3yardsandacloud
Administrator Emeritus
2004 Michigan Wolverines Game Preview
THE GAME. If I need more of an introduction than that, you might want to find a different web site. The Wolverines want the outright Big Ten Title. The Buckeyes want revenge. It's the 101st meeting between 2 schools that define the term "Rivalry Game". Strap on your helmets and get ready to rumble!
And be sure to check out the Preview we would all like to write. The guys (FKA) in the Paintchip Forum have put together a breakdown of the Wolverines the way only true Buckeyes can. Warning: Suitable for adults only. LINK: Paintchip Michigan Preview 2004
Date and Time
Game time: Saturday, November 20th, 2004
1:00 noon EST Kick-off at Ohio Stadium (Columbus, OH)
ABC will cover the game.
1:00 noon EST Kick-off at Ohio Stadium (Columbus, OH)
ABC will cover the game.
2004 Michigan Wolverines Defensive Preview
Returning starters: 6
Michigan brings a defense to the Horseshoe this week that is a tad bit over-hyped when you look at their stats. Early on in the season you were told by the press how good this Michigan defense would be this year. Michigan should be happy that their offense has over-achieved this season. One would argue that this defense has not lived up to the hype. They are 4th in the Big Ten in total defense, giving up 314 yards per game. They are 6th in the Big Ten in scoring defense, giving up 20 points per game. The much hyped pass defense that we all have heard so much about is 5th best in the Big Ten, with them giving up 201 yards per contest. A stronger point of their defense lies in the ability to stop the run, they are 3rd in the Big Ten allowing 113 yards per game. The team up north, who is known for their ability to pressure the QB is an average pass rushing team, they are 6th in the Big Ten in sacks (20). Teams have had a lot of success in the red zone vs. the Wolverines, in fact, Michigan is 9th in the Big Ten in red zone defense. Their opponents have came away with points 84% of the time that they have gotten into the red zone.
Defensive Line
DT: #94 Patrick Massey (6-8 276 Jr.)
DE: #96 Larry Harrison (6-3 299 So.)
NG: #78 Gabriel Watson (6-4 333 Jr.)
The 3-4 Michigan defense is led along the defensive front by Patrick Massey. Massey is having a fantastic season from his defensive tackle spot. He has racked up 32 tackles on the season, with 5 being for loss, and 5 being a sack. He most likely will receive some sort of all conference honors this season. At the nose guard Michigan will trot (I say trot tongue-in-cheek) out the portly Gabriel Watson. Watson has 33 tackles on the season, 5 have been for a loss, and 2 have been sacks. This is unconfirmed, Watson is rumored to eat a Big Mac for every tackle during the regular season with all proceeds going to the Ann Arbor sewage department. Keep in mind this is still unconfirmed. The last spot along the Michigan defensive front is manned by Larry “Don’t call me George” Harrison. Harrison has 17 tackles on the season for the Wolverines. He also has ... well I can’t find anything else, we’ll leave it at that.
Michigan certainly has the talent along the defensive line to give the OSU line fits. They run a different scheme than we are used to seeing this season, so they only “start” 3 lineman. Their ability to stop the run has really helped them out as this season has progressed. They certainly are not the best group in the out of all our opponents though, we have seen better lines from Wisconsin and arguably NC State this season.
DL Rating: B
Linebackers
OLB: #58 Roy Manning (6-2 246 Sr.)
OLB: #56 LaMarr Woodley (6-2 263 So.)
MLB: #36 Scott McClintock (6-2 243 Jr.)
MLB: #42 Lawrence Reid (6-1 222 Jr.)
LaMarr Woodley leads a very solid Michigan linebacker crew. To date, he has totaled 47 tackles on the season, with 10 of those being for a loss, and 4 being sacks. He has also forced 3 fumbles on the season, which leads one to believe that Mr. Woodley can deliver the big stick (hey now). The other Michigan outside linebacker slot will be filled by Roy Manning. Manning has 36 tackles on the season, with 5 being for a loss, and 1 being a sack. Manning has also forced 2 fumbles, and broken up 2 passes.
Michigan is led in the middle by Lawrence Reid. Reid is 2nd on the team in tackles with 55, and has 9 tackles for loss on the season. In addition, he has amassed 2 sacks, 1 interception, 1 forced fumble, and 1 fumble recovery. Needless to say, Reid is a very focal part of the Michigan defense. Scott “My name rimes with Pitcock” McClintock gets the start at the other MLB spot. McClintock has 44 tackles, including 5 for a loss, to go along with his 2 interceptions this season. He has also batted down 4 passes and recovered a fumble.
Michigan has a very solid linebacker crew, which always seems to be the case. Woodley is an absolute beast, and can absolutely come up and clean your clock. The thing that stands out to me when you evaluate this group is their size. They average 243 pounds across, which pretty much guarantees that they can stop the run when combined with the defensive line. This also points out a potential weakness. The starting linebacker crew for the Wolverines is not very fast, and will have a hard time covering our receivers if we can get them in space (one on one). Ohio State will find the sledding very tough up the middle, but may be on to something with the option that they showed us on Saturday. If the Buckeyes can seal the corner, they should be able to run on the outside this week.
LB Rating: B
Secondary
CB: #3 Marlin Jackson (6-1 196 Sr.)
CB: #29 Leon Hall (5-11 191 So.) or 30 Markus Curry (5-11 182 Sr.)
SS: #25 Ernest Shazor (6-4 229 Jr.)
FS: #26 Ryan Mundy (6-1 200 So.)
Michigan is led in the defensive backfield by senior All-American Marlin Jackson. Jackson, who has been known to chuck a mean beer bottle in his spare time, is having a very solid season. He certainly is one of the best run stopping cornerbacks in the land, and is not afraid to put his nose in the mix of things. He currently has 34 tackles on the year, including 5 for a loss, and a sack. In a sign that most offenses decide to throw away from him, he only has 1 interception on the season, and 2 broken up passes. Do not let these stats fool you, he is without a doubt the best corner in this game, and possibly in the country. Ohio State would be best advised to keep the ball away from him. The second corner spot will be manned by either Markus Curry or Leon Hall. Curry leads the team with 3 interceptions on the season to go along with his 33 tackles. Hall has 2 picks on the season to go along with his 40 tackles, and team high 8 pass breakups.
At strong safety Michigan will send out All-American candidate Ernest Shazor. Shazor is having a fantastic year, in fact he was named a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe award. Shazor leads Michigan in tackles with 77 on season, 10 of which have been for a loss. Shazor has also picked off 2 passes, forced 2 fumbles, and recovered 2 fumbles. This guy is an absolute stud, he has the size to come up and clean your clock, and the athletism to cover most receivers out there. This may be his last season at Michigan. The other Wolverine safety is Ryan Mundy. Mundy has 41 tackles and 2 interceptions on the season.
