Power Outage

The game started with CBS having some type of power outage in the TV Truck and ended with the Wolverines having the same.   Texas Tech used its defense and Michigan's terrible shooting to blow out the Wolverines early in their Sweet 16 match-up.

It was clear from the tip, the Wolverines were off their game.  Not sure if it was the scouting report,  jet lag, poor preparation, but John B's squad didn't pack their jumpers on the trip to California.   These teams are not that different, TT made circus shots in the first half to build a lead and Michigan didn't.   That gained them enough confidence to blow the game open early in the second half, as Michigan's confidence to shoot the ball was completely shot.  Zavier finished with an ugly stat line of zero points, 4 turnovers, 1 assist.  Livers didn't score, Teske had 4 points, and Poole finished with 8.

This has been brewing for some time, Beilein's teams usually start the season slow and finish strong as they learn the offense and each other.   This team did the complete opposite, their defense led them early and while other teams got better, Michigan stayed the same.   That formula is not going to win you any championships.   I'm trying to remember when Michigan beat a really good team this year, was it North Carolina?  That game was played on November 28th.

Its hard today not to draw a parallel with the football team.   Both programs have good coaches, both programs struggle to find balance between a good offense and a good defense and both programs got embarrassed when the lights where the brightest this past season.   I'm a fan of both coaches but neither one of them are going to win any National Championship until they can't find a team that plays on both sides of the ball or floor.

Michigan won 30 games this season, which is a very good effort, but they let a regular season Big Ten Championship, a Big Ten Tournament Championship and a trip to the Elite 8 out of their grasp.   This team wasn't going to be Gonzaga on Saturday and I give TT only a small chance.   Coach B is going to have a long off season trying to figure out how to score the basketball next season.

On a positive note, your Saturday just opened up.


Welcome to the Football Off Season

Some Spring Practice Buzz:

• With a ton of WR's out, Black who is healthy for a change, has been impressive.
• Jimmy is very happy the teams conditioning and believes they are in very good shape. 
• The offensive line has experience and might be the best he has had, only the RT position is up for grabs. 
• Team seems to be happy with the TE's, I actually have a concern with that position as I thought they way under preformed last year. 
• DT Michael Dwumfour has been impressive and hopefully is taking a Mo Hurst jump during his senior year. 

I'm concerned about RB depth and our top WR's missing spring practice with the new speed in space installs.   It's great to hear about the offensive line but if they are matching up against the D Line in practice, they should be better as the defensive line is expected to take a step back.   Michigan is expecting a lot from the #50/Mikes's this year:  Big Mike Onwenu on the offensive line and Michael Dwumfour on the defensive line.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/power-outage.html

Michigan Thursday: Defense Wins Championships

Michigan and Texas Tech are the top two defensive teams in the country.  It doesn't matter which team is 1 or 2 because both can defend you.   Tech has a future pro in Jarrett Culver who clearly has a great opportunity to be spoke person for the Butter Burger fast food chain.

Tech also has a 3 point shooter in Davide Moretti, which is the type of guy that has been trouble for the Wolverines in games against MSU and of course in the National Championship game vs. Villanova.   Here is a tip, don't leave this guy wide open to hit pre-game 3 point jumpers.

I also expect that Charles Matthews will be on Culver duty.  We will need to see March Madness Matthews in this game, staying out of foul trouble will be key.

I haven't watched too many Texas Tech games this season and their game on Sunday happened to be on the same time Duke - UCF.  What I noticed is Tech's strong defense and that they turn the ball over a bit.  If Michigan can get some easy transitions points, that might be the difference in the game.

The Wolverines also need all their offensive weapons.  Iggy can't take a day off, Poole needs to be efficient, and Teske needs his solid 14 point game.   The Wolverines will also need a strong game from Livers off the bench.  This will be a low scoring game, first team to 60 points wins.   I like that Coach B has had 5 days to prepare, this would have been a difficult match-up with one day preparation.

• I wrote a post a few years ago about recommended changes for the football team.   One of my recommendations was to hire an old NFL offensive line coach to fix the issues the Wolverines were having.   That finally happened as Jimmy has hired Juan Castillo as an analyst.  Juan will be 60 in October and has experience coaching offense and defense in the NFL.  He was the O-Line coach for the Bills the last two years and also worked for Jimmy's brother John for 3 years prior.  He has been coaching somewhere since 1982.  Welcome Juan and get those boys run blocking and pass protecting like they never have before! 

