Michigan Monday: Jimmy Attends World Series

You never know where our rock star head coach is going to show up, he of course never sleeps and needs to fill non-working hours with something.  Most would watch the game from home after being on the road to East Lansing for a couple of days.  Not  Jimmy, he loaded up his wife and father and headed to Chicago.   Well done sir!

>

LOOK: Of course Jim Harbaugh brings a glove to watch the World Series at Wrigleyhttps://t.co/FnluDjU9V4 pic.twitter.com/sUvjrw44jU

— CBS Sports CFB (@CBSSportsCFB) October 31, 2016

• Michigan is still #2 in both polls

• Michigan is a -30 over Maryland

• DPJ has announced his top 5 schools:  Florida, FSU, Michigan, Michigan State and Ohio State.  He plans to enroll at his school in January.  So we are probably a month or so away from his announcement.

• Aubrey Solomon is planning to take an official visit to A2 this weekend.  His mom will be attending with him.

• It seems twitter is full of missed holding calls on MSU's offensive line.   It's hard to spot a ton of those on TV, but something had to be happening.   You just don't stop the best DL in the country that many times.  I hope the Michigan staff sends a tape to the Big Ten office.

A look ahead to Maryland

Maryland has seemed to be playing better this year under former DC DJ Durkin as a 1st year head coach.   He is doing well on the recruiting trail and now is one win away from a bowl game with a 5-3 record.  His losses have come to PSU, Minnesota and last weekend to IU.   The rest of the season looks like this: at Michigan, OSU, at Nebraska, and Rutgers.  That 6th win might not come until the end of the season.

• Maryland is ranked 110th in passing per game
• Maryland is ranked 12th in running per game
• 3:30 Kick on ESPN

Happy Halloween!

Eric was so into the rivalry he looks like Paul Bunyan:

Paul and Senior RT Eric Magnuson riding shotgun, enjoying a happy bus trip back to Ann Arbor. Looks like Paul has a smile on his face! pic.twitter.com/9SqPHRzvnP

— Coach Harbaugh (@CoachJim4UM) October 29, 2016

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/michigan-monday-jimmy-attends-world.html

Guide Helps Companies Navigate Contracting

Washington D.C. and its many federal entities are in Maryland’s backyard. In addition, Maryland has a high  concentration of federal and military centers that create significant business opportunities for Maryland companies.

Government contracts can yield great opportunities for businesses, but the bidding process may seem overwhelming. To help companies navigate the process, the Department of Commerce’s Office of Military & Federal Affairs offers a Government Contracting Guide. The guide, which you can access here, is a comprehensive resource that includes insight into the process, as well as step-by-step instructions that will help companies submit bids that win contracts.

Helga Weschke, Director of Federal Business Relations, talks about the guide in the video, below.

The guide specifically outlines how to:

• Define and present your capabilities
• Find the right contact at a federal installation, laboratory or agency in Maryland
• Determine a fit with the agencies needs
• Decide what not to bid on
• Find an appropriate opportunity
• Prepare a proposal
• Do business with the State of Maryland
• Use Maryland’s resources to your advantage

Learn more about Maryland’s business-to-government resources and download the contracting guide here.

The post Guide Helps Companies Navigate Contracting appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/10/guide-helps-companies-navigate-contracting/

MSU Post Game

David Guralnick Detroit News

This went the way I thought it would.   I knew Michigan wasn't going to blow out the Spartans now on a 0-6 streak.    MSU always plays above their level when they see Maize and Blue on the other side of the field.  

In fact,  I'm sure many Wolverine fanes were nervous at two points in the game, #1 after the opening drive and #2 in the 4th quarter when it looked like MSU was building a comeback.  Finally, the better team won the game and even when MSU out rushed the Wolverines. (MSU out rushed the Wolverines 217 to 192)  The difference in the game was the passing yards, where Michigan lead 244 to 188.  (Most of MSU yards came late in the 4th)

I loved the way Michigan played in the first half,  the second half was a different story.   I thought Michigan wasn't aggressive enough on either side of the ball in the second half and left the door slightly open for the Spartans.   Michigan scored a disappointing 5 points in the second half and let MSU score 13.   Dantonio coached like a guy that didn't have the talent or depth to compete with the second ranked Wolverines.  He was right and the Wolverines talent was the difference in the game.

I hated the 4th quarter 3rd down call that ended a drive with a RB dive with Share Morris in the game.  That was the worst call of the game from the Michigan staff, when a scoring drive could have sealed the game.

Either way a win is a win and this one came over the Spartans.  It wasn't pretty but it's a box the Wolverines needed to check to reach its goals.  Its nice to finally have a win against a rival in East Lansing.


Cheers:

• Darboh had his best game as a Wolverine
• Peppers tried to do everything and almost did
• Wilton had a nice game, the INT could have been a better throw but he thought he had a wide open RB.
• McDoom continues to make a difference in the game
• Kenny Allen getting back his confidence!
• The coaching was very strong most of the game for the Wolverines

Jeers:

• The DL didn't get much of a push and MSU got over 200 yards on the ground
• Pass rush was hit and miss
• Too many stupid penalties on defense
• MSU completed too much in the air at the end of the 4th quarter
• Michigan's D had it's worst outing of the year
• ESPN not showing the Michigan players grabbing the Paul Bunyan

Time to take care of business against Maryland at home and then look ahead to the trip to Iowa.   Its nice to finally exercise the ghosts of the recent past.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/msu-post-game.html

Maryland business news: UMBC, new jobs, fall festivities

Catch up on the latest Maryland business news.

Maryland business successes:

• Businesses within the BGE’s Smart Energy Economic Development Program are creating 2,400 new jobs in Maryland, according to Capital Gazette.
• CityBizList reports that Baltimore tech company Mindgrub has added 21 new employees since June.
• Columbia tech company Tenable Network Security made its first acquisition this month by purchasing a San Fransisco cybersecurity firm, according to the BBJ.
• Local universities were honored and awarded this month. UMBC was recognized by U.S. News and World Report as a global leader in higher education.
• Johns Hopkins was awarded $6 million by the Environmental Protection Agency to continue researching the effects of childhood asthma, according to BBJ.

Maryland autumn activities:

• Looking for places to spend Halloween? Baltimore was named one of the best cities to trick-or-treat in the U.S.
• Bring home some fresh produce from a Maryland apple orchard this fall. There are more than 171 apple orchards in the state, MDBizNews reports.
• Get out your hook and bait! The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has started fall trout stocking.
• Make your way to a Maryland farm for pumpkin picking, corn mazes, hayrides and more this November.
• Celebrate the holidays at the Christmas Village in Baltimore. Enjoy photos with Santa, ice skating, live music, and more starting November 24.
• Looking for more farm favorites? Check out marylandsbest.net. 

 

The post Maryland business news: UMBC, new jobs, fall festivities appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/10/maryland-business-news-umbc-new-jobs-fall-festivities/

Michigan State Preview

Time:  Noon
Location: Spartan Stadium
Weather: 66 and 10% Rain
TV: ESPN
Line: Michigan -24.5

One team is 7-0 this year, the other is on a 5 game losing streak, one team owns the series lead 68-35-5, the other has won the last 7 out of 8 games, one team is over a 3 TD favorite, the other won last years match-up with a blocked punt and score as time expired. 

When Michigan and MSU meet you can throw all those stats out the window.   This will be a hard hitting football game and closer then people think. 

Tale of the Tape

MSU Offense vs. Michigan D = Michigan
Michigan O vs. MSU D = Michigan
Home Field Advantage = MSU
Coaching = Michigan
Special Teams = TBD

It's clear on paper who the better team is, as it was last week when Ohio State traveled to Happy Valley.  Michigan is probably better or even at every position on the field.   As we all remember his recruitment, Mailk McDowell is a very good player and expected high draft pick next year.   Like many of his teammates on defense, he has been a bit banged up the last few weeks.    With that said, MSU only has 7 sacks this year. 

MSU RB LJ Scott is a solid running back and will try to get as many yards on the ground as possible, as MSU will try to hide their inexperience at QB through a strong running game.  The team with the most yards on the ground has won this game 42 out of the last 46 times. 

Fun Fact:  This is Michigan's 1,300 football game all time.

Smile proudly, that things are back to normal if.........