When you sit back and look at the athletism of this Michigan secondary it makes one scratch their head in disbelief. There are athletes at every position, and yet Michigan still is statistically an average football team. Jackson and Shazor are All Big Ten players, and potential All-Americans, they know how to make big plays. Ohio State has to keep their eyes on these two who will be looking to elevate their draft status on Saturday.
DB Rating: A-
Analysis
Michigan brings a very lethal defense into Columbus this weekend. When you look at the stats, they appear to be a normal team. But when you factor in all the great athletes on their squad, mixed with the emotion of this game, you have to expect Michigan to play their best defensive game of the season on Saturday. Ohio State has got to watch Jackson and Shazor when they throw on Saturday, these guys can flat out play.
What a long and strange ride it has been for the Buckeyes this season. Through all the horrors and scandals of the season Ohio State has a chance to go out as a special team this year. They have the opportunity to ruin Michigan’s outright Big Ten title, and perhaps their Rose Bowl berth. A victory over Michigan would heal nearly all wounds from this season, and go a long way for next year. This is definitely the greatest rivalry in all of sports, lets sit back and enjoy the show.
Overall Defensive Rating: B+
Michigan brings a defense to the Horseshoe this week that is a tad bit over-hyped when you look at their stats. Early on in the season you were told by the press how good this Michigan defense would be this year. Michigan should be happy that their offense has over-achieved this season. One would argue that this defense has not lived up to the hype. They are 4th in the Big Ten in total defense, giving up 314 yards per game. They are 6th in the Big Ten in scoring defense, giving up 20 points per game. The much hyped pass defense that we all have heard so much about is 5th best in the Big Ten, with them giving up 201 yards per contest. A stronger point of their defense lies in the ability to stop the run, they are 3rd in the Big Ten allowing 113 yards per game. The team up north, who is known for their ability to pressure the QB is an average pass rushing team, they are 6th in the Big Ten in sacks (20). Teams have had a lot of success in the red zone vs. the Wolverines, in fact, Michigan is 9th in the Big Ten in red zone defense. Their opponents have came away with points 84% of the time that they have gotten into the red zone.
Defensive Line
DT: #94 Patrick Massey (6-8 276 Jr.)
DE: #96 Larry Harrison (6-3 299 So.)
NG: #78 Gabriel Watson (6-4 333 Jr.)
The 3-4 Michigan defense is led along the defensive front by Patrick Massey. Massey is having a fantastic season from his defensive tackle spot. He has racked up 32 tackles on the season, with 5 being for loss, and 5 being a sack. He most likely will receive some sort of all conference honors this season. At the nose guard Michigan will trot (I say trot tongue-in-cheek) out the portly Gabriel Watson. Watson has 33 tackles on the season, 5 have been for a loss, and 2 have been sacks. This is unconfirmed, Watson is rumored to eat a Big Mac for every tackle during the regular season with all proceeds going to the Ann Arbor sewage department. Keep in mind this is still unconfirmed. The last spot along the Michigan defensive front is manned by Larry “Don’t call me George” Harrison. Harrison has 17 tackles on the season for the Wolverines. He also has ... well I can’t find anything else, we’ll leave it at that.
Michigan certainly has the talent along the defensive line to give the OSU line fits. They run a different scheme than we are used to seeing this season, so they only “start” 3 lineman. Their ability to stop the run has really helped them out as this season has progressed. They certainly are not the best group in the out of all our opponents though, we have seen better lines from Wisconsin and arguably NC State this season.
DL Rating: B
Linebackers
OLB: #58 Roy Manning (6-2 246 Sr.)
OLB: #56 LaMarr Woodley (6-2 263 So.)
MLB: #36 Scott McClintock (6-2 243 Jr.)
MLB: #42 Lawrence Reid (6-1 222 Jr.)
LaMarr Woodley leads a very solid Michigan linebacker crew. To date, he has totaled 47 tackles on the season, with 10 of those being for a loss, and 4 being sacks. He has also forced 3 fumbles on the season, which leads one to believe that Mr. Woodley can deliver the big stick (hey now). The other Michigan outside linebacker slot will be filled by Roy Manning. Manning has 36 tackles on the season, with 5 being for a loss, and 1 being a sack. Manning has also forced 2 fumbles, and broken up 2 passes.
Michigan is led in the middle by Lawrence Reid. Reid is 2nd on the team in tackles with 55, and has 9 tackles for loss on the season. In addition, he has amassed 2 sacks, 1 interception, 1 forced fumble, and 1 fumble recovery. Needless to say, Reid is a very focal part of the Michigan defense. Scott “My name rimes with Pitcock” McClintock gets the start at the other MLB spot. McClintock has 44 tackles, including 5 for a loss, to go along with his 2 interceptions this season. He has also batted down 4 passes and recovered a fumble.
Michigan has a very solid linebacker crew, which always seems to be the case. Woodley is an absolute beast, and can absolutely come up and clean your clock. The thing that stands out to me when you evaluate this group is their size. They average 243 pounds across, which pretty much guarantees that they can stop the run when combined with the defensive line. This also points out a potential weakness. The starting linebacker crew for the Wolverines is not very fast, and will have a hard time covering our receivers if we can get them in space (one on one). Ohio State will find the sledding very tough up the middle, but may be on to something with the option that they showed us on Saturday. If the Buckeyes can seal the corner, they should be able to run on the outside this week.
LB Rating: B
Secondary
CB: #3 Marlin Jackson (6-1 196 Sr.)
CB: #29 Leon Hall (5-11 191 So.) or 30 Markus Curry (5-11 182 Sr.)
SS: #25 Ernest Shazor (6-4 229 Jr.)
FS: #26 Ryan Mundy (6-1 200 So.)
Michigan is led in the defensive backfield by senior All-American Marlin Jackson. Jackson, who has been known to chuck a mean beer bottle in his spare time, is having a very solid season. He certainly is one of the best run stopping cornerbacks in the land, and is not afraid to put his nose in the mix of things. He currently has 34 tackles on the year, including 5 for a loss, and a sack. In a sign that most offenses decide to throw away from him, he only has 1 interception on the season, and 2 broken up passes. Do not let these stats fool you, he is without a doubt the best corner in this game, and possibly in the country. Ohio State would be best advised to keep the ball away from him. The second corner spot will be manned by either Markus Curry or Leon Hall. Curry leads the team with 3 interceptions on the season to go along with his 33 tackles. Hall has 2 picks on the season to go along with his 40 tackles, and team high 8 pass breakups.
