Vulcan: More than a century of commercial cooking

For more than 150 years, Vulcan has been cooking up commercial appliances for customers across the globe. And in recent years, the Baltimore County manufacturer has even gotten screen time with Top Chef finalist Bryan Voltaggio and Gordon Ramsay on Kitchen Nightmares.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/vulcan-more-century-commercial-cooking/

New cybersecurity program benefits Maryland small businesses

The Maryland Department of Commerce is accepting applications for the new Buy Maryland Cybersecurity Tax Credit, designed to encourage small businesses to purchase cybersecurity technologies and services from qualified Maryland cybersecurity companies. 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/new-cybersecurity-program-benefits-maryland-small-businesses/

Wolverine Wednesday: Happy Halloween

👻 Happy Halloween from Michigan Football 👻#GoBlue pic.twitter.com/YvbiZfdHyx

— Michigan Football (@UMichFootball) October 31, 2018

•  Jimmy did confirm today on the radio that Gary continues to work hard to get back on the field and that its safe to assume that Tarik will play on Saturday. 

• DJ Durkin is back at Maryland and its a bit shocking.  His program seemed out of control and of course a student athlete tragically died.   I have no idea on how he is going to recruit kids to Maryland.  

• Jimmy said, he is going to keep a board of kids dressed as him that trick and treats at his house tonight.  He thinks its very cool they do that! 

• No Surprise Michigan is ranked #5 in the Playoff committee.  I sure hope the Wolverines haven't been watching ESPN during the past two weeks on how great they are and how they are going to run the table. 

Recruiting News:

• Five-star athlete Quavaris Crouch from Charlotte will visit Ann Arbor this weekend.  As you might remember, the coaches asked him to re-schedule his original visit for the Wisconsin game.    Crouch is a RB and LB and most expect him to play LB at Michigan as the Wolverines have 2 RB's in the class. 

• Michigan yesterday offered another sleeper basketball/football player from St. Louis in Amauri Pesek-Hickson, a 6-foot-3, 220-pound athlete.  He only has one football offer to date but starting to get a lot of interest in the 2019 class.   He will visit Michigan on 12/8.  Jimmy's brother-in-law is the person finding these prospects.

• MA CB Mike Sainristil will take an unofficial to Ann Arbor this weekend as well.  He was over for the BBQ but committed to VA Tech.  He has now de-committed and reconsidering the Wolverines. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/wolverine-wednesday-happy-halloween.html

A tale of two companies

A pair of Israeli companies that recently set up shop in Maryland are each looking to conquer the U.S. market with their innovative tech platforms—one focused on helping doctors assess patients’ health risks and the other on revolutionizing speech therapy services.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/tale-two-companies/

Michigan Tuesday: Plays Where Are They Now?

So I read an MLive article yesterday on Michigan's transfers and how they are doing.  I decided to have a little fun with it and quizzed my family and friends if they knew which schools the former Wolverines ended up?

They thought it would be a good post for a quiet Tuesday.   I will put the answers in the comments, let me know how many you got!

Wilton Speight - New School?
Devin Asiasi - ?
Ian Bunting - ?
Freddy Canteen - ?
Brian Cole - ?
Drake Harris - ?
Alex Malzone - ?
Ahmir Mitchell - ?
Ryan Tice - ?
Kareem Walker - ?
Keith Washington - ?
Mo Ways - ?
Ty Wheatley Jr. - ?
JaRaymond Hall - ?
Deron Irving-Bey - ?
Eddie McDoom - ?

Good Luck!!

• Reports from teammates that Gary is working hard to try to play this weekend.  No news from Jimmy's regular Monday press conference. 

• Reports from other schools:  Hardy Nickerson has resigned as Illinois DC and Tim Drevno has been promoted to OL coach at USC.   I guess USC hasn't watched much Michigan Football over the last few years. 

• Chris Weber makes his return to Ann Arbor this weekend as Michigan's Honorary Captain for the Penn State game.

• College Football Playoff Committee picks its first top 25 tonight.  Expect Michigan to be #5 

• Michigan and ND will play a hockey game outside on January 5th

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/michigan-tuesday-plays-where-are-they.html

Michigan Monday: An Early Look at Penn State

I've probably watched Penn State more then any team on Michigan's schedule this season.   They have struggled in every game and have had issues on offense, defense, and special teams.  Somehow they wake up today as the 14th ranked team in the nation.   The reason is their QB Trace McSorley who has kept them from being upset by Illinois, App State, and others including beating Iowa this weekend.   BTW:  Penn State delivered a win to Iowa this weekend and they decided to not accept the package.   Terrible play by Iowa's QB was the difference in the game.  Also James Franklin gets confused if he needs to call a timeout after a change in possession.

Penn State 14th AP and 13th in Coaches

Best Win - Iowa   Worst Loss - MSU at home

They throw for 234 yards per  - ranked 68th
They rush for 225 per - ranked 25th
They score 41 points - ranked 11th
They give up 22 points - ranked 35th

Miles Sanders and Trace McSorely are the two leading rushers
KJ Hamler is the leading receiver

Line is Michigan -10

• One of Michigan's top offensive tackles recruits Bryce Benhart from Minnesota picked Nebraska over the weekend.  Distance from home was a big factor for his family. 

• 2019 DT Commit Mazi Smith plans to enroll at Michigan in January.  Greg Mattison was at his game this weekend. 

• Jay Harbaugh was at RB Eric Gray's game on Friday night.  Eric is committed to Michigan but has a wondering eye and been taking trips lately including a few times to Tennessee. 

• Jimmy was out to watch 2020 QB Hunter Bailey on Friday night 

• Ed Warinner was out to see 4 star OT from KC Ike Danielson on Friday night.   Ike and Trevor Keegan are now Michigan's top two targets at OT to fill out the class. 

• Herbie and Fowler are doing the Michigan game this weekend.   Its at 3:45 kick.  ABC picked them to do Michigan/PSU over ND @ Northwestern. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/michigan-monday-early-look-at-penn-state.html

Untangling career pathways for students

Too often, high school students feel rushed into college before evaluating what they want to do with their lives. For those who don’t envision four or more years of lecture halls and student loan debt, there’s Untangled Minds, a 501(C)(3) dedicated to empowering young minds and educating them about the importance of leadership and entrepreneurial thinking in the Advanced Manufacturing field. 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/untangling-career-pathways-students/

Michigan Friday: Cleans Out My Head

This weekend is for trips the outlet mall or cleaning out the garage.  It's Michigan's bye week and time to clean a bunch of the old stuff out.   So today, I thought I would clean out a bunch of thoughts I have in my head, you might enjoy them or it could be very scary.   So proceed with caution:

• This season, I'm more interested in a Big Ten Championship then a trip to the playoffs.  No, I wouldn't mind a match-up against Alabama in a semi-final game, but I'm more interested in  playing in the Big Ten Championship game and of course winning it.  

• So people are saying that Michigan should be rooting for Penn State to beat Iowa this weekend because they will be ranked heading to Ann Arbor next weekend.   I understand that, but I believe Iowa is the best team in the BIG West right now and could beat James Franklin and crew this weekend.  I also like that match-up for Michigan in Indy, if the Wolverines can get by Columbus.  (Wisky would have to lose another game as they beat Iowa already)

• Coach B took a Division 3 player (Duncan Robinson) and made him into a NBA Player.   Wow, what a coach! 