• Michigan is running the ball on MSU
• Wilton is accurate and plays clean
• Michigan's defensive line is overpowering MSU O Line
• Peppers proves he is the best player on the field
• Michigan plays angry but clean for last year

Yell, the only green I like is money if..........

• Michigan turns the ball over and keeps the game close
• Special teams is an issue
• There is a wind storm of trash and rain
• MSU hits big plays

The only way MSU wins this game is if they surprise the Wolverines with some big plays.   They will try to run the ball but that won't work very often.   They will be pulling out all the tricks in the book in this game,  look for fake punts and field goals.   Look for long passes and MSU going for 4th down in non-traditional field position.

MSU has nothing to lose in this game and will play for their entire season on Saturday.  Right now, they are looking to be home for the holidays and that Western Michigan is ranked higher then them.   Saturday is their entire season and they are very desperate.    ESPN win percentage is 98% for Michigan.   They are either going to fight like prisoners trying to break out of jail or will lay down and let the Wolverines run all over them.   I'm expecting a street fight.

Jimmy will have the Wolverines ready to roll up their sleeves and play hard.  The memory of the blocked punt will motivate every one of those starters.   Time to take back the Paul Bunyan!

Michigan 31 MSU 17 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/michigan-state-preview.html

Michigan Thursday: Updates Injuries and Looks Ahead to Big Ten Weekend

Jimmy spoke on the radio this morning and gave updates that Evans practiced yesterday and isn't showing any signs.   He still has to be approved by doctors before he can play on Saturday.  I would be a bit surprised if he played. 

It seems Khalid Hill also got hurt last Saturday but is expected to play on Sunday. 

During Jedd Fisch press conference this week, he mentioned a couple of interesting things.   He said the TD to Wheatley was play designed for the redshirt freshman.   Also, he likes the snaps that O'Korn is getting in games and that he is progressing as a QB.


Big 10 Game of the Week:

Nebraska at Wisconsin:  The Badgers lost two games in a row and didn't drop in the ratings.   They did finally beat Iowa last week.  Nebraska is probably one of the quietest Top 10 teams we have had lately.   A good example is most believe Wisconsin is the best team in the Big 10 West.  They are actually in 4th/5th  (tied with Minnesota) place below Nebraska, Iowa, and Northwestern.  Vegas isn't buying Nebraska either as the Cornhuskers are 9 point dog to Wisconsin at home.  Nebraska also has to travel to OSU next week.   I still think Wisconsin is the better team.   Wisconsin 17 Nebraska 14


Maryland at Indiana:  This is the classis IU team, we think there is something there and then they end up not making a bowl game.   Maryland had a nice win over a down MSU team last weekend.   They need one more win to go bowling in Durkin's first year.  They also visit A2 next weekend.    I think Maryland is the better team but I expect IU to score a lot in this one.   IU is favored by 5.   IU 38 Maryland 27


Penn State at Purdue:  Penn State had it's biggest victory in probably 10 years last weekend.   Purdue is now in head coaching searching mode.   Purdue seemed to get a pump in energy with the new head coach as they played a close game against Nebraska.   I think Penn State is still riding high and will take are of Purdue pretty easily.  PSU -13.5   Penn State 28 Purdue 10

Minnesota at Illinois:  The Golden Gophers are one win away from bowl eligibility.   I think they beat Illinois pretty easily.   Minnesota is -9.   Minnesota 24 Illinois 13

• Bob Wischusen and Brock Huard will be calling the Michigan game on Saturday.

• Oregon commit DL commit Rutger Reitmaier is looking to visit for the IU Game.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/michigan-thursday-updates-injuries-and.html

Wolverine Wednesday: Jimmy is Getting Paid

NFL.com came out with it's highest paid coaches in college football and it lists Jimmy's compensation this year at $9M.   Which may surprise some of you.   I think it has something to do with that insurance policy but he is now ahead of Nick Sabin my a pretty large margin.

As we know, Jimmy is worth every penny!

Here is a quick look at the top 10:

1	Jim Harbaugh	Michigan	$9,004,000
2	Nick Saban	Alabama	$6,939,395
3	Urban Meyer	Ohio State	$6,094,800
4	Bob Stoops	Oklahoma	$5,550,000
5	Jimbo Fisher	Florida State	$5,250,000
6	Charlie Strong	Texas	$5,200,130
7	Kevin Sumlin	Texas A&M	$5,000,000
8	Gus Malzahn	Auburn	$4,729,500
9	Hugh Freeze	Ole Miss	$4,703,500
10 (tie)	Kirk Ferentz	Iowa	$4,500,000
10 (tie)	James Franklin	Penn State	$4,500,000

• ESPN List the top 50 players in college football:  Peppers is at #2 and Lewis is #17.  No Butt?

• Don Brown said today in his presser that he has been playing the Second Defense a lot in practice to give them more experience and to rest the starters.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/wolverine-wednesday-jimmy-is-getting.html

Maryland Awarded $2 Million for Apprenticeship Program

Guest feature: Maureen O’Connor is the director of communications for the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation. Follow DLLR on Facebook and Twitter.

The U.S. Department of Labor has awarded Maryland with a $2 million grant to invest in the state’s apprenticeship program.

“Apprenticeships allow Marylanders to work while they learn in some of the State’s leading industries. Investing in the future of the State’s workforce means investing in registered apprenticeships,” said Maryland Labor Secretary Kelly M. Schulz. “Under the leadership of Governor Hogan, Maryland is working toward a sizable increase in apprenticeships, from 7,186 in 2012 to 9,258 today, with a goal of 9,500 by the end of 2016.”

The state is aligning apprenticeships with the Maryland’s workforce system to ensure that traditional apprenticeship opportunities expand with labor demand. The new funds will be used to provide staffing and outreach to businesses interested in creating apprenticeship opportunities.

For more information about apprenticeship opportunities in Maryland, please visit the Department’s website.

Learn more.

The post Maryland Awarded $2 Million for Apprenticeship Program appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/10/maryland-awarded-2-million-apprenticeship-program/

Fall farm activities in Maryland

Guest feature: Julie Oberg is the Communications Director for the Maryland Department of Agriculture. Follow along with MDA @MdAgDept and Maryland’s Best @MdsBest.

Maryland farms are ready for your family this fall.

Maryland’s farmers offer a variety of fall activities as a way for families to spend time together outdoors. October is the perfect time to experience the fun of selecting your own pumpkins for jack-o-lanterns, getting lost in a corn maze, taking a hayride, or attending a fall festival. Depending on the farm, visitors may be able to enjoy a variety of other activities including farm stands, scarecrow-making, petting farms, pony rides, live music, decorations, fresh apple cider, home baked goods and more.

“It just doesn’t get better than getting the kids out to the farm on a crisp autumn day,” said Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Joseph Bartenfelder. “Agritourism is a booming industry here in Maryland. Visiting a farm is great fun for all ages and supports our family farmers too. On-farm tourism operations and farm stands are open and ready for visitors.”

According to the most recent agricultural census by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service, there are 33,161 agri-tourism farms nationally with revenues totaling $704 million. In Maryland, there are 307 agri-tourism farms with revenues of $7.2 million.

For a list of farms offering fall activities, visit marylandsbest.net.

The post Fall farm activities in Maryland appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/10/fall-farm-activities-maryland/

Michigan Tuesday: Recaps Commit and Starts To Look Forward to MSU

3 star DE Kwity Paye committed to Michigan yesterday.   He was a BC commit but visited for the Wisconsin game and took an official to BC last weekend.  It was clear to him, that his heart was in Ann Arbor and he pulled the trigger on a commitment to the Maize and Blue yesterday.

Kwity is a bit of an under the radar recruit and is ranked a 3 star prospect across the board, minus ESPN who has him as a 4 star.  His offer list also doesn't make you swoon, with only BC, Navy, Rutgers, Syracuse, and Toledo on it. 

This is a Don Brown recruit and I'm sure Don has specific plans for the 6'3 225 pound athlete.   I expect he will redshirt next year to maybe learn a LB position.  

Welcome Kwity!


Jimmy Speaks:

• “This is a big game for us. Championship type of ballgame. Our preparations will need to be at their best. I don’t know much more to say about it than that. That says it all.”

• The left side of the offensive line is still a weekly completion.   The new left side with Braden at LT and  Bredeson at LG could change as Bushell-Beatty is also in the mix.   