At strong safety Michigan will send out All-American candidate Ernest Shazor. Shazor is having a fantastic year, in fact he was named a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe award. Shazor leads Michigan in tackles with 77 on season, 10 of which have been for a loss. Shazor has also picked off 2 passes, forced 2 fumbles, and recovered 2 fumbles. This guy is an absolute stud, he has the size to come up and clean your clock, and the athletism to cover most receivers out there. This may be his last season at Michigan. The other Wolverine safety is Ryan Mundy. Mundy has 41 tackles and 2 interceptions on the season.
When you sit back and look at the athletism of this Michigan secondary it makes one scratch their head in disbelief. There are athletes at every position, and yet Michigan still is statistically an average football team. Jackson and Shazor are All Big Ten players, and potential All-Americans, they know how to make big plays. Ohio State has to keep their eyes on these two who will be looking to elevate their draft status on Saturday.
DB Rating: A-
Analysis
Michigan brings a very lethal defense into Columbus this weekend. When you look at the stats, they appear to be a normal team. But when you factor in all the great athletes on their squad, mixed with the emotion of this game, you have to expect Michigan to play their best defensive game of the season on Saturday. Ohio State has got to watch Jackson and Shazor when they throw on Saturday, these guys can flat out play.
What a long and strange ride it has been for the Buckeyes this season. Through all the horrors and scandals of the season Ohio State has a chance to go out as a special team this year. They have the opportunity to ruin Michigan’s outright Big Ten title, and perhaps their Rose Bowl berth. A victory over Michigan would heal nearly all wounds from this season, and go a long way for next year. This is definitely the greatest rivalry in all of sports, lets sit back and enjoy the show.
Overall Defensive Rating: B+
2004 Michigan Wolverines Offensive Preview
Returning Starters: 7
Well, it’s time for the big week once again. As perhaps the Metallica song “Nothing Else Matters” goes through one’s head, one considers how to stop an explosive and thoroughly balanced Michigan attack. It seems like a lifetime ago that ol’ Lloyd pulled a fast one on opening day and started a freshman at QB…and the team hasn’t looked back since. The Wolverines are ranked 47th nationally in passing offense (4th in conference; 224 yards/game), and that is nicely matched by the 50th ranked rushing offense (5th in conference; 164.7/game). Not impressed with those rankings? Consider the aggregate leaves them at 40th nationally (5th in conference; 388.7/game), and that the 31.2 points they are piling up per game ranks 29th nationally, and first in the Big 10. Considering the emergence of an impressive freshman tailback and the immediate deep threat of the best wideout in the nation, this attack is imposing for defensive coordinators to try and contain. The Buckeyes must contain the run and still not get burned deep…a challenge to be sure.
Quarterbacks
QB #7 Chad Henne (6-3, 215)
Henne was the surprise starter at the beginning of the season, and has earned the right to be one of the very few freshman starters at QB in Michigan history. HE has completed 62/7% of his passes for 2188 yards and 19 TDs, to only 10 INTs. He’s not much of a runner, but he does have 2 rushing TDs. His performance leading the Wolverines back against hated rival MichiganState a few weeks ago may have already cemented his legacy at Michigan, and he’s still got 3 years left. He is a big kid with nice size, and throws an accurate deep ball, which is particularly effective given the wideouts at his disposal. When it’s not open downfield, he has shown maturity in getting the ball to his backs and tight ends as well. He works very hard on the field and in the film room, and the results have been better than the most ardent Wolverine supporter could have hoped. Clayton Richard has seen the only meaningful time as Henne’s backup.
QB Rating: B
Running Backs
RB #20 Mike Hart (5-9, 185)
FB #32 Kevin Dudley (6-1, 237)
Hart has emerged as a big-play threat, and has also demonstrated he can carry a significant workload, both of which are impressive for an 18 year old freshman. He has gained 1311 yards on 243 carries (5.4 yard average) and has scored 8 TDs. As a basis for comparison, no OhioState back has carried more than 101 times, and he leads the Big Ten in rushing yards, gaining more than Maroney and Barber at Minnesota, and Herron at Northwestern. This after he only carried the ball 8 times in his first two games…he carried it 40 times against Illinois. After starting the season with 22 carries, backup David Underwood has been quickly relegated to spot duty (29 for 129 and 2 TDs). Max Martin has also played sparingly. Kevin Dudley is one of the best fullbacks in the Big Ten. He generates little offense by himself (3 carries, 5 catches), but is a battering ram in front of the explosive Hart.
RB Rating: A
Wide Receivers
WR #1 Braylon Edwards (6-3, 206)
WR #8 Jason Avant (6-1, 209)
WR #15 Steve Breaston (6-1, 181)
For years, it’s been “Who’s wearing Anthony Carter’s number at Michigan?” Now it may be “Who’s wearing Braylon Edwards’ number?” Edwards has an astounding 76 catches for 1049 yards and 11 TDs. All of those lead the Big Ten, with the exception of trailing Purdue’s Stubblefield by one TD. His yardage total is 5th nationally, behind 4 guys most fans have never heard of. His performance against MichiganState (11 for 189, 3 TDs), especially in the fourth quarter, was one for the ages, and will be remembered long after he finishes his tenure. Avant has chipped in 34 catches for 407 yards and 2 TDs, and Breaston has 27 catches for 197 yards and 2 TDs. Should a team focus entirely on Edwards, the other receivers are more than capable of making them pay…and that’s assuming they succeed in stopping Edwards. The only downside is that there isn’t much depth beyond the Big 3, as Jermaine Gonzales and Kevin Dudley have played sparingly, but the 3-headed monster is more than enough to give defenses fits.
WR Rating: A+
Tight Ends
TE #88 Tim Massaquoi (6-4, 249)
Massaquoi is a good TE, who is a reasonable blocker and also an additional factor in the passing game (15 for 156). Tyler Ecker has also generated some offense (11 for 115 and 2 TDs) and is also a capable blocker, but he has not played the last 2 games.
