Fair or Foul: Judging the Week 3 Criticisms

Things were pretty peaceful between Michigan and Michigan State fans after Week 2. Both teams won and put up some strong production numbers. There wasn’t much need for trash talk.

That peace time quickly went away this Saturday.

Following Michigan State’s loss to Notre Dame, 20-3, the Wolverine faithful came out and launched a full-force attack on the Spartans. In turn, MSU fans came back with some intriguing attacks of their own.

For that reason, I have to do another Fair or Foul

Argument from Michigan fans: MSU was exposed against Notre Dame and the Spartans are just a mid-level team again.

Nobody was hyping the Spartans more than I was last week. I thought their defense was among the best in the country and that would allow them to beat a team like Notre Dame. I definitely underestimated Notre Dame and what they would be able to do to the Spartans. Notre Dame exposed the MSU offense for the weaknesses we all knew they had coming into the season. The Spartan offensive line struggled to create running lanes and provide pass protection early, and that spelled MSU’s demise. While MSU was exposed, it doesn’t mean that the Spartans are back to being a mid-level team. Don’t forget, MSU lost 31-13 to Notre Dame last year and went on to an 11-win season. Granted, this year’s loss was at home, but the Spartans are still going to be a tough out in the Big Ten. VERDICT: FOUL

Argument from MSU fans: At least we didn’t lose 41-14 to Alabama.

This argument makes no sense at all. MSU lost at home to Notre Dame, a team that has been fighting to be in the top 25 in the past few years. Michigan lost, in virtually a road game, to top-ranked Alabama, the defending national champion. Through three games, Michigan is the only team to have scored points against Alabama. While I think Notre Dame is shaping up to have a strong year, the Fighting Irish are not the Crimson Tide. VERDICT: FOUL

Argument from Michigan fans: General mocking for losing to Notre Dame

Perhaps Michigan fans have forgotten that they head to South Bend this week. I think it would be wise to tone down the trash talk until that game is over. The biggest argument you will have so far this season that Michigan is the better team is if the Wolverines go into Notre Dame and come out with a win. But if Michigan loses, or gets dominated, all this trash talk is going to get thrown right back at you. I know Michigan has had Brian Kelly’s number, but it appears the Fighting Irish have some very good athletes on defense this season. VERDICT: FOUL

Argument from MSU fans: Why is Michigan talking trash at all? Four straight!

I can’t really argue with this one. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter who loses to whom until Oct. 20. Michigan needs to beat Michigan State to stop the verbal assault. Even a win over Notre Dame this Saturday won’t change the last four meetings with the Spartans. For Michigan to get back some control of the in-state rivalry, it needs to win this year at home. VERDICT: FAIR

Week 2 Recap & Week 3 Odds

This past weekend saw a pair of wins in state and we were able to get a better idea of what Michigan and Michigan State are going to be this season. Here are a few final thoughts from the weekend, and if you didn't read my column on MSU from the CMU game, you can read it here.

Michigan defense continues to struggles

Michigan fans have to be a little nervous about the Michigan defense allowing 417 yards at home to Air Force. Perhaps it was the triple option that caused the problems, but certainly you have to expect better from this unit based on last season. Right now they are giving up 424 total yards and 261 rushing yards per game.

Denard is still Denard

Robinson was able to get back to his old self on Saturday, throwing for over 200 yards while rushing for 218 and two touchdowns. This is the Robinson we have grown accustomed to and the one that should be around most of the season. Not many teams have the defensive skill that Alabama does. The Tide was able to contain Robinson’s speed and force him to just be a passer. When he can be the running threat he was against Air Force, it allows him to be more successful as a passer. This week against UMass should see Robinson put up big numbers again.

MSU Defense still strong

The Spartans did not allow a touchdown on defense on Saturday against Central Michigan. That is two games without a TD from the opposing offense. The Spartans are also allowing just 225 total yards per game, which ranks eighth in the country. Of teams that have played two games, they are sixth in the nation in fewest yards allowed. The Spartans are going to rely on the defense this season and hope for continued progress from Andrew Maxwell and the offense.

We have a Big Ten favorite

Five Big Ten teams are 2-0 and it would be hard to say any of them are playing better than Michigan State. Ohio State has looked impressive, but the Buckeyes didn’t slow down an offense like Boise State. Wisconsin has looked like a shell of its old self, which is really surprising. Nebraska was unable to make the plays it needed to against UCLA and continues to struggle away from Lincoln. There is still plenty of football to be played, but MSU looks to be threatening to contend for the Big Ten once again.

Week 3 Odds

Here is a listing of the odds for this week’s games.

Michigan -45.5 vs. UMass

Michigan State -3.5 vs. Notre Dame

UMass has lost both games by a combined score of 83-6 to the likes of Connecticut and Indiana. This should be a game for Michigan to gel on offense and defense and build some confidence heading into the trip to South Bend.

Michigan State faces an offense with some speed that could pose problems. The Irish have allowed just 27 points over two games, so this could be a defensive showcase.

Keys to victory for MSU, Michigan in Week 2

3 keys to victory for MSU vs. Central Michigan

Silence the crowd early: The Chippewas are going to look to feed off the emotion of hosting Michigan State. The crowd of around 35,000 should be on fire early on. The Spartans need to quiet that crowd quickly and now allow the Chippewas to feed off that energy. Getting the ball to start and driving right down the field would be the best way to get that done.

Pound Green Pound: Michigan State established a steady run game against Boise State last week. In the early part of this game, the Spartans should do the same. The Spartans need to give Andrew Maxwell a chance to improve, but not at the expense of the team. MSU should use its bigger offensive line and Le’Veon Bell to set the tone early and then let Maxwell attack the CMU secondary.

