Michigan at The Voice of College Football

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Welcome to Michigan at The Voice of College Football Network, your home for In-depth discussion, debate, & analysis on all things Michigan. We have you covered from offseason all the way to game day. Join Tj Konarske, John D'Adamo, and Jonny Olden Jr. as we embark on another season as Leaders & Best!Go Blue! For business inquiries please contact: Markrogerstv@gmail.com

  1. 11h ago

    Michigan Wolverines LIVE Special Edition Call-In Show

    Michigan Wolverines LIVE – Special Edition Call-In Show Host: Mark Rogers (Voice of College Football / Network founder) Presented by FanDuel | MichiganVOCFB channel Mark Rogers hosts a one-time special edition of Michigan Wolverines Live while regular hosts TJ and John are off (they return Tuesdays/Thursdays). He emphasizes he is not a pure Michigan insider but watches nearly every meaningful game, knows the history, and has reviewed the 2026 roster/schedule. National show airs Mon–Fri 9 p.m. ET. Opening & Framing (≈ 00:03–00:06) Hail to the Victors intro. Rogers explains the special format: hitting multiple team channels to talk with informed fans. Michigan is a blue-blood program and one of the first VOCFB channels. He watches 9–10 Michigan games most years (skips the 63–3 Western Michigan-type games). Media consensus leaning toward 9-3; he wants fan expectations and will share his own thoughts. Quick setup: personnel, Kyle Whittingham, schedule (Oklahoma in Week 2 is the early spotlight), then calls. Caller 1 – 10-2 Lean, Whittingham Respect, Rivalry Comments (≈ 00:06–00:15) Caller leans 10-2. Believes Michigan can take Indiana and Oklahoma among the big games if the defense clicks. Notes last year’s 9-3 came amid chaos; “adults in the room” under Whittingham (defense-oriented, accountable, fewer self-inflicted wounds) should help a still-young roster gel. Whittingham discussion: Pre-hire respect for what he did at Utah with less talent (“punching above weight class,” developing players, discipline). Michigan lacked a full national search after the Sherrone Moore situation; Whittingham was a strong realistic landing. Caller puts Whittingham’s Big Ten Media Days / rivalry comments in perspective: Whittingham lived the Utah-BYU rivalry for years and used similar “don’t forget the loss” tactics. He will get the full Ohio State experience in Columbus. Authenticity preferred over forced rah-rah. Rogers agrees on the authenticity angle: most new coaches immediately perform the school’s rituals. Whittingham refused to play a part, stayed real, and simply acknowledged the magnitude of the game without claiming lifelong hatred. Preferable approach would still have centered the game itself (“biggest game in college sports, hired to win it”) rather than the hate question. Caller pleads the fifth on Harbaugh vs. Lloyd Carr. Super Chat & Caller 2 – “West Squad” (Georgia) (≈ 00:16–00:31) Super chat jokes about Rogers going Buckeye-to-Wolverine; he declines. West Squad (former Michigan walk-on under Carr): Picks Harbaugh over Carr overall (and at Michigan). Harbaugh restored national relevance after the program wandered; Carr was excellent but Harbaugh’s body of work (Stanford turnaround, 49ers Super Bowl run, Chargers, Michigan) is superior. High on 2026 roster + Whittingham. Feels media underestimates based on last year; insiders see special potential. Properly ranked rather than underrated. Will not be upset with 9-3 in Year 1 but expects better given returning talent and stability. Underwood key: actual QB coach is a major upgrade. Flashes of elite throws last year need consistency and fewer mistakes. Moore era: excellent recruiter and former championship OC, but X’s-and-O’s / head-coaching load seemed to overwhelm. Still produced top-15 teams and beat Ohio State/Alabama in the bowl; personal issues clearly affected last season. Needs to rebuild credibility lower if he returns to coaching. Playoff path for a quality 9-3: close losses to elite teams (Indiana, Ohio State, Oregon) + wins over Oklahoma and Penn State would create a