TE Rating: B
Offensive Line
OT #79 Adam Stenavich (6-5, 313)
OG #72 Rueben Riley (6-3, 311)
C #75 David Bass (6-5, 314)
OG #67 Matt Lentz (6-6, 316)
OT #77 Jake Long (6-7, 335)
Michigan always has strong, mean, and mobile linemen, and this season is no exception. It has been an interesting year, as several changes were made at the start of Big 10 play that have paid big dividends, particularly for the running game. Bass is the best of the bunch, and could easily have been drafted after last season. This year, he was moved from guard to center, and has been the subject of Rimington Award talk for his exceptional play. Lentz is a sledgehammer of a run blocker, and has worked hard on his pass blocking this season to become a well-rounded guard. Stenavich has come into his own this season, and has been consistent all season at left tackle. Long replaced starting tackle Mike Kolodziej, who now comes off the bench. The versatile Leo Henige can play either guard or center and is valuable off the bench, and was moved into the starting lineup when Bass replaced Mark Bihl, who also is now a top reserve. Henige was lost for the season midway through Big 10 play, however, and replaced with converted tackle Riley, who has filled in quite capably. These changes have reflected favorably on the players and the coaches, and the production in the rushing game has been stellar for Big 10 play.
OL Rating: B+
Analysis
This is a very difficult team to stop, and the offense has gelled as the season has progressed. The rushing game has made significant strides with the emergence of a workhorse freshman tailback and some reshuffling of the offensive line. The team also boasts the nation’s best wide receiver, and has two others who are very capable. Throw in solid play from the fullback and tight ends, and this team is peaking at just the right time, or the wrong time for Buckeye fans. As usual, this game will be decided in the trenches, and it is up to the Buckeye front 7 to slow Hart to a crawl and then put pressure on Henne to unload the ball quickly. Still, even hen this is accomplished, the corners will probably be locked in coverage against the dangerous and explosive Edwards with very little help deep. It has been difficult to read how good this OhioState defense is this season, and this game will provide the perfect measuring stick against a dangerous and balanced opponent at the conclusion of the season.
Overall Offensive Rating: A-
Well, it’s time for the big week once again. As perhaps the Metallica song “Nothing Else Matters” goes through one’s head, one considers how to stop an explosive and thoroughly balanced Michigan attack. It seems like a lifetime ago that ol’ Lloyd pulled a fast one on opening day and started a freshman at QB…and the team hasn’t looked back since. The Wolverines are ranked 47th nationally in passing offense (4th in conference; 224 yards/game), and that is nicely matched by the 50th ranked rushing offense (5th in conference; 164.7/game). Not impressed with those rankings? Consider the aggregate leaves them at 40th nationally (5th in conference; 388.7/game), and that the 31.2 points they are piling up per game ranks 29th nationally, and first in the Big 10. Considering the emergence of an impressive freshman tailback and the immediate deep threat of the best wideout in the nation, this attack is imposing for defensive coordinators to try and contain. The Buckeyes must contain the run and still not get burned deep…a challenge to be sure.
Quarterbacks
QB #7 Chad Henne (6-3, 215)
Henne was the surprise starter at the beginning of the season, and has earned the right to be one of the very few freshman starters at QB in Michigan history. HE has completed 62/7% of his passes for 2188 yards and 19 TDs, to only 10 INTs. He’s not much of a runner, but he does have 2 rushing TDs. His performance leading the Wolverines back against hated rival MichiganState a few weeks ago may have already cemented his legacy at Michigan, and he’s still got 3 years left. He is a big kid with nice size, and throws an accurate deep ball, which is particularly effective given the wideouts at his disposal. When it’s not open downfield, he has shown maturity in getting the ball to his backs and tight ends as well. He works very hard on the field and in the film room, and the results have been better than the most ardent Wolverine supporter could have hoped. Clayton Richard has seen the only meaningful time as Henne’s backup.
QB Rating: B
Running Backs
RB #20 Mike Hart (5-9, 185)
FB #32 Kevin Dudley (6-1, 237)
Hart has emerged as a big-play threat, and has also demonstrated he can carry a significant workload, both of which are impressive for an 18 year old freshman. He has gained 1311 yards on 243 carries (5.4 yard average) and has scored 8 TDs. As a basis for comparison, no OhioState back has carried more than 101 times, and he leads the Big Ten in rushing yards, gaining more than Maroney and Barber at Minnesota, and Herron at Northwestern. This after he only carried the ball 8 times in his first two games…he carried it 40 times against Illinois. After starting the season with 22 carries, backup David Underwood has been quickly relegated to spot duty (29 for 129 and 2 TDs). Max Martin has also played sparingly. Kevin Dudley is one of the best fullbacks in the Big Ten. He generates little offense by himself (3 carries, 5 catches), but is a battering ram in front of the explosive Hart.
RB Rating: A
Wide Receivers
WR #1 Braylon Edwards (6-3, 206)
WR #8 Jason Avant (6-1, 209)
WR #15 Steve Breaston (6-1, 181)
For years, it’s been “Who’s wearing Anthony Carter’s number at Michigan?” Now it may be “Who’s wearing Braylon Edwards’ number?” Edwards has an astounding 76 catches for 1049 yards and 11 TDs. All of those lead the Big Ten, with the exception of trailing Purdue’s Stubblefield by one TD. His yardage total is 5th nationally, behind 4 guys most fans have never heard of. His performance against MichiganState (11 for 189, 3 TDs), especially in the fourth quarter, was one for the ages, and will be remembered long after he finishes his tenure. Avant has chipped in 34 catches for 407 yards and 2 TDs, and Breaston has 27 catches for 197 yards and 2 TDs. Should a team focus entirely on Edwards, the other receivers are more than capable of making them pay…and that’s assuming they succeed in stopping Edwards. The only downside is that there isn’t much depth beyond the Big 3, as Jermaine Gonzales and Kevin Dudley have played sparingly, but the 3-headed monster is more than enough to give defenses fits.
WR Rating: A+
Tight Ends
TE #88 Tim Massaquoi (6-4, 249)
Massaquoi is a good TE, who is a reasonable blocker and also an additional factor in the passing game (15 for 156). Tyler Ecker has also generated some offense (11 for 115 and 2 TDs) and is also a capable blocker, but he has not played the last 2 games.
TE Rating: B
Offensive Line
OT #79 Adam Stenavich (6-5, 313)
OG #72 Rueben Riley (6-3, 311)
C #75 David Bass (6-5, 314)
OG #67 Matt Lentz (6-6, 316)
OT #77 Jake Long (6-7, 335)
Michigan always has strong, mean, and mobile linemen, and this season is no exception. It has been an interesting year, as several changes were made at the start of Big 10 play that have paid big dividends, particularly for the running game. Bass is the best of the bunch, and could easily have been drafted after last season. This year, he was moved from guard to center, and has been the subject of Rimington Award talk for his exceptional play. Lentz is a sledgehammer of a run blocker, and has worked hard on his pass blocking this season to become a well-rounded guard. Stenavich has come into his own this season, and has been consistent all season at left tackle. Long replaced starting tackle Mike Kolodziej, who now comes off the bench. The versatile Leo Henige can play either guard or center and is valuable off the bench, and was moved into the starting lineup when Bass replaced Mark Bihl, who also is now a top reserve. Henige was lost for the season midway through Big 10 play, however, and replaced with converted tackle Riley, who has filled in quite capably. These changes have reflected favorably on the players and the coaches, and the production in the rushing game has been stellar for Big 10 play.