Be prepared for anything: The Spartans have a tremendous defense, but they can’t get cocky. Central Michigan could unload the playbook offensively, which means MSU needs to play disciplined football. The linebackers will have to stick to their assignments and watch out for misdirection plays. CMU should know it can’t try to push the ball right up the middle of the MSU defense, so it will look to find other ways to move down the field.

3 keys to victory for Michigan vs. Air Force

Forget last week: It has been said plenty of times by Brady Hoke and many Michigan players, but the Wolverines have to forget about last week’s loss. Dwelling on it will cause the Wolverines to start 0-2. This isn’t an easy game by any means, so Michigan needs to take the Falcons seriously.

Open up the playbook: Michigan was criticized for not using Denard Robinson much in the run game last week. That may have been a conservative approach to playing against a physical team in a non-conference game. However, the Michigan offense needs to find some success this week and gain confidence. With Fitzgerald Toussaint back, I expect Michigan to be more aggressive on offense and work Robinson more into the rushing game. If Michigan wants him to pass, start him off with some quick throws to build his confidence.

Stay disciplined on defense: Similar to what I said about MSU, Michigan needs to play disciplined defense against the Air Force option. If the Wolverines stick to their assignments, they shouldn’t have much trouble containing the option. The more Michigan can force Air Force into third-and-long situation, the better the day will be. 

A look at CMU/Air Force heading into Week 2

The second week of college football games are just a few days away, so let’s take a look at what Michigan State’s and Michigan’s opponents are saying entering the weekend.

Central Michigan

Michigan State should be walking into a pretty hostile environment on Saturday as Central Michigan is hyping Saturday’s game at Kelly/Shorts Stadium as the biggest home game in the program’s history.

One underlying theme to Saturday’s game is that current Chippewa head coach, Dan Enos, is a former Spartan quarterback and assistant under Mark Dantonio.

Nate Schneider of The Morning Sun in Mt. Pleasant has a story on Dantonio discussing his past allegiance to MSU and his current state as head coach of CMU entering Saturday’s game. Here is a quote from the article from Enos on the difficulties of coaching against Dantonio and MSU

“This is difficult,” Enos said. “We texted each other the other day and we both said this is hard. Games against friends always are. But you have to put that aside and play football, so that’s what it is. We’ll see each other Saturday, but it’s hard to coach against someone you have so much respect and admiration for and are friends with off the field. It’s part of the deal and also makes it a little more exciting. I love those guys over there and it’s going to be a fun day and a fun environment.”

Another interesting aspect to this game is the apparent support for MSU on the CMU campus. Central Michigan Life had a story on current Chippewa students going to Saturday’s game to support the Spartans. The photo to the right appeared this week at the La Senorita in Mt. Pleasant, just off the CMU campus.

I can understand people in Mt. Pleasant supporting MSU on any other week, but am surprised so many would blatantly root against the home-town team.

Air Force

Michigan comes into this week’s game with Air Force looking to get the taste of last week’s loss to Alabama out of its mouth.

The Falcons, on the other hand, are spending their time worrying about stopping Denard Robinson and praising the Michigan program.

Air Force coach Troy Calhoun held his weekly press conference boasting about the Wolverines and how great of a program they are. Here are some of Calhoun’s quotes from The Denver Post.

"There are a handful of programs in college football that are guaranteed at least 10 victories every season," Calhoun said, "Michigan is one of them. They clearly are the favorite to win the Big Ten Conference."

"There's not a more dynamic player in college football right now," Calhoun said of the 6-foot , 197-pound Robinson

The article also talks about some of the injury issues for the Falcons as center Michael Husar is out for the rest of the season following a knee injury last week. Receiver Ty MacArthur is going to be a game-time decision for Saturday’s contest due to a head injury.

Little Brother Scale After Week 1

Week 1 of the season provided a lot of opportunity for debate.

It also opened the door from some Michigan State players to throw in their two cents on Denard Robinson.

MSU coach Mark Dantonio quickly addressed the situation and was clearly disappointed with his players.

If anyone knows the anger that some thoughtless comments can make, it’s Dantonio.

He has seemingly carried Mike Hart’s “Little Brother” comment and built the MSU program around it.

What the MSU players did was simply stoop to the same level that Dantonio detested in the first place.

It’s understandable that Spartan players are a little cocky when it comes to Michigan, but they need to take more pride in just beating the Wolverines. Don’t wake a sleeping giant.

That’s not to say that Michigan can just turn things around over a few insults, but it doesn’t help the Spartans in any way.

Regardless of what Dantonio or Brady Hoke say, the roles of the fan bases have shifted over this four year period and the players have to be aware of that.

Michigan State fans went from being the victim to the antagonist and the Wolverines have went from the antagonist to the victim.

Spartan fans are relishing this new role all while forgetting how much they despised Michigan for doing the same thing. Michigan fans hate the idea that MSU fans can rub it in their face only because they can’t effectively do the same right now.

When it comes to this week’s Little Brother Scale, MSU widens the gap a little bit.

Regardless of what your opinion is of Boise State, Friday was still a good win for the Spartans.

Had Michigan simply competed in Saturday’s loss to Alabama, it would have sent a positive message for the future of the Wolverines.

However, Denard Robinson continues to show that he can’t be an effective passer and the Michigan offense has a clear and exploitable offense when facing a top-level defense.

Unfortunately for the Wolverines, the Spartans appear to have that type of defense.

Even worse for Michigan, the Spartans know it.

LITTLE BROTHER SCALE: MSU 17.5, Michigan 14.5

Big Ten Teleconference Quotes for Sept. 4

Here are some quotes from Michigan coach Brady Hoke and MSU coach Mark Dantonio during Tuesday's Big Ten Coaches Teleconference.