strong résumé. Avoid blowouts. Big Ten earned respect; non-conference results (especially Michigan-Oklahoma) matter for conference perception. Lives in Atlanta; discusses SEC top-to-bottom strength vs. Big Ten top-heaviness and how non-conference wins (or lack thereof) decided last year’s playoff picture. Continued Whittingham Authenticity & Program Context (≈ 00:31–00:38) Rogers expands: Whittingham is comfortable in his skin, has already proven himself, and understands Michigan will define his coaching legacy (Utah becomes a footnote relative to this job). Hall-of-Fame bar is relatively low; this is the chance to cement greatness. Authenticity over performative hate is refreshing. Caller 3 – Bruce: NIL/Portal Reality, Final Four, Indiana (≈ 00:38–01:00) Lengthy discussion on the transfer portal and NIL: Original NIL vision (local sponsorships) has become billionaire-driven roster spending. Whittingham publicly noted $40–50M roster needs; sustainability concerns. Agents taking 20–30% cuts, constant roster turnover, loss of long-term program identity (“players die as Wolverines” mentality gone). Players are acting rationally under the rules that exist; previous generations likely would have transferred for money too. Loyalty was more cultural then, but opportunity drives behavior. Preference for multi-year contracts that lock players for a set period (or claw back NIL money on early departure) to reduce chaos and protect postseason rosters. Saban’s departure partly attributed to the daily grind of the new environment. Predictions: Bruce’s current Final Four: Notre Dame, Miami, Ohio State, Oregon. Rogers pushes back mildly on Indiana being written off; they retained key defensive pieces (Kellen Wyatt, Stephen Daly), added Nick Marsh, and Hoover should clean up turnovers under Cignetti. Still a real contender. Schedule & Personnel Breakdown (≈ 01:00–01:22) Rogers runs the slate with context: Week 1: Western Michigan (home). Week 2: Oklahoma (home) — biggest early non-conference game in the Big Ten and potentially the most important single game for Michigan’s résumé. Oklahoma defense is elite (Stone, Wine, Bowen brothers, Heineke, Sullivan, etc.). Mateer’s post-injury form is the variable. Underwood vs. Venables is the central matchup. Expect a physical, competitive game rather than domination either way. Home field helps Michigan. Iowa (home) — do not look past them; classic low-scoring, physical contest (projected ~20-10 range). Iowa’s QB situation remains unsettled. Minnesota (road) — talented pieces; must handle business. Penn State (home) — Campbell/Rocco Becht; Campbell drew an easy overall schedule. Indiana (home, late October) — high-stakes Big Ten matchup. Rutgers, Michigan State (Pat Fitzgerald Year 1), Oregon (road — difficult but winnable), UCLA, Ohio State (road). Personnel notes: Bryce Underwood: true freshman growing pains last year (≈60% completion). Needs better decision-making, coverage reads, and consistency. Actual QB coaching + program stability should help. Do not write him off. Andrew Marsh: best Michigan WR Rogers has seen emerge as a true freshman in a long time. Can jump from ~45 catches/4 TDs to 70 catches/9–10 TDs range if the offense opens up; draws attention that helps others. Jordan Marshall: physical, wear-you-down runner who impressed vs. Alabama’s loaded defense in the bowl and continued it last year. Sabian Heider: high-upside back; slight injury reported in chat. Utah transfers: Smith Snowden (hybrid DB/LB), John Henry Daly (pass rusher) — no longer on snap count as of Monday (per Whittingham). Backup QB situation (Tommy Carr looked solid in spring) remains a depth concern for any contender. Big Ten QB talent is deep this year (Underwood, Williams, Sayin, Moore, Washington, Maiava, etc.). League overall is as strong as Rogers can remember. Closing (≈ 01:22–end) Thanks callers and chat. Promotes VOCFB merch (vocfb.com — quality tees, hats, glassware, etc.). Teases upcoming segments with Isaiah Hole (Wolverines Wire / Locked On) and Steve Deace. Encourages national channel (Mon–Fri 9 p.m. ET). Good luck, Go Blue. Overall tone: Optimistic but realistic. 9-3 is the media floor and acceptable Year-1 floor; 10-2 (or better) is realistic if Underwood takes a step and the defense holds form. Oklahoma is the pivotal early résumé game. Whittingham’s authenticity and defensive foundation are viewed positively across callers. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  2. 12h ago