• Chris Evans of course has a concussion and is questionable for this weekend.

• Kareem Walker will red shirt

ESPN is providing plenty of motivation for the Wolverines on Saturday.  They are constantly playing the block punt on a commercial to advertise the game on Saturday.    I'm sure this is just another reminder about the goal on Saturday. 

In fact, reports are that Jourdan Lewis was getting a bit "salty" after all the MSU questions during the players press conference on Monday.

-----

• El Cerrito, CA 2017 4 star OL Aaron Banks will visit A2 next month.

• 4 star OT Mekhi Becton may visit for the Maryland game

• Robert Porcher IV  really enjoyed his Michigan visit last weekend

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/michigan-tuesday-recaps-commit-and.html

Michigan Monday: Does Post Game Today in a Yankees Announcer Voice

Hey Superman - Let me see you Fly! David Guralnick, Detroit News

Sorry for the late recap from this weekend:

It's really starting to get hard to find flaws with this team.  Wilton who has had some accuracy problems in the past, looked much improved on Saturday afternoon.   I was thinking the same thing, but I will let Jimmy say it, We were just executing well. I was really, really impressed. Those first three drives of the game, and then the entire game-- I thought Wilton Speight might have had one of the best games of his career.

Wilton was 16/23 for 253 yards and 2 TD's.  Most importantly he didn't throw anything that resembled a bad throw or one that could be picked.   They say, he spent the entire bye week looking at film and I think it helped. 

The defense nearly pitched another shutout but a 50/50 ball went Illinois way.  The running game was also sharp, led by some nice running by Higdon who lead the team with 106 yards.  

Kenny also got back on track and hit two field goals.  


Cheers:

• Improved QB Play
• Defense for giving up one TD
• Thomas had a nice game at safety and his first Int.
• Higdon is a very nice back and has a huge upside
• Darboh was one yard away from another 100 yard performance
• Another great coaching job by the Michigan staff (no let down)

Jeers:

• Grant Perry is in the dog house and didn't play
• Chris Evans blacked out after his hit
• Peppers didn't get in the end zone

I don't know what targeting is anymore but it sure looked like it on Evans hit.   He blacked out and was doing better by half-time, I suspect we won't see him this weekend against MSU.   It's best for him to rest a couple of weeks before any contact. 

Now it's time to turn the page and look what happens to be in the front windshield:  A trip to East Lansing! I know the Buckeyes lost this weekend but first things first.   I don't think there will be any trouble getting up for this game.    I also don't care how the Spartans are playing, this is going to be a hard hitting game.   Love the 12:00 kick!

------------

In the your best Yankee announcer voice:   Welcome, Donovan Jeter........Jeter

Right after his de-commitment from ND last week and his official visit to Ann Arbor this weekend, four-star Beaver Falls DT/DE Donovan Jeter announced he wanted to commit to the Wolverines yesterday.

He is a 4 star to all the services and pretty much a top 300 player.  ESPN rates him the highest at #80.  His offer list was pretty incredible with the likes of Oklahoma, Notre Dame, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Miami FL, MSU, Nebraska, Ohio State, Ole Miss, Penn State, Pitt, South Carolina, Stanford, Tennessee, UCLA, West Virginia, Wisconsin and others.

This was a strong Greg Mattision recruitment and he gave the Pittsburg media this following quote (HT to Mgoblog)

“I don’t want to play for a mediocre school,” he said. “I don’t want to play for a team that goes like 7-6. I want to go to a school that plays in the big bowl games or plays in the College Football Playoff. I don’t want to go to an average school because I don’t think I’m an average player. I want to make big time plays on a big time stage.”

Wow!

This is the 3rd DT in this class and it will now be interesting to see how this affects the recruitment of last weekend visitor Jay Tufele and in-state Deron Irving-Bey.





from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/michigan-monday-does-post-game-today-in.html

Illinois Preview

 

Time: 3:30
Location: Big House
Weather:  52 and No Rain
TV: BTN
Line: Michigan -39


Remember when it always seemed Michigan missed the Big Ten teams that were having a seriously down year?   Mostly, when Michigan was having a down year and we needed wins for bowl eligibility.

I think the scheduling gods made up for all those misses with this years schedule.  On the flip side, the only way we see #8 Nebraska would be in the Big 10 Championship game.  (Nebraska is at OSU on 11/5 for those looking ahead) Illinois is trying to rebuild and played Rutgers last week to a 24-7 win.   That win came after 4 straight losses.  


Tale of the Tape

Michigan vs. Illinois = Pain

Michigan beat Rutgers 78-0 on the road two weeks ago.  Illinois and Lovie Smith are a step up from Rutgers but not a big step.   I think Lovie has a really good chance of turning Illinois around in 4-5 years.  Lovie is a solid hire and a huge step up from Tim Beckman.  On a positive note, Illinois did lose to Nebraska 31-16 a couple of weeks ago.  That score isn't a complete blowout.

Illinois will try to win this game on defense.   They of course play a Tampa 2 type of defense and will try to pressure Wilton into making mistakes.   That is the only chance they have in this match-up. 

Consider leaving early if...............................

• Michigan's RB's have another huge day and even Smith gets over 100 yards.
• Wilton looks fresh and better after a week off
• Michigan defense pitches a shut out again
• Everybody is healthy

Say, I really don't love Lovie if......................

• Michigan has over looked this game
• Wilton struggles under pressure
• This game is closer then it should be

This game is really a miss-match anyway you look at it. Its a 40 point line with some books in Vegas.  Michigan is rested and looking forward to a trip an hour north next weekend.   The one thing we need to continue to see is improved QB play.  I'm not sure we have strong enough QB play right now to beat Ohio State in Columbus or someone like Alabama/Clemson in the playoffs.   I hope John O'Korn gets a ton of snaps, as he is one play away from being the starter.   It would be great for Peppers to get a couple highlights in and then rest for the second half. 

Michigan 48 Illinois 3

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/illinois-preview.html

Michigan Thursday: More Visitors and a Look at The Big Ten Weekend

There has been some significant additions to this weekend's visitor list:

• 4 Star DE Donovan Jeter who just de-committed from ND earlier this week is visiting Ann Arbor this weekend.   A guy named Jeter should go to Michigan or the Yankees.

• 4 Star TE from California Josh Falo.  Josh is considered one of the better TE's in the nation.

Mississippi LB Willie Gay, says Michigan is his #1 school right now.  As reported yesterday, Willie will be on campus this weekend as well.  It's very difficult to pull prospects out of the State of Mississippi, as most recruits stay at home or go to another close SEC school.   Willie is currently committed to Ole Miss.

• WR Nico Collins will take his official to Michigan on November 5th

• Michigan coaches visited WR Brad Hawkins during the bye week.   Hopefully, he got everything worked out and can get to A2 in January or this summer.   In the past, this situation (not enrolling and going to a prep school)  hasn't really worked out for Michigan.   I hope this one does.

• BC Commit DE Kwity Paye could be on flip commit watch.

Big Ten Weekend

Game of the Weekend:

Wisconsin at Iowa:  Wisconsin has lost their last two games and still in the top 10.   Iowa lost a couple games but won their last two.  Wisconsin is a 2.5 favorite.  This is a good noon game and I look for a low scoring Wisconsin win.   Wisconsin 17 Iowa 10


IU at Northwestern:  The battle of the 3-3 teams.  These teams have looked pretty good this year and looked terrible.   Vegas has no idea what to do with this game and has made Northwestern a 1.5 favorite.   The Wildcats seems to be hot and I will go with them.   Northwestern 42 IU 38

MSU at Maryland:  MSU has won 2 games this year and lost 4 in a row.  Maryland is 4-2 and it seems our former DC DJ Durkin is really improving that program.   MSU is favored in this game by 2.5 points.   Not sure how that could be possible.   Maryland 24 MSU 20

OSU at PSU:  This game always looks good at the beginning of the year at TV flocks to it.   ABC is doing it's primetime game in Happy Valley.   Penn State has been playing better since they laid down in Ann Arbor a few weeks ago but there had to be better options for the primetime game.   OSU is favored by 19.5, this game won't be close.   OSU 42 PSU 10



from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/michigan-thursday-more-visitors-and.html

Wolverine Wednesday: Updates Visitor List For Illinois

Michigan doesn't have a ton of high profile recruits coming in for the Illinois game but there are some important recruits coming to town.   Here's  a look at the guys that are scheduled to be in Ann Arbor this weekend:

• Jay Tufele, 4 star DT taking his official visit to Ann Arbor

• Robert Porcher IV, 3 Star DE committed to Nebraska.   His dad was of course is the former Detroit Lions DE. 