• UCLA is struggling this year, but they are full of connections to U of M:

-Coached by a former 49'er head coach 

-Wilton Speight is there on again off again QB 

-Devin Asiasi is one of their TE's 

-Roy Manning is their LB Coach 

-Jimmie Dougherty is their WR coach 

-Former Michigan recruits include: DTR, Darnay Holmes, & Boss Tagaloa

Weird. 

• I read the Spotlight Boston Globe articles on Aaron Hernandez.   Its very well done if your interested.  It really shows Urban Meyer at Florida and basically doing anything to win including playing and protecting criminals.  They also have a recent interview with Urban and he continues not to remember events from that time.  Urban is either a habitual liar or has a serious memory loss and might be ill.    

• Why does Turner Sports think people are going to pay $20 for Tiger to play Phil on the Friday after Thanksgiving? 

• I guess the Big Ten wasn't buying Dantonio's BS story with a $10,000 fine.   The Purdue game this weekend will be interesting.

• I find the recruitment of 5 star Zach Harrison very interesting.  I think if he was going to OSU he would have committed by now, but if he goes to Michigan or PSU I don't think he wants to be living in C-BUS with that decision.   Many still think the pressure will be too much and he will stay in Columbus.   We will see. 

• Michigan commit Eric Gray was again at Tennessee last weekend.   Eric also received his Army All American Game jersey last week.   If he doesn't get on campus for the PSU or IU game, I think he is gone.   I don't worry too much about not showing up for the Wisconsin game as many coaches asked a few recruits to re-schedule due to the amount of kids visiting that weekend.  

• Quavaris Crouch another 5 star prospect is expected to visit Ann Arbor for the PSU game.   He told his local paper that Michigan and Clemson tied for the lead in his recruitment.  He plays RB or LB and the weather maybe an issue for him.   He is from NC. 

• Michigan really needs a commit from OT Trevor Keegan and/or OT Bryce Benhart.  If they could land both that would really help with the loss of Hudson this week.   That one is a still a headscratcher to me. 

• I'm a huge fan of having former players come back and coach or be on Jimmy's staff.   Roy Rountree and Jordan Kovacs are current examples.

Enjoy your weekend

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/micihgan-friday-cleans-out-my-head.html

Big Ten Preview Week 9

With Michigan off this week, us Wolverine fans have a weekend to put our feet up and watch other teams around America.   There are a few pretty good Big Ten games that will have an effect on the Wolverines and it's run to a possible Big Ten Title.

Game of the Week:

Iowa @ Penn State (PSU -6.5):  Wow, Penn State has a difficult schedule this year.   This game is going to be closer then Vegas thinks.  Iowa has quietly been dominating this Fall, with its only loss to Wisconsin.   I have yet to watch a game that Penn State hasn't struggled.  I like Iowa in this one a lot!  Iowa 28 PSU 24

Wisconsin @ Northwestern (Wisky -6.5) We know the Wildcats play well at home and will try to stop Wisconsin's strong run game.   Northwestern has won 3 in a row but had a questionable score in a 18-15 over Rutgers last week.  Wisconsin 20 NW 17

Indiana @ Minnesota (Ind -2.5): This is a Friday night game.  I like the Golden Gophers at home.  Minnesota 34 IU 32

Purdue @ MSU (MSU -1.5):  Sparty is still reeling after its loss to Michigan last weekend.   When we finally thought all the noise was over, The Big Ten office gives them a $10,000 fine last night.   Michigan got a strongly worded letter.  MSU is injured and beaten and Purdue is riding high after upsetting #2 OSU last weekend. #Tylerstrong was on Sportscenter with SVP last night.   Purdue 44 MSU 14

Bethune-Cookman @ Nebraska (NL):   Nebraska 50 BC 10

Illinois @ Maryland (MD - 18):  Maryland has played well and terrible at times this season.   They are at home and will be Santa Claus looking Lovey Smith.  Maryland 31 Illinois 21




from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/big-ten-preview-week-9.html

Howard County begins construction on Innovation Center

Howard County has kicked off construction of its new Innovation Center and announced that The MITRE Corporation has signed a MOU to support an innovative big data and software lab, called “The Viking Lab,” in the facility.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/howard-county-breaks-wall-innovation-center/

Three new RISE Zones approved in Maryland

The Maryland Department of Commerce has approved a Regional Institution Strategic Enterprise Zone, or RISE Zone, around Morgan State University in Baltimore City; Montgomery College’s Germantown campus; and Salisbury University in Wicomico County. 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/three-new-rise-zones-approved-maryland/

Wolverine Wednesday: Gary's Mom Clears The Air and a New BBall Commit

Remember the final scrimmage where Black got hurt?  The rumor was the Gary and Higdon also got injured.   That rumor was quickly considered false as both played against Notre Dame.    Guess what?  Gary did get hurt and his mom goes on the record on what's going on:


I guess that clears up that situation and hopefully with two weeks of rest, he will be ready for Penn State.


Michigan Basketball also got an important 2020 commit yesterday.  4 Star PG from OH Zeb Jackson committed to the Wolverines.  Zeb is 6'3 and known as a shooter, he is tight with Zavier Simpson and his family.   Rivals has him ranked as the #72 player in the nation and 24/7 has him ranked #58.    Both services have him ranked as a top 20 PG.

His commitment also comes with a very cool video:

CO〽️〽️ITTED...💙 pic.twitter.com/9uTdZEKqio

— Zeb Jackson (@iamzebjackson1) October 23, 2018

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/wolverine-wednesday-garys-mom-clears.html

Michigan Tuesday: James Hudson Transfers

We are going to have to get used to this, players are going to transfer and transfer often.   The time of kids developing and waiting their turn as a junior and senior might be over.   Now, I don't have any information on what is going on in James's life but consider the following:

• Moved from DT to OT last season
• Coaches are saying that offensive line is his natural position 
• Was getting high praise as being a future NFL Tackle in the off season 
• Has a real offensive line coach now 
• Was getting second team reps at tackle 
• Team is #5 in the nation 
• The player ahead of him just went down in the last game 
• Jimmy said he had a hand injury and that's why he didn't go in the game against MSU

Then he decides to transfer, some insiders are saying that he had probably decided before the State game.  James red shirted last year and will still have three years to play at his next school.

Good luck to him at his next stop. 

• Mike Sainristil a WR/CB with a Michigan offer just de-committed from Virginia Tech.

• MSU released a statement on the pregame situation.  Guess what Sparty?  Purdue is coming to town and you better start focusing on them. 

• So I'm on the Iowa bandwagon, I think they are the second best team in the Big Ten right now. Not the most talented but they are playing solid football.   Penn State hosts Iowa, comes to Ann Arbor, and then hosts Wisconsin.   Could James Franklin go 0-3 in the next 3 games?  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/michigan-tuesday-james-hudson-transfers.html

Michigan Monday: What My Eyes Saw

Looking back at Saturday, it sure was an interesting day.  Since we are on a bye week with no opponent to preview, I thought I would let you into my head for another tour of the empty space.  :)

• Michigan's defense was dominating but when it was a 7-0 game, it was still way too close for comfort.   I though Nordin's field goal issues were going to cost Michigan the game with missed opportunities.  