    HOLD!!!!!! - Michigan Wolverines Call-in Show LIVE 101

    MichiganVOCFB Live 101: HOLD!!!!!! Call-in Show Hosts: TJ Ronin & Johnny Olden Jr. Open-topic / debate format with callers and Super Chats. ~16 days until Week 1. Intro & Setup (00:01:31) TJ and Johnny open hyped for real football (two weeks away). Shoutout to Austin. Open-topic show: camp talk, Jay Hill’s press conference, and debate. TJ immediately flags the corporate partnerships as the night’s main topic. Corporate Partnerships / Jersey Patches Debate (00:02:32 – ~00:22) Michigan’s deals with Meijer, Google Gemini, and Coca-Cola: stadium signage (walls, exterior, possibly scoreboard) plus “exploring” jersey patches. TJ is strongly against jersey sponsorships. Initial deal framed as signage; TJ calls “jersey patches” PR fluff and wants honesty (“just say jersey sponsorship”). Financials not disclosed. TJ estimates $18-20 million range for patches. TJ’s counter-proposal (that drew heat): instead of selling jerseys, cut non-revenue sports. Michigan spends over $53 million on them. He is “fairly almost serious.” Core argument: this is the beginning of a slippery slope, not the end. Next logical steps in the arms race: Conference shrinkage (Big Ten from 18 toward 14 or 12 biggest brands to concentrate TV money). Cutting or capping non-revenue sports (Notre Dame already limiting 17 sports and scholarships). Donor fatigue + need for competitive edge will force it. More money in the system just inflates player prices (QBs already 3-4 million and climbing; everyone doing sponsorships means no real advantage). Revenue-share example: Michigan already near cap and directed most of its share to football; extra cash just raises the “price of the brick.” How to fight it: unify like they did on NCAA CFB microtransactions and the Texas Tech/Sorsby situation. Vote with your dollar—stop spending, skip games/merch. TJ acknowledges fans probably won’t do it (“you guys are fanatics”). Johnny’s view: it doesn’t bother him as long as they’re winning. Money is needed to support other sports and keep up. It’s a business. He calls TJ “shoveling sand against the beach.” TJ: accepting this now means fans lose the right to complain later when conferences shrink or sports get cut. “You did it because you sat down.” Super League / top-40 vs. the rest is already forming. 24-team playoff would accelerate it. Callers and chat push back on scholarships for lower-income athletes in Olympic sports. TJ: they can go elsewhere; this is about the long-term direction of the sport. Jay Hill Press Conference (00:22:13) TJ liked the detail. Hill misspoke on base alignment (said three D-linemen / three LBs / four DBs, then referenced 4-3). Discussion: most defenses have a 3-4 or 4-3 base to stop the run, then nickel (4-2-5) by opponent. Expect versatility and opponent-specific packages. 100% of the defense is already installed; they’re now doing specific opponent installs. Camp / Roster Notes & Team Outlook Growing confidence in the team the closer it gets to the season. Ceiling is Bryce Underwood. Zach Smith (on his show) praised Bryce’s fundamentals and said if he lives up to potential Michigan could win 10+ and make the playoff. Offense: scheme tailor-made for Bryce, better receivers, another stud RB (Savion Hyder mentioned later). Defense: consistency emerging. Names flashing: Dominic Nichols, Marshall, Bobby Kanka, Jonah Lea, Benny Patterson (staff happy with him). Nathaniel Staling at LB generating buzz; he was hurt, entered portal briefly, returned, and is now ~240 and in best shape. O-line (current look, two weeks out from Week 1 they want the five set): Blake Frazier LT, Evan Link LG, Jake Renner C, Nathan Afobee RG, Sprague RT. Babalowa as rhino. Need depth (8+ linemen). Staff still getting to know the roster (only spring + limited camp time). Other Topics NFL returnees / 5th-year rule: Guys cut from camps wanting to come back to college. Mixed feelings. TJ would allow it if they have eligibility (basketball/hockey models cited). Michigan hockey has many high-round drafted players. Playoff expansion: 12-team didn’t kill regular-season meaning (home-field still matters). 