• Wille Gay, 4 star LB who is committed to Ole Miss

• Martin Andrus, 3 star DT from California

• Kai-Leon Herbert, OL commit from Florida

• Matt Hankins, 3 star CB who is committed to Iowa

Herbert has been looking around at the Florida schools, so this is an important trip to try to keep him in the class.   Tufele is a guy the coaches are very high on and this trip is important if they want to get him to come all the way from Utah to Ann Arbor for college.   

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/wolverine-wednesday-updates-visitor.html

Marriott plans new $600M office and hotel complex in Maryland

Marriott International, Inc., the world’s leading hotel company, announced today plans to relocate its global corporate office to a state-of-the-art, build-to-suit $600-million facility to be located in downtown Bethesda in Montgomery County.

The county has been Marriott’s home for more than 60 years. The new complex will house more than 3,500 employees in approximately 700,000 square feet of leased office space. The company is continuing its consideration of several sites in downtown Bethesda, and is expected to select a final site in the first half of 2017. Marriott plans to occupy the new space before the expiration of its current lease at 10400 Fernwood Road in late 2022. Marriott also announced that a 200+ room, Marriott-branded hotel will be built on the site.

As part of the announcement, Marriott President and CEO Arne Sorenson said, “Marriott has been headquartered in Montgomery County, Maryland for more than 60 years and we intend to remain close to our roots. Our goal is to provide a cutting-edge workspace for our associates that offers state-of-the-art technology, modern amenities, and access to a range of transportation options.” Sorenson added, “We also plan to manage a new 200+ room Marriott-branded hotel to be built on the site, which will be a significant economic driver for the community. After a comprehensive review of many excellent options in Washington, D.C., as well as Arlington and Fairfax counties in Northern Virginia, and North Bethesda, we have narrowed our search to downtown Bethesda, an area which offers multiple sites that meet our priority needs.”

In addition to being home to Marriott’s corporate headquarters, Maryland also has 93 Marriott-branded hotels in the state – totaling nearly 18,000 guest rooms – following the company’s merger with Starwood Hotels and Resorts last month. In 2015 there were more than 10,400 jobs in Maryland at Marriott properties, including its corporate offices, Marriott-managed hotels and franchised properties.

“Marriott is a world-class company with deep roots in our state, and their decision to continue growing their business right here in Maryland is tremendous news,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “For over 60 years they have been a vital member of our business community, employing thousands of Marylanders, and making a real and lasting positive impact on our state’s economy. Today’s announcement also reflects a great partnership with County Executive Ike Leggett and his team – a partnership that ensures our state will continue to benefit from Marriott’s presence and investment for decades to come.”

READ THE FULL ANNOUNCEMENT.

The post Marriott plans new $600M office and hotel complex in Maryland appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/10/marriott-plans-new-600m-office-hotel-complex-maryland/

Michigan Tuesday: Jimmy Speaks and a Few Recruiting Updates

Jimmy had his regular Monday press conference.   Not much came out of it, but I did grab these two nuggets to share with you:

• The offensive lineman are now all wearing knee braces after Grant's injury.   It's mandatory now.  

• Jimmy expects Drake Johnson to play this year.  Which would rule out a 6th year.

Recruiting:

We all know Michigan was busy last week on the recruiting trail.   Here are some notes:

• Michigan offered two new Safety prospects for 2017 in Bubba Bolden and Isaiah Pola-Mao.  Michigan has one Safety already committed in Woods who is taking visits but seems pretty committed to Michigan and is also very high on instate prospect Jaylen Kelly-Powell.  It looks like Michigan might take 3 safeties in this class.  Which is a bit of a surprise.

• Momentum is very high on offense line recruiting.   Wilson is planning an official to Michigan in November and will bring his entire family.   Filiaga is also still saying good things about Michigan and Leatherwood wants to visit A2 again on his own dime.   Willis who before his Michigan visit seemed like an Alabama lock really enjoyed his visit and may have Michigan up there next to Alabama at #1.  Michigan would be quicker trip for his family to watch games from KY.  

• Seems the ship has officially sailed with Aubrey Solomon , which is too bad. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/michigan-tuesday-jimmy-speaks-and-few.html

Michigan Monday: What We Learned About MSU & OSU this Weekend

Let's start with our instate rival Michigan State:

I would like to rewind the clock for a few minutes and talk about a story that most people haven't heard.   It's 2010 and Mark Dantonio was taking a much deserved vacation after a 11-2 season.  Lloyd Carr had retired and RR was about to get fired from Michigan.  Mark was feeling pretty good about the state of Spartan Football (even though Alabama had just blown them out in a bowl game).   He is on the beach when a genie's lantern washes up on shore.   Like any good American, Mark rubs the bottle and out pops a football genie.  He asks Mark for 3 football related wishes.   Mark responds................

1.  Michigan continues to have a historic down period and can't find a head coach.

2.  At least One Big Ten Championship for MSU

3.  An appearance in the BCS or College Playoffs if that ever happens

The genie pauses and says, "Mark number 2 and 3 is doable but your 1st choice is difficult.   Michigan is an historic program and has even run the best coach in college football out of East Lansing.   On a side note, in the future you will have a chance to follow the footsteps of Saban to LSU.  You should consider that seriously.   Let's get back to your first ask.   I will do it, but it ends in 2016.   So make sure you get all your wins and all your asks in by 2016.   You will have wins over the Wolverines and even a surprise win or two but your dominance ends in 2016.  Do we have a deal?"   

Mark took that deal.   Northwestern 54 MSU 40     


Now on to Ohio State:

Wisconsin had a better defense and game plan then Ohio State on Saturday night.   Wisconsin had a week off prior and home field advantage.   They had the lead for most of the game and looked like they were going to pull off the upset.

They didn't and there is one reason why.   Ohio State has better athletes then Wisconsin.   It's that easy.  Ever wonder why RR has struggled since leaving WVU?  He just can't recruit.   Ohio State is basically RR's offense with 4 and 5 star athletes.   (RR also can't figure out the defense side of the ball either.)   If you watched the Clemson - NC State game earlier in the day, same result.  Clemson has better athletes. 

When Michigan plays OSU.  They will need 3 things.   1) A great defensive performance, 2) Perfect QB Play, 3) Can't settle for field goals.    If Wisconsin scored touchdowns instead of kicking field goals they win the game easily.   They just have a young - inexperienced QB that couldn't get the ball over the goal line in the redzone.  

Side note:  I thought we were going to have at least one year off without a Bosa chasing a Michigan QB (Joey's brother tore his ACL last year).   I guess that won't happen now.   Thank you again, Brady Hoke for turning down Joey when he wanted to commit to Michigan.  

• Michigan is -35 points against Illinois this weekend.  
• Sam Webb has one of his famous gut feelings on Ruiz to Michigan.  That is good news!
• Michigan is now #3 in the AP Poll
• Purdue fires their head coach, don't do it Les. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/michigan-monday-what-we-learned-about.html

Maryland Commerce Signs Cyber MOU With The Netherlands

The Maryland Department of Commerce signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) this week with two economic development agencies in The Netherlands to launch the Maryland-Netherlands Cyber and Security Technologies Soft Landing Platform.

The agreement, which was signed with The Hague Security Delta (HSD) and InnovationQuarter, the regional economic development agency for the Dutch province of Zuid-Holland, establishes a ‘soft landing’ program where Maryland cybersecurity companies can explore the Dutch market, and Dutch cybersecurity companies can set up operations in Maryland on a trial basis.

Maryland’s Deputy Secretary of Commerce Ben Wu joined HSD Executive Director Richard B. Franken and InnovationQuarter Director of Foreign Investments Chris van Voorden at the Dutch ambassador’s residence in Washington, D.C. Thursday to sign the three-year agreement.

“Maryland is the ideal place for foreign cybersecurity companies to establish operations as they explore the U.S market,” said Maryland Commerce Secretary Mike Gill. “We are home to many key federal agencies, including the National Security Agency and the National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence, as well as a critical mass of successful information technology and cybersecurity companies, and a highly-skilled and talented workforce.”