• Many applauded Michigan's Offensive line on Saturday.  I thought they had a good day in the running game but was actually pretty poor in pass protection.   Run blocking A-, Pass blocking C+

• I'm worried about Evans.  I wonder how healthy he really is and that fumble inside the 10 was very troubling.  

• Michigan needs to practice more in the rain.  They struggled in the bad weather. 

• Luck - Michigan's two tip passes could have been the difference in the game.  If those passes land in Spartans hands instead of Wolverines.  

• I think Dantonio is a jerk.  We don't need to get into his long history of questionable acts, but lets review the pre-game stunt that he did on purpose.  

1. MSU was supposed to do it holding hand thing at 9:50 
2. Michigan was able to access the field at 10:00
3. MSU shows up late to the holding hand walk with helmets on, dress shirts, and sweat suits 
4. MSU clearly sees the Wolverines on the field before they start walking 
5. Dantonio should have asked the staff to ask the few players to move before the walk started if he didn't want an incident. 
6. He wanted an issue and he got one.  Jimmy called it Bush League and Dantonio called it BS and Juvenile.   This is a classic set up by Dantonio to try to motivate his team that was a clear underdog.  Why else would they have helmets on?

• I don't enjoy all the Michigan playoff talk right now.  I enjoyed when nobody was paying attention to the Wolverines.   The most important things to me are a Big Ten Championship and win over the Buckeyes.  

• Thank you Purdue!  They gave everyone a blueprint on how to beat the Buckeyes.  

• I'm also worried about Gary.  I hope Jimmy talks about the severity of his injury today.  If he is not back after these two weeks, he might be on the shelf for the rest of the year.  

• On Saturday night after the OSU-Purdue game, there was a bazzaro Michigan game in LA.  Wilton Speight was throwing TD's to Devin Asiasi against an Arizona team lead by Rich Rods son.  Wilton also tweeted earlier in the day about leaving MSU with another W. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/michigan-monday-what-my-eyes-saw.html

Maryland Commerce recognized for small business program

The Maryland Department of Commerce has won the 2018 CDFA Distinguished Development Finance Program award from the Council of Development Finance Agencies (CDFA) in recognition of the agency’s Small, Minority and Women-Owned Business Account - Video Lottery Terminal Fund (VLT). 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/maryland-commerce-recognized-small-business-program/

Hail Storm To The Victors

Dale Young Det News

I hate this game, its more of a street fight then it is a football game.  Even before the game starts, MSU is holding hands and runs into a number of Wolverines and almost starts a pre game fight.   The Missile then decides to rough up the Spartan logo.  Jimmy called it "Bush League" which was accurate and ironic at the same time.   As was the late game hail that started to fall, which was clearly a sign from Bo that it was a job well done today.

I don't know about Mark Dantonio, he wins with guys he shouldn't be wining with, but is he a master in football strategy or a coach that prefers to just mix it up and hope for the best?  He is clearly obsessed with this game and I don't know if that really helps his program.   He for sure has taken advantage of Michigan's down time and I expect that came to a close today.  Which he of all people probably understands.

Stat of the day:  Michigan had more penalty yards, then MSU had total yards 99 to 94.

These games are always closer then they should be.   At halftime, I thought to myself, MSU has Michigan just where they want them.  I knew State would get a fluke TD and probably one trick play.  They did both.   Michigan dominated on defense and did just enough against a pretty good defense to win the game.    The long pass to DPJ was huge!

Michigan won this game on defense which was completely dominate on the day.

Cheers

• Don "Freaking" Brown 
• Michigan pass defense 
• 94 Total Offense for MSU
• Nearly 400 yards total offense for Michigan 
• Higdon with 144 against the #1 rushing D 
• DPJ & Shea with the play of the day 
• Ben Mason for being Ben Mason
• Hart's punts are just fantastic 

Jeers

• Injuries to JBB and Gary who didn't even make the trip 
• Nordin looks lost kicking field goals 
• Evans doesn't look healthy and had a bad fumble 
• Almost a 100 yards in penalties 
• Weather
• 2 turnovers 

Black was dressed and came in for one play.  I didn't see him the rest of the game.   The Wolverines have a much deserved bye week next week and has two weeks to heal and get their mind right for the final drive of the season.   

This was a great road win against a rival.  I hope things are starting to get back to normal around here.   

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/hail-storm-to-victors.html

Michigan State Preview

desmoinesregister.com

Time: 12:00
Location: Spartan Stadium
Weather: 46 and 50% Rain
TV: Fox
Stream: Fox Go
Line: Michigan -7

I just don't understand Michigan's State's program at all.  I thought they would be a complete train wreck last year and had a decent season.   This year many thought they were a top 10-15 team and have lost games to Arizona State and Northwestern, but upset Penn State on the road last week with a team that was kept together with bubble gum and duct tape.

Maybe Dantonio is some type of wizard?  Remember when he disappeared from the sideline a few years ago?

Wait a minute, where did you go Coach Dantonio? https://t.co/85MtwFdHIl

— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) September 24, 2016

Tale of the Tape

Michigan D vs. MSU O = Michigan
Michigan Run Game vs. MSU D = MSU
Michigan Pass Game vs. MSU DB = Michigan
Intangibles = MSU
Health = Michigan
Coaching = Rivalry Game

MSU has the #1 running defense in the country and of course Michigan loves to run the ball.   I expect Pep and Jimmy understand this and will have some type of game plan that doesn't have Higdon, Evans, and Tru running non-stop into a brick wall.

Michigan is also pretty good on defense and will have to stop the 4 yards passes and QB runs from Lewerke and MSU.   This will be a game, where Michigan will need to spy on Lewerke because him running on 3rd and 6th is pretty much the Spartans Offense.   Just a reminder to Hudson, this means waiting at the LOS and stopping Lewerke for a one yard gain vs. blitzing for a sack.

Sneak out of East Lansing with a smile on your face if...…………..

• Michigan plays really hard with the thoughts of last years game on their mind
• Michigan's Defense can turnover MSU and stop their offense
• Michigan's offense has a great game plan to run and pass for 400 total yards 
• The Wolverines play well on the road 
• Defense gets the Michigan's offense short fields and lots of points 

Yell,  WTF is it with Dantonio! if...…………..

• Michigan gets caught with one of MSU's trick plays 
• MSU is stopping the Michigan run all day 
• MSU all of sudden gets healthy for this game 
• The game is too close for comfort all day and in the 4th 

MSU prepares for this game like no other on their schedule.  It's their Super Bowl, National Championship, and Big Ten Championship every year.   MSU as won way more then they should have lately including the last two out of three, which included a dropped punt/score and a hurricane at the Big House.  

If you wonder if that luck can continue?  It did last week, MSU fumbled 4 times and didn't lose any, ran a fake punt for a 26 yard gain, Lewerke hit PSU defenders with passes 16 times, and they only picked of one.    That is some Wizard Bleep right there.  

