A reader requested a blog before the bowl game, but I've been struggling the last few days for a topic. Not because there isn't plenty to say about the past month, lots of great things have happened for Michigan, but nothing was striking me as "blog worthy." Until I turned on ESPNews.
As they do every year, they were having a recap of the year's most touching stories. I got sucked into the "My Wish" series. There were several that struck me and some that I've seen that I've never forgotten about. "The Fist Bump Kid," a story about a young boy from the Boston area with Down Syndrome and then diagnosed with Cancer. He loved the Boston Bruins, went to games, was invited to sit on the bench and then into the locker room. He would "fist bump" all the players as they went to the locker room during intermissions. Such a small gesture on the part of the athletes, but it meant the world, and then some, to that little "Fist Bump Kid" and his family.
Then there was a high school swimmer, diagnosed with cancer, that dreamed of meeting Michael Phelps. She did, and she got to train with him in Colorado. He coached her on how to do flip turns and they signed a wall in the locker room that displayed the names of several other Olympic athletes. They spent the day together, just two people with a common love of swimming. Again, this took nothing but time from him, but gave this girl a lifelong memory.
"The Butterfly Child" was another story that stuck with me. This was not a "My Wish" episode, but nonetheless, gets at my point. This story is about a teenage boy in Canada that has an extremely rare skin disorder called EB (Epidermolysis Bullosa). Google it, it's the most horrifying thing you've probably never heard of. And then YouTube it, I guarantee you'll be both heartbroken and inspired. He loves hockey. He used to be able to play hockey with adapted equipment, but then it became too tough for him to bear. It didn't, however, stop his love for the sport.
And then it dawned on me, this is why I love sports. I love sports, all sports, not just football, for so many reasons. Sports promote healthy living. Sports teach what it means to work hard and set goals. Sports teach what it means to be part of a team. Sports teach learning how to be a humble winner and a gracious loser. Sports teach learning to listen to others and respect what they're telling you. Sports teach how to follow rules. Sports teach that there are consequences for not following those rules. Sports teach kids to dream. Dream bigger than you could ever imagine possible. And maybe, just maybe, if you do accomplish the almighty goal of "making it big" in sports, I hope and pray that sports also taught you to give back. Help people out. Be a positive role model. And remember, you were a kid once too, dreaming big. Make dreams happen for kids. They deserve it.
A blog written by two women who share a passion and love for college football needing a place to talk, express, discuss, rant and rave about our favorite sport.
Sunday, December 27, 2015
Friday, November 27, 2015
Rivalry Eve
On this dreary Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, I find myself trying to keep busy with menial, house-keeping tasks to help make the day go by faster. It's not working, hence the reason I'm at the computer writing a blog.
Only one more sleep until The Victors is played, jerseys are retired, seniors are honored, and the winged helmet takes the field to meet it's biggest foe. It's most storied rivalry. The culminating game to what has been a memorable season. The Game, is tomorrow. It's the one that matters the most. The one with the hardest hits. The one with the loudest fans. The one with the most strategic coaching. The one with the most thoughtful game plan. The one where memories are made, winners are elated, and losers' hearts are broken.
This game means more than any other game, on any other schedule, in any sport. Period. It means more than in-state rivalries. Sure, that game means a great deal, because listening to the opposing team's fan base when you lose it, is no fun. I know that probably better than anyone. But it doesn't even come close in comparison to the meaning of this game. It's bigger and holds more meaning than Yankees/Red Sox, Bears/Packers, Auburn/Alabama, Duke/N.Carolina, Red Wings/Maple Leafs, or Lakers/Celtics.
There are so many traditions that surround this game. It's this game where every M is covered up on campus in Columbus. It's this game where players, alumni, and now coaches take a tour of the cemetery to visit the graves of the greats in Michigan's history. It's this game when the two schools compete in a blood drive. It's this game that is always played on the last Saturday of November at noon. It's this game, when a buckeye is smashed at the feet of legendary Bo Schembechler. And this year, it's this game where Gov. Kasich has outlawed khakis for a day for Ohioans.
This year, like in 2006, hearts will be heavy, emotions will be high, and two special angels will be watching from above. This year, little Chad Carr is sitting on the lap of Bo, waiting for the banner to be raised, the players to take the field, and the battle to begin.
It's sure to be a great one.
Peace. Love. And Go Blue!!