“The Hague Security Delta is the largest security cluster of Europe and a perfect place for companies to soft land,” said Franken. “The cluster comprises many companies, knowledge institutes, and government organizations and provides access to market, talent, innovation, knowledge, capital, events and education.”

“We welcome security tech companies to make use of this wonderful program. They can come for a week or even stay for three consecutive months in bwtech or HSD,” van Voorden said. “We will make sure every company receives a tailor-made program in which they will meet our partners and get connected to the right business environment.”

The first of its kind in Maryland, the program will provide participants with up to three months of incubation and mentorship services and help connect them with additional resources and partners. Participating Dutch companies will spend time incubating at facilities such as bwtech@UMBC. After the initial trial period, lasting from January to March 2017, participants may choose to establish a permanent presence in either Maryland or The Netherlands.

Read more.

The post Maryland Commerce Signs Cyber MOU With The Netherlands appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/10/maryland-commerce-signs-cyber-mou-netherlands/

Michigan Friday: Recruiting News and Notes

• Jimmy and staff are all over the place this weekend and offering guys in the 2018 class.   No need to call out every offer but they have been very busy.   

• Son of Detroit Lion great DE Robert Porcher IV will take an official to Ann Arbor this fall.   He is currently a Nebraska commit.

• Michigan this week offered 2017 4-star safety Bubba Bolden from Bishop Gorman.

• DP-J will take a visit to MSU this weekend.

• 2017 Nashville 3-star DT Rutger Reitmaier also just got offered by Michigan.  He is currently a Oregon Duck commit.  Some insiders like Michigan's chances on flipping Rutger already.

• Jimmy was in LA last night to watch the Hawkins vs. Dorsey match-up.

• Michigan coaches will be at wide receiver Nico Collins game tonight.  Coach Wheat and Coach Fisch are his main recruiters.

• Michigan coaches were also out to see Alex Leatherwood as well.  He announced he will make his final decision on 12.16. 

• Michigan coaches also visited talented OT Isiah Wilson earlier this week and things seem to be trending towards the Wolverines in his recruitment.

• Michigan linebackers coach Chris Partridge was at IMG's game on Thursday.   IMG of course has Top100 center Cesar Ruiz and 4-star LB Jordan Anthony.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/michigan-friday-recruiting-news-and.html

Michigan Thursday: Looking Ahead To The BIG 10 Weekend

Breaking news, Michigan is off this weekend and will rest for the final run of the year.   With that said, there is a lot of games this weekend that Michigan fans will be interested in.  


Best Big 10 game of the week:  OSU at Wisconsin

Michigan fans need to become big Wisconsin fans this weekend.    If Wisconsin can upset OSU it will make the path to Michigan's Big 10 title game a little easier.    OSU's big win over Oklahoma now doesn't look to be such a big win.   Wisconsin's big wins also came over teams that have flamed out in MSU and LSU. 

The biggest miss-match in this game is Wisconsin offense vs. OSU defense.   Wisconsin can't really move the ball on offense and the defense will need to win this game.   If OSU can move the ball on Wisconsin strong defense this game could get out of hand.    Wisconsin is getting 10 points at home.   I like that line.   Urban has never lost on the road while at OSU, which is just a crazy stat. OSU 20 Wisconsin 13

Nebraska at Indiana:  This is a game all Michigan fans should watch.  It has maybe two future opponents playing each other (yes, I know Nebraska isn't on the schedule, I'm thinking about seeing them in Indy).   We also know what IU has done to us the last few years.   Nebraska is favored by 3.5.  I think IU could pull an upset here.  IU 28 Nebraska 24

Northwestern at MSU:  Is MSU ready to pack it in for the year?  Northwestern is playing better now but has two bad losses to start the year.  MSU is favored by 4.5.  MSU 10 Northwestern 9

Iowa at Purdue:  Iowa is favored by 12 points.   Iowa 32 Purdue 21

Minnesota at Maryland:  Watch to see more of what Maryland has.   They are favored by 7 in this one.  Maryland 21 Minnesota 20

Illinois at Rutgers:  DO NOT WATCH THIS GAME!



from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/michigan-thursday-looking-ahead-to-big.html

Crystal Steel to Open Manufacturing Facility in Caroline County

Crystal Steel Fabricators, a family-owned structural steel fabricator headquartered in Delmar, Del., is opening a new manufacturing facility in Caroline County, and creating 126 new jobs over the next two years.

The company recently acquired the 100,000 square-foot former ES Steel building in the Frank Adams Industrial Park in Federalsburg. This is the first Maryland location for Crystal Steel, which also has facilities in Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and the Philippines.

The company is currently accepting applications for several positions at the new Maryland facility, including CNC machine operators, welders and structural steel fabricators, and resumes should be submitted to alana@crystalsteel.net.

“We are always excited to provide people with great career opportunities, and many of our employees have been with us for 10 years or more,” said Emad Mohamed, executive vice president at Crystal Steel. “We expect strong growth, which will provide folks in Federalsburg with the chance to move up and become leaders.”

“Crystal Steel’s plan to invest more than $4 million and create more than 126 jobs is exactly the kind of economic development our administration pledged to bring to Maryland,” said Governor Hogan, a strong advocate for Maryland manufacturing jobs. “In addition to bringing high-paying jobs to the Eastern Shore, employees will learn new skills like lean manufacturing and CNC programming. This project is a win for Crystal Steel, a win for Caroline County, and a win for the citizens of Maryland.”

“Crystal Steel is among a number of companies that have opened new locations in Maryland this year, which speaks to our efforts to truly be ‘Open for Business’,” said Maryland Commerce Secretary Mike Gill. “Not only do we have a highly-skilled workforce ideal for manufacturing jobs, but we also have an outstanding transportation infrastructure, giving companies like Crystal Steel a strategic advantage when traveling to job sites throughout the region.”

READ MORE.

The post Crystal Steel to Open Manufacturing Facility in Caroline County appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/10/crystal-steel-fabrications-open-manufacturing-facility-caroline-county/

Wolverine Wednesday: Where in the World is Jimmy?

Yesterday he visited Ann Arbor's Ruth's Chris and enjoyed a nice steak with milk.  Of course, talk shows today will discuss how any other drink is better with a steak then milk.   My reply to them is, what do you expect?  A steak and milk is all the vitamins you need in the Jim Harbaugh hand book.   He is also sponsored by a milk company.

Jimmy also welcomed Larry Prout Jr. yesterday to Michigan's team impact.  Prout, a 15-year-old from Howell, was born with spina bifida, choacal extrophy, massive omphalocele, short gut syndrome and several other illnesses that have resulted in more than 90 surgeries during his young life. Congratulations Larry!  Keep Fighting and Go Blue!


Today, Jimmy and Jedd Fisch are expected to be in Las Vegas to visit Bishop Gorman 2018 four-star targets: QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson, LB Palaie Gaoteote and TE Brevin Jordan.  

As we know, he is expected to visit #1 recruit RB Najee Harris game on Friday in California.    I'm sure we will hear soon who he is expected to visit on Thursday. 

• Did you happen to see who is ranked #24 in this week's AP poll? It's the second best team in the State of Michigan, Western Michigan.  Expect PJ Fleck to get a big time job next year.  This also got me thinking about former Michigan RB commit Matt Falcon who de-committed from Michigan after his multiple ACL tears.  He committed to Western but I don't see him currently listed on the roster. 

• 2017 Michigan commit from Alabama DB J'Marick Woods visited Arkansas last weekend. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/wolverine-wednesday-where-in-world-is.html

Michigan Tuesday: No Chase in 2017

Michigan lost another player from the 2017 recruiting class as Chase Lasater has de-committed from Michigan.   He is a 3 star FB and will now re-open his recruitment.   As you might imagine, this is not a huge blow to the class and the Michigan staff probably needs the slot for other players.   So this separation is probably mutual.  The rumor mill is saying there might have been an admission issue.

• We know Jimmy is planning on heading out to California this week to watch the #1 player in the nation in Najee Harris.  Najee doesn't speak to the services to often but had this to say to the USA Today recently:  “I’m going to take my five visits, but I just don’t know where,” Harris said. “Let’s say this: My mind isn’t set on Alabama. I’m not 100 percent set on Alabama. I’m trying to see what else is out there for me. I’m using my visits to see. As much attention as I’ve gotten, I feel like I have helped my teammates get some offers, too.”

