Michigan Monday: More Changes Needed

After a Michigan loss, its basically throwing my entire weekend out the window.    If you include a loss to OSU, its like throwing 4-5 days out the window.   My stomach hurts and my attitude goes from "fun Bob" to "pissed off Bob".

Saturday didn't even give me an hour of football depression.   I wasn't joyful, but the outcome is what I expected.  The score was a bit one-sided, but it was a movie I had seen before.    You know what I found funny?   Having a Harbaugh team get blown out is media gold and with ESPN's two playoff games, they barley mentioned the Peach Bowl.  Which was a bit refreshing.

What now?

When Jimmy was hired, we hoped he brought in toughness, defense, and a NFL offensive scheme.   He did just that and it isn't good enough.   The problem is Jimmy is playing chess and everyone else is playing checkers.  I believe for Jimmy's system to work, he needs NFL quality offensive lineman and a very smart QB.  He hasn't had that at Michigan.  Yes, Michigan has a better QB but I don't believe 4-5 NFL lineman are walking through Schembechler Hall right now.   Even the god of college football, Nick Saban realized he needed to make some changes on offense and he is getting the best of the best in recruiting every year.

Yes, you need to be able to run the football, but you have to have a dynamic passing game that leads that running game.   This isn't the NFL and by the way, the NFL is trending more towards the dynamic passing game then the power run game.  The only team that is doing and power run game in the NFL, is Jimmy's brother, which is a different problem.

Jimmy needs to hire an OC that doesn't agree with his offensive system.  Pep is rumored to be out the door and was strangely on the Detroit Lions sideline for Sunday's game at Green Bay.    If Jimmy, does have an opening he better be creative with that hire.

Don Brown's problems are just the opposite.  

Don runs a very college oriented defense.   He plays man to man and pressures the QB.   If you have talented players, that will win you a lot of football games.  The issue is, if the other team has time or a talented OC, they can scheme an NFL type of approach to beat you.

For example, OSU beat Michigan with a quick hit NFL type passing game.   Which is very hard to cover in a man to man defense.  They worked on that offense all year and had it perfected by the time Michigan came to town.  That scheme alone is going to get Haskins drafted high in the first round.   (BTW, OSU showed this offense all year and for Don not to have defense prepared for it, is terrible work)

The other issue is, if Michigan is in Man to Man, the DB's have their back turned to the QB, which gives the QB chances to gain chunk running yards.    Don't get me started on the Dline not saying in their rush lanes and going wide and giving the QB huge holes to run through.

Michigan needs a defense to be just as good in zone as they are in Man to Man.    Its not even a question, its a mandatory situation and it been that way for at least two seasons.  If Don, can't teach a zone, then he needs to hire a new assistant that can teach it or he needs to look for other work.

The Temple job all of a sudden is open again and who knows if Don would be a candidate again.   Please don't get this wrong, I don't want Don to leave, but Michigan needs a more flexible defense.

This isn't rocket science

Florida's offense is not complex and it looked like Don was coaching against Sean McVay.  Everyone knew QB draw was coming and Michigan still left the middle of the field wide open.

It's also obvious when this team throws in the towel.   After the pick early in the second half, I knew this game was done for Michigan.  Outside a blocked punt safety, Michigan didn't do anything worth while the rest of the game.

After one of Florida's TD's the TV flashed to Don's face.  He wasn't surprised, he wasn't mad, he also expected the outcome.

It's not fair to the seniors 

Chase Winovich decided to play through pain and basically one handed.  He needs surgery and instead of going under the knife, he dressed and played one more game.   The way the season ended isn't fair to him or others players that played hard.    It's not fair and a bit dangerous to have a game where everyone is not bought in.   This photo by David Turnley shows the emotion of a final game loss as a senior in a private moment.

• Michigan got some good news when Hill and Metellus decided yesterday to come back to Michigan for their senior year.  Now its up to David Long to make a decision.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/michigan-monday-more-changes-needed.html

Kick off the new year with a First Day Hike

Ring in New Year’s Day with an outdoor excursion with help from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. On January 1, more than 35 hikes will be held throughout the state as part of First Day Hike.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/kick-new-year-first-day-hike/

I Don't Care

You shouldn't either.

This wasn't Michigan, this was Michigan's 3rd and 4th team players on defense.   At one point, I wondered if Michigan was going to have enough guys on defense to finish the game.

After Michigan left 10 points off the board on the first half and the pick in the end zone to start the second half, it was over and everyone knew it.  

Bowl games aren't about the better team, its which team wants to be there.   Michigan lost this game before they even left Ann Arbor.   Florida wanted to play and Michigan didn't.   It was just the opposite in the Citrus Bowl a few years ago.

I really don't know how these games are beneficial to anyone.   If you traveled to the game and spent thousands on travel costs and tickets, I feel for you.   Been there, done that.   Never again.

Cheers:

• Christian Turner looks legit 

Jeers:

• I'm sorry but Don Brown needs to go back to defense school.   If you have time to prepare for his defense you can pick it apart.   I know he was under manned today but his defense has given up 100 points the last two games.   That is not the #1 defense in the nation or even a good defense. 

• Michigan's offense is predictable and bad.  They give away one down to the defense every 4 downs.   Where are all these plays we have heard about?

• Shea won a lot of games for Michigan this year but he played poorly today.  

• Jimmy has to start believing in another offensive philosophy.   His way of doing things is outdated and I don't believe Michigan can be elite with it.  Michigan has the best set of WR's maybe ever and he isn't aggressive at all. 

Thank goodness we are a basketball school.  They play at noon on Sunday.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/i-dont-care.html

Peach Bowl Preview

Time: 12:00
Location: Mercedes Dealership, Atlanta
Weather: Indoors
TV: ESPN
Stream: ESPN APP
Line: Michigan -6.0

Vegas is the best in the business at predicting games and spreads.  I have no idea on how they pick spreads for these bowl games.   Players are sitting out and some teams (like Miami) rather be at home then playing in a football game.  Or you just put bad teams up against each other like TCU and CAL that end up with a 10-7 OT game with 9 picks.   This system is working perfectly!

The Florida Gators were a bit streaky this year under new head coach Dan Mullen.  They lost their second game of the year to UK, won 5 in a row, lost 2 in a row, and finished off the year by winning their last 3 games against the murders row of South Carolina, Idaho, and Florida State.

We know how Michigan's season ended and there is no reason to relive that sh*t.

Tale of the Tape
Shea vs. UF's Pass D = Push
Michigan OT's vs. UF's DE's = Florida
Michigan Running D vs. UF's Running O = Michigan
Michigan's Pass D vs. UF's Passing O = Michigan
Intangibles: Florida
Coaching: Michigan

A good friend of mine Augusta J wanted me to go to the game.  He said the Stadium was worth the trip alone.  But alas, I have also decided to skip this years bowl game and head to the Chick-fil-A for lunch instead.

If this game was in Week 3 or 4 of the season, I think Michigan wins by 14 points.  It isn't and this team that Michigan will put on the field will be missing its best player on defense Bush and it's most talented one in Gary.  The offense is missing its 1000 yard runner and its Right Tackle.    Somehow all those changes only moved the line about a half a point.

Michigan is also coming off a train wreck in CBus that will either motivate them or do just the opposite.   Its hard to know.   The videos of practice looks like a team that is focused and is ready to play, but we won't know anything until about 12:15 on Saturday afternoon.