~Bekki
My Pick 6 favorite moments from The Game:
1. Marcus Ray's hit on David Boston.
2. Desmond's punt return for a touchdown.
3. The Harbaugh guarantee in 1986.
4. Woodson's Heisman Trophy winning performance in 1997.
5. Tim Biakabutuka's game in 1995.
6. Listening to Ufer call The Game in 1969.
Only one more sleep until The Victors is played, jerseys are retired, seniors are honored, and the winged helmet takes the field to meet it's biggest foe. It's most storied rivalry. The culminating game to what has been a memorable season. The Game, is tomorrow. It's the one that matters the most. The one with the hardest hits. The one with the loudest fans. The one with the most strategic coaching. The one with the most thoughtful game plan. The one where memories are made, winners are elated, and losers' hearts are broken.
This game means more than any other game, on any other schedule, in any sport. Period. It means more than in-state rivalries. Sure, that game means a great deal, because listening to the opposing team's fan base when you lose it, is no fun. I know that probably better than anyone. But it doesn't even come close in comparison to the meaning of this game. It's bigger and holds more meaning than Yankees/Red Sox, Bears/Packers, Auburn/Alabama, Duke/N.Carolina, Red Wings/Maple Leafs, or Lakers/Celtics.
There are so many traditions that surround this game. It's this game where every M is covered up on campus in Columbus. It's this game where players, alumni, and now coaches take a tour of the cemetery to visit the graves of the greats in Michigan's history. It's this game when the two schools compete in a blood drive. It's this game that is always played on the last Saturday of November at noon. It's this game, when a buckeye is smashed at the feet of legendary Bo Schembechler. And this year, it's this game where Gov. Kasich has outlawed khakis for a day for Ohioans.
This year, like in 2006, hearts will be heavy, emotions will be high, and two special angels will be watching from above. This year, little Chad Carr is sitting on the lap of Bo, waiting for the banner to be raised, the players to take the field, and the battle to begin.
It's sure to be a great one.
Peace. Love. And Go Blue!!
~Bekki
My Pick 6 favorite moments from The Game:
1. Marcus Ray's hit on David Boston.
2. Desmond's punt return for a touchdown.
3. The Harbaugh guarantee in 1986.
4. Woodson's Heisman Trophy winning performance in 1997.
5. Tim Biakabutuka's game in 1995.
6. Listening to Ufer call The Game in 1969.
Monday, October 19, 2015
Crossing the Line
I can't bring myself to write about the game yet. My feelings are still too raw. The emotions are still too high. And my thoughts are a jumbled mess of irrational scenarios. I will eventually be able to put together a cohesive, comprehensive assessment, maybe. Don't hold your breath waiting for it. It's going to take me some time.
But, what I can write about is what happened after the game. Lines were crossed by fans and for that I am both embarrassed and ashamed. Social media has become both a blessing and a curse. It has afforded people the opportunity to connect with others they may never have a chance to do in "real life." Which is the really cool part about it. I can follow Coach Harbaugh and players and see what they're like as real people. What their favorite movies are. The type of music they listen to. Where they eat lunch. And, if I'm really lucky I'll get a mention or a retweet from one of them. (wink, wink Kovacs) Does this matter in real life, no, but it's still cool for a fan like me.
The absolute downfall to social media is what reared it's ugly head, seconds after the game was over. The punter, Blake O'Neil, was receiving death threats and suicide suggestions. Really?!?!? He's a young man that pours his heart, soul, time, blood, sweat, and tears into that team. You don't think he already feels bad enough about that play. And, what has become of our society that makes people think it is okay to react this way. This is a real problem in our society. People hide behind their computer or phone screens and nothing is done to them. I think, people should be able to be prosecuted for these types of offenses. Working in a school setting, this has become more and more prevalent and a way of bullying. It needs to stop!
My Pick 6 things I bet you didn't know about Blake O'Neil:
1. He played his first American football game last year at Weber State.
2. Before that, he was in Australia, where they play football with no helmets or padding.
3. He once got his so hard his liver was lacerated.
4. He's a smart man. He earned a bachelor's degree in Australia, a Master's degree at Weber State and is now pursuing his second Master's degree at the top university in the world.
5. He was a male model in Australia.
6. He's accomplished a great deal at 22 years old. I'm certain he's going to go on to be a rather successful man. Leaders and Best.
Go Blue!
~Bekki
But, what I can write about is what happened after the game. Lines were crossed by fans and for that I am both embarrassed and ashamed. Social media has become both a blessing and a curse. It has afforded people the opportunity to connect with others they may never have a chance to do in "real life." Which is the really cool part about it. I can follow Coach Harbaugh and players and see what they're like as real people. What their favorite movies are. The type of music they listen to. Where they eat lunch. And, if I'm really lucky I'll get a mention or a retweet from one of them. (wink, wink Kovacs) Does this matter in real life, no, but it's still cool for a fan like me.