• Rutgers visitor and huge OL recruit Isaiah Wilson is saying that he has been talking to Alex Leatherwood, Cesar Ruiz, Jedrick Wills and Chuck Filiaga.  They are talking about calling themselves the Fab 5 and all going to Michigan.   Will that happened?  It will be hard to pull all 5, but love the conversation!

• With the news above, Three-star GA FB Tory Carter will take his official for the IU game.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/michigan-tuesday-no-chase-in-2017.html

Pitch Your Business Idea in Hagerstown

Guest feature: Robert Bower works with the Small Business Development Center in Washington County. Follow Maryland SBDC on Facebook.

Do you have a brilliant product idea that will change the world? Is your startup company the next big thing? Is your business ready to explode? Then the inaugural Hub City Business Competition will give you a chance to prove it and maybe even win some investment capital.

The “Shark Tank” style pitch competition takes place on November 17 at Hagerstown Community College’s Kepler Performing & Visual Arts Education Center. The event is hosted by local economic development agencies including the Washington County Department of Business Development, City of Hagerstown’s Community and Economic Development, USMH, the Chamber of Commerce, Washington County SBDC and SCORE.

Entrepreneurs, startup or growing companies with a new idea are encouraged to submit an entry online. All entries will be screened and will have access to local business development resources to help perfect their business model.

Selected entrants will be invited to present to a celebrity judging panel made up of local business and civic leaders. First prize will be $2500, with $1000 for second place and $500 for the audience’s favorite pitch.

The event will also feature a startup expo in the theater lobby, where several economic development agencies will be available to answer questions, provide startup information, business funding options and advice.

Entry into the competition and admission to the event are free. The deadline to apply is October 28 by 5 p.m. Finalists will be notified by November 10 of their selection to pitch at the competition.

To submit an application form or for complete information please, visit www.HubCityBizComp.com or email to info@HubCityBizComp.com.

For more information about the competition contact Robert Bower, rebower@frostburg.edu or 240-727-8210.

The post Pitch Your Business Idea in Hagerstown appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/10/pitch-business-idea-hagerstown/

Michigan Monday: Likes Steak

The most exciting news from the 78-0 win on Saturday was that Ann Arbor's Ruth's Chris Steak House was offering a discount equal to Michigan's winning margin.  So 78 points should equal 78% off.   Well, they capped it at 50% and until Thursday.   It made the Mike and Mike ESPN Radio show this morning and on ESPN front page.  Those who got a seat, eat well!  That is a very good steak house!

Bye weeks are great for resting injuries and doing a little recruiting for the staff.   Not so great for blog content.   I will do my best this week to dig up information that you might find interesting.

• Oliver Martin will play in the Army All American game and will take two more official visits before making a decision.  The Wolverines like their chances with this talented WR.

• Jimmy liked how Jabrill and Chris Evans played on Saturday and felt those two broke the game open. 

• A few Michigan targets were scheduled to visit Rutgers on Saturday.  LB Drew Singleton and OT Isaiah Wilson.  I wonder how that worked out for Rutgers?

• DP-J visited OSU over the weekend, he was scheduled to go to Florida but that game was cancelled due to the hurricane.

• Michigan at OSU will kick off at Noon

• Jimmy is expected to watch the #1 player in the nation RB Najee Harris game this week.  Harris is committed to Alabama but many insiders feel he will end up somewhere else.  He doesn't really talk to the recruiting services so not sure who if anyone has the most recent information.

• I'm hoping we start to see Peppers jump into a number of Heisman conversations this week.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/michigan-monday-likes-steak.html

Zahradka Farm brings family tradition to local homes

Guest feature: Bryan Dunn is a marketing specialist for Baltimore County Department of Economic & Workforce Development. Follow Baltimore County on Facebook and Twitter.

Learn how businesses and households across Baltimore County are having food delivered directly from a local farm.

Next Up takes you to Zahradka Farm to dig into what sustainable farming is all about and how to take advantage of community supported agriculture (CSA). Zahradka Farm has been farming for more than 100 years and is one of the only farms in Maryland to deliver to customer’s doorsteps year-round.

For more information, visit Zahradka Farm’s website or find your local CSA at MarylandsBest.net.

Next Up Baltimore County explores what makes Baltimore County a great place to live and work. The show features interviews with local business leaders, entrepreneurs and educators and is produced by the Baltimore County Department of Economic and Workforce Development. In addition to online access, Next Up runs on Baltimore County cable channel 25 at the following times: Monday, 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. Tuesday 1:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m. Wednesday 9:00 p.m. Thursday 2:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m., 11:00 p.m. Friday 1:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m. Saturday 9:00 a.m., 6:00 p.m., 10:00 p.m. Sunday 9:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m., 1:00 p.m.

The post Zahradka Farm brings family tradition to local homes appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/10/zahradka-farms-brings-family-tradition-local-homes/

Rutgers Post Game

Michigan had 600 total yards, Rutgers 39.

Michigan was 7 yards away from three 100 yard rushers.

Rutgers had 4 yards passing.

Rutgers had 16 punts and two first downs.

Michigan won 78 - 0.

I missed the score prediction by 30 points.

John O'Korn and Shane Morris played the entire second half.

Peppers could have won the game by himself.

It rained in the first half.

Rutgers is not yet a rival.

Welcome to the bye week.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/rutgers-post-game.html

Rutgers Preview

Time: 7:00
Location: Cable Subscribers Stadium
TV: ESPN 2
Weather: 60's chance of rain
Line:  Michigan -29.5


Sorry the preview is late today.  Had a few internet issues.  

This is what Michigan's next three weeks look like:  Rutgers on the road, bye week, and Illinois at home.   The odds of Michigan losing in the next three weeks is pretty low heading into the game at East Lansing.  

Tale of the Tape:

Rutgers is not good at football


Rutgers lost to Ohio State 58-0 last week and they are trying to build a rivalry against Michigan for taking such high NJ assets as Peppers and Gary.  They also don't like that Michigan holds satellite camps in their state.   I'm sure the Michigan faithful and families of all the NJ players will make up 50% of cord cutter stadium.   :-)

Chris Ash is a good football coach and will have this program turned around in a couple of years.  When I say turned around they might win 6-8 games at some point.    Chris's OSU and Michigan hatred runs deep and Rutgers trying to build a rivalry with Michigan is just silly.  


Sing "I'm in a NY State of Mind" if................(Yes, I know this game is played in NJ)

• Michigan finally gets two RB's with over a 100 yards
• Michigan doesn't need Kenny to punt
• The Michigan defense plays well and shuts down Rutgers
• Peppers is taken out of the game in the 3rd quarter because the game is out of hand

Yell, Why is Rutgers in the Big Ten if.................................

• This is like the UConn game a few years ago
• Michigan gets completely out of sorts on the road
• Wilton has to pass the ball to win the game
• Michigan is turning the ball over

It's hard to find ways that this is going to be a competitive game.  Covering a 30 point spread isn't easy and there will be some folks in Vegas taking Rutgers to cover that line. 

I really want to see O'Korn in this game, like maybe the entire second half?  I doubt that will happen but I think he needs the snaps.  Hell, Jimmy could even start Shane Morris in this game and I wouldn't be upset.  

It seems Hurricane Matthew is staying away from the game, which is good news.   Expect to see a lot of true freshman play in what should be a blowout. 

Michigan 48 Rutgers 6



from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/rutgers-preview.html

Michigan Thursday: Is The Mighty Quinn Back at Practice?

Quinn Nordin is famous for two reasons, he was the top kicker in the 2016 class and Jimmy slept over at his house during his recruitment.

Kenny Allen was one of the most accurate kickers in Michigan history last year, this season he has had considerable trouble finding the middle of the up rights.  Jimmy, has said he doesn't like putting all the kicking duties on one person (kick offs, punts and field goals) and all that stress might be effecting his accuracy. 

