its European tour that last 9 days with 3 games. The dates are 8/20-8/29

Michigan Tuesday: New Prez from Nashville

2026-08-18T08:49:29.312-04:00

University of Michigan is expected to name Vanderbilt Provost C. Cybele Raver to be its next President.

Couple of facts on Raver:

She is a psychologist researcher
2nd female President in UM history
Seemingly beat out former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan
Prior to Vandy, she was the Deputy Provost at NYU and a professor of applied psychology
Raver's research focuses on self-regulation and school readiness in young children
She has degrees from Harvard and Yale
Prior to NYU she held academic positions at Cornell and University of Chicago.
Her sister is actress Kim Raver

Sounds like a strong hire!

Michigan Monday: Some Scrimmage Buzz

2026-08-17T09:41:36.186-04:00

This past Saturday marked 3 weeks before the WMU game in the Big House. Thank goodness its not in Germany. 3 weeks is very much the halfway point of Fall Camp, but it's also starting to feel like football will be back soon. This past Saturday the Wolverines gathered in the Big House for the first "live" scrimmage of the year.

There is not a ton of intel coming out of Schembechler Hall but it sounds like the true Freshman Travis Johnson and the Offensive Line had a good day. Johnson continues to get good reviews from camp insiders and it sounds like he is heading for the WR#3 spot with Marsh and Buchanan. We shall not forget, Texas transfer Jaime Ffrench who will also have something to say about that 3rd WR spot. Others might be wondering about 5 star WR Moa? Sounds like he has put a few solid practices together and is in the mix for some playing time at one of the backup WR positions.

The most important fact coming out of the scrimmage is the team left the field 100% healthy.

Sorry I missed this when it happened but Chris Wormley retired a week or so ago. I loved the Worm at Michigan and he had a nice run in the NFL. I also read he just got a new gig with BTN as an analyst. Go Worm!

Ryan Day is moving Senior Day to Week 1 so the focus can be on the Wolverines. At least we are not in Ryan's head 24/7.

2028 Cass Tech QB Donald Taborn II commits to Texas A&M

Michigan Friday: Keep The Money In-State

2026-08-14T09:01:11.706-04:00

I believe Michigan and Ohio State have a responsibility to keep some of the money they make on a gameday and keep that money in State. Michigan will continue do that as they have scheduled Central Michigan for 2028 and 2031 dates in the Big House. They of course open against Western and if the pre-season joint practice or preseason game ever gets approved, EMU will fill that role nicely. OSU of course isn't really interested in playing UC as they are in the Big 12 now. There are of course many MAC options instate for the Buckeyes to pick from.

Tarik Black had a 24 yard catch for a TD in the Lions preseason game last night.

2028 4-star QB Tristin Gaines will make a visit to Ann Arbor this season

CB transfer Chris Bracy is getting some camp buzz. More talented DB's in a good thing!

Jim Harbaugh is rooting for Coach Whitt and his Wolverines.

Savion had a viral social clip by blowing up a blocking sled

Michigan Thursday: Where is the LB Help Coming From?

2026-08-13T10:53:52.712-04:00

Most insiders are in agreement that Michigan's weakness this season is at LB. With two unexpected losses from last year team with Rolder to the Detroit Lions and Sullivan to the Sooners. Michigan has big needs to fill at the LB position.

Who are the candidates to fill the spots?

Troy Bowles, son of NFL head coach and been with the program for over a year after transferring from Georgia. Time for the light to go on for him and be a really good LB!

NOB, former 5 star LB from last years class. Is he ready? Talent is there but experience reading offensive plays might not be. We will still need him this year and I hope he gets good playing experience early and often. (
Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng)

Aisea Moa, transfer from MSU and BYU prior, only 29 career tackles, would seem to be a depth player. Brother is also a 5-star true freshman WR.

Chase Taylor, is just a sophomore but maybe a starter. He played in 10 games last year and lets hope his development this off season has gotten him ready for the season.

Nathaniel Staehling, might be the biggest wildcard and the best chance for Michigan to have success at this position this year. He is a 4 year transfer from North Dakota State and played a ton of football. He was injured in the Spring but he could step in as a Day 1 starter if he is healthy and has a good fall camp. Of course, this is a different level of football and we will see if his talent translates to this level.

Max Alford, a transfer from BYU with 5 starts last year. Max will see the field this year and knows Hill's defense Michigan will be playing this season! Max has 28 games experience.