Brady Hoke

On the players confidence following the Alabama game

We had a great practice last night. I think we had a good mentality. I thought we had a good tempo as far as how we like to practice. I think our guys are mature enough to understand that that is one of 12 guaranteed opportunities we have and now we have 11 left.

How much falls on him and how much falls on the players to move on from the game

I think it is a combination of both (the coaches and the team leaders). Our seniors, who have been through seasons, know you have to get ready every week. I think they will do a great job.

On what went wrong against Alabama

(Alabama) is a great team. There is no question about it. They do a nice job and are well coached, but I think at the same time, there were things that we did that probably didn’t help us as much as we’d like to.

What has impressed you most about Denard Robinson in your time with him

First and foremost is him as a person. Then, when you go a little further into it, the athleticism that he has. He can start and stop on a dime. His acceleration is something I haven’t seen…a guy that can get to a top speed so quickly.

Does your history in the Mountain West help you for this week’s game

I think Troy (Calhoun) and his staff do such a good job. There are different wrinkles from when we were there two years ago that you see in the offense from when we were there at San Diego State. I think the tempo and the things they are doing are really good. As you know, you have to be such a disciplined defense on doing your job against a football team like this. I also think (Air Force’s) talent level is very good.

Jeremy Gallon’s performance

Jeremy is a guy…he’s not the biggest guy in the world, but he plays hard. He blocks the perimeter about as well as anybody for a guy who is not real big. He runs good routes and he is a guy that makes plays and has made plays for us. I think he continues to improve and you will see us use him a lot and in a lot of different situations.

Did you take any time during fall camp to prepare for the option

We did a little bit. Not as much as maybe we have in the past. Some of that is, you get your fair amount of option with what Air Force does, but Troy still, with some of his NFL background, you are still going to get some traditional pro plays. We did some of it but maybe not as much as did in the past at other places.

Mark Dantonio

On heading to Mt. Pleasant to play CMU in what is billed as their biggest home game in history

I think it is going to be a historic event up there. We are looking forward to that opportunity. As far as them getting ready to play us and us getting ready to play them, there is a history here. They beat us in ’09 so there is a history here of us having to play and play well to come away with a win. I am sure (CMU) is going to be very excited and I am sure they are going to play very well and play very excitedly. We need to be able to match that enthusiasm and execute as well.

His overall thoughts on traveling to places like CMU, WMU and EMU as part of this in-state series agreement

To me, we wanted to do something for the commerce of the state of Michigan by doing this series. I thought it was a positive thing for us to do to be able to reach out to other programs in the state and other communities in this state. That is why we did it. The other factor, to me, that came into this was I knew we’d have a new starting quarterback. If we are going to play an away game at some point, I would rather it be 60 miles up the road in this state, in terms of being our first away game. We will learn from these things.

On Andrew Maxwell’s performance Friday

He was calm and collected and he showed great leadership skills. He had to handle some adversity, which is always key, and how you respond after that. I thought he threw the ball pretty decisively. He had some drops out on the field and there were a couple tipped passes that went away and were picked off. But, I thought he played well, especially for his first time out in a major media event or a nationally televised game, and also with Boise State and some of the things they were doing. There is no question we can improve. But, I liked what I saw when I looked into his eyes and who he was as a young man and a competitor, and the resiliency he showed and the nature he showed in terms of his leadership abilities.

On how the defense was able to react to different situations in Friday’s game

I think the situations we are talking about here is the ability to play after an interception, play in the red zone and be able to limit (Boise State) to a field goal. When the ball gets down to the 4-yard line, to be able to play great goal-line defense. To be able to adjust to the speed of the game and the different formations and what they are doing. To show leadership coming out in the second half and get our football team turned in a different direction. 

On margin of victory and what it means in college football today

I guess the only thing I would say there is they all count one, as coach Perles would say when he was here. They all count one. We feel fortunate to have won and the way we won the other night. That is what is important to me, in terms of how we perform and we move ahead. I am not really looking around the country and saying “wow, this is going on or that is going on.” Everybody takes care of their own program.

On what he sees in Dan Enos as a head coach and what he is doing with the CMU program

I know Coach Enos. Obviously he was in our program here and he also played here, so he knows the core of our players and he knows what Michigan State is about. When you become a head football coach and bring your own program into place, there is transition. You make your way through it. There is going to be problems everywhere you turn. There are always problems if you are here, there or somewhere else. I think the key to every leader is how you perform under adversity. I think he is doing that. I think he is performing. Based on what I saw the first game, they played extremely well and ran the ball very well. They look like they have a good football team.

How is Le’Veon Bell feeling after carrying the ball 44 times on Friday

He is feeling great. He is dressing today. There is no more bumps and bruises than he would normally have. If anything, it creates some excitement for him that he was able to do that. It builds even more confidence for him. We are always going to ride the hot back here. Whoever is hot, whoever is making the yards, that is who we are going to ride. That is what we’ve always done here. We need to be effective and just sort of go with the flow in that situation. It’s not like we don’t have other running backs. We have a number of other guys that can make plays as well. It just depends on how everyone is performing in the game.

Week 2 Odds & Reports that Countess is out for the year

The golden rule in winning or losing college football games is to take 24 hours to deal with it either way.

In a loss, you get 24 hours to sulk and be angry. In a win, 24 hours to enjoy it. Either way, you get back to work after the 24 hours is up.

For Michigan, the Alabama game is still being felt today and that is due to the report from MGoBlog that sophomore starting cornerback, Blake Countess, is out for the season with a torn knee ligament. The injury has been confirmed by Michigan this morning and Countess will get a redshirt for the season and return in the 2013 season as a sophomore.