OL Rating: B+
Analysis
This is a very difficult team to stop, and the offense has gelled as the season has progressed. The rushing game has made significant strides with the emergence of a workhorse freshman tailback and some reshuffling of the offensive line. The team also boasts the nation’s best wide receiver, and has two others who are very capable. Throw in solid play from the fullback and tight ends, and this team is peaking at just the right time, or the wrong time for Buckeye fans. As usual, this game will be decided in the trenches, and it is up to the Buckeye front 7 to slow Hart to a crawl and then put pressure on Henne to unload the ball quickly. Still, even hen this is accomplished, the corners will probably be locked in coverage against the dangerous and explosive Edwards with very little help deep. It has been difficult to read how good this OhioState defense is this season, and this game will provide the perfect measuring stick against a dangerous and balanced opponent at the conclusion of the season.
Overall Offensive Rating: A-
2004 Michigan Wolverines Special Teams Preview
Returning Starters: 2
Last year Michigan special teams were not very special. What a difference a year makes. The Michigan resurgence (this season) mirrors the OSU program before (2001) and after (2002) Andy Groom and Mike Nugent. With the exception of Steve Breaston as the return man, the Michigan unit had major issues last season. This year they have turned things around.
Special Teams
PK #35 Garrett Rivas (6-1 210 So.)
P #16 Adam Finley (6-4 235 Sr.)
PR/KR #21 Steve Breaston (6-1 182 Sr.)
Garrett Rivas was shaky as a freshman last season. A year later he is a solid, consistent performer for the Wolverines. Garrett is 30 of 34 in PATs and 16 of 21 in the Field Goal department. He's gone 4 of 5 in the 20-29 yard range, 10 of 12 in the 30-39 yard range and 2 of 4 in the 40-49 yard range. He has no attempts beyond 50 yards and only 1 blocked attempt. Rivas won't scare anyone with his distance, but he's become a reliable kicker inside the 50 yard line.
Adam Finley has also shown improvement from last season. Averaging 42.5 yards per punt, Adam has placed 9 of his 52 punts inside the 20. Finley's punts have been fair caught 3 times and have gone for touchbacks 9 times.
Steve Breaston has been a weapon for Michigan in the return department. He has a 13 yard average (67 yd. long) returning punts on 22 attempts and 1 touchdown. Leon Hall, who has 6 punts returns, averages over 17 yards per attempt (76 yd. long) and also has 1 touchdown. Steve also averages over 22 yards per kick return (43 yd. long) on 18 attempts and his teammate Grant Mason averages almost 30 yards per return on 6 attempts. Mason's long was 97 yards ... and he didn't score! That's right, did NOT score. What? In any event, OSU coverage teams had better come to play Saturday.
Analysis
OSU special teams need to be just that this Saturday. Michigan has a very good return game going and strong, consistent performers in the kicking/punting game. While the turnover battle usually plays the biggest factor in the outcome, special teams will have a huge impact in this game.
Overall Special Teams Rating: B+
Last year Michigan special teams were not very special. What a difference a year makes. The Michigan resurgence (this season) mirrors the OSU program before (2001) and after (2002) Andy Groom and Mike Nugent. With the exception of Steve Breaston as the return man, the Michigan unit had major issues last season. This year they have turned things around.
Special Teams
PK #35 Garrett Rivas (6-1 210 So.)
P #16 Adam Finley (6-4 235 Sr.)
PR/KR #21 Steve Breaston (6-1 182 Sr.)
Garrett Rivas was shaky as a freshman last season. A year later he is a solid, consistent performer for the Wolverines. Garrett is 30 of 34 in PATs and 16 of 21 in the Field Goal department. He's gone 4 of 5 in the 20-29 yard range, 10 of 12 in the 30-39 yard range and 2 of 4 in the 40-49 yard range. He has no attempts beyond 50 yards and only 1 blocked attempt. Rivas won't scare anyone with his distance, but he's become a reliable kicker inside the 50 yard line.
Adam Finley has also shown improvement from last season. Averaging 42.5 yards per punt, Adam has placed 9 of his 52 punts inside the 20. Finley's punts have been fair caught 3 times and have gone for touchbacks 9 times.
Steve Breaston has been a weapon for Michigan in the return department. He has a 13 yard average (67 yd. long) returning punts on 22 attempts and 1 touchdown. Leon Hall, who has 6 punts returns, averages over 17 yards per attempt (76 yd. long) and also has 1 touchdown. Steve also averages over 22 yards per kick return (43 yd. long) on 18 attempts and his teammate Grant Mason averages almost 30 yards per return on 6 attempts. Mason's long was 97 yards ... and he didn't score! That's right, did NOT score. What? In any event, OSU coverage teams had better come to play Saturday.
Analysis
OSU special teams need to be just that this Saturday. Michigan has a very good return game going and strong, consistent performers in the kicking/punting game. While the turnover battle usually plays the biggest factor in the outcome, special teams will have a huge impact in this game.
Overall Special Teams Rating: B+
Predictions
daddyphatsac's prediction: 27-24, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 24-22, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 28-27, Ohio State (I've been a homer all year. Did you think I'd change now?)
Bucklion's prediction: 24-22, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 28-27, Ohio State (I've been a homer all year. Did you think I'd change now?)