24-team would. Rivalries die because stars sit out “meaningless” games. College football is the last sport with real rivalries. Dusty May: Left in part because of the portal/NIL chaos (can’t keep kids when they get flipped days after signing). Week 1 Western Michigan: MAC favorite, physical QB (Brock Laurie). Could be a tougher opener than expected. Michigan will run a vanilla playbook. Need a statement (42-10 or similar) to feel good heading into Oklahoma. If they look sloppy, Oklahoma week gets scarier. Oklahoma notes: Center out 4-6 weeks. Cole Sullivan (ex-Michigan) rumored not starting. Guard possibly held out of their opener. Ryan Day / Senior Day: Day moving Senior Day, blaming it for past home losses to Michigan. Callers roast it as weakness/fear of Kyle Whittingham or just typical Day deflection. Notre Dame: Soft schedule criticism. Brand power lets them get away with it. Misc: Face of CFB? Arch if he plays well, or Trinidad. Derek Moore thriving with Lions in a versatile “weapon” role (Amoeba-style). Nathan Washington listed lighter this year. Weight-gain talk for lean players (calorie surplus, eat every 2-3 hours, gainer shakes). Callers & Super Chats (highlights) Austin, AD, Timothy (“Big Tim”), B-Dub, Steve, Elijah Bowman, others. Super Chats on 11-1 predictions, Sugar Hill as top-3 CB, O-line decisions, Notre Dame hate, Oklahoma injuries, etc. Timothy: Oklahoma practice reports (backup center issues, offense looking 2024-bad after injury). Ryan Day Senior Day comments. Alex Orji career passing yards joke (~155 in 11 games). B-Dub: Nathaniel Staling interview praise; weight discussion. Final thoughts: Johnny more confident than earlier in camp. Team “might actually be pretty good.” Bryce’s step will make everyone nervous. TJ: two weeks away, enjoy it. Back Tuesday. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  3. 3d ago

    BREAKING: NEW PREZ / Michigan Wolverines LIVE 263

    Michigan Wolverines Live Ep. 263 — Episode Notes Hosts: John D’Adamo & TJ Ronan Presented by FanDuel | MichiganVOCFB Episode Overview The show opens with the announcement of Dr. Sabelle Raver (Vanderbilt provost) as Michigan’s 17th president and second female president. Hosts discuss her academic/fundraising pedigree, the upcoming AD search, and what it could mean for athletics. They then recap newly named 2026 captains, dive into fall camp position battles (especially the third WR), share recruiting crystal balls, roast Ohio State’s decision to move senior day, and take super chats. Tone is optimistic but wait-and-see on the new president and several roster questions. Timestamped Segments 00:01:42 – 00:06:30 | Intro, Sponsors & Banter Go Blue intro. Episode 263. Promos: FanDuel (preseason Texans-Raiders, 49ers-Chargers), Freedom Services EPC, sponsorship pitches. Super chat reminder. Regulars in chat (GOATS, Detroit Wolverine, Nero, Nick, Ripstar). 00:06:37 – 00:23:00 | Breaking: New President Dr. Sabelle Raver Vanderbilt provost named 17th UM president (starts Dec. 1, pending approval). Second female president after Mary Sue Coleman. TJ: Not on his personal shortlist; academic background is the priority at Michigan. Biggest question for fans is her investment in sports. Notes Vanderbilt baseball success and recent football improvement under Clark Lea (10-3 last year with Tim Beck as OC). John: Strong academic/research fit (Vanderbilt research spending past $1B, new College of Connected Computing, eight new deans). Mary Sue Coleman revitalized campus buildings via fundraising. Raver recently poached Michigan Medicine CEO David Miller to Vanderbilt — shows recruiting ability. Immediate to-do list: new AD, new Michigan Medicine CEO, general counsel, CFO. Special Board of Regents session Sept. 1 at 11 a.m. ET. Consensus: Jury is out on athletics. Unlike Santa Ono (fan) or previous presidents with zero interest, they don’t yet know if she’s pro-sports. AD hire will drive NIL and football implications. Names likely leak late September/October. Fun/joking: Urban Meyer as AD would explode Buckeye brains (they immediately shut it down as impossible). Buckeye record debate (last 50 years nearly even). 