So how do you pick this game?  It's not an easy task, let me take you into a scary journey into my brain:

Noon Kick - Good 

On the road - Bad 

Michigan has last years memory of a loss - Good 

Gary is questionable - Bad 

Lewerke is struggling - Good 

Lewerke is a mobile QB - Bad 

MSU is injured at key positions on the Oline & WR positions - Good 

MSU will do anything to win this game - Bad 

Shea Patterson is still going to be the difference in this game.   If he can play well,  get first downs with his legs and hit open WR's/TE's for TD's, Michigan will win.   If he struggles, Michigan kicks field goals and keeps MSU in the game which could be trouble.  The rain could be an issue which keeps this a very low scoring game.   I also expect the MSU field to look like US Open rough.  

Michigan 23 MSU 13

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/michigan-state-preview.html

Big Ten Preview Week 8 and Drew Singleton Transfers

The biggest Big Ten game of the week is happening in East Lansing, so we have to pick another one.  I picked Penn State at Indiana in a game that is very interesting for a number of reasons.   Indiana is a program on the rise and Penn State has lost 2 straight with a trip to Ann Arbor coming up in two weeks (IU in 3 weeks).

Penn State @ IU (PSU -15.5):  Penn State hasn't played well this year, even though they spent a good amount of time in the top 10.   Their best performance was the loss against Ohio State.   They struggled against App. State and Illinois on the road.   IU has something in common with Penn State, their best game of the year was probably the loss at OSU as well.  Both teams are reeling a bit as IU has lost back to back games as well, giving up 49 points to OSU and 42 to Iowa.   Penn State is the better team but will they play like it?   I feel an upset here:  IU 28 Penn State 24


Illinois @ Wisconsin (Wisc-25)  Poor Lovey, he is going to run into a pissed off Badger program looking to forget that bad loss in the Big House.   Wisconsin 42 Illinois 14

Northwestern @ Rutgers (NW-20):  Northwestern is doing the thing they do every year, they lose a heartbreaker against Michigan and roll off 9 wins in a row.   NW 38 Rutgers 17

Maryland @ Iowa (IA -9):  Iowa is sneaky good folks.  Nobody is really talking about the Hawkeyes but they maybe playing the best football in the Big Ten West Division.   Iowa 24 Maryland 17

Minnesota @ Nebraska (Neb -4):  The Cornhuskers haven't won a game yet and they are favored over a team that all most upset OSU in Columbus last weekend.  I agree with Vegas and Frosty the Snowman gets his first Big Ten W.   Nebraska 20 Minnesota 14

Ohio State @ Purdue: (OSU -13):  How is this the ABC Primetime game?  OSU is 7-0 and Purdue is 3-3.  Purdue always plays OSU tough at home and this will be close midway through the second quarter and then OSU will do what they always do, win the game.   Purdue 17 OSU 34

--------

Former Michigan LB Drew Singleton has decided to transfer

Drew came from NJ to Michigan after tearing his ACL his senior year.  He was a highly ranked LB and many expected him to have a role in Michigan's defense after Devin "the Missile" Bush heads to the NFL Draft this off season.  Drew had been playing only on special teams this season.

It seems Drew didn't want to wait and leaves the #6 ranked Wolverines mid-season and is looking for his next school.   This decision is a bit of head scratcher but like all transfers we wish him good luck at his new school!




from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/big-ten-preview-week-8-and-drew.html

Mulch Mate plans to revolutionize landscaping industry

One Anne Arundel County company knew it had a revolutionary product when a local business, a makerspace, and an online group rallied around its idea to transform the landscaping industry. Meet the Mulch Mate.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/mulch-mate-plans-revolutionize-landscaping-industry/

Wolverine Wednesday: Goes Barney

barney.wikia.com

Jimmy was asked on Stoney & Wojo/Jamie this morning about Coach Warinner coaching style: "He breaks it down Barney style" what's Barney style? "Barney is the purple dinosaur. He teaches life lessons to the kids they can understand.... Tell me like i'm in the 4th grader so I can understand this" from Angelique's twitter.
"I love the offensive line, you love me , if you use the proper blocking technique, --- we will be one happy family" The above photo is Ed Warinner running a kids camp and showing that holding is a penalty. The green dinosaur is clearly throwing the flag. - There continues to be rumors that Tarik Black is close to be back and playing in games. There were rumors for Wisconsin and now that continues for MSU. The Wolverines have a bye week after MSU and that might be the best guess for a return to the field. -If When Michigan wins the Paul Bunyan Trophy this weekend, I hope they spend a few dollars on it and get it refurbished. The last time I saw the trophy, it was looking pretty rough. - Nick Bosa decided to not return to Ohio State and focus on his recovery and prepare for the NFL Draft. I don't have a problem with it, since he had surgery. If he was healthy, I would have a problem with it. He is also the Buckeyes most talented player, which won't hurt in November. - Rhett Rodriguez, who is the son of RR and was famously named during his opening press conference at Michigan, will start for Arizona on Saturday due to an injury to their starting QB. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/wolverine-wednesday-goes-barney.html

UMBC wins Maryland Cyber Challenge

Busy teams of students clustered around laptops in a room overlooking Baltimore’s Inner Harbor on Tuesday, focused on solving as many challenges as possible during a “capture-the-flag” style competition. After hours of intense competition in cyberspace, UMBC’s team emerged victorious, named champions of the college division of the 2018 Maryland Cyber Challenge.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/umbc-wins-maryland-cyber-challenge/

Michigan Tuesday: Jimmy Is Not Having It

Jim Harbaugh has never been 100% forthcoming when it comes to injuries or game plan.   He does let things slip every once in awhile, like when he said that Rashan Gary has an AC joint issue.

Not this week, asked is Gary will be back this weekend: "I don't know if he will be back this week," Harbaugh said. "Past that, I won't be talking about any injuries ... I am not talking about any participation, gameplan-specific this week."

On billboard material? "I think we could all use a break from the clichés that have been plowed so thoroughly on both sides"

Love the focus.  A fun stat:  Jimmy has never lost in East Lansing as a player or head coach.

• There continues to be a quiet confidence in Michigan's recruitment for 5 star DE Zach Harrison out of Columbus.  He has visited Michigan now 3 times, with the latest being this past weekend's win over Wisconsin.  Most believe its a Michigan - OSU battle with Penn State running a close third if he can't pick between the two.   The sun won't rise for 10 straight days in Columbus if a hometown 5 star player heads to Ann Arbor. 

• Walk-on News: Michigan received a PWO commitment from QB Andy Maddox from Kansas to the 2019 class.  Welcome Andy!  

• In what I consider the best college football booth, Fox will have Gus Johnson and Joel Klatt call the Michigan - MSU game. 

• Is Ben Mason hurt?  We didn't see him much on Saturday.  The rumor is he has a foot injury

• The guy that takes the Washington State flag to Gameday each week, finally gets his big payoff as the ESPN show will be hosted at Washington State on Saturday morning. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/michigan-tuesday-jimmy-is-not-having-it.html

Michigan Monday: The Mystery of Michigan State

Vegas prides itself on knowing teams better then maybe they know themselves.  Michigan State for example hasn't played good football at any point this season.  They struggled against the likes of Utah State, Central Michigan, and Indiana.   They lost to Northwestern and Arizona State who are both .500 teams.   To add salt to the wound, MSU has been hit with a number of injuries and barley has enough WR's to put on the field. 