Guys I don't expect to start but could contribute:

Aden Reeder, Freshman
Markel Dabney, Freshman
Kaden Catchings, Freshman
Ndi, Etta, Freshman
Zach Ludwig, Junior Nephew of former coach Ben Herbert
Adam Bazzi, Junior
Christian Pierce, Sophomores transfer from Illinois State, Trey's brother.

Wolverine Wednesday: JJ News

2026-08-12T09:58:37.340-04:00

For Michigan fans there are now two JJ's to consider. First of course is our National Championship QB JJ McCarthy who will always be a Michigan Man. Next, is newcomer WR JJ Buchanan who is getting a ton of buzz out of Fall Camp.

The news for JJ the QB was not so good yesterday as the Minnesota Vikings named Kyler Murray their starting QB. JJ has been injured and his play last year was a bit uneven for his first real playing time in the NFL. He will get his shot, he just needs to wait a little longer and get some more experience. The game was moving a bit too fast for him last season.

JJ the WR is trending up, as a weakness on last years team is starting to become a strength. Its fair to say an 18 year old Bryce did not play his best football coming right out of high school. What didn't help was the number of drops he had by WR's and TE's last season. This year's WR room seems deep in talent with playmakers and JJ Buchanan is expected to be Michigan's next star next to Marsh.

I'm very excited to see the Michigan WR's this fall and what they can do. The Michigan skill positions on offense might be elite!

Speaking of Buzz, Michigan Basketball has hired Buzzy Caruthers as its new Director of Player Development. Buzzy comes to Michigan from Ball State where he was an assistant coach the last two seasons.

I don't mind Bryce down playing the OSU game. He has a lot of work to do before that is even an issue. I want him to stay focused on his goals today and Western Michigan and Oklahoma.

CBS might use Tony Romo's arrest to get out of his ridiculous contract.

NCAA keeps pushing back on the Class of 2022 being eligible. Which means August Rodney might just be a pipe dream.

Michigan Tuesday: Journey Back To Ernie?

2026-08-11T09:31:03.746-04:00

Ernie Hausmann is an interesting youngman who struggles with mental health. He wants to do great things for his home country in Africa but he also had mental health issue late in the season last year and seemingly quit the team prior to the Maryland game.

Ernie tried to get his life back together and entered the NFL Draft. He was not selected and he did not sign with any NFL team as an UDFA. It's not a talent issue with this youngman.

This started speculation that Ernie might fill a need for the Wolverines at LB this season as losing him, Rolder, and Sully made that room much lighter then expected. Coach Whitt seemed to shut the door on adding him or any other 5th year player as he said they are not going to sign anyone else to this years roster yesterday during his press conference.

I'm a second chance guy and would like Ernie to have one but I also know that quitting on your team is a situation that is very difficult to overcome in a locker room. I just hope everything works out for this youngman in life.

A Michigan player made Bruce Feldman's 2026 Freak List. It's Gavin Magorian! Who? He is a Marshall transfer Long Snapper who's last name sounds like a Disney Star Wars spin off. Congrats Gavin!

One player that is no longer with the team is Chibi Anwunah who medically retired. We also learned that Taylor Tatum is focusing on Baseball full-time now. Which is a good move for his long-term health.

Michigan Monday: Quiet Is Good

2026-08-10T11:04:12.702-04:00

We are now a week into a camp, pads are on, and outside of a few social media clips, things are quiet in camp. Harbaugh used to call it the Submarine and it seems Coach Whitt has similar football sensibilities.

The biggest concern for the team is at LB. Losing Sully to OK is going to end up being a very difficult loss. I also don't want to hear about any (I word), no I'm not going to say it. There should always should be two goals coming out of Fall Camp, 1 - to get better everyday and 2 - be 100% healthy.

I like quiet right now from camp. I don't want to hear hype as many times that is over blown and I also don't want to hear player X is improving or this unit is explosive. Keep all that stuff in house. You can prove it starting on 9/5.

Quiet is good right now.

Rivals300 TE Braxton Rein spoke to Colston Loveland at Tight End U and asked him about Michigan. Colston told him, it was the best decision he ever made.

RIP to Don Nelson

The Oklahoma Game will be a Maize Out, Love the noon kick!