The latest news on this weeks kicking news is that Quinn is back from an injury and participating in practice.  “We’ve been working extremely hard at it. ... Unfortunately, we missed three kicks in the ball game last week. We have confidence in our guys, yet we want to see that competition in practice. I feel if we make them in practice, we’ll be able to make them in a game. Guys are battling this week.”
And doing well, including freshman Quinn Nordin. Nordin had been working through an injury, but he returned to the competition this week.
“Quinn made both his kicks yesterday, in fact, and had a really good day yesterday. Kenny Allen made all his kicks; Ryan Tice made all his kicks and Quinn made all his kicks," Harbaugh said. "It will rage on again today.”

• There is an active proposal in front of the NCAA for two early signing periods for football recruits in June and December.   A player would have 3 days to sign an LOI during each period.   I like the idea and think there should have been at least one early signing period for football.   One issue is, if the coach gets fired and a new staff comes in that kid is stuck.   I would like to see some type of easy process where a player could void his LOI in those situations

.

• The early reports from Grant Newsome's surgery is positive and it seems he will play again.   Hopefully as soon as next season.

• There is also some buzz that Nebraska maybe interested in leaving the Big Ten to return to the Big 12.  They feel that their brand hasn't grown in the Big Ten.  I agree, it sure hasn't.  The issue is you haven't been winning football games and your basketball team is usually at the bottom of the conference.   If you want to do a trade for Oklahoma straight up, I think the Big Ten would take that all day long.    Can we trade Penn State for Texas?    We might even throw in Rutgers. 

Big Ten Games Of The Week:

What a terrible match up week for the Big Ten.   Here are a couple of games that are slightly interesting. 

BYU at MSU:  Are the beat up Spartans ready to fold up camp?  BYU can score points but doesn't play a lot of defense.   MSU is a 6 point favorite.   MSU 28 BYU 17

Iowa at Minnesota:  Minnesota plays well at home and Iowa has struggled lately.   This is almost an even game with Iowa -1.   Iowa has to be better then this right?  Iowa 17 Minnesota 14

Maryland at PSU:  Do we really know if Maryland is good this year?  Penn State is a home day at PSU +1.5   Maryland 20 Penn State 18

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/michigan-thursday-is-mighty-quinn-back.html

Celebrating Maryland Manufacturers

With 3,680 manufacturing businesses supporting a workforce of 103,630, there’s a lot to celebrate about Maryland’s manufacturing industry. Earlier this week, Governor Larry Hogan stressed the importance of the manufacturing industry by proclaiming October as Maryland Manufacturing Month. Additionally, this Friday, Oct. 7, is Manufacturing Day, a nationwide celebration of modern manufacturing meant to inspire the next generation of manufacturers.

In celebration of Maryland’s manufacturing industry, which generated $19.57 billion in gross state product in 2014, here’s a snapshot of some of the new and expanding manufacturing businesses in Maryland.

• Harbor Design and Manufacturing (Baltimore City), a design and manufacturing company, is on a trajectory to have 200 employees and 45,000 square feet dedicated to engineering and mass production of cutting-edge technologies. Learn more.
• Earlier this year, Blueprint Robotics (Baltimore City), a robotic, pre-fab homebuilding manufacturer announced a move to a 200,000 square foot warehouse/manufacturing plant and 60 jobs. Learn more.
• In May, Frito-Lay (Harford County) announced it was investing $122 million to construct a new 165,000 square-foot automated distribution center, upgrade its wastewater treatment system, and install two more manufacturing lines. As part of the expansion, the company plans to add 140 employees to its current Aberdeen workforce. Learn more.
• Pinnacle Foods (Washington County), a leading producer, marketer and distributor of high-quality branded food products in the U.S. recently announced plans to locate a manufacturing facility in Hagerstown with initial plans to create 85 to 125 full-time jobs by December 2018. Learn more.
• Open Works (Baltimore City), a new creative center for makers, opened this fall.  Its 34,000 square foot facility offers workshops, classes and studio space for small-scale manufacturing. Learn More.
• CHUTES International (Charles County) is manufacturer of commercial and industrial chutes and related products. In August, the company relocated to a 43,000 square foot facility and added 15 jobs. Learn more.
• FR Conversions (Carroll County), a major producer of van conversions for wheelchair accessible transportation, invested $20 million to purchase and equip an industrial building, and expects to add up to 400 jobs to its existing workforce. The company celebrated its new headquarters in April. Learn more.
• In June, high-tech manufacturer of defense equipment, Hardwire Armor Systems (Worcester County) announced it was expanding operations and adding 20 new jobs over the next three years. Learn more.
• Last year, Tempur Sealy International (Washington County) announced that it was leasing a newly constructed 615,000 square foot facility to expand its manufacturing and distribution operations in the county, retaining the facility’s existing 112 employees and creating 120 new jobs. Learn more.

The post Celebrating Maryland Manufacturers appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/10/celebrating-maryland-manufacturers/

Wolverine Wednesday: Has Updates On A Few Things

• One of the guys, I haven't mentioned to much is last weekend visitor 4 star OT Chuck Filiaga from Texas.   As you know, it's traditionally difficult to get recruits out of Texas.   There are so many solid programs closer to home for those kids.  Some of his top schools are Oklahoma, Oregon, USC which are all struggling and two of three are probably changing coaches.  Not to mention the issues that LSU, Texas, and Baylor are having as well.   Chuck called the trip to Ann Arbor "great" and a 24/7 national recruiting analyst just predicted he will eventually sign with Michigan.   Sounds like distance is not an issue and that he likes the stability of the coaching staff at Michigan and Coach Drev's background.

• Brad Hawkins signed an LOI in the 2016 class but didn't qualify and headed off to prep school.   It seems Brad is still committed to Michigan and the staff seems to be holding a spot for him.  I wonder if he is planning on attending the game on Saturday?  Hence, Hawkins says he's firmly committed to Michigan."Right now, I'm still committed. I'm still committed to Michigan, right now. Things are going well with them," he said. "So nothing has changed. I'm still committed, I'm still loyal to them."
  But Hawkins is still, at least, open to hearing from the multiple suitors to come through Suffield. And he admits that Rutgers is the team recruiting him hardest.
  "They are just saying they would love to have me and they need receivers," said Hawkins.
  Hawkins says he's contacted by Rutgers wide receivers coach Jafar Williams every other day, while he hears from Iowa and Michigan coaches a couple times per week.
  According to Hawkins, Michigan will still take him despite him not qualifying initially. Hence, when he speaks to passing game coordinator and wide receivers coach Jedd Fisch, they discuss other things.
  "I already know where I stand," said Hawkins. "That's been discussed, so we just talk about how I'm doing."

• I'm also expecting that Michigan is planning on accepting Dytarious Johnson in January if he has taken care of his academic issues.

• Hurricane Matthew is not expected to hit NJ directly but could bring some rain to the Michigan game.  If your remember last year, Michigan was planning to play Maryland at night and that game got moved to noon for the threat of bad weather from a hurricane.

A Recruiting Thought...................

Michigan feels good about where they are at with WR recruiting for the 2017 class.  Which is great and I hope they are right.  Michigan loses two senior starters and had two misses with Hawkins and Mitchell from the 2016 class.  Drake Harris continues to not play much, McDoom has a nice upside, and Perry is a solid slot receiver.   Nate Johnson who got some nice camp buzz hasn't played much and I assume has burned his red shirt. 

That leaves a lot of potential playing time for the 2017 recruits including: 5 star Donovan Peoples-Jones, 4 star Nico Collins, Tarik Black and Oliver Martin.  I would love nothing better then Michigan getting all 4 guys   The issue is, all these guys have big time offers and could make other decisions.  I'm worried that some of these decisions will come at All Star games or on NSD. Which could bring the Wolverines a ton of risk on timing.   Right now Michigan has a huge hole in their 2017 class and it's at WR.   I would feel much better if a couple of these guys were committed to the Maize and Blue!

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/wolverine-wednesday-has-updates-on-few.html

Michigan Tuesday: Has A Crazy Idea and Updates the Leatherwood Recruitment

Scout.com

The highest ranked prospect to visit Ann Arbor this weekend was FL 5 star offensive lineman Alex Leatherwood.   This 6'6 330 pound OT prospect has been committed to Alabama for over a year.  Last night, he posted on Twitter that Michigan was the best visit he has been on and he will definitely be back.  He also removed "Alabama Commit" on his Twitter profile.    As you know, many recruits feel that way right after a visit.   If that feeling continues as the season progresses and as he takes more visits, we will see.   Don't hold your breath but keep an eye on this recruitment.  