Countess was injured early in Saturday’s loss and Alabama’s passing game seemed to open up more once he stepped off the field, though it was probably too early to tell how much impact he would have had on the game.

Odds for Week 2

Oddsmakers have released the odds for Week 2 of the season. Here are the point spreads for Michigan & MSU:

Michigan -21.5 vs. Air Force

MSU -24 at Central Michigan

Both games have a lofty spread, which is to be expected. Michigan should be looking to come out and light up the scoreboard after Saturday’s loss to Alabama and look for Michigan State to try and develop the passing game against a weak Central Michigan secondary.

Both teams are capable of covering the point spread on Saturday, but both games are also a little tricky.

Air Force has a quirky offense that can be tough to prepare for in a week and Michigan State is heading to CMU, where the game as being billed as the biggest in the school’s history at home. That environment could give the Chippewas a little boost in play.

Fair or Foul: Judging Week 1 Criticisms

One thing Michigan and MSU fans like is winning.

But, perhaps even more, they like seeing the other lose.

This week made for plenty of trash talk from both sides to the other. As an impartial party, here is what trash talk is fair and what is foul.

Argument from MSU Fans: Michigan was exposed as frauds in 41-14 loss to Alabama

Michigan wasn’t exposed as frauds in this game. Many level-headed people expected this game to be lopsided. As much as we would like to think the Big Ten is on par with any conference in the country, it isn’t. Alabama would dominate all but USC, LSU and Oregon (in my opinion) and that may even be a stretch for those three teams. I am sorry Spartan fans, but MSU wouldn’t have looked much better. The Spartan defense might have put up a better fight, but the MSU offense would have looked just as ugly. Let’s not forget that Michigan State gave up 30 points to Georgia last season, an offense that is not nearly as strong up front as Alabama. Also, the Tide rolled the Spartans 49-7 in 2010. The fact is, Michigan isn’t in Alabama’s league, but few are. VERDICT: FOUL

Argument from Michigan Fans: MSU could barely beat Boise State and that is a sign the Spartans are weak

Similar to MSU fans not giving enough credit to Alabama, Michigan fans aren’t giving enough credit to Boise State. Is this Boise State team the greatest in the Broncos’ history? No, but Chris Peterson has developed a tremendous program. He is now 73-7 as coach at Boise. You don’t get that record without developing strong talent and knowing how to win. I still think Boise State puts up another 10-win season this year. Also, MSU only won 17-13, but the Spartans made that more of a game than Boise did. MSU outgained Boise State 461-206. The Michigan State defense was dominant and the offense moved the ball consistently. The Spartans jut decided to turn the ball over four times and make a game of it. It’s easy for Michigan fans to say it played a tougher opponent this week, which it clearly did, but I am not sure Michigan beats Boise State in the opener if the two played. VERDICT: FOUL

Argument from MSU Fans: Michigan’s loss points to the Wolverines struggling with the Spartans this season

I don’t think there is a big secret on how to beat Michigan. If a team can contain Denard Robinson and make him a passer, the Wolverines struggle. The key is having the players and the speed on defense to do that. Not many teams have that combination. Clearly Alabama does, and I think history proves Michigan State does as well. Wolverine fans had to be hoping to see better passing and decision making from Robinson after an offseason of work. He is still limited as a passer and that could be a problem when Michigan runs into the top teams in the Big Ten, including MSU. VERDICT: FAIR

Argument from Michigan Fans: MSU fans have a big head

The Spartans are feeling pretty good about things after this week. MSU beat a ranked opponent to open the season and still can get better while Michigan got rolled by Alabama on national television. Nobody revels in a Michigan loss quite like the Spartan fans. MSU is taking great joy in being in a position of power in this rivalry. The Spartan fans are now treating Michigan fans as they felt they were treated for so many years. Michigan fans need to deal with it, because they will be doing the same if the tide turns back in their favor. There are still plenty of Wolverine fans that are trying to dismiss Michigan State as relevant in their lives, but we all know that isn’t true. To MSU fans, I can understand your joy and eagerness to rub any Michigan failures in their face, but as Mark Dantonio said, “It’s always darkest before the dawn.” Be prepared for the backlash to come if Michigan rights the ship. So, while I think the taunting is warranted, MSU fans are probably getting a little ahead of themselves. VERDICT: FAIR

Thoughts on Michigan's loss to Alabama

Alright, it wasn’t pretty.

There isn’t much positive to say about Michigan’s loss to Alabama.

But, all is not lost.

The Crimson Tide would embarrass 99% of the teams in college football. They are just on another level right now.

Regardless, here are three things that stand out from the game.

The Michigan Defense was exposed

Again, I will temper my argument here a little bit, as Alabama has arguably the best offensive line in the country and their sixth string running back could be an All American anywhere else. However, I still expected more from Michigan on defense. I thought the Wolverines would really make it tough for Alabama to move down the field. Michigan showed up on the opening possession, but then got out-muscled the rest of the way. We all knew the defensive line had some question marks, but that has to be a concern going forward.

Toussaint, Clark would have made no difference

The 1997 Michigan team could have been on the field tonight and lost, Alabama is that strong. Toussaint may have made Michigan more dynamic on offense, but he certainly wasn’t going to make up for 27 points. I think had Michigan had Toussaint, Denard Robinson would have been used differently and not been forced to be a pocket passer.