00:23:09 – 00:28:00 | 2026 Captains & Leadership Council Captains: Bryce Underwood (first sophomore captain ever), Trey Pierce, Jordan Marshall, Rod Moore. Rod Moore is the first three-time captain since Horace Greeley Prettyman (1884-86). Both hosts love the picks. Underwood has to lead this team; Moore is a 2023 holdover who deserves it; Marshall has the old-school mentality. Leadership council (Whittingham brought from Utah): Nico Andrew, Zeke Berry, Troy Bowles, Cam Brandt, JJ Buchanan, JHD (John Henry Daly), Etta Blake Frazier, Jake Garnera, Jair Hill, Andrew Marsh, Andrew Sprague. Diverse mix of positions and experience. 00:28:00 – ~01:19:00 | Fall Camp Deep Dive WR room / third receiver battle (longest segment): Micah Simon named Travis Johnson and Celeste Simoa first in his comments, then Jamie French, Channing Goodwin, Kendrick Bell. Hosts treat the order as meaningful. TJ: This is the most talented WR room since the mid-2000s/2017. Predicted starting trio: JJ Buchanan (X), Travis Johnson (Z), Andrew Marsh (Y). Simoa rotates in as the fourth. French still in the top five but getting less hype. Goodwin and Bell will see snaps/special teams but aren’t in the core. Travis Johnson has been making noise since spring through the scrimmage. Hosts have been high on him since his high-school film. Super chat concern (Sharon Lee): Is Johnson passing French a bad sign? Answer: No — Johnson and Simoa simply offer more (Johnson’s “go get the ball” ability). Installs are on schedule offensively and defensively. OL: Chemistry will be everything. Ideal alignment discussed: Babalola LT, Blake Frazier RT, Sprague RG, Evan Link moving inside to guard (hosts have wanted this for two years). Afobe/Norton competing at the other guard. Scheme (motion, play-action, quick game, moving the pocket) is OL-friendly. DL: Etta (3-tech) and Trey Pierce (0-tech/nose) starting. Jonah Leia backup 3-tech, David Poly-Poly backup NT. Bobby Kanka getting mentioned. Hosts want more production/visibility from interior after the Grant/Graham drop-off. More excited about edges, especially a healthy John Henry Daly. Ceiling talk: Honest 10-2 + playoffs + beat Ohio State. Natty is a long-shot that requires elite OL, strong DL, and Underwood taking a big leap. 01:30:47 – 01:42:00 | Recruiting Notes Steve Wiltfong dropped 60% crystal balls on three 2028 targets: OT Matteo Fano (Utah legacy, brother Spencer a first-rounder), edge Asa Birch (legacy), edge Major Stokes (Utah, 6-5, 237, “must-get” film). Hosts view Fano and Birch as near-locks; Stokes as the high-upside priority. Utah/Nevada pipeline now belongs to Michigan. 2028 class already has the No. 1 kicker (Ryan Young, Georgia). 2027 class still adding. National recruiting footprint (Texas, California, Illinois, Mississippi, etc.) is a first-year win even if they didn’t fully clean up the state of Michigan. 01:42:46 – 01:50:00 | Ohio State Senior Day Ryan Day and Ross Bjork moved senior day to Week 1 vs. Ball State to “eliminate distractions.” Even some Ohio State media (ScarletandGame, Zach Smith) called it soft/scared. Hosts pile on: Week 1 is pointless; they should have kept it for the Michigan game or at least used Northwestern/Maryland. Classic Buckeye fragility. Record talk: A Michigan win this year would make the last 50 years 24-24-1. 