The Michigan coaches also have something to prove.   Pep and Jimmy need to open up the offense and let Shea throw without Higdon in the lineup.  Florida's pass defense is for real and it will be time to see Black, DPJ, and Nico can get separation and win some 50/50 balls downfield.

Don Brown the king of defense, got sent to the Bud Light wine cellar after the disaster in Ohio.  OSU was very clear on how to beat his defense and it will be interesting to see if his unit can respond positively without two very good players and just two weeks to prepare.

Yell, See you next year if...…………..

• Michigan's passing offense opens up the running game 
• Michigan's defense isn't shell shocked
• Getting 11 wins is really important
• Chase has a big day and goes out a winner like he deserves
• Michigan can handle UF's athletes

Shake your head and wonder why you attend these games if....

• This Michigan team looks like the one that played in the Outback
• Jimmy and Pep are running Evans straight in UF's D line 
• Michigan's D is lost without Bush 
• The UF offense is scoring points 

Here is my concern, Michigan is known to struggle with very athletic teams or players.   Even in wins this year, they gave up big plays to elite athletes.   Florida is full of those and if Franks can throw and run for some first downs, the Wolverines will have some issues.  

Florida likes to run the ball, which should be a positive for the Wolverines.  Florida also has tape from the Ohio State game.  Franks isn't Haskins and Mullen isn't Meyer but I'm sure we will see some concepts that beat the Wolverines in Ohio.  

I think the bottom line is Florida's program is on the rise with Mullen and Michigan just took a TKO in their last fight.   The Florida Gators are excited about playing another game, the Wolverines interest is questionable.  Michigan is going to struggle with Florida's DE's and Shea will have little to no time to get the ball down field.    Will Michigan be able to run the ball with Evans, Wilson, and Turner?

Harbaugh needs this win and Florida wants it so they can continue the progress.  

Florida 21 Michigan 17

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/peach-bowl-preview.html

Local manufacturers partner with school system for career tour

Advanced manufacturers across Washington County recently led a day-long tour for the Washington County Public School System’s (WCPS) guidance counselors to show what daily operations look like and what companies need from the next generation of skilled laborers. 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/local-manufacturers-partner-school-system-career-tour/

Michigan Thursday: Down Another Starter For The Peach

As reported yesterday, JBB Michigan's senior starting RT did not make the trip to Atlanta for the Peach Bowl. Now your first reaction might be, "Is he really considered an NFL Draft prospect?" He could get drafted but if he did, he would be a Day 3 draft prospect. So why is he sitting?

Michigan's release said that JBB elected not to play but insiders are saying that he is still injured with a Turf Toe and wasn't ready to play in this game.   Jimmy has a rule: if your injured and not playing, you don't travel.    Not sure why the Michigan staff used that wording on his participation. 

If your wondering how to feel about this game, I would say that is a valid feeling.   Michigan will be fielding a team that is more like its future 2019 squad then its 2018 team.   I have always said, that every Big 5 program should have an opportunity for an August pre-season exhibition against a local school (to reduce travel costs).   This game is starting to feel a bit like that. 

Many Michigan fans are feeling the same way, at last report Michigan had only sold 60% of it's ticket allotment and right now tickets are going as low as $55.75 on Stubhub.   Tickets through Michigan's Athletic Department are at $160 per.   (Michigan has to purchase any un-sold tickets in their allotment of 13,000)

If your wondering, Florida expects all their draft eligible players to participate on Saturday.   This is also starting to feel a bit like the Citrus Bowl in Harbaugh's first year but in reverse.   New coach, rebound year, and a program on the rise.   Other teams stars more interested in the NFL Draft. 

Should be a fun game! 

• Hello Minnesota's run game!  They ran over Tech at Ford Field yesterday.  

• Hello interceptions!  A total of 9 in the CAL - TCU game. 

• Hello Lighting, never seen a bowl game cancelled before. 

• Zach Gentry was happy with the draft grade he got from the NFL, so he will make a decision after the Peach Bowl.   To be fair, Zach has had a nice year but struggled against OSU.  If he has a strong Peach, he might just jump to the NFL.   When are they going to run a trick play, where he throws the ball?

• Don Brown addressed the OSU game by basically saying they had a great year with one terrible week.  That he just needs to move on.  I know he isn't going to go into specifics with the media but I hope moving on includes teaching his unit how to play a zone coverage.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/michigan-thursday-down-another-starter_27.html

Michigan Thursday: Down Another Starter For The Peach

As reported yesterday, JBB Michigan's senior starting RT did not make the trip to Atlanta for the Peach Bowl. Now your first reaction might be, "Is he really considered an NFL Draft prospect?" He could get drafted but if he did, he would be a Day 3 draft prospect.    So why is he sitting?

Michigan's release said that JBB elected not to play but insiders are saying that he is still injured with a Turf Toe and wasn't ready to play in this game.   Jimmy has a rule: if your injured and not playing, you don't travel.    Not sure why the Michigan staff used that wording on his participation. 

If your wondering how to feel about this game, I would say that is a valid feeling.   Michigan will be fielding a team that is more like its future 2019 squad then its 2018 team.   I have always said, that every Big 5 program should have an opportunity for an August pre-season exhibition against a local school (to reduce travel costs).   This game is starting to feel a bit like that. 

Many Michigan fans are feeling the same way, at last report Michigan had only sold 60% of it's ticket allotment and right now tickets are going as low as $55.75 on Stubhub.   Tickets through Michigan's Athletic Department are at $160 per.   (Michigan has to purchase any un-sold tickets in their allotment of 13,000)

If your wondering, Florida expects all their draft eligible players to participate on Saturday.   This is also starting to feel a bit like the Citrus Bowl in Harbaugh's first year but in reverse.   New coach, rebound year, and a program on the rise.   Other teams stars more interested in the NFL Draft. 

Should be a fun game! 

• Hello Minnesota's run game!  They ran over Tech at Ford Field yesterday.  

• Hello interceptions!  A total of 9 in the CAL - TCU game. 

• Hello Lighting, never seen a bowl game cancelled before. 

• Zach Gentry was happy with the draft grade he got from the NFL, so he will make a decision after the Peach Bowl.   To be fair, Zach has had a nice year but struggled against OSU.  If he has a strong Peach, he might just jump to the NFL.   When are they going to run a trick play, where he throws the ball?

• Don Brown addressed the OSU game by basically saying they had a great year with one terrible week.  That he just needs to move on.  I know he isn't going to go into specifics with the media but I hope moving on includes teaching his unit how to play a zone coverage.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/michigan-thursday-down-another-starter.html

Wolverine Wednesday: The Big Ten Bowl Prediction Thread

Coming off another Christmas holiday, I'm sure you have been eagerly waiting for the Big House Blog Big Ten Bowl prediction thread.  Yes, its a holiday tradition like no other!

Big Ten Bowl Blitz starts today:

Quick Lane Bowl:  Minnesota vs. Georgia Tech (-6):  This is the last game at Tech for Paul Johnson.  The Golden Gophers had plenty of time to prepare for Tech's triple option but the Rambling Wreck will play hard so that Paul Johnson gets a W in his final game:  GA Tech 28 Minnesota 20  (I'm sure there are good seats still available at Ford Field!)