Michigan Friday: Special Time For Coach Coombs

2026-08-07T09:37:45.910-04:00

I don't know Michigan Special Team Coordinator Kerry Coombs but the man seems to just love coaching Football. He had a wild ride in becoming a coach at Michigan. He was hired and asked to get right to Ann Arbor to prepare for Bowl Prep, which he did then his 3rd day and 3rd practice Sherrone is fired. You know the rest of the story, he coaches during the Citrus Bowl and is brought back by Coach Whitt.

That is one wild road, having to re-interview for your new job, just weeks after getting it.

As a former OSU coach, he would hope for less hate in the Micghigan - OSU matchup. I can tell you one thing after living 9 years in Cincinnati for work. People in Ohio treat this game like a religion, it's actually scary how fanatic they are.

Offensive line coach Jim Harding also spoke yesterday and gave us a few updates:

Group is bigger and strong going into Fall camp. Big gains in the weight room.
Sprague at RT and Guarnera at Center are close to locked
Wants to have the starting 5 locked 2-week prior to the start of the season
5-star Andrew Babalola is back healthy and ready to compete at Tackle.
Norton is mostly at guard with Link, Efobi, and Gach

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Nice to see pre-season football back, the Hall of Fame Game didn't look as bad as it usually does.

Also nice to see Gibbs getting paid. 3 RB's hit the bank this week in the NFL

This staff is letting out a bunch of practice film on social. I think we are going to love #6 JJ Buchanan. We love a talented JJ!

The new Purdue AD in his intro press conference says: We are here to win championships, if you don't want to win championships, go to Indiana. Who just won the NC in Football. Dope!

Michigan Thursday: Good Signs

2026-08-06T10:43:45.531-04:00

We love buzz from Fall Camp.

OC Jason Beck had a press conference and said Bryce's fundamentals look better even from the end of Spring Ball.

Both John Moore Daley and Rod Moore are going to be on pitch counts in Fall Camp. I've seen some noise on social media that this is bad news. I find it just the opposite, that two stars are back from injury and they are going to be careful in working them back into playing shape. This is actually good news as all stars should be on some type of pitch count in camp.

Rod even had a pick in practice, the QB was the transfer from CSU. Who I assume is learning the offense.

Get ready for the Savion Hiter hype!

DC Jay Hill said the following true freshman would contribute on defense this year: Carter Meadows, Titan Davis, Alistar Vallejo, and Tariq Boney.

Here is a bonus basketball one from Coach Boynton: believes that 5-star McCoy could be one of the best perimeter defenders in college basketball next season. That he is even better and more athletic then they even thought (when recruiting him) in practice.

What was interesting and something I hadn't considered is that Jason Beck had to face Jay Hill defense last year in the "Holy War". Here is what they said about facing each other:

Beck on Hill: "What stands out with Coach Hill is they're very sound. They do an excellent job with technique, but you won't play anybody that does more variation with the fronts, disguising the coverages, and the complements to those things," Beck said.

"It gives you a lot of great work every day in practice where you're facing multiple fronts, multiple coverages, rolling on the snap, disguising it. So complex defense, and they give you great looks. A lot of great work to go against them every day."

Hill on Beck: "They do a good job of finding mismatches and trying to get you out-leveraged in different ways," Hill said. "When you think they're going to run it, they throw it, and when you think they're going to throw it, they run it.

"It keeps you on your toes. Very explosive. And probably the best thing about them, they do a great job of getting the playmakers the ball in space with the opportunity to make plays."

Wolverine Wednesday: Loses Two Players and a Kicker Gets Suspended

2026-08-05T09:31:53.239-04:00

Michigan Football will hit the field today after camp opened yesterday. With camp opening we learned two Wolverines are no longer on the team.

1. Taylor Tatum who was the former top RB in the country coming out of high school and recent transfer from Oklahoma, has left the team. He was switching positions from RB to DB and even made a couple plays in the end zone during the Spring Game. There was even hope maybe he could return kicks and punts and take advantage of his speed. No reason was given for him leaving and hopefully he will stick in Ann Arbor and play baseball, which was also the intent in moving North.

2. WR CJ Charleston was an emergency transfer from Youngstown State a couple years ago. He barely played and was out the entire 2025 season with an injury. He was on the roster in the Spring but has been in college for 7 years. We assume he was out of eligibility.

Tatum clearly is the biggest loss as he is a talented player but maybe he had enough of getting hit everyday and wants to hit a baseball full time. Or maybe he didn't enjoy the move to defense. Remember James Hudson from Detroit that left for UC because Harbaugh wanted to move him to the offensive line from the defensive line? As soon as he gets to UC, they move him to the offensive line. He was drafted in the 4th round by the Browns and is now with the Patriots. I guess someone owes Harbaugh an apology.