01:50:00 – End | Super Chats, Promos & Close Super chats: Rod Moore comeback year, DL questions (Poly-Poly, etc.), Bryce TD projections (hosts say 18-20 passing, not 25), King of the Hill joke about Whittingham leaving Utah. Thursday call-in show (TJ + Johnny) back at 8 p.m. Plug Mark Rogers live show on the main channel. Subscribe, like, share, members list. Sign-off: Go Blue and f**k Ohio. Notable Quotes TJ on the president: “Does she love football? Does she hate Ohio State? That’s all I need to know.” On captains: “Bryce is the first sophomore captain ever… Rod Moore is the first three-time since 1884.” On WR room: “This is the most talented wide receiver room this century.” On OSU senior day: “The lack of cojones… it’s a scared move.” On ceiling: “My real honest ceiling for this team is 10-2, playoffs, beating Ohio State.” Key Takeaways for Coverage President hire is academically strong but athletics impact is unknown until the AD search. Leadership group (captains + council) is well-received and Whittingham-influenced. Freshman WRs (Johnson, Simoa) are the camp story; room has real depth. Recruiting pipelines (especially Utah) are already paying off in 2028. Program is in “wait-and-see but optimistic” mode 18 days from kickoff. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  4. Aug 14

    Fall Camp SZN ! - Michigan Wolverines Call-in Show LIVE 100

    Fall Camp SZN – Michigan Wolverines Call-in Show LIVE 100 Hosts: TJ Ronin & Johnny Olden Jr. (MichiganVOCFB) Special guests/callers: Juju, Maniac, AD, Timothy, West Quad, and others Show length: ~1 hour (early special edition as football season approaches) Opening & Context (0:01–0:03) TJ opens the early special edition Wolverines Call-in Show with Johnny Olden. Fall camp news and interviews are stacking up. Show limited to one hour because “football season’s here.” Call-in link going in chat. Shoutouts to regulars (Maniac, Jay, Daniel, Wes Quad, Jackson Johnson/Goats and Shoes, etc.). Early Fall Camp Reads – Buy vs. Sell (0:03–0:09) Johnny’s take: Buying some receiver hype (Buchanan should be solid; young guys like Travis Johnson could spark). Not expecting Bryce Underwood to throw for 4,000 yards, but the receiving corps looks improved. Still worried about John Henry Daly and especially Rod Moore. Both need to be close to pre-injury form for Michigan to hit ceiling goals. Secondary as a whole is fine, but Moore’s play at safety is critical. Linebackers and the rest of the D-line remain concerns—talent is there but limited proven production. Pushback on the idea that the D-line is already a strength. Savion Hyder hype (0:04–0:07) TJ has been comparing Hyder to Adrian Peterson all offseason and tags Johnny every time the comparison comes up. Plays a practice clip that looks extremely AP-like (burst, power, natural movement). Zach (former Ohio State receiver coach on Menace to Sports) called the play “freaky” and not something you see every day. Juju: Talent-wise Hyder is RB1 and it’s not close. Jordan Marshall is a good college back, but Hyder has NFL traits right now (size, movement, no clear weakness). Needs to put it on the field, but the spring film and this camp buzz are real. Compares the reaction to how people responded to Babalola. Defensive Line Discussion (0:09–0:18) TJ notes the Big Ten camp tour and media keep calling the unit “strong” and “looking like a Michigan D-line,” but individual names are not consistently rising. He’s waiting for a Buchanan/Grenier-type name to emerge. Shamari Earls – TJ is now fully buying the corner group (all four being named regularly). Changed stance from earlier hesitation. Dominic Nichols – Big focus. Juju has been high for weeks; Bryce Underwood has confirmed the hype. Nichols dropped ~10 lbs (now 6’5”, 245), looks leaner, stronger, and has added pass-rush moves. Consensus top-three edge group: Brandt, Dom Nichols, and John Henry Daly (when healthy). Tariq Boney getting the most freshman D-line buzz, but bridge-program freshmen (Carter, Boney, etc.) only practice limited weeks in camp, so contributions may be limited early. Nate Marshall rarely mentioned. Frame concerns after weight gain; may end up more of a situational/pass-rush piece. Maniac: Won’t buy hype until Week 1, but team is extremely talented. Front six lacks experience; back five is experienced and good. Needs depth for extended playoffs. High on Nichols last year already. Rod Moore is the “quarterback of the defense” when healthy. Bracey looking