New Era Pinstripe Bowl: Miami (-3) vs. Wisconsin:  I don't get this bowl at all.  I don't understand why you want to play a bowl game in freezing cold weather.   Yes, playing in Yankee stadium is pretty sweet, but do it in October not December.    Miami is full of athletes and Wisconsin has a bunch of big power guys.  The Hurricanes will not like the weather and Wisconsin knows and loves it.  The cold temps will level the playing field, even though the Badgers starting QB will not play.   Miami's program is a bit of a mess right now.  Wisconsin 17 Miami 14

Music City Bowl: Purdue vs. Auburn (-3.5):  On paper this is a huge miss match in Auburn's favor.   Purdue played one good game all year and was lucky enough to keep their head coach who turned down Louisville.   I really don't think Auburn is going to be up for this game and like OSU if you mail it in, Purdue will put 40 on you.  I still will go with the better team.   Auburn 31 Purdue 21

Red Box Bowl:  MSU vs. Oregon (-2):  Free DVD's for everyone!  Excuse me Mark, can I borrow your copy of Caddy Shack 2?   Oregon is a program on the rise and just signed a very strong recruiting class.   MSU is struggling with it's university and its football program.   I will take the Ducks in this one.  Oregon 28 MSU 14

Holiday Bowl:  Northwestern vs. Utah (-7):  I'm sorry but Northwestern was the most over rated team in the Big Ten.  They play hard but there is a talent gap.   Utah 31 Northwestern 17

Outback Bowl: Iowa vs. Mississippi State (-7):  Penn State's former OC Joe Moorehead knows Iowa and how to beat them.   This will be a close game as Iowa will play better then expected.   Mississippi State 21 Iowa 20

Citrus Bowl: Penn State (-6.5) vs. Kentucky: This might be one of the best bowl games of the year.  I think these teams are evenly matched and will light up the scoreboard.  PSU 41 UK 38

Rose Bowl: OSU (-6.5) vs. Washington:  OSU will be playing for Professor/Assistant AD Urban Meyer in his last game on the sideline.  Washington has struggled at times in a down year for the PAC 12.   You will recognize this game from pretty much everyone that OSU has played this year.   OSU will struggle through the first half and Washington might even have the lead at half time.  Then OSU will find its footing and win comfortably in the second half.  OSU 38 Washington 28

Side note: Can we please bring back football on Christmas day?  Can I have at least one NFL and one Bowl game?   I enjoy the NBA but need some football on Christmas.




from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/wolverine-wednesday-big-ten-bowl.html

Merry Christmas!!!

Merry Christmas to all the Big House Blog readers and all Michigan Fans!  I hope you have a great day spending valuable time with family and friends!    

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/merry-christmas_25.html

Michigan Monday: Exhibition Game Week

Michigan loaded up a plane and headed to Atlanta on Sunday to face the Florida Gators in less than a week.  I feel sorry for the journalist that are covering the game, can't feel great spending Christmas at the Atlanta Westin.   For the Wolverines, this is a business trip to get younger players some game time action and to see if they can eclipse 11 wins this season.  

Some practice buzz includes RB Christian Turner and CB Vincent Gray.   I expect with Higdon out, we will get a couple more looks at Mr. Turner and even Hassan Haskins who is back full time at RB after a stint on defense.  This is the first year where the new 4 game red shirt rule is in effect, so expect many younger players to see the field on Saturday.

In other news:

• Shea Patterson is coming back for his senior year.  Which is great news.  Two years in Harbaugh's system should bring more positive results from that position.  

• Michigan gets a PWO QB commit from a Rivals 2 star QB Ren Hefley.  Ren is a dual-threat at 6'1 and 185 pounds and played his high school football in Arkansas.   Welcome Ren! Any chance his nickname becomes Kylo?

• Michigan's basketball team slept walked through another 1st half against Air Force on Saturday but found its footing in the second half.  I think this is just rust only playing once a week.    Speaking of a service academy, did you see what Army did to Houston in the bowl game?  You know Army is on Michigan's schedule next year right?  Who keeps scheduling these service academies?

• With only a week left in the NFL regular season, expect more Harbaugh rumors.  The latest is that the Jets are going to come with a big offer.  Their owners name is Woody Johnson, that is all. 

• Speaking of the NFL Tom Brady clinched another Division Title yesterday.   In his 18 years career he has won 16 AFC East Titles.   That is just crazy! 🐐

A Too Early Look at Florida:

Record: 9-3

Best win: LSU 

Worst Loss: Missouri

Finished tied for 2nd in the SEC East with Kentucky who beat them.  

Very consistent on offense where they rush for 209 yards per and throw for 217.   

Gators score 34 points per game and give up 20.

Florida ranks #24 in total defense

Dan Mullen is in his first year as Florida's head coach.  A familiar name coaching the Gators secondary, Ron English (former Michigan DC and EMU head coach).

 

Line: Michigan -6.5

Interesting trend, when Florida has lost this year they have scored 16, 17, and 17 points.  (Kentucky, Georgia, Missouri)

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/michigan-monday-exhibition-game-week.html

Michigan Friday: Missing Bowl Games

When I went to the Orange Bowl a few years ago, I purchased seats from U of M.    We ended up at the top of the Hard Rock Stadium near an open air area.   It was a cold night and the wind hit that open area and a 60 degree night felt like 40 degrees.   My wife and daughter tapped out in the first quarter and decided to find some warmer area to watch or not watch the game.

My son and I stayed and watched Michigan sleep walk through the first half of the game against Florida State.   Michigan starts to show some signs of life and Wilton hits Jake Butt with a pass near the goal line.   Jake tears his ACL.

If you read this blog, you remember that play.  We saw a great kid and great tight end go from a 1st - 2nd round to TBD in his NFL Draft status.   My heart just sank out of my chest.  A cold day at a bad game, just got worse.

Jake says today (after his latest ACL tear) that he would suit up again in the Orange Bowl.  He did have an insurance policy and rumors are he saw something like $500K from it.   Which helps but doesn't really equal the millions of dollars he missed from his original draft status.

That play along with ND's Jalen Smith injury, really changed the landscape of bowl games.    Yes, the playoffs also has something to do with that, but those two injuries are the ones players always point to.

Gary announced the day after the Ohio State game he was out and heading to the NFL.   That was no surprise as he could be as high as the #2 draft pick.  If he goes to the combine, his numbers will jump off the charts.   You could argue that his stats on the field don't match that high of draft pick, but the NFL will be drafting his upside.

Bush was the next to announce and that wasn't a surprise either.  As he is expected to be a top 10 pick and is still recovering from a hip injury from the Ohio State game.

Higdon announced yesterday that he was also sitting out the bowl.  He is rated as the 5th RB in the NFL draft which probably equals a mid - late to round pick.   Higdon has been invited to the senior bowl and could increase his status there.  So investing some extra time for that game was worth it to him.

Luckily for Peach Bowl fans, Michigan's two CB's who were also rumored to be sitting out, will be playing.

College Football is starting to have a problem and I don't blame the players one bit.

I enjoy watching bowl games but last nights game had about a 1000 people in an NFL Stadium with a team that had 5 consecutive losses.   We have 40 bowl games and the only ones that really matter are the playoff games and Rose Bowl.   (yes, I understand how important bowl games are too smaller schools)

Fans don't want to attend, high profile players don't want to play, and the best part for the coaches are the two extra practice weeks.  Side note, many smaller teams lose money on bowl games due to travel costs and ticket purchase requirements.

What are we doing?