Now a strange story out of Georgia, where Michigan Kicker commit Ryan Jung has been ruled ineligible for the season by the GHSA. Ryan transferred from IMG this season. Expect an appeal. The reason for the suspension was not released.

Brice Marich from X on Michigan Basketball Practice notes:

- Quinn Costello might have the best shot on the team - Brandon McCoy can create his own shot - I can see why Dusty May wanted Marcus Moller. Another 7+ footer with great touch around the rim - J.P. Estrella will be a rebound machine

Michigan Tuesday: Today You Sharpen The Sword

2026-08-04T09:59:54.045-04:00

I'm probably watching to much House of Dragons on HBO or maybe I'm recalling the "steel sharpens steel" comment from Harbaugh but this is the analogy I'm using for the start of Fall Camp. Yes, we wrongly compare battles of war with sporting events but again, since we already do it, I will just plow forward.

Since Michigan played 3 good quarters in the Citrus Bowl against Texas, this program has changed completely. The valyrian steel was melted and formed into a blade. There was short spring practice where the blade was continued to be formed with current and new steel and the handle was created. Since spring practice was completed, weight had to be added so the sword swung evenly and the handle was formed to fit the hand perfectly.

Now Fall Camp starts and its time to sharpen the blade for battle and add some decorative carvings for personalization. That's what its all about isn't? Being able to be better everyday and much better then the team that was on the field against OSU and Texas. A new leader brought in discipline and experience. Two new coordinators will bring a new approach to Ann Arbor and the Big Ten.

College Football is different now and Curt Cignetti has ruined any type of honeymoon period for any new head coach. He took one of the worst programs in college football and turned them into a National Champion in 2 years. Anything less then a playoff berth for the Wolverines will be a failed season.

I'm in the camp that Bryce did a decent job last year for a 18 year old without any college experience. This season is going to be riding 100% on his shoulders, his honeymoon is over. He has to lead, throw accurately, protect the football, and run to extend drives. That is still a lot of responsibility for a 19 year old. I know he is paid a ton of money, but cash doesn't create a leader.

This next month is about bonding with teammates, completing the learning of a new offense and defense, getting better everyday, and being all in on the season's goals. Turning that hunk of steel into a beautiful sword that will perform every Saturday to the best of its abilities.

Rod Moore to wear the famous #1 jersey

Miami's Mario Cristobal got an extension, funny how he became a good coach when Miami started to invest in NIL.

ND has cancelled their series with IU and replaced them with USC. I expect IU to replace ND with Texas State. IU's non-conference schedule for the next 5 years is a clown show.

Detroit Cass Tech 2028 five-star OT Antijuan Wilkes will visit for the OK game.

Michigan Monday: Fall Camp Eve

2026-08-03T09:50:58.786-04:00

This is it, the last day of summer for our Michigan Wolverine Football team. Tuesday starts Fall Camp and offically the 2025 Season. Michigan has new life in the building with a new head coach and two new powerful coordinators. The team got the S&C program turned around and our 5 star QB got an off season worth of buzz that he wasn't good enough last season. There should be plenty of motivation in Schembechler Hall right now.

The buzz from this weekend is that the Wolverines may still be looking for LB help in the portal. It's 8/3 and if there is still a quality prospect in there, I would be shocked. There was some hope after this weekend's ruling where the 2022 class could get a 5th year of eligibility, still if they signed an NFL and not in the portal, they can't jump in now. Which would limit Michigan's candidates I expect.

This is also a concern Michigan is a little light at the position.

What to watch in Camp:

1. Bryce improvement, Michigan will go as far as Bryce leads them.

2. New offensive scheme

3. RB and offensive line, Michigan has talented RB's but will need the OL to perform.

4. Defense as a whole. Michigan needs a good pass rush, LB's that can play in space and strong secondary. Defense will need big improvements over Wink's last stand. (I'm so happy he is gone!).

August Rodney? With the new ruling does that mean Rodney Gale could come back to Michigan? He wouldn't need to be in the transfer portal I assume, since he would be joining his old team. He did play in the G-League for the Pistons, which could be problematic in him coming back.