• Don Brown spoke about how last year ended, he is clearly upset.  That is fine but I want him to fix the issues.  I know he is one of the best DC's in the country but those last two games where borderline fire worthy.   I'm so tired about hearing about mistakes made against Ohio State.   Prepare early and often for that game!!  I would have two analysts that do nothing but prepare for the Ohio State game. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/michigan-thursday-defense-wins.html

Wolverine Wednesday: Big Ten Coaching Changes

With the Big Ten's Big 3 in the Sweet 16, the other Big Ten teams are taking a hard look at their programs.  Indiana lost last night at home as the #1 seed in the NIT which I'm sure makes the IU faithful very un-happy for a number of reasons.

Nebraska who already lost in the NIT yesterday fired their head coach Tim Miles.  The rumor for over a week is that former Chicago Bulls head coach Fred Hoiberg will take that job.   Which many believe is a big step up for Nebraska who has to compete against the likes of Beilein, Izzo, Miller, Pitino, and others.

Speaking of Coach B his first defensive coordinator hire Billy Donlon who left for a similar role at Northwestern has gotten a head coaching job at University of Missouri Kansas City.    Congratulations to Billy!

• The only person in the country to have a perfect bracket is a former Saginaw resident that now lives in Columbus.  

• People are finally waking up to Devin Bush Jr. as he is now listed as the #9 draft pick in Mel Kiper's latest mock.   

• Does anyone else think that the Green Bay Packers are going to draft Chase Winovich to replace Clay Matthews who signed with the Rams?

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/wolverine-wednesday-big-ten-coaching.html

Michigan Tuesday: Lucas Andrighetto Running This Spring

Michigan Football has taken a hit a RB.  Senior Karan Higdon is heading to the NFL draft and skipped the end of the year exhibition.   Chris Evans got in some hot water with the University and currently suspended from the team and classes. Highly ranked early enrolled true freshman Zach Charbonnet is out this spring after a knee procedure.

That leaves Christian Turner, who looked good in the exhibition against Florida, Tru Wilson former walk-on, and Hassan Haskins who they brought to offense after spending time with Don Brown's squad.  That is not a ton of depth, which means somebody has an opportunity to turn a few heads.  

“49 is Lucas Andrighetto,” Harbaugh said. “Another really good move. He moved from safety to running back. You remember Tru Wilson was a safety when he first started, and then became a running back. In my opinion, Andrighetto is better than Tru Wilson when he first moved over from safety to running back. But, Andrighetto’s got speed, he’s got savvy in there. He really is seeing the holes. And, for somebody who’s only been playing running back for four practices here with us – he played running back in high school – but 49, Lucas Andrighetto, has emerged as somebody that’s gonna be a really good player.

“Tru Wilson’s doing a good job – Andrighetto can catch the ball out of the backfield, as well. He’s doing a good job.”

Who is Lucas Andrighetto you say? He is a walk-on sophomore from Mountain View, California.  He hasn't seen any game action yet but was the Scout Team player of the week during the Northwestern prep.  Lucas is 5'11 and 180 pounds. 

Lucas was a two way player (Safety and RB) at St. Francis High School.  At RB he had 54 carries for 362 yards with a 6.7 yards per carry as a senior.   He also caught 7 passes for 77 yards.  

If want to watch videos of Lucas playing HS football, here is a link to his MaxPreps page.   

Fun BHB Fact:  I think he looks a little like Sam McGuffie.   Which means he might be a future Olympic Bobsledder! 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/michigan-tuesday-lucas-andrighetto.html

Maryland and Japan renew economic partnership

Governor Larry Hogan and Ambassador Shinsuke Sugiyama have signed and renewed a Memorandum of Cooperation that reinforces the relationship between Maryland and Japan. The renewal highlights the regions’ continued commitment to working together to promote trade, investment, life sciences collaboration, academic exchanges, and information sharing. 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/maryland-and-japan-renew-economic-partnership/

Michigan Monday: Getting More Big Sleep

By now you know Michigan beat Florida Saturday night.  It wasn't the prettiest game as both teams played solid defense and caused the other to shoot poorly.   Michigan was led by Jordan Poole with  19 points and Livers added 10 with a great late game dunk.   No other Wolverine scored in double figures.

Iggy struggled again offensively with 5 points and March Madness Matthews added great defense but only scored  9 points.   We all know the value that Zavier Simpson brings to the team but this team is completely different when Jon "Big Sleep" Teske is not in the game.   Jon gives the Wolverines such a big presence on both sides of the ball.  On offense, his pick and roll offense is key for the Wolverine having good ball movement, which equals better offense.   When he is on the bench, the Wolverines get one dimensional and the ball movement dies.   Jon provides great defense as a  7'1 human being for opponents to shoot over.  If I could pick one area where Jon has really improved, its how quickly his moves his feet on defense.   It's really impressive for a big man.