How about a 16 team playoff for the Power 5 and the same for non-Power 5 conferences.    You could do the non-power 5 conference playoffs with home games, so attendance and interest would be much higher.    Also play the non-power 5 playoffs during the week for better viewership, like they do for the Bad Boy Mowers Bowl.

I don't know if that is the solution but seeing Jake Butt lay on the Orange Bowl field, made me really think about my position on this and how valuable these games really are.



from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/michigan-friday-missing-bowl-games.html

Michigan Thursday: Higdon Out For Peach and Michigan's Class Rank

This was the worst kept secret in the program.  Higdon hasn't been practicing and reports are he id home in Florida.  This morning he announced he won't be playing in the Peach Bowl.   There has also been some rumors flying around that Higdon's family was not happy about how he was used in the OSU game and wasn't recognized at the football banquet.

For those keeping score at home, Michigan will be without their starting RB - Higdon, DE- Gary, and LB - Bush for the Peach Bowl.   Luckily, Michigan's talented CB's Hill and Long are practicing and expected to play.  Both where rumored to also be considering sitting out.
-------

Michigan by all services had the top recruiting class in the Big Ten.  Yes, we know the recruiting cycle is not over until the February timeframe, but Michigan is really only looking to sign their two committed prospects and maybe a RB and another DT.

Here is how Michigan ranked on the major services, along with their top rivals:

24/7

#8 Michigan
#10 Penn State
#12 OSU
#13 ND
28 MSU

ESPN

#4 Michigan
#10 ND
#11 OSU
#12 PSU
#28 MSU

Rivals

#9 Michigan
#10 PSU
#11 ND
#20 OSU
#33 MSU

ESPN was much higher on Michigan's class and 24/7 and Rivals were very close.   Rivals is significantly lower on OSU and MSU.   The Buckeyes lost two 4 star guys on Wednesday but did pick up Zach Harrison.  MSU's class was highlighted by the Belleville kids and rest of the class was 3 stars.

Saying James Franklin is the most over rated coach in college football maybe accurate, but the man can recruit.

Even though ESPN is considerd the lowest quality of all the recruiting services, they do have the largest platform which didn't hurt the Wolverines yesterday.   I don't have an ESPN insider subscription to know which players are higher ranked, but I do know they are very high on DT Mazi Smith.  So are we!

Some of you might be wondering which recruits from yesterday, will be enrolling early and be on campus in a couple of weeks.   Here is the list as we know it right now:

Cade McNamara

Zach Charbonnet

Erick All

Jack Stewart

Mazi Smith

David Ojabo

Gabe Newburg

Jalen Perry

Mike Sainristil

Who are the DT's Michigan might be looking to sign?

The two guys they offered late in the cycle.  Neither signed yesterday but favoring Penn State. 

• D’Von Ellies
• Jared Harrison-Hunte

Guys like Crouch and Ford also didn't sign but are still considered a reach for the Wolverines.  The other area that could be a concern is RB depth.   TE could also be an add for one of the remaining spots. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/michigan-thursday-higdon-out-for-peach.html

2018 recap: global expansions, booming biohealth, a bright future for cyber

In 2018, Maryland saw a groundbreaking for the headquarters of a major global company, and a ribbon cutting for another.  We saw announcement after announcement of biohealth companies committing to Maryland, and major developments in cybersecurity, promising a bright future for the sector. Let’s revisit some of the highlights of 2018. 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/2018-recap/

A Good Day in Review

I've been getting real tired of all the bad news and bad things that have happened to this program lately.  Michigan is finally in the top 4 playoff race and gets a 62 burger dropped on them in Columbus.

Then gets a re-run of a bowl game that many fans and players feel is just an exhibition game, one that we have seen two other times.  Gary and Bush are headed to the NFL and Higdon is reportedly home in Florida.

Dax flips to Bama and Zach Harrison gets scared of the 62 burger and starts to pull away.  Aubrey is homesick and looking for a new school.

Michigan has not been great at closing a class and they sky is starting to fall.

Then last weekend happens. Michigan lands a much needed 4 star OT and a 4 star LB.

Today, I expected things to stay pretty much the same.   We would get our committed prospects and call it day.   I started early and the commitments starting rolling in around 8:00.  Then it hits twitter that Dax Hill has signed and was confirmed LOI was in.  I looked at it 3 times to confirm in my own mind it was real.  The entire day changed!

This was big for many reason, yes Dax had back flipped to Michigan but even when he was committed to Michigan originally he was planning on signing in February.   This was a huge win for Harbaugh and Don Brown.   No re-commitment announce, no hats on a table, just a received LOI and new 5 star in the fold.

Then shortly after Michigan gets the 4 Star outside WR it needs.  Michigan closes with getting back a 5 star Safety, a 4 star OT, a 4 star LB and a 4 star WR.   That is a very strong close to the class.

Work to be done?

Yes, there are still two Johnson's without signed LOI's.   They might be doing some signing thing at their school or could be waiting until February.  Quinten tweeted a couple of days ago he was signing today.  No idea what George's plans are.

Update:  from twitter a few minutes ago.  George's LOI is in!



AP-Hickson I guess will sign in February, I don't know if this has something to do with basketball or not.

Michigan also needs a DT.  They might be able to find one between now and February or look for a graduate transfer.

I'm not excited about the Peach Bowl scrimmage, but I am excited about this class and Michigan's future!

Today was a good day!



from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/a-good-day-in-review.html

Welcome to (Early) National Signing Day 2019

7:30 - Zach Carpenter said he sent his in, not confirmed yet.
7:30- Joey Velazquez said he sent his in, not confirmed yet



This is the busiest day of the year on the blog, so come early and often as I will have a running list of commits that have signed their LOI's and sent them to Michigan.  

Michigan is expecting a large class of 26 prospect signing.

1 new commit is expected with Cornelius Johnson

Harbaugh said to expect fireworks but I'm guessing that really won't be any.   He also will not be doing a press conference today which seems a bit strange.

Also former Wolverine WR Kekoa Crawford committed to Cal last night.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/welcome-to-early-national-signing-day.html

Michigan Tuesday: Early Signing Day Eve

Its amazing that the Michigan Football news cycle is pretty much non-stop.  Recruits committing and de-committing, wining and losing games, beating and losing to rivals, coaches coming and going, and players transferring.  

Tomorrow is a big day for Michigan Football as recruiting is any programs life line from good to great.   So today we preview things that might and should happen tomorrow as the early signing period opens.   

Swing for the fence:  These are elite recruits that have a chance of signing with Michigan tomorrow.  

Dax Hill - we have no idea what is going on with this recruitment, is he still solid with Alabama?  Is he going to sign on Wednesday or in February?  Would be a huge win back if somehow his LOI got to Ann Arbor.  

Zach Harrison - will make his twitter public, tweet his choice, and send in his LOI around noon on Wednesday.  Nobody knows anything here.   Finalist are Michigan, OSU, and PSU.   Michigan has been losing CB's and best guess is he stays at home with all the local pressure. 

Looking Good - Kids have high probability to sign with Michigan on Wednesday.

Cornelius Johnson 4 star WR from CT.  Visited last weekend and there is a good chance he is headed for a commit on Wednesday.  Mother attended U of M Medical School and father attended Stanford.  With Stanford and ND classes getting tight, Ann Arbor seems like a good choice. 

Kalen Deloach is a 4 star LB that is expected to stick with his FSU commitment who is coached by a Harbaugh friend.  Seems parents really want Michigan and son likes FSU being closer to home and having a number of friends going there.   I expect he will stay with FSU but there is a chance Michigan gets the LOI.    