Additional Information
Rebuild or Reload
Starters Returning: 15 (Offense 7, Defense 6, Special Teams 2)
Letterman Returning: 47 (Offense 23, Defense 20, Special Teams 4)
Letterman Lost: 27
Incoming Recruits:
Chad Henne (QB 6-3 215 Wyomissing, Pa. (Wilson)
Brett Gallimore (OL 6-6 302 Parkville, Mo. (Park Hill South)
Will Johnson (DT 6-4 285 Oakland, Mich. (Lake Orion)
Jamar Adams (S 6-2 190 Charlotte, N.C. (Butler)
Roger Allison (FB 6-1 228 Lake Orion, Mich. (Lake Orion)
Adrian Arrington (WR 6-2 172 Cedar Rapids, Iowa (Washington)
Alan Branch (DT 6-6 326 Rio Rancho, N.M. (Cibola)
Keston Cheathem (CB 6-3 183 Miraloma, Calif. (Pomona)
Jeremy Ciulla (OL 6-5 275 Kennesaw, Ga. (Kennesaw Mountain)
Grant DeBenedictis (OL 6-4 267 Boca Raton, Fla. (St. Andrews)
Doug Dutch Jr. (WR 6-0 190 Bowie, Md. (Gonzaga College)
Christopher Graham (LB 5-10 205 Indianapolis, Ind. (Warren Central)
Michael Hart (RB 5-9 185 Syracuse, N.Y. (Onondaga Central)
Tim Jamison (DE 6-3 230 Riverdale, Ill. (Harvey Thornton)
Max Martin (RB 6-2 210 Madison, Ala. (Bob Jones)
Mike Massey (TE 6-4 216 Brecksville, Ohio (Cleveland St. Ignatius)
Alex Mitchell (OL 6-5 305 Reese, Mich. (Bay City Central)
Chris Rogers (DE 6-3 242 Wexford, Pa. (North Allegheny)
Charles Stewart Jr. (CB 6-1 184 Southfield, Mich. (Harrison)
John Thompson (LB 6-0 214 Detroit, Mich. (Crockett)
Morgan Trent (WR 6-1 175 Brighton, Mich. (Orchard Lake St. Mary's)
Marques Walton (DT 6-0 275 Chicago, Ill. (Hubbard)
Letterman Returning: 47 (Offense 23, Defense 20, Special Teams 4)
Letterman Lost: 27
Incoming Recruits:
Chad Henne (QB 6-3 215 Wyomissing, Pa. (Wilson)
Brett Gallimore (OL 6-6 302 Parkville, Mo. (Park Hill South)
Will Johnson (DT 6-4 285 Oakland, Mich. (Lake Orion)
Jamar Adams (S 6-2 190 Charlotte, N.C. (Butler)
Roger Allison (FB 6-1 228 Lake Orion, Mich. (Lake Orion)
Adrian Arrington (WR 6-2 172 Cedar Rapids, Iowa (Washington)
Alan Branch (DT 6-6 326 Rio Rancho, N.M. (Cibola)
Keston Cheathem (CB 6-3 183 Miraloma, Calif. (Pomona)
Jeremy Ciulla (OL 6-5 275 Kennesaw, Ga. (Kennesaw Mountain)
Grant DeBenedictis (OL 6-4 267 Boca Raton, Fla. (St. Andrews)
Doug Dutch Jr. (WR 6-0 190 Bowie, Md. (Gonzaga College)
Christopher Graham (LB 5-10 205 Indianapolis, Ind. (Warren Central)
Michael Hart (RB 5-9 185 Syracuse, N.Y. (Onondaga Central)
Tim Jamison (DE 6-3 230 Riverdale, Ill. (Harvey Thornton)
Max Martin (RB 6-2 210 Madison, Ala. (Bob Jones)
Mike Massey (TE 6-4 216 Brecksville, Ohio (Cleveland St. Ignatius)
Alex Mitchell (OL 6-5 305 Reese, Mich. (Bay City Central)
Chris Rogers (DE 6-3 242 Wexford, Pa. (North Allegheny)
Charles Stewart Jr. (CB 6-1 184 Southfield, Mich. (Harrison)
John Thompson (LB 6-0 214 Detroit, Mich. (Crockett)
Morgan Trent (WR 6-1 175 Brighton, Mich. (Orchard Lake St. Mary's)
Marques Walton (DT 6-0 275 Chicago, Ill. (Hubbard)
Awards & Recognition
Preseason-Conference
2004 BigTen Football Media Preseason Poll
1. Michigan (10).........120
2 Ohio State (1).........103
3. Wisconsin...............88
4. Iowa.......................84
5. Minnesota...............81
6. Purdue....................69
7. Penn State.............59
8. Michigan State.........48
9 Northwestern............36
10. Illinois...................26
11. Indiana.................12
BigTen-Conference Awards
Pre-Season Defensive Player of the Year
LB - A.J. Hawk, Ohio State
Pre-Season Offensive Player of the Year
QB - Kyle Orton, Purdue
Big Ten Player of the Week Honors
Sept. 6, 2004 (Week 1)
OFFENSE: QB - Brett Basanez, Northwestern
DEFENSE: LB - Chad Greenway, Iowa
SPECIAL TEAMS: K/P - Rhys Lloyd, Minnesota
Sept. 13, 2004 (Week 2)
OFFENSE: QB - Kyle Orton, Purdue
DEFENSE: S - Herana-Daze Jones, Indiana
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: K - Mike Nugent, Ohio State & PR - Jim Leonhard, Wisconsin
Sept. 20, 2004 (Week 3)
OFFENSE: RB - Marion Barber III, Minnesota
DEFENSE: DE - Erasmus James, Wisconsin
SPECIAL TEAMS: K - Mike Nugent, Ohio State
Sept. 27, 2004 (Week 4)
OFFENSE: QB - Kyle Orton, Purdue
DEFENSE: DE - Erasmus James, Wisconsin
SPECIAL TEAMS: K - Dave Rayner, Michigan State
Oct. 4, 2004 (Week 5)
CO-OFFENSE: QB - Kyle Orton, Purdue & RB - Anthony Davis, Wisconsin
DEFENSE: LB - John Pickens, Northwestern
SPECIAL TEAMS: KR - Jerome Brooks, Purdue
Oct. 11, 2004 (Week 6)
OFFENSE: RB - Noah Herron, Northwestern
DEFENSE: S - Ernest Shazor, Michigan
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: K - Mike Nugent, Ohio State & K - Ben Jones, Purdue
Oct. 18, 2004 (Week 7)
CO-OFFENSE: QB - Drew Tate, Iowa & QB Drew Stanton, Michigan State
DEFENSE: CB - Scott Starks, Wisconsin
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: K - Kyle Schlickter, Iowa & K - Dave Raynor, Michigan State
Oct. 25, 2004 (Week 8)
CO-OFFENSE: RB - Michael Hart, Michigan & RB - Marion Barber, III, Minnesota
DEFENSE: LB - Kyle McKenzie, Minnesota
SPECIAL TEAMS: P - Steve Weatherford, Illinois
Nov. 1, 2004 (Week 9)
CO-OFFENSE: WR - Braylon Edwards, Michigan
DEFENSE: LB - Tim McGarigle, Northwestern
SPECIAL TEAMS: P - Jeremy Kapinos, Penn State
Nov. 8, 2004 (Week 10)
CO-OFFENSE: QB - John Stocco, Wisconsin
DEFENSE: DT - Jonathan Babineaux, Iowa