Michigan will need everyone on top of their game as they play a similarly strong defensive squad (KenPom #1 and #2 top defensive teams) in Texas Tech on Thursday at 9:39 PM EST in California.

• We should know more about Chris Evans status as a Michigan student in about two weeks.  He has filed his appeal and we should hear a decision soon.  Chris right now is taking online courses and working as a delivery person in Ann Arbor.   I don't know what he did, but he is a good kid and I hope he gets a second chance.   

• Michigan Football has 4 practices under their belt now in Spring Practice and Coach Gattis is liking how the team is transitioning to the #Speed in Space offense.   He said the Wolverines are not going to huddle and will be throwing the ball downfield, but will also have a pro style running game as well. 

• Instate 2020 WR Maliq Carr was back on campus on Sunday. He is planning to announce his decision in October.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/michigan-monday-getting-more-big-sleep.html

Maryland receives nearly $2 million in grants for cancer research

The American Cancer Society has awarded three new grants to support and further cancer research in Maryland.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/maryland-receives-nearly-2-million-grants-cancer-research/

Michigan Friday: March Madness Matthews

Detroit News - Robin Buckson

In the NBA there are two different type of Rajon Rondo's.  There is regular season Rondo and playoff Rondo.   For Michigan there is regular season Charles Mathews and then there is March Madness Matthews.  The guy loves the NCAA Tournament West Region and went for a double/double last night with 22 points and 11 rebounds.  He had a very strong game and it was great to see that type of production from him again.

With that said, let's not confuse good with bad.  I thought Michigan played Ok, but Montana was awful.    Montana would of had trouble throwing the ball in the ocean from the beach last night.  The Grizzles were 6-24 from 3 and didn't do much better from 2.   They were under-sized and under maned and Michigan knew it.   I actually started to feel bad for Montana's Bobby Moorehead and his strange headband.  He reminded me of that guy at the local gym playing pick-up well past his prime with the 18 year-olds.  Yes, the Michigan defense had something to do with that but the Grizzles missed a ton of open shots.

The Wolverines had 12 turnovers for the game and Simpson who protects the ball like no other, had 4 of those 12.   Michigan knew they were the better team and played pretty sloppy.   From my eyes the Wolverines will need to clean up plenty of things before they tip off on 5:15 on Saturday against the Gators.  More ball movement on offense please!  The road continues for the Wolverines and they just need to survive and advance!

• Spring # Changes!  Christian Turner is now #3, Gill is now #8.   The early enrollee's:

CB Perry #3

QB McNamara #12

WR Sainristil #19

RB Charbonnet #24

DT Smith #58

DE Ojabo #71

TE All #83

DE Newburg #99

(HT to Mgoblog)

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/michigan-friday-march-madness-matthews.html

Digital health company makes tracking diabetes easier

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 100 million U.S. adults live with diabetes or prediabetes. Tuesday, March 26, is  American Diabetes Association Alert Day, and we are highlighting Welldoc, a leading digital health company that is producing the latest cutting-edge technology to help those trying to manage diabetes.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/digital-health-company-makes-tracking-diabetes-easier/

Michigan Thursday: The Madness Begins

With Michigan heading out West again means that the Wolverines will be playing late night in the Eastern Time Zone.   The Wolverines bracket has some similarity to last year; Montana again, a Texas team, and Florida State.

If Michigan beats Montana the Wolverines will have a tough match-up with the Gators or Nevada on Saturday.   The Wolverines will need to continue to defend at a high-level and shoot the 3 effectively.  We need Matthews to have tournament he did last year with Iggy and Poole playing well.  Don't forget that Michigan struggled with Montana early in the game last year.

• Coach Nau gave his first Press Conference at Michigan.  

• Also new coach Anthony Campanile is still looking for good pizza in Ann Arbor.

• Does Michigan have a secret weapon on the Defensive Line?  They might.  Defensive end Luiji Vilain came to Michigan in the 2016 class a couple spots short of a 5 star player.   After surgeries on both knees and missing two full seasons, Luiji is finally healthy this spring and looking forward to playing in his first season.   He is probably the #1 player to keep an eye on in Spring Practice.  

• Sounds like its a Michigan school decision if Chris Evans makes it back for his senior year, not a football decision.  There are plenty of videos of him working out on social media, hopefully he is working just as hard in the classroom. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/michigan-thursday-madness-begins.html

Wolverine Wednesday: Welcomes A 2021 Recruit

Recruiting never stops and Michigan now has a commit from a young man that hasn't even played his junior year of high school football yet.  That new commit is 6'6 280 pound offensive lineman Giovanni El-Hadi from Sterling Heights.