The absolute downfall to social media is what reared it's ugly head, seconds after the game was over. The punter, Blake O'Neil, was receiving death threats and suicide suggestions. Really?!?!? He's a young man that pours his heart, soul, time, blood, sweat, and tears into that team. You don't think he already feels bad enough about that play. And, what has become of our society that makes people think it is okay to react this way. This is a real problem in our society. People hide behind their computer or phone screens and nothing is done to them. I think, people should be able to be prosecuted for these types of offenses. Working in a school setting, this has become more and more prevalent and a way of bullying. It needs to stop!
My Pick 6 things I bet you didn't know about Blake O'Neil:
1. He played his first American football game last year at Weber State.
2. Before that, he was in Australia, where they play football with no helmets or padding.
3. He once got his so hard his liver was lacerated.
4. He's a smart man. He earned a bachelor's degree in Australia, a Master's degree at Weber State and is now pursuing his second Master's degree at the top university in the world.
5. He was a male model in Australia.
6. He's accomplished a great deal at 22 years old. I'm certain he's going to go on to be a rather successful man. Leaders and Best.
Go Blue!
~Bekki
Sunday, October 11, 2015
Numbers Don't Lie
I've often referred to myself as a "numbers girl." I love numbers, they just make sense to me. I find myself focusing on numbers dealing with random things at random times. For example, how much time is actually saved by speeding. Or, how many steps it takes me to walk down the hall at school and the difference between the right side of the hall and the left. Or, how excited I was on Pi Day at 9:26:53 (3.1492653). Just to name a few. And, for what it's worth, you won't arrive much sooner at all, maybe a minute or two depending on how long your commute is and how much you speed. So it's not really worth it. But, I digress.
It should then come as no shock that I've always really enjoyed statistics, too. It was my favorite class in high school. And given the recent games Michigan has played, there is an abundance of stats that can be found in every corner of the football realm. Let's take a closer look this week at just how dominating Michigan has been these past few weeks, shall we?
We all know the most popular and basic stat: Three consecutive shutouts, two of them to ranked teams. This hasn't been done since K-State did it in 1995, that's 20 years folks. Michigan hasn't done it since 1980.
Michigan has forced 32 three-and-outs, that's more than five per game.
Michigan has outscored their opponents 97-0 over the three game stretch.
Michigan has had 41 consecutive defensive possessions without a score.
Michigan is 19-for-20, or 95% efficient, in the red zone this season.
The 96 yard opening kickoff return by Jehu Chesson was the 1st since 1992 when Tyrone Wheatley, who just so happens to be the running backs coach, did it against Houston.
Yesterday Michigan scored on offense, defense and special teams. The last time this happened was 12 years ago against Indiana.
Michigan scored 38 points yesterday on Northwestern. Before yesterday, Northwestern had given up 35 points combined to its previous five opponents.
Michigan has outscored its last five opponents 160-14.
In the last 19 quarters of play, Michigan has given up 615 yards on offense, while gaining 1939 yards themselves.
It has been 189:17 of play since Michigan last allowed a point to be scored.
Michigan hasn't trailed in a game for the past 247:03 of play.
I could go on and on, statiscians are some of favorite people to follow on Twitter, but you get the point. We're good. We're back. We're ready. We're coming for you.
My Pick 6 favorite moments from Saturday:
1. My daughter and I beating my dad and brother at cornhole.
2. The ride down to Ann Arbor as we discussed how good it feels to be back.
3. The two meals we ate that were cooked on a charcoal grill.
4. The anticipation walking toward the stadium.
5. The following 60 minutes of near perfect football.
6. The salute to the "veteran of the day" at the stadium during the game.
Go Blue!
~Bekki
It should then come as no shock that I've always really enjoyed statistics, too. It was my favorite class in high school. And given the recent games Michigan has played, there is an abundance of stats that can be found in every corner of the football realm. Let's take a closer look this week at just how dominating Michigan has been these past few weeks, shall we?
We all know the most popular and basic stat: Three consecutive shutouts, two of them to ranked teams. This hasn't been done since K-State did it in 1995, that's 20 years folks. Michigan hasn't done it since 1980.
Michigan has forced 32 three-and-outs, that's more than five per game.
Michigan has outscored their opponents 97-0 over the three game stretch.
Michigan has had 41 consecutive defensive possessions without a score.
Michigan is 19-for-20, or 95% efficient, in the red zone this season.