That is why MSU was a two TD underdog on Saturday when they travelled to Happy Valley to play the #8 team in the nation coming off a bye week.  This game was expected to be so one sided, Fox, ESPN, and ABC passed on it.  The game was shown on BTN.

The one thing that MSU does well, is stop the run with the #1 ranked rushing defense in the country.   But they gave up 205 yards rushing on Saturday.   They also lost another WR and after an X-Ray came up negative, MSU puts him in the game with one hand bandaged up like a cast.   They throw one ball to him and it bounces off the cast for an interception.  Lewerke is hitting less then 50% of his passes and has a 5.0 yard pass completion average.   MSU's top RB finishes with 60 yards.   Dantonio was so desperate he ran a fake punt and a fake field goal.  The punt worked the field goal didn't.  MSU fumbles 4 times but doesn't lose any.  

From a Vegas standpoint, this looks like a sucker bet and an easy win for Penn State.  

MSU hits a late TD pass and wins 21-17.  James Franklin has now lost two home games in a row and the Penn State faithful are starting to remember what life was like before Barkley.  

They say football is a game of inches.  It's also a game of little mistakes.   Penn State made a bunch of little mistakes on Saturday that turned out to be the difference in the game.   A dropped interception on the last drive and McSorely tripping over his own feet on a 4th down.  Those were a couple examples of little mistakes that kept MSU in the game.   Still this was a shocking result. 

MSU:

Record 4-2.  Best Win: PSU   Worst Loss: Arizona State 

#1 ranked rushing defense in the country 62 yards a game 

Passing offense: 271 yards per #34

Rushing offense: 123 yards per #115

Offense scores: 26 points per #89

Defense gives up: 22 points per #41

MSU is ranked #24 in the AP 

Lets hope the magic or voodoo that Dantonio usually uses on Michigan was spent last weekend.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/michigan-monday-mystery-of-michigan.html

The Cheese and The Man

Nick Guralnick, Det News

It was a weird first half.  Nordin hit two field goals and missed two.  It looked like Jonathan Taylor was going to run over Michigan Defense's with his Louis Vuitton mouthpiece.   Michigan took a 13-7 lead into half time and we all wondered if it should have been 6-10 points more.  The entire first half felt like it took about 20 minutes of real time.

I for one didn't like how the game was trending.   Leaving points on field and off the board is usually a killer in a close game and the only time Taylor wasn't gaining 6 yards was when he left the field for a rest.

Michigan then gets the ball to start the 3rd quarter and gets to around mid-field when Higdon gets hit so hard the ball flies out of bounds on a 3rd down and 1.   Michigan punts and a Wisconsin defender decides to level Michigan's long snapper Cam Cheeseman.  That 15 yard mistake keeps the Wolverine drive alive and magically they find their running game and Shea dives for a touchdown, while ripping up his hand.

It's now 21-7 and a more comfortable lead against a Wisconsin team that had no passing game.    Thank you Cheeseman!

If your looking for a hero for the game, it was clearly Shea Patterson.  He passed with accuracy and ran like a slower Denard.   He did whatever it took to win and didn't turn the ball over.   That is a sign of a true leader and a very good QB.   The defense did what it does and when both of those things happen, the Wolverines are a tough team to beat.


Cheers

• Michigan's defense for shutting down Wisconsin's passing game 
• Hill for his 1 handed Int. 
• Higdon for finding his game in the 2nd half 
• Shea Patterson game MVP 
• 1 Penalty and no turnovers 
• 320 yards rushing 
• Wining a night game over a ranked opponent 

Jeers

• No Gary
• Injuries to Michigan's DB's 
• Defense struggled to stop Taylor early 
• 2 missed field goals 
• Still some struggles in the red zone 
• I didn't like the trick plays and thought they killed drives

This was a complete win and one of the best for Jimmy at Michigan.  The issue is, the schedule doesn't get any easier with a 12:00 kick in East Lansing on Saturday, who just upset #8 Penn State at Happy Valley with about a 100 guys injured.  I can't figure out this MSU team at all.   

Let's hope Gary and Michigan's DB's are ready to play on Saturday.  It was great to get Dwumfour, Kemp, and Solomon back last night.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/the-cheese-and-man.html

Wisconsin Preview

CBS TV Det

Time: 7:30
Location: Big House
Weather: 45 and no rain
TV: ABC
Stream: ESPN App
Line: Michigan -9.5

I watched the BTN Football in 60 Nebraska at Wisconsin from last weekend.   Which reconfirmed what I already knew about Wisconsin football.  They want to run and run often.   The Badgers had 370 yards rushing but gave up 407 yards in the air to the high powered Nebraska Air Raid offense.   :)

Tale of the Tape

Mich Pass O vs. Wisc DB's = Michigan
Wisc. Run Game vs. Michigan Run D = Wisconsin
Mich Run Game vs. Wisc Run D = Michigan
Coaching = Push
Intangibles = Michigan
Special Teams = Push
Coaching = Push
Talent = Michigan

Paul Chryst and Jimmy are good friends and you can see why by looking at both teams.  They both prefer to run to pass and play great defense.  The issue for Wisconsin this year, is they haven't been playing very good defense.   If Nebraska had figured out a few quarters earlier they could pass the ball on the this defense it would have been a more competitive game.

Wisconsin will run Taylor more and more.   When he gets tired they bring in Deal and Groshek to run even more.   Hornibrook is a better passer then he was last year but still can struggle with pressure and long 3rd downs.   His favorite target is the TE Ferguson to keep the chains moving.

Yell, I'm sleeping well tonight if...…………..

• Shea has a night and is hitting WR's and TE's for over 300 yards
• Michigan can stop the run on 1st and 2nd downs 
• Higdon and Evans combine for 150+ yards rushing
• Michigan covers Wisconsin's TE's
• The Big House at night is a huge advantage for the Wolverines 

Read, "Who Moved My Cheese" if...………….

• Hornibrook is hitting passes on 3rd downs
• Taylor is finding holes and getting first downs
• Michigan over plays the run, which opens to many holes in the secondary 
• Michigan's O line struggles to stop Wisconsin blitzes 
• Michigan's night game struggles continue 

Wisconsin is down their top pass rusher and has only had 5 sacks all year.   They need to blitz to rush Shea.  Which means the middle of the field will be open for the TE's and Slot WR's.   I expect Grant Perry and Zach Gentry to have huge games.  Paul Chryst is no dummy and knows that real estate rushing the ball will be difficult in the Big House against the #1 defense in the nation.   So he is going to play action a ton on first down and hopes Michigan bites.   Wisconsin Rushing Game vs. Michigan Rush D is strength on strength.  

Michigan has a clear advantage on offense and if Pep continues to run on 1st and 2nd downs it will be win for Wisconsin.   The Badgers want a close, low scoring game, that they can win at end of the night.    The key for the game is first downs for both teams.  If Michigan can stop Taylor and get Wisconsin in a 2nd and 3rd and long, that is a Win.   

This running game will test the Wolverines defense and it's banged up defensive line.  I expect Devin "the missile" Bush will have a huge night with 10+ tackles.   If Michigan can win the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball it will be a long night for the Badgers.   If Wisconsin can run the ball and hit their TE's and WR's to keep drives alive, the game will be very quick and be a big advantage for Wisconsin.    Michigan needs a big night from Shea and the TE's and WR's and the defense needs to shut down Taylor and crew.   Wisconsin doesn't make mistakes and it will be important for Michigan to protect the ball.   I think this line is way to high and the game will be much closer then many think.  