Its always good to get a jump on recruiting and Giovanni will be a good player to track as he continues to add weight, muscle, and learns his position on the offensive line.

• Former Ohio State QB Tate Martell has received a waiver to play at Miami right away. I guess the NCAA doesn't care about the "hardship" part of the waiver any longer and free agency is open for business. Tate's hardship was that OSU had a 5 star transfer QB. Expect Aubrey Solomon to get one as well.

• Michigan made the top 5 for 2020 WR Maliq Carr from Oak Park.  Other teams include: Texas AM, LSU, ND, and Purdue.  He is ranked as a 3 star WR but is 6'6 and 230 pounds.

• Former Michigan player and grad assistant Allen Gant has got a paying job as the DB coach for Slippery Rock.  Congrats to Allen! 

• Michigan also announced two chances for fans to view the Wolverines this Spring.  An open practice on April 6 at 2:15 p.m. and the spring “game” will be held April 13 at 5 p.m.

• Ohio State has their Pro Day today.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/wolverine-wednesday-welcomes-2021.html

Daily Record recognizes Secretary Kelly Schulz among 100 honorees

March is Women’s History Month, and as the national celebration approaches its 40th anniversary, we’re proud to see the Maryland Daily Record recognize 100 influential women for their achievements and leadership in the state. One name we are particularly proud to see on this year’s list is Maryland Commerce Secretary Kelly Schulz.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/daily-record-recognizes-secretary-kelly-schulz-among-100-honorees/

Jimmy Speaks - First Press Conference of Spring Ball

Jimmy had his first press conference for the new season after 1 day of Spring Practice.  He seemed excited to get back to football and really seemed excited for his new team.   Mentioned how happy he is with the RB's and DL many times.

• Things we will see differently for Michigan Offense is Tempo - less huddling 
• Christian Turner is stepping up and looks great, Haskins is back at RB full time
• Zach Charbonnet came in needing minor knee surgery and will be out Spring Practice.  They knew he needed it and the staff wanted him to do it in Ann Arbor.  
• Really impressed by the early enrollees - knocking down the door for workouts in the morning
• Chris Evans could work his way back on the team 
• Excited to have Mike Danna coming in 
• Ben Mason will play RB, DL, TE and FB want him on the field as much as possible.   Would like Ben to be in 60-70 plays a game.  
• Mayfield and Stueber are competing at RT 
• Josh Ross, Gill, McGrone, and Anthony looking to replace Devin Bush 
• Hill, Nico Collins, DPJ, are not practicing right now with injuries.    One guy on the team has mono. 
• Kemp, Jeter, were called out as really playing well. 
• Shaun Nua has DL running very well. 
• Dylan McCafferty is back to 100%.  Shea, Dylan, and Joe getting all equal reps.   That is the depth chart as well. 
• Josh Gattis will coordinate the offense and call the plays 
• Was surprised by Greg's departure, but doubled his salary and he won't be sending him a Christmas Card.   Still a good man and will be friends when they are retired from coaching.  

-As rumored, 5th year DL Reuban Jones announced his transfer yesterday.   QB Brandon Peters is also expected to transfer after spring ball.  Purdue is rumored to be his next school.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/jimmy-speaks-first-press-conference-of.html

Maryland was made for these 5 types of young professionals

Thinking about where to live after graduation? Already settled somewhere and looking to make a move? Maryland has a lot to offer young professionals, especially for these five types of people. 

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/maryland-made-young-professionals/

Michigan Monday: Not A Party

They say the NBA is a miss or make league.  You can use that analogy for basketball as a whole.   To take statement a bit deeper, it is saying that players win games and if you shoot the ball well you will win the game.

To my eyes that wasn't the case for the rubber match between Sparty and the Wolverines last night.  This loss falls directly on the Michigan coaches.   MSU is going to beat you maybe 3 ways:

1. Death by Winston
2. Death by McQuaid shooting 3
3. Getting out rebounded in the low post

Michigan focused so much on 1 and 3 they left McQuaid wide open and Izzo knew it.   Coach B basically bet that McQuaid would not beat them shooting 3's and he was wrong.  I was yelling at the TV for Poole, Iggy, or Zavier not to pinch down to the post and leave McQuaid wide open.  They did it the entire game and it cost the Wolverines a Big Ten Championship.

