The Pictures

So, I realized I don't really have the energy to write a true Michigan football preview.  Plus, every time I thought about what I wanted to say I would end up digressing into a discussion of Hoke vs. RR, spread vs. Manball, the power play vs. basketball on grass, etc.

Instead, I'll make a quick observation or two and call it a season.

In case you were wondering about those pictures below.  The one on the left is the first play from the 2011 Spring Game.  The one on the right is from the 2010 opener vs. UConn.  In case you didn't notice Michigan's offensive formation is nearly identical in each.  Michigan's base package was a shotgun 3x1x1 last year and I expect it to be again this year at least when we're playing against quality opponents.

We can manball it up against Directional Michigan but if we're going to improve on 7 wins (and the talent is there for 8+) it's going to have to come on the strength (or at least the threat) of Denard's legs.

All in all, I expect the offense to be less warm and soapy while the defense will still be mediocre but make me feel less stabby.  The special teams will still be an adventure early, especially until either Gibbons or Wile take control of the kicking job (if either does) and while Hagerup is suspended.

Michigan won 7 games last year and returns nearly everyone.  If it wasn't for the coaching transition improvement would be nearly guaranteed.  Even so, 7 wins is probably the safe bet but not getting to 8 would be an unfortunate self-inflicted wound.

I'll take 8 and just hope the Denard Robinson ride is as fun as it has the potential to be.