Coach Boynton made an interesting assistant coach hire this weekend. He hired Orlando G-League head coach Dylan Murphy, who is considered one of the best coaches in the league. Seems like a solid hire! Looks like coach learned from Dusty that having a strong staff is the key to success.

Tigers always seem to trade away their best pitchers.

Michigan Friday: New Opponents and Stronger Team

2026-07-31T09:00:00.000-04:00

Media Day for the Wolverines came and went without any controversy. That is why coach Whitt is here. The one thing he did say that was a big surprising was that when the staff got here, the S&C program was not at the level they expected and that team was lacking strength. That entire S&C program, including the machines have be redone and expect the Wolverines to be faster and stronger this Fall.

That kind of stuff just gets me so angry at where this program has been the last two seasons. They were still one win over OSU away from making the playoffs. Can you only imagine how successful they would've been if they had competent leadership at any level? Moving on.....................

Michigan Football has added Central Michigan back on the schedule in 2028 and 2031. Michigan should play a Michigan MAC team at least once every 2 years.

Speaking of schedules have you seen Indiana's and Penn State's schedule this season? I know these schedules are done years in advance, but IU can no longer schedule like they are a doormat.

Michigan Basketball has signed a 2 game contract with Louisville for a game in Detroit and Indy

Michigan Thursday: Time For Michigan's 5-Star QB's to Stand Up

2026-07-30T09:02:08.693-04:00

Today Bryce will take center stage at the Big Ten Media Days. He will be asked a 100 questions on what he is doing to improve this season. The kid was just 18 years old last season, had no QB coach, and a head coach that was completely off the rails. I thought he did pretty well with everything considered. Let us not forget JJ's or even Dante Moore's first year at QB. Both were pretty ugly.

Speaking of JJ, he is in a similar boat that Bryce is in. His first season in the NFL didn't even get started with an injury in his first pre-season game, then last season was full of inconsistencies including more injuries. Minnesota having a terrible offensive line and no running game didn't help either. So Minnesota has brought in former #1 pick Kyler Murray to compete with JJ in camp. Many talking heads have Kyler penciled in as the Game 1 starter, I do not. Nothing fuels JJ more then competition and I expect he has worked his ass off the past 6 months.

So the time is now for both Bryce and JJ. Time to put what you have worked on into action. Time to be the best QB's you can be. If not, you have a Carr and a Murray waiting to step up.

Michigan Football has added another staffer to the recruiting department. Chase Ketterer played at ND and played HS football in Indiana. Welcome Chase and make sure you chase down and sign a bunch of 4 and 5 stars!

NC 4-star LB Ryan Peterson has locked in an official visit for the OK game.

BTN hired Biff. I really like Biff but I hate how he left in January.

Wolverine Wednesday: Patches For Millions Race

2026-07-29T09:00:27.989-04:00

Maybe some of you can relate to this story. How many of you had to go door to door to sell something to raise money for your football/baseball/basketball/soccer team growing up? It was mostly magazine subscriptions and that was a tough sell. Nothing like sending your kids out to cold call so you could play shortstop. True story, not sure what sport it was but I sold light bulbs door to door and that was the easiest sale I ever did. I was sold out quick!

Since athletics departments are now running like semi-pro baseball clubs, the race is on to get jersey patches and big dollars. Two large brands announced deals yesterday. OSU with JP Morgan Chase for $17M a year and then followed by Notre Dame and SoFi for somewhere between $18-$20M per year. I would expect the price tag for Michigan would be $25M per to sew your corporate patch on the most iconic jersey in college sports. The market has been set and now Michigan needs to break it.

It would be nice if one of the Michigan Fortune 500 companies would step up!

Michigan Basketball was led by "Bigs" last season. This season the guards will lead the way. Sure would love a backup point.

Brian Kelly gets at gig with CBS. Please keep him away from Big Ten games please. I feel like he is a Mountain West or PAC 9 type of guy.

LIV Golf cancels its Michigan end of the season Championship in Michigan. That is probably it for the struggling golf league. Ironically, this week is also the last PGA event in Michigan for the Rocket Classic. Thank goodness for Oakland Hills and US Opens. I hear that clubshouse is back up and completed after that devastating fire.

Michigan Tuesday: Jersey Patches and Big Ten Media Days

2026-07-28T09:22:00.373-04:00

The Big Ten Media Days start today which means we will hear nothing but coach speak and how easy Penn State's schedule is this year. It's also a sign that the Wolverines will be playing ball soon!