Michigan 21 Wisconsin 13 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/wisconsin-preview.html

Michigan Thursday: A Huge Recruiting Weekend

Michigan is hosting a ton of prospects in the 2019 class this weekend.  If you look at the schedule, the Wolverines only have two more game weekends (after Wisconsin) to host recruits with Penn State and IU heading to Ann Arbor.

First, lets report who isn't coming.  5 Star Athlete Quavaris Crouch will not make it to A2 this weekend.  The buzz is, the coaches asked him to re-schedule so that they can roll out the red carpet for him.   I'm guessing maybe the Penn State game, but we will see.  I never like it when a 5 star re-schedules.  Maybe the night game, actually hurts the recruiting process during the day, as the coaches have to focus on the team and the game all day.

The other big news: who is coming:

Headliner:  5 Star from Columbus Zach Harrison, who is down to OSU, Michigan, and Penn State.   This is a big weekend to see if Zach really wants to leave his home town.

Opening Act: Two huge Offensive Tackles and a CB!

Bryce Benhart OT from MN:  4 Star -  6'8 305 pounds - Yes, Please
Trevor Keegan OT from IL: 4 Star - 6'6 310 pounds - Yes, Please

Jalen Perry: 4 star CB just de-committed from Georgia

Commits in attendance:

• Karsen Barnhart OT
• Eric Gray, RB - has a wondering eye lately
• Giles Jackson, WR 
• Trente Jones, OT
• Gebe Newburg, DE
• Mazi Smith, DT
• Jack Stewart, OT
• Charles Thomas, LB
• Joey Velazquez, LB 
• Tyrece Woods, DE 

There are also some important 2020 and 2021 guys, but much too early to address (unless they commit!).  

• For the 7th year in a row, Michigan Basketball has a player on the pre-season All Big Ten team.  This year its Charles Matthews 

• Chris Evans is expected back for Wisconsin

• Aubrey Solomon has been practicing this week, per his mom

• Gary and Kemp expected to play Saturday.   Solomon and Dwumfour are still expected to miss the Wisconsin game.  

Don't Miss the Big Ten Weekend Preview below  ⇓⇓⇓⇓⇓⇓

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/michigan-thursday-huge-recruiting.html

Big Ten Weekend Preview Week 7

It's crystal clear which is the top Big Ten game of the week but that one will be previewed tomorrow. Which means we need to pick another game and there is really two match-ups that caught my eye.  MSU at PSU and Iowa visits Indiana.  I picked the desperate Spartans vs. desperate Nittany Lions.

MSU@ PSU (PSU -14):  Both teams are coming off a devastating loss where both coaches have come under fire.  Franklin called the worst 4th down call ever and Dantonio is questioning everything after a home loss to Northwestern.   Both teams are in need of a win and both teams will see Michigan soon.  PSU is the better team and will win a close game.  PSU 24 MSU 20

Iowa @ IU (Iowa -5):  This is one of those games where anything could happen.  Both teams are sneaky good this year and I'm very happy the Wolverines don't have to play Iowa this year and at least will host IU.   Iowa is the better team but IU is difficult to prepare for.   IU 31 Iowa 28

Minnesota @ OSU (-29.5):  With a nearly 30 point spread, not much to discuss.  OSU 48 Minnesota 21

Nebraska @ Northwestern (NW-3.5):  Poor Nebraska continues to run into good Big Ten teams.  Northwestern is playing well after a close loss to Michigan and an upset over MSU.   Nebraska is not playing well and will get another historic L this weekend.   Northwestern 27 Nebraska 21

Rutgers @ Maryland (MD -25.5):  Please don't watch this game.  Maryland 41 Rutgers 18

Purdue @ Illinois (PUR -10.5):  I think this line is way too high.  Purdue was supposed to be pretty good this year but still has a losing record.  Illinois has looked better at times this year and had Penn State on the ropes before getting knocked out.   I like Lovey in this one.   Illinois 17 Purdue 14













from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/big-ten-weekend-preview-week-7.html

Fashions Unlimited bridges the gap between tradition and innovation

Since 1976, Fashions Unlimited has crafted garments for brands such as Hanes, Adidas, and Liz Claiborne all while weathering the storms of economic recession and outsourcing that have claimed many of their local competitors. Voted by Apparel Magazine as one of the Top Innovative Companies in the Industry for 2018, the Baltimore City manufacturer nestled in the historic Pigtown neighborhood has established itself as a leader in high-end performance apparel manufacturing.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/fashions-unlimited-bridges-gap-between-tradition-and-innovation/

Wolverine Wednesday: Ronnie "Ring the" Bell

Toledo Blade

There are many reasons why players "are under the radar" on the recruiting trail.   They could play at a small school in a small town, they could excel as a senior when most recruiting takes places during their junior year, or there was an injury that kept a talented player on the bench in high school.

That wasn't the case for Ronnie Bell.  He was a basketball commit and had verbally agreed to play at Missouri State.  So instead of doing summer football camps he was playing AAU basketball.   Schools didn't take notice of a talented WR that had 89 catches and 21 TD's.  That was ranked on the All State Team or won a award for the best football player in Kansas City.  Or even one whose father was a former college football coach at Missouri Western.

In fact, Jimmy wouldn't have even known about Ronnie if not for his brother-in-law who had mentioned him during a conversation.

Just to re-cap Ronnie had the following things that most top schools look for:

• Father who coached football
• Good Grades 
• Multi-Sport Athlete
• All State Performer
• Big School in a Big City 
• Top Player in KC 

No Power 5 offers - None.   A complete miss by all other schools, even Michigan.   If Jimmy's brother-in-law doesn't mentioned Ronnie, he is at a Missouri directional school right now and maybe not even playing football.   

Fast forward to fall camp, where he becomes friends and roommates with Grant Perry, learns the offense very quickly, and is now contributing with two TD's as a true freshman.   On Saturday night, he will be playing in a national TV primetime game with millions watching.   

Tom Brady's draft spot motivates him everyday.   Ronnie uses being the basketball guy and not being recruited everyday.   He wants to prove he belongs and that motivation will take him a long way.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/wolverine-wednesday-ronnie-ring-bell.html

Michigan Tuesday: The D-Line Injuries Could Be An Issue

Michigan's program under Greg Mattison has had great defensive lines.  This year is no exception and with the loss of Mo Hurst has done very well.    I will take DE's Gary and Winovich over any pair in the country.   This is a deep position group but injuries continue to pile up and if there is one thing you need against Wisconsin's power running game it's great defensive line play.

Here is a current list of defensive line injuries:
#2 Carlo Kemp - Limped off on Saturday, being evaluated for this week
#3 Rashan Gary - Has an AC injury*, missed Maryland, questionable for Saturday
#5 Aubrey Solomon - Had surgery week 2, expected back late Oct - Early Nov
#18 Luigi Vilain - Missed last year and expected to miss this year with injuries
#50 Mike Dwumfour - carted off on Saturday, reports are not as serious as first thought

Those are 5 valuable players that equal 22 recruiting stars.