The 96 yard opening kickoff return by Jehu Chesson was the 1st since 1992 when Tyrone Wheatley, who just so happens to be the running backs coach, did it against Houston.
Yesterday Michigan scored on offense, defense and special teams. The last time this happened was 12 years ago against Indiana.
Michigan scored 38 points yesterday on Northwestern. Before yesterday, Northwestern had given up 35 points combined to its previous five opponents.
Michigan has outscored its last five opponents 160-14.
In the last 19 quarters of play, Michigan has given up 615 yards on offense, while gaining 1939 yards themselves.
It has been 189:17 of play since Michigan last allowed a point to be scored.
Michigan hasn't trailed in a game for the past 247:03 of play.
I could go on and on, statiscians are some of favorite people to follow on Twitter, but you get the point. We're good. We're back. We're ready. We're coming for you.
My Pick 6 favorite moments from Saturday:
1. My daughter and I beating my dad and brother at cornhole.
2. The ride down to Ann Arbor as we discussed how good it feels to be back.
3. The two meals we ate that were cooked on a charcoal grill.
4. The anticipation walking toward the stadium.
5. The following 60 minutes of near perfect football.
6. The salute to the "veteran of the day" at the stadium during the game.
Go Blue!
~Bekki
Sunday, October 4, 2015
Is this the new normal?
I've often found myself thinking about how the team could have been such a dumpster fire last year, but then in just a few short months look like a respectable, top 20 team. I've come to the one and only obvious conclusion that makes sense, coaching.
In my teacher-mind, I've compared the transition and evolution of the team, to classroom management. Some teachers have it, some don't. Some have it for kindergartners, some don't. Some have it for middle schoolers, some don't. I've yet to meet a teacher that feels he/she would be able to teach and teach effectively at any age level. We all have our comfort zone. And apparently, so do coaches......except for one.
I imagine Brady Hoke, who no doubt wanted to be a great coach/classroom manager, just wasn't in his comfort zone at Michigan. He loved Michigan. He wanted to do well there, but he just was out of his element.
Take me for example, I know with every fiber of my being, that I could not be successful in a general education middle school English class. I'd try really hard. I'd ask colleagues for help. I'd want to do my best. I'd surround myself with people that I thought would be able to help me. But ultimately, it would be up to me to make it work. And I wouldn't. I'd fail miserably. I'd probably be fired for lack of student progress. I know my limits. And this is it. I'd be eaten alive.
If Brady Hoke were a classroom teacher his day would probably look and sound like the preschool classroom on Toy Story 2. You know the one; kids coloring on walls, ripping hair out of baby dolls, crayons up their noses, standing on counters, eating PlayDoh, screaming, hollering, complete and utter chaos. A dumpster fire.
And then, We Got Harbaugh. The guy that has been successful everywhere he's been and everything he's done. Hell, he could probably teach kindergarten if that were the job he'd been hired to do. I don't know how he does it, or care much for that matter. I'm just happy as hell that he can and that he's doing it for Michigan. So, I guess I need to just sit back, enjoy the ride that he's taking me on, and get used to this the new normal.
Go Blue!
~Bekki
In my teacher-mind, I've compared the transition and evolution of the team, to classroom management. Some teachers have it, some don't. Some have it for kindergartners, some don't. Some have it for middle schoolers, some don't. I've yet to meet a teacher that feels he/she would be able to teach and teach effectively at any age level. We all have our comfort zone. And apparently, so do coaches......except for one.
I imagine Brady Hoke, who no doubt wanted to be a great coach/classroom manager, just wasn't in his comfort zone at Michigan. He loved Michigan. He wanted to do well there, but he just was out of his element.
Take me for example, I know with every fiber of my being, that I could not be successful in a general education middle school English class. I'd try really hard. I'd ask colleagues for help. I'd want to do my best. I'd surround myself with people that I thought would be able to help me. But ultimately, it would be up to me to make it work. And I wouldn't. I'd fail miserably. I'd probably be fired for lack of student progress. I know my limits. And this is it. I'd be eaten alive.
If Brady Hoke were a classroom teacher his day would probably look and sound like the preschool classroom on Toy Story 2. You know the one; kids coloring on walls, ripping hair out of baby dolls, crayons up their noses, standing on counters, eating PlayDoh, screaming, hollering, complete and utter chaos. A dumpster fire.
And then, We Got Harbaugh. The guy that has been successful everywhere he's been and everything he's done. Hell, he could probably teach kindergarten if that were the job he'd been hired to do. I don't know how he does it, or care much for that matter. I'm just happy as hell that he can and that he's doing it for Michigan. So, I guess I need to just sit back, enjoy the ride that he's taking me on, and get used to this the new normal.