On a side note, Alex's Dad was not a big fan of visiting Michigan.   He felt his son is in the best position at Alabama and was skeptical of other schools before he arrived in Ann Arbor this weekend.   It seems Mr. Leatherwood also came away impressed with the visit and even bought a bunch of Michigan gear to wear.  They both stayed through the weekend and flew back home on Monday.

• As expected, Grant Newsome is done for the year. Bushell-Beatty will continue to get a shot at left tackle and Cole could also move there from center.  

• Quinn Nordin is getting healthy and could enter the kicking competition this week at practice if he is 100%.

Now to my Crazy Idea:

I have liked how Wilton Speight has played in the first 5 games this season.   He has only thrown 2 picks and had one fumble.   One of the most important things a young QB can do is to protect the ball.  Manage the game and don't lose it.   At times he has won games with his arm, other times he has let the running game do its thing.   He is 5-0 and that is best record he can have.

Michigan is playing Rutgers this week, has a bye week, and then plays Illinois at home.   I think we know what type of QB Wilton is and yes, he hopefully will continue to improve as well.   I would like to see John' O'Korn get a ton of snaps and maybe even start one of the games against Rutgers or Illinois.   John can also give this offense a bit of a spark with his scrambling and running ability. 

John only got a few snaps the first few weeks of the season.   I think he needs more experience in the Michigan offense.   I also would like to see if we have a Alex Smith- Colin Kaepernick situation here (not the National Anthem issue).   Again, this is not a knock on Wilton, I think he has done a nice job managing the offense.  I would just like to see what we have in John O'Korn.   Michigan is going to need great QB play to beat OSU at the end of year, I think we need to see if John is that QB.  

Will it ever happen?  I doubt it.  Jimmy likes to play one guy and unless Wilton gets hurt I don't think we will see much of O'Korn unless its in mop up duty.   


from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/michigan-tuesday-has-crazy-idea-and.html

Streets Market strives to be staple grocer in Baltimore

Last fall, DC-based grocery chain Streets Market & Café opened on Charles Street in downtown Baltimore. The addition of the market offers residents both convenience and high quality products and comes as part of the ongoing residential conversions that are underway in the area.

Locally-owned and operated, Streets Market is a shop where Whole Foods meets Giant, with added international elements that satisfy every type of shopper. Here in Baltimore, it strives to be a staple in the local community. When asked about Streets’ overall experience in the city, Campbell Burns simply responded, “fantastic.”

“We see Baltimore as a long-term investment,” said Burns, vice president of Streets Market.

Streets Market gives people the comforts of a well-stocked kitchen by offering a wide selection of fresh, organic goods, while also providing standard grocery store staples. The market has a chef prepared gourmet selection of grab-and-go dishes available that give a level of comfort and expediency to market goers.

The store is funded in part by a two-year, $100,000 grant from the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore and a $250,000 loan from the Baltimore Development Corporation [BDC]. “We have a fantastic relationship with BDC and the Downtown Partnership,” said Burns.

The focus remains on providing local consumers with the goods they need while offering competitive pricing. The availability of fresh meat, fresh produce, and hard-to-find foods all under one roof makes it an invaluable addition to the neighborhood.

The post Streets Market strives to be staple grocer in Baltimore appeared first on MDBIZNews.

from https://mdbiznews.commerce.maryland.gov/2016/10/streets-market-strives-to-be-staple-grocer-in-baltimore/

Michigan Monday: Gets A 2018 Recruit and Visit Updates

The Wolverines might have had one of the biggest recruiting weekends of the season on Saturday.   We were hoping there might be a couple 2017 commits.   That didn't happen but a 4 star 2018 offensive lineman did drop!

His name is Emil Ekiyor and he is a 6'2 340ish high school junior at Indianapolis Cathedral.  Michigan was is first offer and if he stays committed hopefully the first and final.   After the Wolverines offered his recruitment blew up and he received the following offers:  Tennessee, Auburn, Florida, Florida State, Georgia, Louisville, LSU, Michigan State, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, Penn State, Texas A&M, UCLA, USC, Cal, Cincinnati, Duke, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, NC State, Syracuse, Toledo, USF, Vanderbilt, and Virginia. 

Emil is rated a 4 star OG and in the top 131 by all the services.   Like any 2018 commit, we are a lifetime away from signing day and this commitment has to be taken with a grain of salt.  

• PSU commit Brelin Faison-Walden tweeted he had a good weekend at the Big House

• 5 star and Bama commit Alex Leatherwood who has been high on Michigan lately tweeted a photo with some of the other prospects at the game and called it the Great Wall.  He said, Michigan is making him think about his commitment to Alabama.

• One of Michigan's top prospects on their board is IMG 4-star C Cesar Ruiz.  He had another great visit and has been talking about the "Great Wall" with other offensive lineman recruits for some time.

• Jedrick Willis who has cancelled a couple of visits did make it to A2 this weekend. 

• LB Shanon Reid rated his trip to A2 a 10 out of 10

That is a lot of good news out of the 2017 prospects in attendance to watch Michigan get a Top 10 win.  Oliver Martin is a WR that Michigan is high on.  It seems to be a ND vs. Michigan battle for his services.  He also visited Ann Arbor on Saturday.   This was his second visit, he also visited for the BBQ at the Big House.

• Looks like Grant Newsome maybe done for the year with a knee injury.   I wish they would take out those "cut" hits on offensive lineman.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/michigan-monday-gets-2018-recruit-and.html

Baltimore Cyber Startup Hunts Down Hackers

Michigan Kicking Itself To A Win

This game went the way, I expected.   Michigan's defense shut down Wisconsin and the offense struggled to move the ball consistently but had enough drives to put this game out of hand.   What I didn't expect was a complete collapse in the field goal kicking game.   That complete failure, kept the game tied or way to close. 

I could put Wilton in both Cheers and Jeers below, but I'll just talk about him here.   The throw to Darboh to win the game was the best deep ball he has thrown in a Michigan jersey.  That throw was the difference in the game and you have to tip your hat to him on that.  

I don't know if it was bad play calling or decision making, but Wilton continued to throw into double and sometimes triple coverages.   He was very lucky to only throw one pick on the day.   Wisconson looked like they should of had probaly two more interceptions.  

Don Brown's unit was the difference in the game.  I was a little critical early on as, I didn't think Michigan needed the blitz to get to Wisconsin's young QB.  Our front 4 was getting enough pressure and I thought putting more guys in coverage would confuse Alex Hornibrook who did throw 3 picks on the day.   I think Don agreed and didn't blitz as much in the second half.

That Jourdan Lewis pick scared me, he jumped too eary and I didn't see a saftey behind him.   That was a great play but a few inches away from being a disaster.   That pick will also make his highlight reel for his NFL draft pacakage (even though it would have been better to knock it down).


Cheers

• Defense wins championships
• The Michigan RB's ran hard all day
• Stribling's 2 picks and dropped a 3rd
• The defensive line had a very good day
• Michigan won the game

Jeers

• Field goal kicking made the game a 7 point win instead of a 16 point win.  That position is in crisis mode.
• I was not a big fan of the play calling, I wanted more guys in the route to give Wilton more options.   Wisconsin did a good job covering Michigan WR's & TE's all day.
• The offense also sputtered in the red zone too many times. 
• Penalities hasn't been a problem all year, it was a Saturday.  I thought the officals were too whistle happy.
• Losing tackle Grant Newsome to probably a serious knee injury

The field goal kicking almost cost Michgian the game.  I have been nervous about Kenny but I thought maybe he miss one and make one.  Ryan Tice was nervous and did the excat same thing Kenny did on his only chance.   Quin Nordin is hurt in what is rumored to be a hamstring and is looking at a redshirt.   Michigan's other scholarship kicker Andrew David, transferred out of the program.

Might be time to give the soccer team a call.

The game wasn't pretty in a lot of aspects but a win is a win and we will take it.   Michigan gets to leave Ann Arbor for the first time this year to play Rutgers who lost 58-0 to OSU yesterday.    The Iowa and MSU games even though won't be easy, don't look as diffiuclt now as MSU lost to IU and Iowa lost at home to Northwestern. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2016/10/michigan-kicking-itself-to-win.html