Backups and co-starters include:

• Bryan Mone - a run stopper perfect for Wisconsin 
• Taylor Upshaw - Needs to stay on a red shirt 
• Lawrence Marshall - been getting plenty of playing time
• Donovan Jeter - Is the sophomore ready?
• Julius Welschof - true freshman not an option 
• Carl Meyers - Walk-On and has gotten some snaps 

Michigan has plenty of depth at the DE position with the likes of Paye, Hutchinson, and Uche who is a LB but can rush the passer. 

• Jared Wrangler tweeted that when DJ Durkin was at Michigan he told Jared,  he would never play at Michigan.   DJ your a bleep hole.

• Michigan at MSU is a noon kick-off,  Yes! 

• There continues to be concern over Urban Meyer's health as he took a knee with a headache during the game on Saturday.   I'm obviously not a OSU fan but shouldn't they have moved Saturday's game to Monday on Columbus day? 

• The media kept asking Harbaugh that the Michigan fan base wants Shea benched.  Who the hell are they talking about?  This is the best QB play we have seen in a very long time. 

*More info on AC Injury from sportsinjuryclinic.net:

An AC joint separation, or AC joint sprain, is an injury to the ligament that holds the acromioclavicular joint together at the top of the shoulder. It is usually caused by a fall onto an outstretched arm and there can be different grades of damage. There will be severe pain and swelling on top of the shoulder, especially when trying to move the arm overhead.

Pain will be worse when trying to move the arm overhead and there is often swelling and depending on the extent of the injury a deformity may be seen in the form of an obvious lump on top of the shoulder joint. Acromioclavicular joint separations are graded one to six with grade one being mild with only minor ligament damage and no separation of the bones whilst grade 6 is a severe injury with complete ruptures of the ligaments and visible deformity.

A grade 1,2 or 3 injury is usually treated conservatively without surgery. Grade 4,5 and 6 injuries and grade 3 sprains which do not respond to treatment usually require surgery.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/michigan-tuesday-d-line-injuries-could.html

Baltimore brokerage firm expands to WTC Penthouse

Quillion Wealth Management, a Baltimore-based brokerage firm, has expanded to a larger space in the heart of the Inner Harbor.

Previously located on the 23rd floor of the World Trade Center building, Quillion has moved its headquarters to the 28th floor – or the Penthouse – overlooking the city and the Baltimore harbor below. At 5,394 square-feet, the Penthouse gives the brokerage firm an additional 2,000 square-feet than its previous suite.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/baltimore-brokerage-firm-expands-wtc-penthouse/

Michigan Monday: Has Tru Tears of Joy & An Early Look at Wisconsin

This is GD beautiful.

Tru Wilson is a bulldog.
He picks up the blitz to free Shea, then goes and pancakes a D Lineman, *then* gets up and looks for more.

That's winning the play, friends. pic.twitter.com/hxN3DgybXd

— Due# (@JDue51) October 7, 2018

That was some beautiful blocking and is like water to a fan base that has been consistently running a marathon for the last 10 years.   Tru Wilson for President!

It's easy to see to how Tru made an impact on this team since Spring Ball.   Yes, he had a holding call on a beautiful TD pass (which was a very questionable call) but that video might be just as pretty.

• As you probably have heard by now, ESPN Gameday is heading to Ann Arbor for the first time since 2015, which is hard to believe.   I guess most Michigan Gamedays have been on the road.  
• Michigan is now ranked #12 in the nation

• 5 star Quavaris Crouch will be visiting Ann Arbor this weekend.  With the UTL and Gameday, that should be some experience.  

•  No word yet on Michael Dwumfour or Carlo Kemp.   Mike tweeted out that he is good, but it looks like a serious injury.  We hope Carlo can play this week.  

Too Early Look at Wisconsin:

- Run game: #4 at 287 yards per game

- Pass game: #102 193 yards per game

- Points allowed: #12 16 points per game

- Points scored: #44 33 points per game 

Best win: @ Iowa 

Worst loss: Home against BYU 

Its always impressive to go into Iowa and get a win in a night game.  With that said, Wisconsin really hasn't played anyone and has a head scratching loss to a 3 loss BYU team. 

This will be Wisconsin's biggest test of the season, on the road, against a top defense that loves to stop what you do best, run the ball.   

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/michigan-monday-has-tru-tears-of-joy.html

Home Sweet Big Home

Michigan Football found the comforts of home and dissembled a Maryland football team with the precision of a surgeon.   The Wolverines took care of business and beat Maryland by 3 touchdowns and a great defensive performance through 3 quarters.   

The offense also clicked with the Shea Patterson and the full backs getting a ton of the credit.   Jared Wrangler now has something to talk to dad about around the Thanksgiving table as he scored on a nice TD from Patterson.  

Like any football game there were cheers and jeers:

Cheers

• Gentry for 112 yards
• Higdon with 103 yards 
• Patterson with 282 and 3 TD's
• Maryland had 147 yards on the ground (mostly in 4th qtr)
• Maryland was 5-13 on 3rd down
• Michigan had 6 penalties 
• DPJ getting targeted and then catching a TD pass
• Ronnie Bell had how many stars?
• Watson with the pick 6 

Jeers

• Injuries to the defensive line 
• TD Return on the kick off 
• Shea Interception
• Never good to see a Wolverine carted off 
• A bit of a slow start again
• Lighting 

Michigan did what they needed to do today and won the game easily.   In a day, where LSU, MSU, and Oklahoma lost.   Maybe that Northwestern win was better then most people think and don't forget this Maryland team beat Texas who just beat Oklahoma.   Winning football games is never easy and getting a comfortable win at home is a good thing.  

Shea continues to remind me of a young Drew Brees and if the Michigan offense can find its stride during a night game and in a couple weeks in East Lansing on the road.   They could make some noise in this division.   The defensive line is going to need to get healthy in a hurry! 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/home-sweet-big-home.html

Feminine care products company wins Beta City startup competition

Betamore has named the winner of its fourth annual Beta City competition, an event that celebrates leaders, makers and innovators in Baltimore. Femly, a feminine care products subscription service, took home the grand prize of $25,000, beating out five other finalists from the nearly 100 applicants. 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/feminine-care-products-company-wins-beta-city-startup-competition/

Maryland Preview

Time: Noon
Location: Big House
TV: ABC
Weather: 75 40% 🌧
Line: Mich -17.5

Michigan slept walked through the first half of the Northwestern game and when they woke up they found out they had given up 17 points.   Michigan usually doesn't sleep walk in the Big House at a noon start, but you never know.

Michigan's former DC DJ Durkin won't be on the sideline as "toxic" investigation into his program continues.

Tale of the Tape:

Michigan Run Game vs. Maryland Run D = Maryland 

Maryland Run Game vs. Michigan Run D = Michigan 

Michigan Oline vs. Maryland Dline = Push 

Shea Patterson vs. Maryland DB = Michigan 

Michigan D line vs. Maryland Oline = Michigan 

Coaching = Michigan

Maryland has a good run defense and only gave up 95 yards to the Golden Gophers last weekend and holding all its opponents to under 3 yards a carry.   Guess, what the strategy is going to be?  Just like everybody does, stuff the box and stop Higdon/Evans/Wilson.   

Michigan will have to pass protect and hit the TE's and WR's to move the ball until the running lanes open back up in the second half.   