Expected to Sign: 

• Zach Charbonnet near 5 star RB 
• Chris Hinton 4 star DT
• Mazi Smith 4 star DT
• Nolan Rumler 4 star OG 
• Trevor Keegan 4 star OT
• Trente Jones 4 star OT
• Anthony Solomon 4 star LB 
• Jalen Perry 4 Star CB
• Cade McNamara 4 star QB
• Giles Jackson 4 star WR
• David Ojabo 4 star DE
• Karsen Barnhart 4 star OG
• Erik All 4 star TE 
• Quinten Johnson 4 star S
• Mike Morris 3 star DE
• DJ Turner 3 star CB
• Charles Thomas 3 star LB 
• Zach Carpenter 3 star OG 
• Jack Stewart 3 star OT
• Mike Sainristil 3 star CB
• Gabe Newburg 3 star DE 
• Amauri Pesek-Hickson 3 star WR
• George Johnson 3 star Athlete
• Quintel Kent 3 star WR
• Joey Velazquez 3 star Viper

Michigan doesn't have the best luck with securing 5 stars at the bell, so lets predict that Dax and Zach make other decisions.   I also think Johnson will sign with Michigan at WR.   

If that happens and Michigan signs all the "expected to sign" guys,  this is still a very good class.  Michigan addressed the offensive line, LB and speed on the outside on offense.   With the loss of Aubrey Solomon, Michigan will need to try to get another DT between now and February.   As depth at DT has now become a concern.   Michigan offering a number of DT's the last few weeks was a clear sign they knew what was happening with Aubrey. 

Michigan is expected to sign 26 players tomorrow. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/michigan-tuesday-early-signing-day-eve.html

Duck Thinkagain

How those famous words caught on video became so real.  

As you know by now, Aubrey Solomon has decided to transfer from Michigan.  I guess the program has a one Solomon limit.  This transfer has been rumored for some time and today became official. 

There are really 3 reasons kids transfer:

1- homesick 

2- academics 

3- playing time 

There of course are other reasons but those 3 usually cover it.  My guess for this transfer would be 1 & 3.   Aubrey barely played this year due to an injury and illness.  Last year he saw spot duty as a freshman.  He of course, was expected to play a huge role next season, which now he will watch from the sideline at Georgia or someplace.  

The rumor mills continues to spin on another big name that might transfer, but I will let you think on that one as this post fades to black.    For the size of the 2019 class Michigan is signing, more departures are expected.  

How excited are you about the Peach Bowl in a couple of weeks?

Michigan has 13,000 tickets and still hasn't sold out their allotment yet. 

Speaking of rumors there seems to be plenty of smoke around a fire that a number of kids will be sitting out.   Including Gary, maybe a total of 5 starters.   

So Michigan is going to play an exhibition game missing over 20% of their starters as healthy scratches.    Yea, that should be a great game:  Florida vs. Michigan's 2nd team.   

Again these are just rumors but there is plenty of smoke as bowl practice has already started.  

Let's hope Wednesday works out better for Michigan then expected.  

and I keep reminding myself, Michigan is a basketball school, Michigan is a basketball school, Michigan is a basketball school! 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/duck-thinkagain.html

New Enterprise Zone designated in Caroline County

The Maryland Department of Commerce has announced the designation of a new enterprise zone in northern Caroline County, which includes the towns of Ridgely, Greensboro, and Goldsboro and the Mid Shore Regional Technology and Business Park. The state has also redesignated Garrett County's enterprise zone, and expanded the existing zones in Cecil and Talbot counties. 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/new-enterprise-zone-designated-caroline-county/

Michigan Monday: Recruiting Weekend Re-cap

Michigan landed a very strong piece to its 2019 class on Friday night when 4 star OT Trevor Keegan committed to Michigan over Georgia and others.   As you know, building an offensive line that can  dominate is something we have lacked in Ann Arbor for what seems like 20 years now.  

Trevor joins a strong offensive line class that includes G Nolan Rumler, OT Trente Jones, G Karsen Barnhart, G Zach Carpenter, and OT Jack Stewart.  Danielson Ike who was scheduled to take a 3 day visit this past weekend, had his visit cancelled.   Which is a pretty clear sign, Michigan is done with offensive line recruiting for this class.

Getting Trevor in this class is one of the most important pieces.  Welcome big man!

Michigan also received a public commitment from 4 star LB Anthony Solomon last night.  He decommitted from Miami and now will sign with Michigan on Wednesday.   This was not a shock or surprise as Anthony committed to Michigan weeks ago and was the reason for the "commit watch".

Solomon had offers from the likes of Alabama, BC, Clemson, Auburn, FSU, Georgia, and others.  Solomon took a long visit to Ann Arbor this summer and then picked Miami.  His heart was always in Ann Arbor and now he is a Wolverine.

Welcome home!

That is good news Bob, but what about the rest of the class?

The only one I feel comfortable about right now is 4 star CT WR Cornelius Johnson who just visited this past weekend and will announce on Wednesday.  

The 5 Stars:

Dax Hill:  The buzz is that Dax might now be leaning back towards Ann Arbor after Bama misled him.  He was tentative to be signing on Wednesday to either school, so we will probably have to wait for an update.  The buzz could also be wrong as not many players have done the reverse flip from Alabama.

Zach Harrison:  Nobody knows and most insiders believe he is leaning away from Michigan after OSU housed the Wolverines in Columbus.   That information still has to be 2nd or 3rd hand which could be accurate or not.   So this one is a coin flip.   One thing I would like to point out is all the Ohio guys that are coming to Ann Arbor as Gray Shirts, PWO's, and scholarship players.   Which could have a positive effect on Zach.   There are also reports that recruits are not sold on Ryan Day yet and what OSU will look like in future years.   Coin flip.

Quavaris Crouch is trending to Tennessee.   He is not coming to Ann Arbor.

Anyone else?

4 star Kalen Deloach took his final visit to FSU this weekend.  Reports out of the visit is he is solid with FSU and will sign with the Seminoles on Wednesday.   Sam Webb is not buying those reports and believes there is a chance Kalen will flip to the Wolverines on Wednesday.    So who knows.

I believe the takes are:

1. Any and all 5 stars that want to commit
2. WR Johnson
3. LB Deloach

Some have speculated that when Solomon committed, Michigan didn't have room for Deloach.  Not true, he committed weeks ago and Michigan is still giving the Deloach's the full court press. 

Should be a fun couple of days. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/michigan-monday-recruiting-weekend-re.html

Frederick's diversified life sciences and bio industry

If you follow the life sciences industry in the Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan area, it was hard to miss three major ribbon-cutting ceremonies that recently took place within one month.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/fredericks-diversified-life-sciences-and-bio-industry/

Michigan Friday: Big Final Recruiting Visit Weekend

Wednesday is the early signing period for high school football players with offers to play college football.  Even though the first Wednesday in February is still National Signing Day, most programs try to get their class cemented in December.  If you don't sign in December, your really not committed, are you?

The final visit weekend prior to signing day is always a big one and this weekend is no exception.  Lets see who is attending:

First off:  Illinois 4 star OT Trever Keegan announces tonight at his high school.   Michigan feels confident this is a pledge for the good guys.  His announcement is at 7:30 EST.