If the Michigan defender had moved a few feet closer to him, that pass is never made and he doesn't hit all those 3's.   Why the Wolverines didn't adjust, doesn't make any sense.  I understand they needed help on the boards but sometimes you have to trade a 2 instead of a 3.   They made an average player look like superstar with pre-game jumpers during the game.

I also don't understand the watch and no movement on offense for large stretches during the game.   Many times, Michigan's best shooters are standing on the other side of the court as Michigan's offense is struggling to get an open shot.

Michigan's struggles against MSU late in the game continues and Coach B got out coached against MSU 3 times this year.

With that said, Michigan gets a better seed then MSU as the Wolverines head out West again.   So the NCAA basically said, the result from Sunday didn't matter in the seeding.   You could see on CBS how excited Michigan was, when they got their seed and nobody but Coach B stood up.   It was clearly not a party.

• Michigan Football also started Spring Practice on Sunday.  Josh Gattis seemed very excited on twitter to install his Speed in Space offense.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/michigan-monday-not-party.html

Take a ride on the Whitehaven Ferry

In the tiny riverfront community of Whivehaven, the historic ferry that takes vehicles across the Wicomico River is a popular topic of conversation. The ferry, which recently celebrated 330 years, is thought to be the oldest continuously operating ferry in the country.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/take-ride-whitehaven-ferry/

Michigan Friday: Wolverines Trying a New Helmet

If you have followed this blog for years, you know my concern with concussions in football.   Michigan will at least be trying out a new model of helmet from a football equipment company that is headquartered in Detroit.   The company is Xenith and this is what they say about their new helmet:

Xenith Shadow’s enhanced shock arrangement and materials are tuned specifically for the range of hits you experience on the field. Combined with an industry-first, novel polymer shell, this system absorbs energy and separates your head from the hit.

• Michigan Basketball will take on Iowa tonight sometime between 9:30 and 10:00 in the Big Ten Tournament.  Charles Matthews is expected to play.

• Michigan's Pro Day is happening this morning 

• Michigan's Spring Practice also starts on Sunday 

• Looks like Michigan has put Josh Gattis in charge of Oak Park's 5 Star OT Justin Rodgers.  Right now Michigan is trailing in his recruitment but does hold a home field advantage.  

• 2020 UT SDE Van Fillinger picked up a offer from Michigan, his dream school.  His name sounds like a movie with Ryan Reynolds. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/michigan-friday-wolverines-trying-new.html

Michigan Thursday: Big Weekend For Michigan's Top 2 Sports

We know Michigan Basketball will take the floor on Friday against Illinois or Iowa (Illinois beat Northwestern last night).   We also hope Michigan can win 3 games this weekend and take home another Big Ten Tournament Championship.

Michigan Football also has a busy weekend.  Friday they have their Pro Day and expected back home is Wilton Speight to throw for pro scouts.   Michigan doesn't have a draft eligible QB so Wilton will throw on Friday.  All of Michigan's combine invites are expected to participate along with Tyree Kinnel, receiver Grant Perry, cornerback Brandon Watson, defensive linemen Bryan Mone and Lawrence Marshall, and offensive lineman Juwann Bushell-Beatty.  TE Zach Gentry has the most on the line as his NFL Combine results was not considered a success.

Sunday Michigan opens Spring Practice with the hopes of starting to implement #Speed in Space on offense and some defensive zone coverages.   It's also never too early to prepare for Army's triple option offense.  I have no idea why Michigan would schedule such a game?  I thought the two rules for Michigan Football was to never schedule any Military Academies and App State?

• Coach B said that Charles Matthews has fully practiced but not 100% yet.   He also was very surprised Charles was not named to the Big Ten defensive team.  I agree, I haven't seen a better defensive 2 guard in the league.  

• Another person to keep an eye on is QB Brandon Peters.  He of course has been rumored to be transferring with an eye on Purdue.   I expect he will participate in Spring Ball and then possibly announce a transfer if he is not second string.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/michigan-thursday-big-weekend-for.html

Celebrate Agriculture Week in Maryland

Did you know that most of life’s necessities – food, fiber, clothing and shelter – start with agriculture? March 14 is National Agriculture Day, which recognizes the contributions of agriculture to American society. To coincide with this national celebration, Governor Larry Hogan has declared March 10-16 as “Maryland Agriculture Week.”

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/celebrate-agriculture-week-maryland/

Wolverine Wednesday: Pep Traded To The Giants

Jabrill Peppers was traded last night to the NY Giants for OBJ and a number of draft picks.   Normally, you would think this would be a good thing for Pep, but Cleveland is shaping up to be a very good team in the AFC and now the Giants are in re-building mode.  