The world is not ending

The loss hurts. The injury to Blake Countess didn’t help either. But, in the end, the majority of the country expected Michigan to lose, and lose by a large margin. There really is nowhere for Michigan to go, but up. The Wolverines won’t face a tougher defense than it did on Saturday (sorry MSU fans) and they won’t face an offense that is stronger up front. This loss can show Michigan where it needs to improve and will make them a better team in the Big Ten. I don’t think this means Michigan can’t contend for the Big Ten title. It simply means that they can’t contend for a national title, which I didn’t think they would in the first place. The opening weekend was tough for a number of good teams, Michigan included. I still think there is a lot to figure out about the Wolverines.

Week 1 MSU & Michigan Picks

It’s finally here.

College football is upon us and there may not be a state with more interest in the next two days than Michigan.

Michigan and Michigan State are in the lone games featuring two ranked teams and both games should be intriguing.

Here are my picks for the weekend.

Michigan State vs. Boise State

This game has so many question marks coming into it. How good is Andrew Maxwell? Is the MSU defense as good as advertised? How will Boise State recover from losing so many starters?

I know the Broncos look depleted, but their program has been strong for many years now because of their ability to recruit and develop talent. I have no doubt that Boise State should be very talented when it steps on the field tonight. The big concern of the Broncos is that they lack experience. There could be some miscues that will play right into the Spartans’ hands.

I expect the game to be close most of the way, but look for MSU to make some plays on both sides of the ball toward the end of the game to get the big victory.

Prediction: MSU 21, Boise State 17

Michigan vs. Alabama

I’ve expected Alabama to dominate this game for months, and while I still do expect the Crimson Tide to win handily, I think Michigan has a better shot than I originally felt.

Alabama should have the talent, but since it is a first start for many on the defense, I expect some mistakes to happen on that end for the Tide.

I look for Michigan to get a big play in the first half to keep the game close, but ultimately I see the Wolverines struggling to move the ball consistently without Fitzgerald Toussaint (who I expect not to play).

The Michigan defense should be able to have some success, but over the course of the game, the size and strength of the Alabama offensive line will win out.

Prediction: Alabama 27, Michigan 14

Keys to Week 1

The college football season is set to begin tonight.

It’s an exciting time around the country and high hopes reside on all campuses, especially at Michigan State and Michigan.

With MSU getting underway tomorrow and Michigan starting on Saturday, here are my keys to victory for both teams.

MSU vs Boise State:

- Start Fast: Normally this would be implied to the offense, but I am actually making reference to the defense. Boise State is breaking in a lot of new pieces, including at quarterback. If the MSU defensive front can get to Joe Southwick early, it is likely to lead to some quick turnovers and good field position for Andrew Maxwell and the offense.

- Establish The Running Game: The best way to truly stop the Boise State offense is to keep it off the field. Also, with Maxwell getting his first start, it is best to have a healthy running game. If Le’Veon Bell, Larry Caper and Nick Hill can consistently move the team down the field and make Maxwell only have to make safe throws, it should lead to a strong night for the Spartans.

- Don’t Get Too Tricky: Mark Dantonio hasn’t shied away from trick plays in big games. However, in this game, Michigan State should be the team setting the tempo and winning the line of scrimmage. The Spartans don’t need to try anything radical to win this game and a failed risk could give Boise State the opening it needs to pull off the upset. Keep the strategy simple and sound.

Michigan vs. Alabama:

- Don’t Lose Before Kickoff: Brady Hoke has done a good job of hyping his team up for this game. There is no doubt that Alabama is the favorite to win this game, but Michigan can’t come in with that attitude. Any bit of intimidation from the Wolverines will cost them the game before it even starts. Michigan has to come out with passion, confidence and energy. I know it sounds like a silly thing to say, but not all players take the field believing they can win.

- Play The Run: The Crimson Tide will be big up front and probably look to pound the rock. Michigan is small on the defensive line, but they have a solid group of linebackers. The Wolverines need to commit those linebackers to the run in the early going to try and get the Crimson Tide off the field. Though A.J. McCarron is a returning starter at quarterback for Alabama, he is the weaker option for the Tide’s offense. Michigan would much rather give McCarron the option of beating it rather than letting Alabama run the ball all game long.

- Establish The Run: This one isn’t real difficult either. With or without Fitzgerald Toussaint, the Wolverines need to be able to run the ball effectively and it can’t be up to Denard Robinson to do all the running. Michigan may have to get creative in the way it moves the ball because Alabama will probably plug up a lot of the running lanes. Michigan won’t be able to win this game if Robinson has to convert a lot of third-and-longs with his arm. If Michigan is able to run the ball consistently, it opens the door for a lot of options for the Wolverines and will keep Alabama guessing on defense.

Tuesday's Teleconference Thoughts from Hoke/Dantonio

The first Big Ten Coaches Teleconference took place on Tuesday.

Here is a collection of thoughts from Michigan coach Brady Hoke and MSU coach Mark Dantonio.

Brady Hoke:

- On representing Big Ten against Alabama: “Anytime you are playing games against other conferences, obviously, your school, your team and the people you represent, that’s an important part. At the same time, the Big Ten Conference, we’ve got great academic institutions, great athletic programs and great schools in this conference. There is no question that is part of when you play a team from another league.”

- On how fall camp was impacted by opening with Alabama: “I think (it was) and I think we would say so as a staff. You go into every opener a little bit unsure of what you have as a football team and I think that is something you find out, good and bad. Playing the defending national champions, a very well coached and good football team that has been put together over five or six years of recruiting, we will have our hands full. At the same time, I think you look forward to playing in these kind of games at a different site and playing great football teams.”