2019 Visitors:

• Gabe Newburg - Commit will take a visit to A2.  

• Danielson Ike - a huge OT at 6'6 300 pounds, he is a 3 star but has a number of high offers from the likes of Alabama, Oklahoma, etc.  This official visit will go a long way of him making a decision for Wednesday. 

• Cornelius Johnson, 4 star WR from CT, a big need for Michigan.  His mom went to Michigan and father went to Stanford.  His final list is Michigan, Stanford, ND, and Alabama.  WOTS is that ND and Stanford have other needs and might not be taking another WR in this class, which opens the door wide open to A2.  

• Sam Snyder FL 3 star TE is an interesting one.  He has offers from the likes of FSU, Baylor, Rutgers, Wake Forest, Maryland and others.  Sam was also formerly a Louisville commit.   He is taking a trip to Ann Arbor without an offer. 

• Anthony Solomon 4 star LB out of FL.  He is a Miami commit that always had an eye on Ann Arbor even before Manny Diaz leaped to Temple.  He has offers from pretty much the entire SEC and could be on "commit watch" this weekend.  (Miami has got hit with 4 de-commits to the 2019 and 2020 classes this week)

Usually there is also a surprise visitor or two.  Michigan was also trying to get a couple DT's that were offered late. 

BTW Insiders expect instate DE/TE Darius Robinson to pick Missouri.  He is not scheduled to visit A2 this weekend.  

Michigan of course is also recruiting very hard 5 star DE Zach Harrison and 4 star LB Kalen DeLoach who have been on campus a number of times. 

I'm sure you will see a number of recruits at Crisler when #4 Michigan takes on Western on Saturday. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/michigan-friday-big-final-recruiting.html

Michigan Thursday: The Emotional Roller Coaster

This has become our life as Michigan fans.  It's a Universal Studios roller coaster of emotions.  There is drama, suspense, success, failure, and even some departures.  

Welcome to the Big House Amusement Park would you like to buy a ticket?

Ride #1 Don Brown 

This is a very fast ride and if blink you might miss it.

Wednesday morning it was reported that Don Brown had not only interviewed for the head coaching job at Temple but was a finalist.   Shortly after that announcement it had become clear that Miami DC Manny Diaz was the favorite in the clubhouse and later that day accepted the job.

Ride #2 Coaches Shuffle 

This ride has a bunch of sudden stops and starts.  Be careful if you have a bad back.

The early signing period is now less then a week away and with all these coaches moving or not moving its really confusing things.   Don could have been gone yesterday, but wasn't.  Miami is struggling in recruiting this year and lost their best coaching asset.   We know about Urban checking out and rumors about DL coach Larry Johnson becoming the DC at Maryland.  Also we know about all the NFL rumors about Jim Harbaugh that he killed last week.

Ride #3 Early Signing Day 12/19

This ride is our most dangerous and can make you sick.  We only recommend it for kids that have graduated high school but will also make a number of older adults sick as well.

Michigan has a number of recruits coming in this weekend and others yet to make a decision.

Zach Harrison doesn't talk to anyone, so your guess is as good as mine.  There was something that happened for Sam Webb to put in his CB prediction, lets hope that continues to stand.

Cornelius Johnson is the outside WR Michigan needs, he will be visiting this weekend.

LB?  Anthony Solomon (no relation to Aubrey) will be visiting this weekend, he is a Miami commit and his recruiter? Manny Diaz.

Kalen DeLoach is visiting FSU this weekend so he can make a final decision on FSU or Michigan.

Ride #4 The Hill 

This ride has some serious highs and lows.  You will feel great, but out of nowhere you will feel sick.

Dax Hill surprised all of us on Saturday by decommitting from Michigan.  We had heard that he was making a 40 year decision, it wasn't all about football, and Ann Abor/U of M was a perfect fit for him.  Then he flipped to Bama on Saturday out of the blue.  

Now its starting to leak that Dax might have been sold by some coaches that Harbaugh was good as gone to the NFL.   Dax was always a risk not to sign next Wednesday as his father is on record as saying Dax wanted to sign with his teammates in February.

How to get thrown out of the park

We also got some troubling news yesterday as RB O'Maury Samuels was dismissed from the team.  He was arrested this past weekend on a domestic abuse and destroying property charge.

I hate to see these situations.


Hope you enjoyed your visit! 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/michigan-thursday-emotional-roller.html

Wolverine Wednesday: Welcomes Caden Kolesar

If you not old enough to remember John Kolesar at Michigan.  He was a very good, tough WR that I have memories of him catching a 77 yard TD against Ohio State.  The QB that threw that pass?  Jim Harbaugh.   I'm not old enough to remember John's father Bill at Michigan but he also wore the Maize and Blue as well.

His son Caden Kolesar decided to play for the Wolverines yesterday.   The first report was he was joining the team as a Gray Shirt and then reports came out as a PWO.  Doesn't matter he is heading to A2 to play for the team he loves.

Caden is a 5'10 195 pound safety that played for St. Edwards in Ohio.   Caden's team won the State title a couple of weeks ago and Caden was named to the All Ohio Team.   24/7 lists Caden as a 3 star Athlete with offers from the BGSU, Akron, Holy Cross, Robert Morris, and Army.  As you might imagine, the Kolesar's are just over the moon with his decision:

“They all cried — my sister cried, my mom cried, my brother cried. Everybody is crying,” John Kolesar said Tuesday. “My brother, Doug, said when he called Mom, ‘I couldn’t keep myself together I was crying on the phone.’ They’re such big Michigan fans. They’re all ecstatic.”

“We are just thrilled,” John Kolesar said. “He’s worked so hard these last four years in high school. He was awarded with a first-team all-state selection, a state championship, and now the opportunity to play football at the University of Michigan is just remarkable.”

The Legacy Continues!

• Reports are that Zach Harrison will tweet out where he is going a week from today and fax in his LOI.  Zach's twitter is private so he will announce just to his friends and family.  Both OSU and Michigan are optimistic he will head their way.  Which probably means he will end up a Penn State.  

• Sam Webb thinks it will be interesting if Dax Hill signs a week from today or not.  If he doesn't sign with Bama, that gives Michigan plenty of time to re-convince him Michigan is the place to be.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/wolverine-wednesday-welcomes-caden.html

Michigan Tuesday: Commitment Dates Announced

Big House Blog inmates we are 8 days away from the early signing period.  If you don't sign your not really committed!   Sam Webb said yesterday that one of his only signs that Hill could be wavering was that his dad said he wasn't going to sign early and wanted to do it with his teammates in February.   My guess is he signs with Bama next Wednesday.  

Many prospects are letting people know their announcement dates:

• 4 star OT Trevor Keegan will announce at his HS in Illinois on Friday evening.  He is down to Michigan, Georgia, and Penn State.  

• 3 star TE/DE Darius Robinson will sign and make his announcement on the 19th.   His final list is Michigan, Missouri, Minnesota, and Colorado.  

• 4 star CT WR Cornelius Johnson who will visit A2 this weekend will announce on the 19th as well.  His final list includes: Stanford, Alabama, Michigan, Penn State, and ND. 

• Zach Harrison is still unknown and I expect he will just sign a letter and send it in to a school.   As quiet as his recruitment has been, I don't expect a big ceremony.   Any idea where he is going is just a guess at this point. 

• Kansas State has hired North Dakota State’s Chris Klieman which is a great hire.