News breaking this morning is that Ohio State has signed a $17M a year deal with JP Morgan Chase to put their logo on OSU uniforms. I know Michigan fans hate the idea of a corporate logo on a Michigan jersey, but its only a matter of time now. Some could argue that Jordan, Nike, and Adidas are all corporate logos that have been on the jersey for many years. The goal will be to do it with class and not make each player look like a Nascar.

I would like to see the math where Chase can get $17M worth of exposure a year by putting a patch on a jersey. I think corporate sponsorships of stadiums and patches on jerseys are not the best marketing opportunities. I also can see the other side of the argument as OSU (like Michigan) is on TV every week and bring a ton of eye balls to each game. Still $17M for a patch? Anyone want to sponsor a BHB patch? 😀

I hope Warde is not negotiating the Michigan deal.

There is buzz that the Michigan Regents maybe close to finding a new President for U of M. First thing he or she will need to do is hire an AD.

As a reminder, Bryce, Jordan, and Trey Pierce are attending the Big Ten Media Days with Coach Whitt. Michigan is planned to hit the stage on Thursday.

Bryce was on Rich Eisen yesterday, he is working with Jordan Palmer, QB coach this off season on his fundementals: "Overall, just simplifying everything, making everything as simple as possible, easy as possible. That's a simple way to put it," Underwood said. "Overall, just making the game way easier, not doing too much, just being calm, relaxed in a pocket, just football." He is also working on the mental side:"I'd say being mentally stronger," Underwood said. "I feel like last year was more of like, OK, see if I'm physically gifted, and now it's about seeing how mentally strong I can be going throughout the season. Of course, the goal is being 1-0 every single week, but no matter what, being mentally strong every game."

Michigan Monday: Wealthy Warde

2026-07-27T12:37:28.699-04:00

After a $12M investigation, Michigan is removing Warde in the most gentle way possible. They are giving him a 4 month vacation, allowing him to retire/quit, giving him $7M as a walking away bonus, plus retiree health benefits, with tickets and golf benefits. He also can't be an AD at a Big Ten school for the next 2 years. I don't think they have to worry about that!

Michigan spending nearly $20M to remove Warde from his position, is a crazy example of cost mismanagement. I really hope that Open AI IPO goes well. I also hope this closes the book on the roller coaster ride this department has had since he took over. I still can't believe he said he planned to stay at Michigan long term and then days later signed his separation agreement.

Write the check and let's move on.

Speaking of moving on, Sherrone's house is for sale. The quicker he can get out of Ann Arbor the better. Not sure where he can go, due to his legal issues, but best to be out of Washtenaw County as least.

Sounds like the concerts went well this weekend, I now wonder if they should of installed the new turf after this weekend, instead of prior.

When I heard the Duke - Michigan game was getting moved to a baseball stadium, I thought that could be a disaster for fans buying tickets. Glad they killed the game, if it couldn't be played in a real basketball arena.

Michigan Friday: What Lane Said

2026-07-24T09:06:36.251-04:00

There are plenty of good stories in college football as we are just a few weeks away from Fall Camp starting. One is our Wolverines under Coach Whitt another is Lane Kiffin at LSU after jumping from the CFP Ole Miss program.

SEC gets out early on their media days and since ESPN owns the contract and should rename their network to ESECPN covered the event like its the Super Bowl. Lane said as a child he thought there were two people that would never die, his father and Hulk Hogan. Both legends recently passed away.

As a kid in the 80's, I have to agree with that statement.

With Camp right around the corner. Here are some things I'm excited for next season.

A more disciplined better fundamental football team under Coach Whitt.
A 19 year-old QB with a year of experience and an off season of working to get better.
A new defense with talented transfers and returning players.
A new offensive scheme that other Big 10 teams have not seen.
A very talented room of RB's
A very deep true freshmen class

-Duke Michigan Game originally supposed to air on Prime at MSG and then moved to Miami due to Fox saying they own the game, will not be played next season.

-Enjoy Morgan Wallen at the Big House this weekend.

Michigan Thursday: Big House Gets New Turf!

2026-07-23T10:14:20.788-04:00

That is all!

Wolverine Wednesday: LJ Takes His Talents to Miami

2026-07-22T09:25:44.509-04:00

LJ Cason is from Florida and a very loyal player to Dusty. He originally committed to Dusty at FAU and moved with him to Ann Arbor. 2 Years later, he has a National Championship ring, a repaired ACL, and Dusty is in Dallas. Mike Boynton is on a prove it deal and saved most of the roster. LJ was expected to redshirt next season, even though reports were he could play sometime mid-season. If you remember, he delayed his ACL surgery a couple months for the Michigan title run.