SPECIAL TEAMS: PR - Ted Ginn, Jr., Ohio State
Nov. 15, 2004 (Week 11)
CO-OFFENSE: OT - Sean Poole, Michigan State
DEFENSE: LB - Paul Posluszny, Penn State
SPECIAL TEAMS: K - Kyle Schlicter, Iowa & WR - Steve Breaston, Michigan
Preseason-National
Bronko Nagurski Watch List
LB - Pierre Woods, Michigan
Thorpe Watch List
CB - Marlin Jackson, Michigan
S - Ernest Shazor, Michigan
Outland Trophy Watch List
OG - David Bass, Michigan
Maxwell Watch List
WR - Braylon Edwards, Michigan
Bednarik Watch List
DB - Marlin Jackson, Michigan
Lombardi Trophy Watch List
OT - David Baas, Michigan
LB - Pierre Woods, Michigan
Walter Camp POY Watch List
WR - Braylon Edwards, Michigan
Butkus Award Watch List
LB - Lawrence Reid, Michigan
LB - Pierre Woods, Michigan
2004 Rimington Watch List
C - Mark Bihl, Michigan
2004 Biletnikoff Award Watch List
WR - Braylon Edwards, Michigan
WR - Jason Avant, Michigan
2004 BigTen Football Media Preseason Poll
1. Michigan (10).........120
2 Ohio State (1).........103
3. Wisconsin...............88
4. Iowa.......................84
5. Minnesota...............81
6. Purdue....................69
7. Penn State.............59
8. Michigan State.........48
9 Northwestern............36
10. Illinois...................26
11. Indiana.................12
BigTen-Conference Awards
Pre-Season Defensive Player of the Year
LB - A.J. Hawk, Ohio State
Pre-Season Offensive Player of the Year
QB - Kyle Orton, Purdue
Big Ten Player of the Week Honors
Sept. 6, 2004 (Week 1)
OFFENSE: QB - Brett Basanez, Northwestern
DEFENSE: LB - Chad Greenway, Iowa
SPECIAL TEAMS: K/P - Rhys Lloyd, Minnesota
Sept. 13, 2004 (Week 2)
OFFENSE: QB - Kyle Orton, Purdue
DEFENSE: S - Herana-Daze Jones, Indiana
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: K - Mike Nugent, Ohio State & PR - Jim Leonhard, Wisconsin
Sept. 20, 2004 (Week 3)
OFFENSE: RB - Marion Barber III, Minnesota
DEFENSE: DE - Erasmus James, Wisconsin
SPECIAL TEAMS: K - Mike Nugent, Ohio State
Sept. 27, 2004 (Week 4)
OFFENSE: QB - Kyle Orton, Purdue
DEFENSE: DE - Erasmus James, Wisconsin
SPECIAL TEAMS: K - Dave Rayner, Michigan State
Oct. 4, 2004 (Week 5)
CO-OFFENSE: QB - Kyle Orton, Purdue & RB - Anthony Davis, Wisconsin
DEFENSE: LB - John Pickens, Northwestern
SPECIAL TEAMS: KR - Jerome Brooks, Purdue
Oct. 11, 2004 (Week 6)
OFFENSE: RB - Noah Herron, Northwestern
DEFENSE: S - Ernest Shazor, Michigan
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: K - Mike Nugent, Ohio State & K - Ben Jones, Purdue
Oct. 18, 2004 (Week 7)
CO-OFFENSE: QB - Drew Tate, Iowa & QB Drew Stanton, Michigan State
DEFENSE: CB - Scott Starks, Wisconsin
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: K - Kyle Schlickter, Iowa & K - Dave Raynor, Michigan State
Oct. 25, 2004 (Week 8)
CO-OFFENSE: RB - Michael Hart, Michigan & RB - Marion Barber, III, Minnesota
DEFENSE: LB - Kyle McKenzie, Minnesota
SPECIAL TEAMS: P - Steve Weatherford, Illinois
Nov. 1, 2004 (Week 9)
CO-OFFENSE: WR - Braylon Edwards, Michigan
DEFENSE: LB - Tim McGarigle, Northwestern
SPECIAL TEAMS: P - Jeremy Kapinos, Penn State
Nov. 8, 2004 (Week 10)
CO-OFFENSE: QB - John Stocco, Wisconsin
DEFENSE: DT - Jonathan Babineaux, Iowa
SPECIAL TEAMS: PR - Ted Ginn, Jr., Ohio State
Nov. 15, 2004 (Week 11)
CO-OFFENSE: OT - Sean Poole, Michigan State
DEFENSE: LB - Paul Posluszny, Penn State
SPECIAL TEAMS: K - Kyle Schlicter, Iowa & WR - Steve Breaston, Michigan
Preseason-National
Bronko Nagurski Watch List
LB - Pierre Woods, Michigan
Thorpe Watch List
CB - Marlin Jackson, Michigan
S - Ernest Shazor, Michigan
Outland Trophy Watch List
OG - David Bass, Michigan
Maxwell Watch List
WR - Braylon Edwards, Michigan
Bednarik Watch List
DB - Marlin Jackson, Michigan
Lombardi Trophy Watch List
OT - David Baas, Michigan
LB - Pierre Woods, Michigan
Walter Camp POY Watch List
WR - Braylon Edwards, Michigan
Butkus Award Watch List
LB - Lawrence Reid, Michigan
LB - Pierre Woods, Michigan
2004 Rimington Watch List
C - Mark Bihl, Michigan
2004 Biletnikoff Award Watch List
WR - Braylon Edwards, Michigan
WR - Jason Avant, Michigan
Historical Data
University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, MI) Founded in 1817
Football 1st Season: 1887
Stadium: Michigan (1927) 107,501
Conference: Big Ten Conference since 1896 (Charter Member), 1879 to 1895 and 1907 to 1916 Independent
Colors: Maize & Blue
Mascots: None
College Classification: D-IA (or equivalent) since 1937 (first year of NCAA classification)
Conference Championships: 41 total, 18 outright
Head Coach: In his 10th season at Michigan, Lloyd Carr has now won (or shared) 5 Big Ten titles. Lloyd spent the previous 15 years as an assistant at Michigan under Gary Moeller and Bo Schembechler. While many like to ridicule coach Carr (He whines, 3 Loss Llloyd, etc.) he has quite an accomplished resume. A National Title, several Coach of the Year Awards, 10 Bowl Games in 10 seasons, and on and on. Lloyd graduated from Northern Michigan University in 1968 and then went on to coach in the high school ranks at 3 different locations. In 1976 Lloyd joined the staff at Eastern Michigan and then in 1978 went to Illinois for 2 seasons.