Go Blue!
~Bekki
Sunday, September 27, 2015
Emotional High
I watched a lot of football yesterday, but all I really wanted to do was watch the Michigan game over and over and over. I loved hearing Chris Spielman say that Michigan just put the rest of the B1G on notice. And then, I turn on College Football Sunday and hear Kevin Carter recommend that Alabama do what Michigan is doing. Wait! What? Alabama, the golden child of college football, needs to do what Michigan, Michigan is doing. Could you say that again? For the past 7 years, minus that one 11-2 season, Michigan has been the laughing stock of college football. But now, we're the example of what top tier teams should do? That's right, cuz we got Harbaugh. And, This. Is. Michigan.
This is the Michigan of old. A traditional run offense from the power I formation with a defense that plays hard and gives up nothing. I saw a stat this morning that made me giddy. 2nd in overall YPG allowed. 5th in pass YPG allowed. 10th in rush YPG allowed. 4th in points per game allowed. That is what a Michigan defense is supposed to do.
I realize this is only one game, but that sure was fun to sit back and watch a relaxing rout of a ranked team. To say, 'We're back', might be just a bit premature, but we certainly are on our way back. The offense it's finding it's rhythm. The defense in clicking on all cylinders. The special teams are so close to getting one blocked. And that coaching staff, I just can't say enough about the job they've done in these first 4 games.
Go Blue!
~Bekki
My Pick 6 top plays from yesterday, in order:
1. Amara Darboh channeling his inner Odell Beckham Jr.
2. De'Veon Smith's amazing run
3. The double fake, then pass up the middle to Hill.
4. Peppers the screen destroyer
5. Ryan Glasgow getting off the block for a sack
6. Rudock throwing it away!!
This is the Michigan of old. A traditional run offense from the power I formation with a defense that plays hard and gives up nothing. I saw a stat this morning that made me giddy. 2nd in overall YPG allowed. 5th in pass YPG allowed. 10th in rush YPG allowed. 4th in points per game allowed. That is what a Michigan defense is supposed to do.
I realize this is only one game, but that sure was fun to sit back and watch a relaxing rout of a ranked team. To say, 'We're back', might be just a bit premature, but we certainly are on our way back. The offense it's finding it's rhythm. The defense in clicking on all cylinders. The special teams are so close to getting one blocked. And that coaching staff, I just can't say enough about the job they've done in these first 4 games.
Go Blue!
~Bekki
My Pick 6 top plays from yesterday, in order:
1. Amara Darboh channeling his inner Odell Beckham Jr.
2. De'Veon Smith's amazing run
3. The double fake, then pass up the middle to Hill.
4. Peppers the screen destroyer
5. Ryan Glasgow getting off the block for a sack
6. Rudock throwing it away!!
Thursday, September 10, 2015
Fog clearing
So, keep in mind that I started this blog on Saturday. Then I got "The Book" aka Endzone: The Rise, Fall, and Rebirth of Michigan Football, and have been consumed ever since. Forgive me. Or not. Nevertheless, here is my postgame analysis.
The fog, both proverbial and actual, has lifted. I can see clearly now that this year is going to be a process of growth. The past seven years were real. As much as I would like to forget them, pretend they never happened. They did. And they have left a lasting effect. It is going to take some time to rinse the Hoke off these players. They have been soft. They have been coddled. They have not been developed. But they will be.
That is where my hope lies on this Saturday morning while I watch College GameDay with my coffee in hand. I hope, no, I know, these players will get better. They will be coached. They will improve. They will not be coddled. They are not soft. All of these were evident if you watched closely Thursday night.
There were many positives to take away from the game, here are my Pick 6:
#1 Our quarterback never got sacked. Yes, there was pressure at times, but he never got sacked. I don't care to report, nor know, how many times Devin Gardner ended up on his back last year. This is progress.
#2 Given that the quarterback was never sacked, this gave Rudock time to progress through his reads and make plays. Yes there were some passes overthrown and some, 4 exactly, that shouldn't have been, but the pass protection was much improved. This is progress
#3 I like Jake Butt. Always have. Always will. And, who wouldn't love a tight end named Butt. It's storybook classic. The guy is just plain good and should have been used so much more in the past. I'm excited to see what the future hold for him. Being a regular target and a good one is going to pay off in the end. This is progress
#4 Jabrill Peppers is going to be a beast. On more than one occasion, he made great open field tackles while pushing his defender to the side. Simply because he was able to be on the field and do what he does best. Get after it. That's progress.