The one positive is NYC is a much better place to live and a very high profile market.  If Pep is used correctly, he could become an NFL star playing in New York.  Pep also grew up in NJ and now much closer to home.

Former Spartan LeVeon Bell is also heading to the big city, as he will sign a contract with the Jets today.  The deal will make him the 2nd highest paid RB after Todd Gurley.  After sitting out a year, Bell wanted to reset the RB market and that didn't happen.   Which means he made a mistake losing $14M last year.   I wonder what type of shape he is in?  He did spend a lot of time in Miami while not playing last season.

• The latest FBI sting is now focusing on rich people trying to bribe coaches of smaller sports at high academic schools to get their kids admitted.   This is clearly a shot a the "old boys network".

• Per James Light on Twitter from a recent coaching clinic:  Ed Warriner talked about how UM became more of an Outside Zone/Pin & Pull team because Higdon was so good in that scheme. Ed said he personally favors tight zone, but wanted to run what Higdon did well.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/wolverine-wednesday-pep-traded-to-giants.html

Michigan Tuesday: Iggy Named Freshman of The Year

Iggy was named the Big Ten Freshman of the year.  First honor for a Wolverine since Trey Burke in 2011 - 2012.   The rest of Michigan starters made an All Big Ten Team or honorable mentioned.

• Devin Funchess is going to Indy on a 1 year contract at $13M.   Should get a few more looks with Luck under center.  

• So the Greg Mattison jump to OSU makes a little more sense to me now.  Greg was making $900K a year as Michigan DC's, his latest contract at Michigan was $525K, OSU is paying him $1.1M a year.   The Wolverines cut his salary by $400K and OSU was looking to double it.  It wasn't a Maize and Blue vs. Scarlett and Gray thing, it was all about the GREEN.

• Michigan makes top 5 for 2020 Aurora (CO) Eaglecrest four-star center Reece Atteberry.  Others included OSU, Duke, ND, and Nebraska. 

• Michigan also makes top 6 for 2020  Louisville OT John Young.   Also on the list: Georgia, Purdue, Louisville, Kentucky, and Ohio State.

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/michigan-tuesday-iggy-named-freshman-of.html

Michigan Monday: Let's One Get Away

Michigan Basketball had a very good first half on Saturday night.  MSU was lucky to only be down 6 points at half time.   The only issue the Wolverines had was some foul trouble, Iggy was on fire but was on the bench with 2 fouls and that was only after Livers had been sitting with two fouls as well.

The foul trouble continued and some cold shooting hit in the second half and the Wolverines lost to Sparty.  Michigan went from a share of the Big Ten Championship to a 3rd seed in the Big Ten Tournament with that loss.

There where a couple of positives from the game.   Poole and Iggy shot the ball well and Michigan played a very good half of basketball on the road.  From here on out, it will be all neutral courts.   Michigan's offense needs to continue to move the ball and not get stuck with Simpson or Teske shooting 3's.

On to the post season.  Michigan will play Iowa - NW/Illinois winner on Friday.

• Moe Wagner got his first NBA start on Saturday and went for 22 points.   He will get plenty of time as the Lakers rest for the rest of the season. 

• Wisconsin QB Alex Hornibrook is transferring to FSU - Interesting choice mostly after missing a ton of games at the end of last season with a concussion. 

• Things I didn't know:  Chase Winovich went on a date with Madonna's daughter at U of M.  He was asked about it during his combine interviews. 

• Michigan Football starts Spring Practice on Sunday. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/michigan-monday-lets-one-get-away.html

Michigan Friday: Rivalry Night

ESPN has a special night for basketball fans lined up on Saturday.   Its starts off with Duke @ North Carolina and ends with Michigan @ MSU.    There are plenty of similarities between the two games:

-Both are instate rivalries
-All 4 teams are in the top 10
-Both games were played two weeks ago
-Both games had the visitor win
-Both games had a starter go down with an injury
-All 4 teams have famous coaches

From a Michigan standpoint the big question remains if Charles Matthews will dress and play in his last Michigan regular season game.  The winner of the Michigan/MSU will probably share the regular season Big Ten Title with Purdue.  So there is plenty to play for.

There is also reasons to not play Charles.   Michigan has the Big Ten Tournament coming up next weekend and the NCAA after that.   If Matthews needs more time, not playing on Saturday night means he will have 3 weeks worth of rest before Michigan hits the floor in Chicago.

Either way, it has been a great season for the Wolverines and I'm looking forward to, what's next!   I sure how the jumpers are working in East Lansing!