Consensus All-Americans: 68 (as of 2000)
College Hall-of-Famers: 30
Pro Hall-of-Famers: 6
Award Winners: 4 AFCA COY, 1 Eddie Robinson COY, 1 Bobby Dodd COY, 1 Bronko Nagurski, 1 Butkus, 1 Chuck Bednarik, 3 Heisman, 2 Maxwell, 1 Sammy Baugh, 1 Thorpe, 2 Walter Camp POY, 2 Paul "Bear" Bryant, 2 Amos Alonzo Stagg
National Championships: 5 Recognized Championships (1901, 1902, 1933, 1948, 1997)
Number of AP/Coaches final rankings: AP-52 years, Coaches-40 years
Stadium: Michigan (1927) 107,501
Conference: Big Ten Conference since 1896 (Charter Member), 1879 to 1895 and 1907 to 1916 Independent
Colors: Maize & Blue
Mascots: None
College Classification: D-IA (or equivalent) since 1937 (first year of NCAA classification)
Conference Championships: 41 total, 18 outright
Head Coach: In his 10th season at Michigan, Lloyd Carr has now won (or shared) 5 Big Ten titles. Lloyd spent the previous 15 years as an assistant at Michigan under Gary Moeller and Bo Schembechler. While many like to ridicule coach Carr (He whines, 3 Loss Llloyd, etc.) he has quite an accomplished resume. A National Title, several Coach of the Year Awards, 10 Bowl Games in 10 seasons, and on and on. Lloyd graduated from Northern Michigan University in 1968 and then went on to coach in the high school ranks at 3 different locations. In 1976 Lloyd joined the staff at Eastern Michigan and then in 1978 went to Illinois for 2 seasons.
Consensus All-Americans: 68 (as of 2000)
College Hall-of-Famers: 30
Pro Hall-of-Famers: 6
Award Winners: 4 AFCA COY, 1 Eddie Robinson COY, 1 Bobby Dodd COY, 1 Bronko Nagurski, 1 Butkus, 1 Chuck Bednarik, 3 Heisman, 2 Maxwell, 1 Sammy Baugh, 1 Thorpe, 2 Walter Camp POY, 2 Paul "Bear" Bryant, 2 Amos Alonzo Stagg
National Championships: 5 Recognized Championships (1901, 1902, 1933, 1948, 1997)
Number of AP/Coaches final rankings: AP-52 years, Coaches-40 years
Records
All Time: 807-264-35 (.745) - [CFDW lists this at 832-273-36 (.745)]
Home 536-121-20 (.806), Away 249-131-15 (.649), Neutral 22-12-0 (.647)
Bowl Games: 18-17-0 (.514), most recently a loss to Southern California (2004) in the Rose Bowl
All Time vs the BigTen: 439-159-18 (.727)
All Time vs Ohio State: 57-37-6 (.600), Last win against the Buckeyes was in 2003 at Ann Arbor
Last Season: Michigan finished 10-3-0 (.769)
W - Central Michigan
W - Houston (TX)
W - Notre Dame
L - Oregon
W - Indiana
L - Iowa
W - Minnesota
W - Illinois
W - Purdue
W - Michigan State
W - Northwestern
W - Ohio State
L - USC (Rose Bowl)
Last 5 Years: 37-25-0 (.597)
Last 10 Years: 66-51-3 (.562)
Home 536-121-20 (.806), Away 249-131-15 (.649), Neutral 22-12-0 (.647)
Bowl Games: 18-17-0 (.514), most recently a loss to Southern California (2004) in the Rose Bowl
All Time vs the BigTen: 439-159-18 (.727)
All Time vs Ohio State: 57-37-6 (.600), Last win against the Buckeyes was in 2003 at Ann Arbor
Last Season: Michigan finished 10-3-0 (.769)
W - Central Michigan
W - Houston (TX)
W - Notre Dame
L - Oregon
W - Indiana
L - Iowa
W - Minnesota
W - Illinois
W - Purdue
W - Michigan State
W - Northwestern
W - Ohio State
L - USC (Rose Bowl)
Last 5 Years: 37-25-0 (.597)
Last 10 Years: 66-51-3 (.562)
Links
Official Sites:
Official School Site - University of Michigan
Student Newspaper - Michigan Daily
Athletics and Recreation - University of Michigan
Official Athletics Site - M Go Blue
Roster - M Go Blue
Previews/Breakdowns:
Insiders Big Ten Preview - Insiders
Wolverines Will be Tough in 2004 - The Ozone •FB
Michigan Media Day Note and Quotebook - The Ozone •FB
Football Preview - Purdue Boildermakers - NationalChamps.com
NCAA Football Preview - Michigan Wolverines - Sports Network
College football preview: Big Ten Conference - Yahoo Sports
Michigan 2004 Preview - CFN
Michigan 2004 Offensive Preview - CFN
Michigan 2004 Defensive Preview - CFN
Michigan 2004 Inside Scoop - CFN
Michigan 2004 Player Profile: Pierre Woods - CFN
Message Boards:
Message Boards - (Insiders - Go Blue Wolverine)
Message Boards - (Rivals - The Wolverine)
Message Boards - (Independent - UM Go Blue)
Local News Sources:
Detroit News - Local News
Detroit Free Press - Local News
Ann Arbor News - Local News
Oakland Press - Local News
Toledo Blade - Local News
Official School Site - University of Michigan
Student Newspaper - Michigan Daily
Athletics and Recreation - University of Michigan
Official Athletics Site - M Go Blue
Roster - M Go Blue
Previews/Breakdowns:
Insiders Big Ten Preview - Insiders
Wolverines Will be Tough in 2004 - The Ozone •FB
Michigan Media Day Note and Quotebook - The Ozone •FB
Football Preview - Purdue Boildermakers - NationalChamps.com
NCAA Football Preview - Michigan Wolverines - Sports Network
College football preview: Big Ten Conference - Yahoo Sports
Michigan 2004 Preview - CFN
Michigan 2004 Offensive Preview - CFN
Michigan 2004 Defensive Preview - CFN
Michigan 2004 Inside Scoop - CFN
Michigan 2004 Player Profile: Pierre Woods - CFN
Message Boards:
Message Boards - (Insiders - Go Blue Wolverine)
Message Boards - (Rivals - The Wolverine)
Message Boards - (Independent - UM Go Blue)
Local News Sources:
Detroit News - Local News
Detroit Free Press - Local News
Ann Arbor News - Local News
Oakland Press - Local News
Toledo Blade - Local News
Note: Statistical data was complied using a variety of sources, including:
Stassen (Chris Stassen) - Data
College Football Data Warehouse - Data
Two Cousins College Football Emporium - Data
American College Football-RSFC (Dave Wilson) - Data
D1A Football (Formerly WALJ 10 College Football) - Data
National Champs.net - Data
Hickok Sports - Data