• Breaking news: John Kolesar's son - Caden a 2019 DB recruit  from St. Edwards in Ohio has taken a Grey Shirt commitment at Michigan.   That means he pays his own way for a year and then is on scholarship for his second season or if/when one becomes available.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/michigan-tuesday-commitment-dates.html

Michigan Monday: Let's Start Pulling This Onion Apart

What it must be like sitting in the Heisman Trophy ceremony waiting to hear if your star QB won the Heisman trophy or not.  Being on top of the football world again.   Team is #1 again, in the playoffs again, almost lost the SEC Championship but had another 5 star QB on the shelf to save the day.

That is the life of Nick Saban, like you didn't know.  He is the guy that gets his lake house mortgage paid off when Texas has an opening.  His top competition in the coaching ranks,  Urban Meyer has retired for the 3rd time (he retired twice at Florida) and his star QB who just had surgery a week ago is expected to ready to play in 3 weeks.

It's good to be Nick Saban.  So good, that you can sit in NYC at the Heisman Trophy Ceremony and pick up two of the best defensive back in the country that were committed to other places.

Yes, one of those places was Michigan.  Dax Hill Michigan's highest rated player in the class surprisingly flipped from Michigan to Alabama on Saturday night.  The other program that got robbed was Texas A&M.

I stay pretty close to recruiting news and there was nothing in the "wind" about Hill having second thoughts.  It's very common that one of the top players in the class would still be getting recruited by everyone, but usually when a player starts to have second thoughts, its common knowledge.

After the de-commit I learned that Alabama's DB coach visited Dax on Thursday.  That is not uncommon either.  It's also not uncommon for players to want to play for Alabama.   What I find unique and uncommon is this:

Georgia puts up 450 yards on Alabama's defense late on Saturday afternoon and a week later, two top DB's  prospects in the nation with Alabama offers who picked other schools, suddenly decide to flip to Alabama on the same night, two weeks before signing day.   With Nick sitting in NYC.   I don't believe in coincidences.

The UM Internet nation will say, it was because of the "train wreck in Columbus".  I don't believe that for a minute, I don't believe elite players make decisions off one game.   I also believe elite players think, " it will be different when I'm on the field."    

When it comes to recruiting, Michigan is playing chess and most everyone else is playing checkers.   Coach B gets away with it, because all he has to do is pick 2 or 3 under the radar guys each year.  He then develops the hell out of them and makes Final 4's.

Jimmy has a much harder job, he needs to find 25 players that are elite on the field and in the classroom.  That also doesn't want or need a new car or money for their families.   Think back to being 18 and somebody drops off a new truck or car and hands you the keys.  

Some of these "bag man" are so good at this, it will never be tied back to the program that the player just committed to.   Who's going to say anything anyway?  Getting a new car isn't hurting anyone.

Is it fair to Michigan?  No, it isn't.  But as long as we want this program to be squeaky clean, we are going to have to deal with losses like this weekend.

• Jimmy made it very clear again that he is staying at Michigan and that he is tired of this old song and dance before signing day every year.  

• The Michigan Basketball team took its record to 10-0 with another win this weekend over South Carolina.  Michigan struggled in this game with the athletic Gamecocks.  Michigan Basketball does seem to struggle with athletic teams that have length.   FSU last year during the tournament was another example.  Still a win is a win and its great to see Poole getting his shot back. 

• Shea and Chase said they are playing in Peach Bowl and Jimmy said he would let other players announce their intentions.   Which leds you to believe others will be sitting out. 

• The mystery OT that visited this weekend was Tennessee commit OT Chris Akporoghene who plays at IMG.  He is rated as a 3 star. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/michigan-monday-lets-start-pulling-this.html

Michigan Friday: More Recruiting Updates

Jimmy was expected to be in home with top recruit Zach Harrison last night.  No word yet on how that visit went.   Zach is planning on enrolling early so he has less then two weeks to make his final decision before the 19th early signing period.   The thinking is that Zach is still leaning towards the Wolverines but the people around him still want him to be a Buckeye and the train wreck didn't help that situation.   Zach was never a huge fan of Urban, so him leaving doesn't really change things for the talented DE.

• Steve Wiltfong has changed his crystal ball prediction from Georgia to Michigan for OT Trever Keegan.  TK is expected to announce his commitment a week from today on the 14th. 

• Sam Webb is saying a "mystery" offensive lineman is visiting Ann Arbor today.  This player is committed to another program and isn't interested in making his visit public yet.   

• The last weekend before the early signing period (12/14-12/16) is going to be busy in Ann Arbor, expected to visit include:  Miami Commit LB Anthony Solomon,  FL TE Sam Snyder former Louisville commit, KC OT Danielson Ike, and new DT offer D'Von Ellies (not confirmed yet).

• New WR Coach Ben McDaniels went in home with Giles Jackson last night. 

• Cleveland 4 star LB Tommy Eichenberg committed to OSU last night.  He was a former BC commit and Michigan offered late.   Tommy wanted a Ohio State offer and got one late in the process. 

• Former KSU Head Coach and 2018 Michigan Offensive Analyst, Ron Price was named the head coach at Howard University.   That is two former head coaches that spent one year with Jim Harbaugh and got a new HC role. 

• Michigan has offered a new 2020 QB JD Johnson from Phoenix

• Devin Bush was named to the Walter Camp All American Team 1st Team.  Chase was named to the second team. 

•  Georgia Tech has hired Temple's Geoff Collins as their next head coach. Liberty has also hired Hugh Freeze former head coach of Shea Patterson at Ole Miss.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/michigan-friday-more-recruiting-updates.html

Celebrating company milestones in Maryland

As 2018 comes to a close, we take a look back at the companies making an impact in the state, including those who celebrated major milestone anniversaries throughout the year. Thank you all for helping us make Maryland the perfect place to live, work, and play.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/celebrating-company-milestones-maryland-6/

Michigan Thursday: Looks Like More Defensive Line Needs

We are less then two weeks away from what has become National Signing Day.    It's really the early signing period as NSD is the first Wednesday in February, but most coaches and programs want a majority of their class locked up in December not February.

Michigan is still looking for a interior defensive lineman/defensive tackle and have sent out two new 2019 offers this week.

Jared Harrison-Hunte is a 3 star DT out of Middle Village, NY. He is 6'4 and 286 pounds and has offers from the likes of OSU, PSU, ASU, MSU, Tennessee and others.   Jared getting a Michigan offer late in the process might be good or bad.   It will be key if he takes a visit or not.

Same goes for D'Von Ellies a 6'2 280 pound 4 star DT out of Owings Mills, Maryland who got offered yesterday.  His top offers are OSU, PSU, and USC.  Many thought he might be a lock to Ohio State but with the news out of CBus there could be an opening here.   It seems the Michigan coaches are trying to get him on campus this weekend or next.

My guess this is the result of George Karlaftis staying at Purdue.

• How strong is Michigan's class this year? Gatorade State Football Player of the Year awards: ATH Mike Sainristil (Massachusetts), QB Cade McNamara (Nevada) and DB Daxton Hill (Oklahoma)! (HT to Brice Marich twitter)

• 124 Michigan athletes were named to the Fall Big Ten All Academic Team 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/michigan-thursday-looks-like-more.html

Wolverine Wednesday: A Close One With Northwestern and Some Recruiting News

Michigan won a nail biter against Northwestern last night to up its record to 9-0 and 2-0 in the Big Ten.    The Wolverines looked great at times running up the lead to 15 points, then quickly lost it on a big Wildcats run.  Michigan locked down the defense and found enough offense to sneak out a win.