• Did you know Khaleke Hudson, Donovan Peoples-Jones and Tarik Black attended the NFL combine as a way for the NFL to prepare high profile college players for the NFL? I didn't know that program existed!

• The Florida - Miami game has been approved and will be played in Orlando on 8/24.  Those teams get to start fall camp early! A good game in August?  Thank you college football!

• Shane Morris has signed a contract to play in the Arena league in Baltimore. 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/michigan-friday-rivarly-night.html

Michigan Thursday: Ohio State Has It's First Spring Practice

Ohio State had a lot of firsts on Wednesday.  It was the first day of spring practice, it was the first spring practice with Ryan Day as head coach, it was the first practice for Greg Mattison as OSU's DC, and the first practice for new QB Justin Fields.

Here are a few some bullets that watched practice and attended the press conference:

• RB J.K. Dobbins was disappointed with his sophomore season, he is the starting RB now

• Day still plans to call plays during the season

• OSU will lose 3 starters off the offensive line from last year

• This was the first team OL on day 1: LT Josh Alabi, LG Gavin Cupp, C Josh Myers, RG Wyatt Davis, RT Branden Bowen

• Starting 3 CB's look to be: Jeffrey Okudah, Damon Arnette and Shaun Wade

• Day said, it will be an open competition this spring at QB between Justin Fields and Matthew Baldwin. That is funny!

• Per the media, a number of balls "sailed" during the media availability for both QB's.

• Per Day, the defense will look different

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/michigan-thursday-ohio-state-has-its.html

March is for Maryland wine lovers

Marylander’s wine enthusiasts are encouraged to swirl, sniff, and sip their way through the month of March as we celebrate our local vineyards during the 3rd annual Maryland Wine Month. From self-guided tours to neighborhood festivals celebrating the latest red and white blends, there is sure to be something on the calendar for every discerning palette.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/march-maryland-wine-lovers/

Wolverine Wednesday: Delany Is Finally Retiring

Big Ten Commissioner Jim Delany is finally retiring in 2020 after 31 years.   I had to double check that stat, as I couldn't believe he has been in this role for over 3 decades.   Somebody put a term limit on this job please!

Jim is not a friend around here as he continues to take a blind eye to many issues that have effected Michigan negatively the last few years.   A couple that come to mind are:  back to back trips to MSU and the Ohio State official debacle that he never addressed.

To give Jim some credit, he did bring Nebraska and Penn State to the Big Ten and also started the Big Ten Channel when many leagues hadn't taken that leap yet.   The increase of revenue that he will point to, is just a sign of the times and shouldn't be considered his greatest accomplishment.

Jim also had some terrible mistakes, like adding Maryland and Rutgers to the league.   Both athletic departments were basically bankrupt and the time and were easy targets.   His goal was to add the NYC and DC markets to the Big Ten Channel.   Rutgers athletically has been awful in pretty much every sport and Maryland has been in complete disarray with the unnecessary and tragic loss last summer.   Lets us not forget the first iteration of the football Leaders and Legends divisions as well.

I consider Jim the Mr. Burns (from the Simpson) of the Big Ten, a figure head that hasn't been effective in his job for a long time.

• Soon to be NFL Hall of Famer Ty Law will be the honorary captain for the Iowa game next season. 

• Purdue lost to Minnesota last night which means, the winner of the Michigan - MSU game on Saturday night will get a share of  the regular season Big Ten Title.   Let's hope Matthews will be ready and rested. 

• I have been wondering about 2020 recruit Franz Wagner the brother of Mo.  We hadn't had an update for awhile now.  Franz is considering staying in Germany and playing pro ball or coming over to the US to play college basketball.   His top 3 schools if he does pick college are Michigan, Stanford, and Butler.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/wolverine-wednesday-delany-is-finally.html

Northrop Grumman to add 175 new jobs in Cecil County

Northrop Grumman, a global security company that designs, builds, and delivers space, defense, and aviation-related systems, is expanding its manufacturing operations in Cecil County and plans to add 175 new jobs over the next five years.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/northrop-grumman-add-175-new-jobs-cecil-county/

Michigan Tuesday: Does 5 Bullets For King Kong Bundy

If you didn't follow the WWF in the late 80's you might not know who King Kong Bundy is.   He was a villain who not only beat you for a 3 count, he asked the ref for a 5 count.   He just passed, so today we will give KKB a tribute with 5 bullet points.

• David Long ripped up the combine on Monday.  His 3 cone drill was one of the lowest times ever at 6.45.  He also ran a 4.47 40 yard dash.  David made his case for the best CB in the draft and probably a higher draft prediction. 