#6 The wide receivers. They were able to create space between them and their defender. And more than just breathing room. There was actual space there to make a move and make the catch. This is progress.
#5 In game and halftime adjustments. I've said to many people, "I don't expect to win every game, but I do expect we won't be out-coached." When things weren't working, changes were made. By the coaching staff and players. It was a thing of beauty. This too, is progress.
#6 Every play we had 11 guys on the field. Refer back to #1 when I say, I don't care to know how many times this didn't happen last year. This is just inexcusable. There is no reason to have that happen once, let alone, multiple times in one game. This is progress.
I'm excited for the season to come, there will be ups and downs, but for the first time in a long time, I'm confident I just watched the worst game they'll play all season. Time will tell, but I think I'm right.
Go Blue!
~ Bekki
The fog, both proverbial and actual, has lifted. I can see clearly now that this year is going to be a process of growth. The past seven years were real. As much as I would like to forget them, pretend they never happened. They did. And they have left a lasting effect. It is going to take some time to rinse the Hoke off these players. They have been soft. They have been coddled. They have not been developed. But they will be.
That is where my hope lies on this Saturday morning while I watch College GameDay with my coffee in hand. I hope, no, I know, these players will get better. They will be coached. They will improve. They will not be coddled. They are not soft. All of these were evident if you watched closely Thursday night.
There were many positives to take away from the game, here are my Pick 6:
#1 Our quarterback never got sacked. Yes, there was pressure at times, but he never got sacked. I don't care to report, nor know, how many times Devin Gardner ended up on his back last year. This is progress.
#2 Given that the quarterback was never sacked, this gave Rudock time to progress through his reads and make plays. Yes there were some passes overthrown and some, 4 exactly, that shouldn't have been, but the pass protection was much improved. This is progress
#3 I like Jake Butt. Always have. Always will. And, who wouldn't love a tight end named Butt. It's storybook classic. The guy is just plain good and should have been used so much more in the past. I'm excited to see what the future hold for him. Being a regular target and a good one is going to pay off in the end. This is progress
#4 Jabrill Peppers is going to be a beast. On more than one occasion, he made great open field tackles while pushing his defender to the side. Simply because he was able to be on the field and do what he does best. Get after it. That's progress.
#6 The wide receivers. They were able to create space between them and their defender. And more than just breathing room. There was actual space there to make a move and make the catch. This is progress.
#5 In game and halftime adjustments. I've said to many people, "I don't expect to win every game, but I do expect we won't be out-coached." When things weren't working, changes were made. By the coaching staff and players. It was a thing of beauty. This too, is progress.
#6 Every play we had 11 guys on the field. Refer back to #1 when I say, I don't care to know how many times this didn't happen last year. This is just inexcusable. There is no reason to have that happen once, let alone, multiple times in one game. This is progress.
I'm excited for the season to come, there will be ups and downs, but for the first time in a long time, I'm confident I just watched the worst game they'll play all season. Time will tell, but I think I'm right.
Go Blue!
~ Bekki
Wednesday, September 2, 2015
'Twas the Night Before Football
'Twas the night before football,
when all through my mind
Were visions of winged helmets
and cleats of all kinds.
The uniforms were hung
in lockers with care,
In hopes that the players
soon would be there.
The fans were nestled
all snug in their beds,
While visions of touchdowns
danced in their heads.
My hubby in his jersey
and I in my shirt,
had just settled in
for a long season of smirks.
When out on the field,
the band loudly played
"Hail to the Victors",
as the flags proudly waved.
Down to my seat,
in row 22,
High fives all around
and "It's great to see you!"
The sun on the turf
Had given great light
To the dawn of a new season
With new battles to fight.
When what to my tear filled
eyes should appear,
But a team on the field
In their maize n blue gear.
With a brand new coach
The "chosen one"
Who had earned the nickname
the "prodigal son."
More ferocious than wolverines,
his generals they came
as he whistled
and shouted
and called them by name.
Now Wheatley
Now Baxter
Now Durkin
Now Mattison
On Drevno
On Fisch
On Tolbert
An Jackson
From the top of the bleachers
To the top of the wall
Now go coach them
And teach them
How to play football.
With the crashing and hitting
I heard during the game,
I knew how thankful I was
That he finally came.
Back to his home
Where he wanted to be
to coach the maize and blue
Like Bo wanted him, you see.
All dressed in his khakis
with his whistle and pen
And that block M sweater
Purchased from the MDen.
He sprang to his spot
With the play card in hand
Ready to get started
on this promised land.
