FanPost

Worries about the Michigan game

I'll be honest, the Michigan game in two weeks really, really scares me. Not because Michigan is a better team than us, they aren't, but because of the mindset of our coaching staff. Last night was a perfect example of the mentality Ferentz brings to the game, a commanding lead at half-time and defensive domination leads to incredibly conservative playcalling in the second half. At this point, I honestly don't know why I was (1) surprised by this and (2) angry about it; after twelve years of this staff, I should know what to expect. After gnashing my teeth frequently last night by Iowa's stubborn refusal to simply curb-stomp PSU into oblivion, I restored my inner zen and accepted that this is who we are and the coaches won't change. And it was foolish and arrogant of me to second-guess the coaching staff at this point.

But still, I don't see this being effective against Michigan. Whatever Denard's and Michigans flaws are, and they are many, one thing Michigan can do is score a lot of points, and do so quickly and in rapid succession. There's no indication that Michigan can actually stop anyone, but this is a team with one of the most dynamic offenses I've seen in years. And, as I mentioned, the scariest part is how quickly Michigan can score. Simply put, with Denard Robinson Michigan is never out of the game, something I hope the coaching staff takes note of. I don't like Iowa's chances if we're up 10 or more at half and play the entire second half not to lose. That will work against many, if not most, teams, but I see it as a recipe for disaster against Michigan.

Unless of course Greg Jones kills Denard next Saturday. Something I put as having a 75% chance of happening. If he doesn't, here's hoping Clayborn/Ballard/Daniels finishes the job.

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