- On the challenges Alabama poses at the line of scrimmage: “I think on both sides of the ball. We feel that their offensive line is, if not the best, one of the best offensive lines as a unit. They have four or five starters back and they are physical at the point of attack. They are coached well. They are big. They are a big group and I don’t think we are quite that big of a defensive line. On the other side of it, we have had some holes to fill when you lose Mark Huyge and you lose David Molk. Ricky Barnum has done a nice job at center in the spring and at fall camp. Left guard, Elliott Mealer has done a tremendous job and (Michael) Schofield at right tackle. We are different. Every team is different every year, but we will be excited about what is going on on Saturday.

- On scheduling marquee opponents in non-conference play: “We like it. We like it as a program and I like it personally. I think when you want to be the best and you want to be champions and all those things, you need to play the best and play those programs that are at a high level. We think as a team that that is just going to make us better as a team when we get into the Big Ten. I am very comfortable opening up with Alabama.”

- On what the team needs to improve on this year: “Well, first and foremost, we need to do a better job of taking care of the football. There were times last year where decision making or fundamentals wasn’t as good as it needed to be. Near the end of the year, we needed to do a better job of getting the ball back for our offense and maybe stealing a possession. We are a different team than a year ago, so our defensive front is going to be a part that we are really interested to see how we are all going to react and play. The kicking game and our return games are something we feel we can do a better job with.”

- On Fitzgerald Toussaint’s status for Saturday’s game: “We have not made any decision on what we are going to do. That decision will come before game time, obviously, but right now he’s been practicing and he’s been getting reps and doing all the things that guys do, so we’ll just see.”

- Is Toussaint a game-time decision: “We’ll see.”

- Who would start if Toussaint doesn’t: “Vince Smith has played a lot of football for us. Thomas Rawls played some ball for us a year ago and Justice Hayes….I mean, all three of those guys are capable and available.”

Mark Dantonio:

- On carrying the Big Ten banner in the opener vs. Boise State: “I think collectively we as a group will stand together at the end of the day. But I think more importantly, it’s how we play and how Michigan State plays right now. Everybody is chasing the dream. It starts this weekend for so many different football teams and there is a lot of optimism out there. You really can’t worry about the end result, which conference is stronger at this point and time. You are just trying to be one of those people that gets it going within your own conference. That’s how we take it. We aren’t going out there and representing the Big Ten Conference as much as we are putting on the green and white and representing Michigan State today. But, collectively as a group, we certainly are extremely proud of the heritages and traditions and the strength of the Big Ten Conference.”

- On if Michigan State has become a national power given the last two seasons: “Well I think we are in the conversation, but every year is a new year. We will have to see how we play and play through this. I think that Boise, themselves, have beaten Oregon, (Virginia) Tech and Georgia in the last three years on opening games, so it’s a great challenge for us. It’s a night game here at Spartan Stadium. It will be an exciting atmosphere, but we are going to have to play. We have to play well.”

- On having a premiere opening game to start the season: “I think it was 2008 when our athletic director came to me and asked me if we wanted to play Boise….whenever it was, I can’t remember. It would be a nationally televised game and on a Friday night and all those things. I knew the reputation of Boise State and I knew coach (Chris) Petersen as a person, somewhat, and I knew they had a great program. I thought it would be good for our program, to test us early, and obviously to jump in with both feet. We decided to do that and what it says to the whole ramification of this game is that Boise is going to play anyone, anywhere, and they are going to come to play. Michigan State is not going to back away from a challenge as well. If they want to play, we’ll play. If it was productive for both teams to play and for both universities, we would do this. I have a tremendous amount of respect for how they play and how hard they play.”

- On sophomore defensive end Marcus Rush: “Marcus is a very exciting player to watch. He has a quick body and does a great job with his hands. He runs extremely well. I see him picking up where he left off. He gets himself going before a game. He has a great motor. He is just one of the guys. He was a Freshman All-American. He is one of the guys that was very productive last year, along with some of these other guys you don’t hear as much about. He’s a very good football player and he’s only going to be a redshirt sophomore. He’s a guy that we’re planning on having a great, outstanding year, but again, we are starting over. There is a lot of optimism, but we are all starting over, so we have to earn our spurs.”

A look at Boise State/Alabama entering Week 1

It’s not always fair to just focus on Michigan and Michigan State and how much they control their success this season.

Their opponents will have a big role in what happens this upcoming weekend.

Here is a look at what to expect from each Week 1 opponent.

Boise State

The Idaho Statesman has a number of articles on what to expect from the Broncos this season. Give them a read for your Boise State info.

Coming out of Boise, it sounds like the concerns are what we all expected. The Broncos have to replace a number of key starters, including Kellen Moore at quarterback.

It appears that junior Joe Southwick will be the man under center for Boise. He has seen some limited action the past few seasons, but nothing like he will face on Friday.

Boise State does have a veteran running back in D.J. Harper, but he has had two ACL tears in his career.

One area the Broncos should be strong is at cornerback, as they have two returning senior starters in Jamar Taylor and Jerrell Gavins. Unfortunately for those two, the defensive line is very young, so they could find themselves getting left out to dry often.

Ultimately, this Boise State is a pretty big question mark. They could continue to be very strong, or it could be a tough year. Unfortunately for the Broncos, they have a tough first opponent to try and figure it all out.

Alabama

AL.com has a lot of information on the Tide, including why a team like Michigan has no chance of upsetting the them on Saturday.

In the eyes of writer Andrew Gribble, to beat Alabama, you have to take the Tide out of character in multiple facets of the game to have a chance. On top of that, you would need a few breaks to go Michigan’s way as well.

Gribble believes that beating Alabama through the air is the best chance of winning, and is what has done the trick in losses for the Tide over the years. He doesn’t consider Denard Robinson the type of quarterback that can get past Alabama though.