• If your a bit frustrated with the number of elite players Michigan had on defense last year and how the Wolverines season ended, your not alone.  This responsibility has to land on Don Brown's desk.  He has a head scratcher game every year and this year it was OSU.  

• Michigan Basketball is now ranked #7 in both polls. 

• Speaking of KKB, Joe Louis Arena will be torn down in about a month.  King Kong Bundy of course wrestled there many times. 

• The Seahawks put the franchise tag on Frank Clark after his career year.  His salary will go from $944K a year to over $17M.  Which is a heck of a raise! 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/michigan-tuesday-does-5-bullets-for.html

Maryland leads life sciences delegation to the United Kingdom

Maryland Commerce is across the pond this week leading a delegation of biohealth and life sciences companies to the Midlands region in the United Kingdom. From March 5-7, Maryland Commerce will help the delegation begin or expand exporting in the UK market, and promote the state’s location and assets to an international audience.

from https://open.maryland.gov/blog/maryland-leads-life-sciences-delegation-united-kingdom/

Michigan Monday: Loves Balance

When the game started late afternoon on Sunday, two questions went through my head:
1) Will Michigan hit any outside jumpers in this game?
2) Will this be a Maryland blowout?

Michigan in the first half played solid defense, shot terribly, found Teske inside, and lived off some impressive sky hooks from Zavier.   That got them a 4 point lead at the half, which was enough time for the Wolverines to find their outside shooting touch.

Michigan played great in the second half and won an impressive 69-62 road victory over a ranked Maryland team.  As I have mentioned before, Iggy is the straw that stirs the Wolverines drink on offense, he went for an impressive 21 points.  The rest of the starters?

Simpson: 12
Poole: 12
Teske: 11
Livers: 11

The only bench scoring was from new 6th man Colin Castleton with 2 points.   CC actually gave coach B some good minutes at the 5, so Teske could get a little rest.   He is now going to be a factor in the Big Ten and NCAA tournaments.  

If Matthews comes back rested and healthy, it will be fun to see how this team plays.   I would rank Sunday's win, one of the best of the season.   The team now has a week off before they travel an hour north to East Lansing for the final game of the season.

• Former Wolverines showed out well at the combine this weekend.  Bush ran a Denard like 4.44 in the 40.  Gary and Winovich ran a 4.59.   I would say the Michigan's defenders had an excellent weekend.  It's not over either, as David Long is up today.  

• If it was a great weekend for the former Michigan defenders it was just the opposite for Zach Gentry, who many are questioning his decision to turn pro.   Zach ran a very slow 40 at 4.9, was last in the 20 yard shuttle, and second to last in the 3 cone and 60 yard shuttle drills.   This is a very deep TE class and it probably made sense for Zach to stay in Ann Arbor another year.  Maybe he can improve on his numbers on Michigan's pro day?

• Denard scored his first professional TD on Sunday for the Atlanta Legends in the AAF.  It was also Atlanta's first win of the season.  

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/michigan-monday-loves-balance.html

Michigan Friday: It Was A House Party

Michigan hosted Nebraska on senior night last night and if it was boxing match, we would have thought it was fixed.     The Cornhuskers laid down quickly and quietly and the Wolverines never looked back in almost a 30 point win.   An example of that is true freshman Colin Castleton who has never scored a bucket in Big Ten play had 11 points and 3 rebounds.  He also missed a dunk.

The only guy to walk on senior night was Charles Matthews, who could barely walk with a huge boot on his ankle.   Charles turned his ankle against MSU and didn't play against Nebraska.   Teske had his career high with 22, Iggy went for 20, and Livers started and scored 12.

What was nice to see is the Wolverines didn't relax when they got up big and made sure to finish off Nebraska early in the second half after a couple sloppy plays.   The Wolverines travel to Maryland on Sunday at 3:45 and then have a week off before a trip to East Lansing to finish off the regular season.  That should give Matthews plenty of time to heal that bum ankle.

• Higdon did 21 reps on the bench at the combine. 

• Jimmy and OL Coach Ed Warinner took in the game last night. 

• Did you know Tyrone Wheatley Jr. came back to Michigan to graduate and is back in the transfer portal?  He played at Stoney Brook last season.  Part of me wants him to finish his college career in the Maize and Blue. 

• ESPN is looking into moving the Florida - Miami game in Orlando from 8/31 to 8/24.  It needs to be approved by the NCAA Football Oversight committe, but good college football sooner is a good thing! 

from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2019/03/michigan-friday-it-was-house-party.html