For this place is so special
to this man and to all
Who fall in love with Ann Arbor
And can't wait till the fall.
The Buckeyes and Spartans
were at the top of the list
to find our redemption
and show them the fist.
And with that I smiled
and watched them do battle
It was finally time
to sit back in the saddle.
For the last seven years
have been less than fun
But those years are gone
It's now time to stun.
To cross the nation
they made a Harbus
and on it said,
"Who's got it better'n us?"
As they took the field
ready to play
I heard him yell,
"I'm hear to stay!"
Happy football to you
and to all Go Blue!
~Bekki
when all through my mind
Were visions of winged helmets
and cleats of all kinds.
The uniforms were hung
in lockers with care,
In hopes that the players
soon would be there.
The fans were nestled
all snug in their beds,
While visions of touchdowns
danced in their heads.
My hubby in his jersey
and I in my shirt,
had just settled in
for a long season of smirks.
When out on the field,
the band loudly played
"Hail to the Victors",
as the flags proudly waved.
Down to my seat,
in row 22,
High fives all around
and "It's great to see you!"
The sun on the turf
Had given great light
To the dawn of a new season
With new battles to fight.
When what to my tear filled
eyes should appear,
But a team on the field
In their maize n blue gear.
With a brand new coach
The "chosen one"
Who had earned the nickname
the "prodigal son."
More ferocious than wolverines,
his generals they came
as he whistled
and shouted
and called them by name.
Now Wheatley
Now Baxter
Now Durkin
Now Mattison
On Drevno
On Fisch
On Tolbert
An Jackson
From the top of the bleachers
To the top of the wall
Now go coach them
And teach them
How to play football.
With the crashing and hitting
I heard during the game,
I knew how thankful I was
That he finally came.
Back to his home
Where he wanted to be
to coach the maize and blue
Like Bo wanted him, you see.
All dressed in his khakis
with his whistle and pen
And that block M sweater
Purchased from the MDen.
He sprang to his spot
With the play card in hand
Ready to get started
on this promised land.
For this place is so special
to this man and to all
Who fall in love with Ann Arbor
And can't wait till the fall.
The Buckeyes and Spartans
were at the top of the list
to find our redemption
and show them the fist.
And with that I smiled
and watched them do battle
It was finally time
to sit back in the saddle.
For the last seven years
have been less than fun
But those years are gone
It's now time to stun.
To cross the nation
they made a Harbus
and on it said,
"Who's got it better'n us?"
As they took the field
ready to play
I heard him yell,
"I'm hear to stay!"
Happy football to you
and to all Go Blue!
~Bekki
Saturday, April 25, 2015
The Harbaugh Way
Things in Ann Arbor surrounding the Michigan Football team have been quite interesting lately. I thought after the hiring of Jim Harbaugh on December 30, things would die down a bit until Spring Ball. I was wrong. Then I thought after Spring Ball it would cool off and we'd have the summer to wait before any big news would come out of Ann Arbor......wrong again.
I came up with a new word, one that I am certain will find it's way into Merriam-Webster's. It describes a feeling, a total sense of faith, belief, and loyalty. An unabashed confidence in what the future holds. And even a dash of arrogance. My new word is Harb-awe.
I've come to a realization that this man, our coach, is at the very least, a football genius. Let me support my claim from the beginning of the hiring process through the present. My Pick 6 points will be embedded in this blog.