I tend to agree as I think the speed of the Alabama defense will neutralize Robinson’s legs and he has yet to prove he can pick apart a top defense with his arm, and Alabama is at the top of the top defenses.

Look for Alabama to stick with that pro-style offense to pound the rock against the questionable Michigan defensive line while A.J. McCarron completes some key third-down passes to lead Alabama to success.

Michigan Season Breakdown

Just like I did yesterday, by breaking down the Michigan State season and giving my prediction for the season, today I do the same for the Michigan Wolverines.

As I make these predictions, keep in mind I can’t assume injuries, and I am expecting Fitzgerald Toussaint and Frank Clark to sit out the season opener with Alabama.

2012 Michigan Schedule & Predictions

Sept. 1 vs. Alabama: Sorry Wolverine fans, I don’t see this going well. It doesn’t mean that Michigan won’t have a good season, it just means the Wolverines aren’t at the Alabama level quite yet. (L, 0-1)

Sept 8 vs. Air Force: There is some potential for trouble here due to the quirky Air Force offense, but I suspect Michigan will be ready to put on a show in the home opener. (W, 1-1)

Sept. 15 vs. UMass: This shouldn’t be much of a game at all. If it is, that is a bad sign. (W, 2-1)

Sept. 22 at Notre Dame: Notre Dame has payback on the mind, but I think that Michigan edges the Irish on the road. The Irish have had problems dealing with Denard Robinson, and I suspect that will continue. (W, 3-1)

Oct. 6 at Purdue: Purdue should be improving, but not enough to beat Michigan this year. The Wolverines should be able to take the Big Ten opener comfortably. (W, 4-1)

Oct. 13 vs. Illinois: With MSU lurking next week, I see the potential for a letdown in this game, but I still think Michigan will pull out the win. Tim Beckman will have a wide-open offense, but I don’t look for the Illinois defense to be able to contain the Wolverines. (W, 5-1)

Oct. 20 vs. Michigan State: If you read my MSU breakdown already, there is no surprise here. I think Michigan ends the losing streak to the Spartans in a hard-fought game that will come down to a few big plays. (W, 6-1)

Oct. 27 at Nebraska: Michigan handled Nebraska last year at home, but the Cornhuskers are much tougher in Lincoln. After beating MSU, I see Michigan having an off day and getting their first Big Ten loss. (L, 6-2)

Nov. 3 at Minnesota: The loss to Nebraska will be a wake-up call for the Wolverines and they will come into Minnesota and make a statement on the Gophers. (W, 7-2)

Nov. 10 vs. Northwestern: Northwestern can be a problem for teams, but the Wildcats are too inconsistent to pull the upset in this one. (W, 8-2)

Nov. 17 vs. Iowa: Iowa is a team that has given Michigan problems in recent history and I expect the same thing in this game. Look for this game to come down to the wire once again, only Michigan finds the way to win in the home finale. (W, 9-2)

Nov. 24 at Ohio State: I don’t see Michigan getting this one. The Buckeyes still have some issues, but with the postseason ban, this is their national title game. Urban Meyer has been very open with his passion for this game and he will have his team, and the home crowd, ready to go to war with Michigan. The Wolverines will be in the game until the end, but come up short. (L, 9-3)

Dec. 1 vs. Wisconsin (Big Ten Championship): Despite 2 Big Ten losses, I see Michigan, MSU, Nebraska, and Iowa all huddled up in the Legends Division race. Michigan will get the nod on a tiebreaker. In this game, I see the Badgers having the edge. They will have an easier road to get to the title game and the experience of being in the game last year. I think Wisconsin has the steadier offense that can keep Denard off the field for long periods of time. (L, 9-4)

So, 9-4. I know Michigan fans will feel bittersweet about this. They will like beating MSU and making the championship game, but probably disagree about losses to Nebraska and Ohio State, and maybe even to Wisconsin. I think this schedule is too tough for Michigan, much tougher than last year. To me, if Michigan makes it to the title game, it is a much bigger accomplishment than the 11-2 record of last year.

Three Big Questions facing Michigan in 2012 season

Yesterday I looked at three questions I think Michigan State has facing it entering the 2012 college football season.

Today, I do the same for the Michigan Wolverines.

Expectations are high in Ann Arbor following an 11-2 record in Brady Hoke’s first season. With good reason, Michigan is hoping to end the losing streak to Michigan State and claim a Big Ten title in 2012. Here is what I think the Wolverines should have on their minds.

BIG QUESTION NO. 1 – How much as Denard Robinson improved as a passer?

It’s the same old question with Denard. He is clearly one of the biggest weapons in college football, but when he is relegated to being just a passer, he has struggled. His completion percentage, passing yards, and passing efficiency all declined from 2010 to 2011, and his interception total increased. In order for Michigan to really be a contender in the Big Ten and on the national scale, Robinson has to show he can lead the offense down the field with his arm. And I am not talking about a 60-yard bomb. He needs to be able to make the tough third-down passes that sustain drives and keep the Michigan defense off the field. In the two losses a year ago, that was an issue. He was just 9-of-24 passing in the loss at Michigan State and 17-of-37 passing in the loss at Iowa.

BIG QUESTION NO. 2 – Can the Michigan defense play like the 2011 unit?

A lot of talk is made about the Michigan State defense, with good reason, but the Michigan defense was arguably the most improved in the country in 2011. Under defensive coordinator Greg Mattison, the Wolverines improved from 35.2 points allowed per game in 2010 to just 17.4 in 2011. The Michigan pass defense also cut off over 70 yards per game from their average. This season, the Michigan defense looks very strong in the back seven, but the concern comes on the defensive line, where the Wolverines lack depth, especially at defensive end. Poor defensive line play can expose the linebackers and the secondary as well. In a physical league like the Big Ten, being weak up front can lead to a lot of problems. If the Michigan defense takes a step back, it will put more pressure on Robinson and the offense to get into shootouts like they had to in 2010.