Why is LJ the only player to transfer? This is just me guessing but I feel like it's probably close to the truth. With LJ expected to just to rehab next season, the NIL money might not be as big as he expected in Ann Arbor. Miami tampered, offered a big bag for not playing or just 1/2 a season and he jumped back home. Dusty is gone, he is looking at sitting the bench for most of the year, and he is not getting paid what he thinks he is worth. If you follow football recruiting, you can see the Miami has a healthy NIL budget. Basketball was very strong a few years ago and dropped off a cliff. They played better last season with a new young coach and need playmakers. With all those factors, it become and easy decision for LJ to go to South Beach.

The loss to Michigan is a very good player on the rise, but one that wasn't expected to contribute to next season (or very little). Which means this is not a net loss for Coach Boynton because of his prove it deal. College Basketball is just a 1 year window anyway right now.

This does mean Michigan needs another ball handler and I know the coaching staff is open to adding one in the portal still this summer. Getting a solid backup point that can contribute to next season, would be a net add for sure.

Good Luck LJ and we wish all the best on the beach!

Dusty just signed Jett to a 2 way deal. Class move.

Michigan Tuesday: Warde's World

2026-07-21T09:48:55.840-04:00

Today's post is not about what Warde did or didn't do. It's about trying to understand a mindset from a leader of one of the most important Athletic Departments in the country.

Warde is a Michigan Man, he played in Ann Arbor, was educated in Ann Arbor, and has worked as the AD for the last 10 years. In his mind, that gives him some type of pass for being a good leader. In very few situations leaders don't continue in their role when there are systemic problems like this department has had. Yes, I know academia doesn't work like a Fortune 500 company, but it should because it acts like one everyday.

Warde went on the radio a week ago, saying everything in the news was BS, when he 100% knew it wasn't. He might not have reviewed the 20,000 paged report, there is no way he didn't know its conclusion and what a likely departure would mean. Even the response he released to the media was arrogant and continued to miss the point.

Nobody is arguing that Warde didn't do some good things in role. Having 2 National Championship is a historic run but while the tree was producing award winning fruit it was dying inside.

Warde strikes me as a leader that can't read the room and doesn't understand his weakness or his blind spots. With his education, he really should understand that. He has a BA in General Studies, a Masters in Social Work, and an MBA from Ross. If you have an FBI investigation on your watch, that is a problem. When the organization funds a $12M investigation instead of firing you and saving $12M, it's only a matter of time before you need a new role.

Now he is a lame duck AD and even though he is going to do all these good things over the next 4 months, he is done. It would be another waste of money to implement all these changes for just a new person to come in a change it a few short months. It's time to move the page and hire someone that understands how to lead, has a business leadership background, and understands the 2026 athletics landscape.

Today, I announce my candidacy for AD 2027! 😀 Just kidding. Maybe we just hire Open AI and have them create us a AI AD. 😃

ESPN is laying off a ton of talent this week. Already gone are Ryan Clark, Karl Ravech, and NFL Reporter Tom Pelissero. Both Ryan and Karl were on the air yesterday.

Michigan Monday: All Yax Does Is Win Championships

2026-07-20T09:32:18.322-04:00

Ok, nobody ever remembers who win the NBA Summer League Championship. I even saw one in person like 5 years ago when I was in Vegas for a work conference. I have no idea who even won that game.

Last night Yax and the Golden State Summer League team won the Summer League over Boozer and the Memphis Grizzlies. Yax finished with 21 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and 3 turnovers while shooting 9 of 18 from the field and 2 of 6 from 3. This performance wrapped by a strong summer league by the former Wolverine who averaged 13.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, 4.4 assists, 1.4 steals and 2 turnovers.

As we expected, Yax looks like he is ready to contribute to Warriors next season, no matter what LeBron decides.

For you golf fans, the Open was interesting, I feel bad for Sam "Rug" Burns. He keeps getting so close, if he just shoots even par yesterday he is the champ. You have to applaud Fox for making a birdie on 18 the hardest hole on the course.

Breaking news: Warde is out at the end of the year and report is expected to be released today which seems to shine a negative light on the athletics department. More to come as the news breaks today.