When it was inevitable that Michigan was going to be in the market for a new football coach, Jim was number one on the list. Yet, he wanted to finish his current job before thinking about his next move. He knew he was out in San Francisco, but that didn't change his approach to coaching his current team. He wanted Brady Hoke to be treated fairly, with integrity, and humility. Point #1
Then, upon the signing of his contract and the negotiations of his pay, he said he didn't want to be the highest paid coach in football, an offer that was on the table. He wanted to take less pay, so that he would have more in the budget to hire the best coaching staff possible. He knew the existing staff wasn't meeting the expectations and he would have to revamp the entire staff. Point #2
He knew the most important position on a football team was also the most lacking in talent development. So, what does he do? He accepts an unprecedented 7 scholarship quarterbacks on his roster to increase the competition and development. Quarterbacks are his specialty. Point #3
It is no secret to anyone that breathes, that there is a heated, intense rivalry between Michigan and Ohio State. It is often very difficult to lure the top prospects out of Ohio because, like us, they've been raised to hate the opponent. So, Mr. Harbaugh finds a creative yet genius way to increase his chances of landing such recruits. He hires one of the top Ohio High School coaches, and former coach of the one and only Jabril Peppers, as part of his staff. This gets a foot in the door with a familiar, successful, friendly face. Point #4
Realizing that SEC and Pac 12 territory is another place in the nation that has top talent, yet is so hard to recruit, Mr. Jimmah Harbaugh takes another unprecedented approach to get to the kids and show them what Michigan is about. He sets up several satellite camps around the country, focusing on these areas, so he can recruit and advertise Michigan for the great university it is. Genius, I tell ya. Point #5
Point #5 obviously didn't please the one and only Mr. Nick Saban, calling them ridiculous and calling for the NCAA to put a stop to them. Mr. Harbaugh reaches out like only he can do. The king of trolling in the "most sacred" land for football. He invites 2 representatives from EVERY, yes EVERY football college or university in the country to come to his camps at Michigan. This move is multi-faceted. It let recruits know so many things about the way he coaches. He doesn't hide from competition. He loves football and everything about it. He wants athletes to learn from the best and do it the right way. And he can tell the recruits, "Look, I invited_______ to come to this camp, but he didn't want to. I'm here running this show. Who do you want to play for??" Point #6
Sure, he rubs some people the wrong way. He's at peace with it, and I am too. Michigan fans have one of their own at the helm and we take the good with the bad. But let's be honest, there isn't any bad. If you hate him, these moves make you hate him more. If you love him, you love him even more. Which is why I declare myself to be totally in Harb-awed with the man.
Cordially yours in football, (he came up with that one, too)
Bekki
~Go Blue!
I came up with a new word, one that I am certain will find it's way into Merriam-Webster's. It describes a feeling, a total sense of faith, belief, and loyalty. An unabashed confidence in what the future holds. And even a dash of arrogance. My new word is Harb-awe.
I've come to a realization that this man, our coach, is at the very least, a football genius. Let me support my claim from the beginning of the hiring process through the present. My Pick 6 points will be embedded in this blog.
When it was inevitable that Michigan was going to be in the market for a new football coach, Jim was number one on the list. Yet, he wanted to finish his current job before thinking about his next move. He knew he was out in San Francisco, but that didn't change his approach to coaching his current team. He wanted Brady Hoke to be treated fairly, with integrity, and humility. Point #1
Then, upon the signing of his contract and the negotiations of his pay, he said he didn't want to be the highest paid coach in football, an offer that was on the table. He wanted to take less pay, so that he would have more in the budget to hire the best coaching staff possible. He knew the existing staff wasn't meeting the expectations and he would have to revamp the entire staff. Point #2
He knew the most important position on a football team was also the most lacking in talent development. So, what does he do? He accepts an unprecedented 7 scholarship quarterbacks on his roster to increase the competition and development. Quarterbacks are his specialty. Point #3
It is no secret to anyone that breathes, that there is a heated, intense rivalry between Michigan and Ohio State. It is often very difficult to lure the top prospects out of Ohio because, like us, they've been raised to hate the opponent. So, Mr. Harbaugh finds a creative yet genius way to increase his chances of landing such recruits. He hires one of the top Ohio High School coaches, and former coach of the one and only Jabril Peppers, as part of his staff. This gets a foot in the door with a familiar, successful, friendly face. Point #4
Realizing that SEC and Pac 12 territory is another place in the nation that has top talent, yet is so hard to recruit, Mr. Jimmah Harbaugh takes another unprecedented approach to get to the kids and show them what Michigan is about. He sets up several satellite camps around the country, focusing on these areas, so he can recruit and advertise Michigan for the great university it is. Genius, I tell ya. Point #5
Point #5 obviously didn't please the one and only Mr. Nick Saban, calling them ridiculous and calling for the NCAA to put a stop to them. Mr. Harbaugh reaches out like only he can do. The king of trolling in the "most sacred" land for football. He invites 2 representatives from EVERY, yes EVERY football college or university in the country to come to his camps at Michigan. This move is multi-faceted. It let recruits know so many things about the way he coaches. He doesn't hide from competition. He loves football and everything about it. He wants athletes to learn from the best and do it the right way. And he can tell the recruits, "Look, I invited_______ to come to this camp, but he didn't want to. I'm here running this show. Who do you want to play for??" Point #6
Sure, he rubs some people the wrong way. He's at peace with it, and I am too. Michigan fans have one of their own at the helm and we take the good with the bad. But let's be honest, there isn't any bad. If you hate him, these moves make you hate him more. If you love him, you love him even more. Which is why I declare myself to be totally in Harb-awed with the man.
Cordially yours in football, (he came up with that one, too)
Bekki
~Go Blue!
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