BIG QUESTION NO. 3 – Is Brady Hoke as good as advertised?

You would have a hard time finding any Michigan fan that would have something bad to say about Brady Hoke. He says all the right things, he does all the right things and he wins. What’s not to like? But, though it may be a stretch, there is a school called Notre Dame that had the same feeling about their previous two coaches after their first years (Ty Willingham and Charlie Weis). That’s not to say it will all fall apart for Hoke, but it is still too early to say he is the savior of Michigan football. Recruiting has been very strong and the results of 2011 speak for themselves, but Hoke has to show that he can sustain that level of success in 2012. The Wolverines have a very tough schedule this year, right from the season opener with Alabama. Certainly Hoke needs to beat Michigan State in Ann Arbor this year as well. If Michigan gets to 9 wins or more, and contends in the Big Ten race, I would say the future is very bright for the Wolverines under Hoke.

The latest Week 1 odds for MSU/UofM

Like it or not, gambling plays a big role in the popularity of college football.

The opening games are just two weeks away, so I thought I would look at the current odds for both Michigan and Michigan State (for entertainment purposes only!).

Here are the odds:

Michigan State -7 vs. Boise State

Michigan +12.5 vs. Alabama

I don’t think the odds for either game are too surprising.

The national perception seems to be that Alabama is going to push around Michigan with relative ease. A “win” for the Wolverines would be just having a chance to actually win the game in the fourth quarter. The latest injuries for the Wolverines don’t help much with their chances.

The one thing Michigan has going for it into the game is its big-play potential. The Wolverines have the capability of scoring from anywhere thanks to Denard Robinson, but the speed of the Alabama defense should keep him in check.

What Michigan needs is to not be embarrassed by the Crimson Tide. The Wolverine fans like to think that Michigan is “back” as a national contender. This game should really tell just how “back” the Wolverines are.

For MSU, the Spartans have a tough test in Boise State, but we probably won’t know just how good this Boise State team is until the season is done. With so many new starting pieces on offense, it is hard to expect Boise State to be as proficient on offense as they have been in previous years. Plus, they are playing one of the top defenses in the country on paper to open the season.

What should be an interesting part of this game is the MSU offense against the Boise State defense. The Broncos have consistently been very strong on defense under Chris Petersen, and that aspect of their game gets overlooked. But, like the offense, the Boise State defense has many new starters.

MSU needs to start fast on Boise State. Leaving the Broncos to hang around in the second half could spell trouble. I don’t think the Spartans want to put Andrew Maxwell in a high-pressure situation in his first start.

As of right now, I would take the favorites minus the points in both games.

A closer look at non-conference play for MSU & Michigan

The college football season is getting closer and closer with each day.

We are a little under three weeks away from the opening night of games, so I thought I would take a look at both Michigan's & MSU’s non-conference schedules.

Michigan

Toughest Game – Sept. 1 vs. Alabama - Clearly there is no tougher non-conference game in the country than Michigan’s season opener with Alabama at Cowboys Stadium. Though the Crimson Tide lost a great deal from last season’s BCS National Championship squad, there is no doubt that they should be fully reloaded. A win for Michigan seems very improbable, as they are still in the process of getting back into the elite national picture. On the national scale, a win over Alabama would send a huge message that the Wolverines are “back”.

Easiest Game – Sept. 15 vs. UMass – While UMass has had some success in football, they are making the jump from the FCS to the FBS this season. The Wolverines should have little trouble blowing the Minutemen out of the water at home.

Trap Game – Sept. 8 vs. Air Force – Following what should be a physical battle with Alabama, Michigan returns home the next week to face the Falcons. Air Force has had a winning record the last five seasons and they run the triple option, an offense that can be tough to prepare for when you don’t see it often.

Realistic Record – 3-1 – Michigan also makes the dreaded trip to Notre Dame on Sept. 22. I think the Wolverines should go 3-1 in non-conference play if they hope to have a successful season. A 2-2 start would feel like a step back from last year, but winning against Alabama or at Notre Dame will be a tough task.

Michigan State

Toughest Game – Sept. 15 vs. Notre Dame – While Boise State has been stronger on the national scale, I suspect the Broncos won’t quite be the same given all they have lost. Notre Dame has high expectations this year, as do the Spartans. With the game being in East Lansing, this should be one MSU wins. But, you can never count out Brian Kelly and the Irish.

Easiest Game – Sept. 22 vs. Eastern Michigan – The Spartans host the Eagles at home to close out non-conference play. While Ron English has made some strides with EMU, the Michigan State defense should be able to easily shutdown that run-heavy offense.

Trap Game – Sept. 8 at Central Michigan – I know, I know, what a surprise. But, when you look at this game objectively, it really is a trap game. First, this game takes place between the meetings with Boise State and Notre Dame. Second, this game is in Mt. Pleasant. CMU considers it the biggest game in the history of their stadium. That is a tough environment for any team to step into. While the Chippewas have struggled in two years under former MSU assistant Dan Enos, they return a lot of starters this season. I don’t expect CMU to pull off the upset, but I think the setting could make this game a tough one for the Spartans to get past.

Realistic Record – 4-0 – The Spartans have the luxury that the Wolverines don’t in that their two tough games come at home and not on the road. Because of that, Michigan State can go 4-0. Does that mean they will? No. Notre Dame could certainly trip them up, as could Boise State, if the Broncos’ first-year starters can have an immediate impact. Anything less than 3-1 in this stretch would be a disappointment for MSU.