Michigan showed a few issues in this game that we haven't seen.

1. Michigan has an issue on both sides of the floor when Teske needs rest.  
2. When Matthews struggles on offense, Michigan struggles to replace his point production.  He finished with 3 points on the night.  
3. Simpson's outside shooting (or lack of it) almost cost the Wolverines the game.  The Wildcats where begging him to shoot a 3, he did 4 times in a row, all where misses.  

Michigan really struggled on offense during the latter parts of the second half.   Eli Brooks spelled Simpson after his misses and hit a huge 3 point bucket.   I also believe the Wolverines need to get Brandon Johns on the floor more.   They need his size for Teske and Matthews at times.   Austin Davis struggled playing 7 minutes against Northwestern.

***Charles Woodson was inducted to the College Football Hall of Fame last night!***

• Sam Webb Crystal Balled Trevor Keegan 4 Star OT to Michigan last night.  This is big news and Trevor might be the most important recruit left in this class. 

• 4 star WR Cornelius Johnson will visit this weekend, his final list is Michigan, ND, and Stanford. The buzz from ND is they may no longer have a spot for CJ. Michigan has some work to do this weekend to try to gain his commit in 2 weeks.

• Michigan coaches were recently in home with Zach Harrison. Sam believes Urban leaving probably doesn't effect his decision that much, its more about leaving home, relationship with commits and Michigan players.   That the OSU game might of left a question mark in his mind as he still has a lot of people in his circle that want him at Ohio State.  

• Michigan was also in home with 5 star Quavaris Crouch on Monday many still think he is headed to Clemson, but Michigan has a punchers chance. 

• 3 star FL TE Sam Snyder former Louisville is also expected to take a visit to Ann Arbor this weekend.  His best offer is FSU and doesn't seem to have a Michigan offer yet. 

• Jimmy was also in home with commit Mike Sainristil last night.

• Michigan offered NY 2019 DL Jared Harrison-Hunte yesterday as well. Jared has been blowing up late and has offers from OSU, PSU, MSU, Tennessee, and others. No word if Jared is interested in the Wolverines.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/wolverine-wednesday-close-one-with.html

Michigan Tuesday: Urban Meyer Retiring

It had been rumored since his suspension that Urban Meyer would leave Ohio State after the season.   Today at 2:00 he will officially announce his retirement in a press conference.

Was it his health?  We know he has a brain cyst that has been causing him some problems.   He has looked ill most of the season.

Was it an agreement from August?  Some have speculated that his reaction during his suspension press conference was clearly something more then 3 games.  Was this agreed upon during that meeting?

Was it his relationship with OSU?  Others have speculated that he felt he didn't do anything wrong and should of never been suspended.  This might be the result of a bad relationship with the OSU President.

Was it an undefeated record against Michigan?  I'm sure that played a bit into it.  He did announce like two weeks ago that he would be coaching next season.

Was Ryan Day getting other offers?  This for sure was a factor, OSU wanted Ryan to take over and for sure didn't want him jumping to another school.

Was it his QB situation?  Florida fans have seen same scenario play out before.  He retired from football for health reasons and was coaching Ohio State after a year off.  Florida fans will tell you that he could predict the UF downturn and wanted out.   Haskins is expected to turn pro and be a top 10 pick in some of the drafts boards I have seen.

I don't know if we will ever know the full reasons.  We will probably learn something at 2:00 today but the real reason might not surface for a year or two when he takes over USC.  (total speculation of course)

• Michigan Basketball continues its early Big Ten season tonight outside of Chicago against Northwestern.   Its another late tip at 9:00 EST on BTN. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/michigan-tuesday-urban-meyer-retiring.html

Five economic reasons to feel merry

Looking for a few additional reasons to feel merry this holiday season? Check out this economic recap from the Maryland Department of Labor.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/five-economic-reasons-feel-merry/

REGENXBIO expects to double its workforce in Rockville

The state of Maryland and Montgomery County have announced support for the expansion of REGENXBIO Inc., a leading clinical-stage biotechnology company specializing in gene therapy.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/regenxbio-expects-double-its-workforce-rockville/

Michigan Monday: It's Like Deja Vu, All Over Again

That quote comes from the famous poet Yogi Berra.   It's also a summary of the Michigan Football program the last two weeks.   A devastating loss to Ohio State, watching the Big Ten Championship from home, and playing Florida in a Bowl Game.

I don't understand the CF Committee having the Florida - Michigan game for the 3rd time in 4 years.  If you wanted more interest, higher attendance, and more TV viewers.   The better bet was UCF vs. Florida and LSU vs. Michigan.  Even "Champion" the clothing manufacture agreed:

This was on the MDen site last night.

Who do I blame?  

The Peach Bowl and Warde Manuel.   Nether of these two had the final decision as that comes from the committee.   But both could have voiced their opinion to the committee which match-up they preferred and their non-support for the Florida-Michigan game.   It was clear all over social media that they where making a mistake all weekend and nobody cared.

Warde Manuel needs to start standing a bit taller as Michigan's AD.  If he kept Michigan - Arkansas game this year, the Wolverines would be 11-1.   He also should of been in everyone's ear that the Michigan - Florida game V3 was un-acceptable.

The Big Ten also holds some responsibility here after being kept out of the Playoffs for the second year in a row.

How do I feel about the match-up?

I hate it!  I have been attending bowl games for awhile now.  I will not be going to Atlanta.   These games have become the basketball equivalent of the NIT Tournament.   The only upside is, if Michigan plays a team they normally don't play.   They are expensive (tickets through Michigan are $160 per) and I watched Michigan quit during the Outback Bowl last year.   The viewing experience is not that great in an NFL Stadium either.   I would have preferred to have watched the Orange Bowl two years ago from home.

What about players that elect not to play?

After watching Jake Butt lose millions with one play in the Orange Bowl, I will never question a player skipping a (non-playoff) bowl game.  Gary told Jimmy he wouldn't be playing in the Peach and I don't question that decision for a minute.  He has millions to make in the NFL and participating in a exhibition game it's worth the risk.  As they say, "the juice isn't worth the squeeze"

Isn't it Ironic, Don't you think?

Hours before the Peach Bowl is announced, Jim McElwain former Florida head coach and Michigan WR Coach is named the head coach at Central Michigan.   Which I think is a great fit.

Patriots OC Josh McDaniels little brother, Ben will be the WR coach for the Bowl Game.  Ben has been on Michigan's staff this season.


What's Next?

The Michigan coaches need to focus on the 12/20 early signing period and get the best class signed as possible.  There are plenty of big fish out there and Michigan needs to land at least two of them.

Spend the two weeks of Bowl Practice getting the young players more experience.
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The Michigan Basketball's Team continues to impress and beat a ranked Purdue team at Crisler on Saturday.  Their defense is incredible and will need to travel to Chicago to face Northwestern on Tuesday at 9:00.   After that game, Michigan has South Carolina, Western, Air Force, and Binghamton before the Big Ten season resumes.

• Drew Singleton, former Michigan LB picked hometown Rutgers to transfer to 

• James Hudson, former Michigan OT picked Cincinnati to transfer to 

• Mo Wagner got his first NBA points by scoring 10 in a Lakers blowout

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/12/michigan-monday-its-like-deja-vu-all.html