Order DJ Pizza after the game if.............

• Michigan gets called for less then 5 penalties 
• Michigan passes the ball for an early 1st half lead 
• Runs the ball in the second half comfortably
• Defense gives up a single digit final score 
• Winovich gets 3 sacks 

Wonder out load, what the hell is wrong with this team? if.......

• Michigan continues to run the ball into a good defense
• Michigan has 3 and outs 
• Michigan continues its sleepy start 
• Michigan again struggles with penalties
• The defense gives up way more points then expected

 

Maryland has been a bit of a surprise again this season, they are 3-1 with a win over Texas week 1.   They did get blown out by Temple which is a head scratcher.   Michigan of course is the more talented team and the Maryland program is going through a ton of distractions after the tragic death of Jordan McNair.

I expect to see a renewed focus the Michigan defense and balanced offensive performance as the Wolverines love playing at noon at home.  Maryland's run defense is for real and if Jimmy and the coaches are smart, they won't continue to run into that wall.  Both teams want to run the football and I expect Michigan has a better game plan.  If the Wolverines are focused on both sides of the ball, this game could be over by 1:30.  If they play like they did last week, it could be too close for comfort.    I think Shea goes over 300 yards passing and Gentry scores two TD's.

Michigan 36 Maryland 9

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/maryland-preview.html

Celebrating our customers in Maryland

Here at Maryland Commerce, we value and appreciate our customers every day. But this week is particularly special and gives us an opportunity to say thank you for helping us to make Maryland “Open for Business.”

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/celebrating-our-customers-maryland/

Big Ten Week 6 Preview and Some Don Brown Coach Speak

Not a great weekend for Big Ten premier games.   In fact, there really isn't any.  So picking a Big Ten game of the week is going to be difficult.

Big Ten Game of The Week:

Iowa @ Minnesota (Iowa -7):  Minnesota rows the boat much better at home then they do on the road and Iowa is always a sneaky good team.   This game might be for the runner up in the Big Ten West as most believe Wisconsin will be the team to beat in that division.  I think Iowa is the much better team.  Iowa 21 Minnesota 10

Indiana @ Ohio State (OSU -26.5):  OSU beat Penn State because they have a coach who doesn't understand game day strategy.   Urban Meyer might be not understand what it means to be a leader off the field, but is great when it comes to understanding where his team needs to improve.  He knows he was a couple plays away from losing that game and that drives him crazy.  IU is going to take the brunt of that frustration this weekend.  OSU 48 IU 14

Northwestern @ Michigan State (MSU -10.5):  Northwestern is better then its record and MSU really hasn't been impressive at all this year.   If Northwestern didn't have a State of Michigan phobia, I think they could upset the Spartans.  Low scoring game.  MSU 17 NW 14

Illinois @ Rutgers (Ill -4.5):  Lots of point but not a lot of good football.   Illinois 34 Rutgers 21

That's it folks!

• Don Brown said a few interesting this during his press conference (bold is mine): You end up in a football game and you’re in a dogfight and you wake up and you’re down 17-0 on the road. Ok? So you look at that and say, ‘Alright, that’s not a good thing.’ And it’s not ok. Wake Up is right!   On the slats in the NW game:   So I’m not gonna stand here and say, geez we did a great job. But they completed 3-of-5 for 23 yards in the first half, 2-of-4 for 22 yards in the second half. ---- We’ve played two Big Ten games, ok? We have 10 sacks and 24 TFLs, but we don’t get held. Take a look and compare that with the other teams in our league, ok? So, that one’s a little tough.  Hello, Big Ten we have an issue here!  Sorry we missed that one is not going to do it anymore!  Come on Warde!

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/big-ten-week-6-preview-and-some-don.html

Wolverine Wednesday: Some Changes in The Big Ten

2018 Athlete Michael Barrett has been quiet this season.  The last report we got he was working at viper and now we hear from Jimmy, he is now practicing at WR.  As you might know, MB was a QB in HS and known as a very good athlete.   He has only participated in one game on special teams so far.   I hope the plan is to redshirt him, but if he is good enough maybe he gets on the field sooner. 

• Scott Frost is going to have some issues this year as he pushes his team and some folks are going to leave.  WR Tyjon Lindsey a 4 star WR in the 2017 just announced he is transferring. 

• Cody White MSU starting WR broke his hand against Central last weekend

• James Franklin has been taking heat all week from his stupid 4th down call.   This is not new and was pretty much consistent before PSU surprisingly won the Big Ten and Barkley started running over teams.

• Former Michigan DC and suspended Maryland head coach DJ Durkin won't be on the sideline this weekend as reports keep leaking out about team meals with graphic videos of animals attacking each other, etc.   It seems its only a matter of time before DJ is removed from role. 

• The Big Ten told Jimmy, "sorry we missed it" on the Higdon holding call.  Great accountability Big Ten.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/wolverine-wednesday-some-changes-in-big.html

At Sofpak, creativity and problem-solving are the family business

Sofpak Technologies really began because there was a problem to solve, says President Mona Lim. 

In the late 1970s, Lim's father, Casey, was an engineer responsible for field-testing equipment for an electronics company. He experienced a common problem: equipment damage during transport. Too much time was being spent on costly repairs and maintenance. 

So Casey and his wife, Jully—both Korean immigrants—brainstormed and designed the first Sofpak case, custom-made to protect the equipment. 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/sofpak-creativity-and-problem-solving-are-family-business/

Michigan Tuesday: Too Many Penalties

Det News 

Sorry about the missed post on Monday, was traveling and didn't have enough bandwidth.

When you see that "holding call from Mars" on Higdon, you start to wonder if there really is collusion with the Big Ten officials against Harbaugh and Michigan's program.   There are bad calls and there are missed calls, that looked like a deliberate call.   Warde told Jimmy to not speak on it and he would handle it.  If Warde gets into a negotiation with the Big Ten on this,  I would expect the official that made the call will get a raise and extra week of vacation.

Jimmy mentioned during his Monday's press conference that the Big Ten hadn't responded yet on the call.   I wouldn't hold my breathe for a quick response.   It's clear, Michigan needs to start throwing around its weight at the Big Ten office.   I'm sure the ACC would love to take a meeting on Michigan.

• Reports are that Tarik Black is doing some light jogging.  When he is doing Zumba, it will time to be excited.  

• No word on Gary's injury and I don't expect to hear from Jimmy on that one either. 

• The Wisconsin game will be in Prime Time.  At least its at home. 

• 80 years ago today, Michigan debuted the most famous helmet in the history of college football.

• Michigan is #1 in the Big Ten with 46 penalties.  See above 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/michigan-tuesday-too-many-penalties.html

C&O Canal plans new HQ, visitor center in Washington County

A new headquarters for Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is expected to bring jobs and an economic boost to Williamsport, Md. 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/co-canal-plans-hq-visitor-center-washington-county/

Maryland to welcome thousands of visitors for Fleet Week and Air Show Baltimore

Baltimore’s sky and sea will soon be swarming with sailors and aviators as part of Maryland Fleet Week and Air Show Baltimore, taking place October 3-9. The USAF Thunderbirds will headline the event with flying demonstrations from the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/maryland-welcome-thousands-visitors-fleet-week-and-air-show-baltimore/