good. Specialists (0:18–0:19) Kicker: Tim Bukowski (ex-Pitt) – accurate but zero career kicks beyond 50. Punter: Cam Brown (ex-UNLV) – solid net average, consistent (unlike previous issues with Hollenbeck). Injury & Availability Concerns (0:19–0:24) Daly and Rod Moore still on pitch counts / ramping up. Johnny more concerned about Daly; others (including Maniac/Juju lean) more concerned about Moore. Rod Moore has been consistently honest in pressers about his recovery and “trusting his legs.” Daly said he’s 100% but added caveats about working to be his best by Week 1—panel reads that as still getting football legs under him. Some expect limited snaps early (possibly not full go vs. Oklahoma). Coaching Staff & Culture (0:24–0:27) Strong optimism about the new staff’s honesty (shape issues, Bryce’s mechanics, linebacker progress, secondary depth). Contrast with previous Utah feedback. Veteran coaches at every key position (D-line, O-line, OC, DC, HC) seen as a major upgrade and difference-maker. Depth is being built intentionally for playoff football. Bryce Underwood Development (0:27–0:35) Jason Beck and the camp tour emphasize basic footwork and fundamentals—year-one foundational work. Staff is reworking bad habits. Mechanics look cleaner in recent clips. TJ critical of previous staff for lack of QB coaching support last year. Optimism remains high: arm talent + improved footwork + decision-making growth = major step. Expected to run more in this offense (pull the ball when available), but panel wants smart running (get out of bounds/slide when needed). Whittingham giving Bryce an A+ through six practices is taken seriously—not as “he’s already elite,” but as strong early progress and buy-in. Consensus: Fix the simple things and this offense becomes significantly better. Decision-making and timing (especially on easy throws) still need work. The Rivalry Comments Controversy (0:35–0:51) Topic: How Whittingham and Underwood have spoken about the Ohio State rivalry. Maniac: Gives Whittingham grace (Cali/BYU background—has to live and breathe it). Harder on Bryce (Detroit kid who has already played in the game). “Same players, different uniforms” felt too nonchalant. Wants more acknowledgement of what the rivalry means without false bravado. AD: Whittingham not expected to bring heat. Bryce overcorrected on media training (last year too hot, this year too cold). Only cares about on-field performance. Johnny: Whittingham needs to understand this is the biggest rivalry and fans are not playing. Bryce knows better—don’t disrespect it. Simple formula: respect them, but that late-November game is circled. Juju: Public comments matter less than preparation and results. Fans can circle the date; players need to win. Notes that 12-team playoff slightly changed the stakes but the game still carries huge weight (and did last year for playoff positioning). Goldilocks media approach—neither too hot nor too cold. Group consensus: If they win, the comments disappear. If they lose, the quotes will be weaponized. Preferred public framing: “We respect them, but we understand the mission and that game is circled.” Side discussion on Michigan State hate being “real hate” vs. the respected rivalry with Ohio State. Strong disdain for Spartan fan base/media talking points. Closing Segments & Final Thoughts (0:51–end) Timothy asks which coach (outside Ryan Day) they most want to beat badly: Dan Lanning (timeout late in the Big House game) edges out others; some also want Sig / Oregon payback. Concern that an early loss (e.g., Oklahoma) will fuel Oregon/Ohio State narratives of “automatic win.” Panel believes the team will be physically and mentally tough and competitive in every game. Oregon on the road is the one that could get away if things go south. West Quad wants to hear about linebackers thumping and physicality in the first scrimmage. Johnny: Wants physical, fundamentally sound defense (last year was unacceptable on those fronts). Excited about the running game and Bryce’s next step. Juju: Optimistic about the staff’s truthfulness; reality on hype is usually somewhere in the middle. Closing energy: Football is here. F**k Ohio. Shoutouts to Super Chats, memberships, and the returning community. Jared Goff / Lions preseason banter mixed in throughout. Overall tone of the episode: Measured optimism mixed with healthy skepticism. Strong buy-in on the coaching staff’s honesty and culture shift, clear excitement around Hyder and the edge group (especially Nichols), continued caution on injuries (Daly/Moore) and unproven depth on the front seven, and classic Michigan rivalry passion around how the Ohio State game is being framed. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  5. Aug 12

    Fall Camp & Depth Chart PREDICTIONS? / Michigan Wolverines LIVE 262

    Michigan Wolverines LIVE 262 – Fall Camp & Depth Chart Predictions Hosts: John D’Adamo & TJ Ronin | MichiganVOCFB Focus: Fall Camp updates + starting roster/depth chart projections (early camp) Housekeeping / Show Open 00:01:41 – “Fall Camp Palooza” – back with new thumbnail. Sponsored by FanDuel. Call-in show Thursday moved to 6 p.m. ET (Lions preseason conflict at 7). Johnny Olden doesn’t know yet. Ready for real football; offseason chatter (rivalry comments, etc.) has worn thin. ~4 weeks until season. Ernest Hausman / 5-for-5 Talk 00:12:46 – Super chat from Ryan Hall on Hausman (linebacker) possibly returning. Hosts heard the rumor ~1 week earlier but were told to lay low. Ballast report (Sunday) and Bryce update (today – source said it was news to him) discussed. TJ: Plausible someone in the program (or periphery) kicked the tires after the 5-for-5 eligibility news, especially given Michigan’s known interest in clarity on the rule. Not everyone on staff necessarily knows every contact. Not serious enough yet for widespread knowledge among coaches/players. Still time before season. Monitor. On-field upside if it happened: Rod Moore + Hausman + John Henry Daly would be strong. Some fans still sour on how he left as a captain. Linebacker room already showing better play than expected (more on that below) – possible reason for pause on external additions. Overall Camp Vibe / Offense Philosophy 00:21:52 onward – Fall camp underway. Rejuvenated feel post-Sherrone Moore era. Kyle Whittingham (recent comments this week + day one): This will be a run-heavy / run-first team. Expect heavy run early (especially first couple games) while the OL sorts itself and the pass game continues developing. Jason Beck has complimented the run game. Projection: 65/35 or even 70/30 run/pass until OL consistency arrives. Three-headed backfield helps. Passing attack has shown some movement, but routes need time to develop amid OL shuffling and DL pressure in practice. Wide Receivers JJ Buchanan – Called “automatic.” Going up and getting the ball is a natural trait Marsh doesn’t fully share. Some talk he might currently be the best receiver in the room (not a slight on Andrew Marsh). Both are high-end. Will help free Marsh. Travis Johnson (true freshman, 6-2, ~195) – Impressing early, can go get it. Film was elite in recruiting. Hosts called him early as a potential elevator of the offense. Currently projected ahead of Celestino Moa by some (51-49 lean TJ’s way), though Moa is the more natural slot and media still has him high. Room is deep: Moa, French, etc. also pushing. Versatility will be a theme – ability to move guys around makes the offense harder to read. Offensive Line Left tackle three-way (elevated from two-way): Andrew Babalola (“Babs”), Blake Frazier, Evan Link. Link has taken snaps; publicly in the mix. Hosts do not expect Link to win it. Babs is TJ’s guy; overall lean is two-man battle between Babalola and Frazier. Center: Jake Granera – “old reliable,” lock, the constant. Right tackle: Andrew Sprague – very likely starter (and TJ essentially locks it in early). Potential mid-season moves inside still possible. Guards: Left – Evan Link / Nathan Fobi battle. Right – Brady Norton / Nathan Fobi. Frazier has not been trained inside yet (Whittingham public comment). Can change quickly. Early locks (hosts): Granera (C) + Sprague (RT). Musical chairs possible first 3–4 weeks (classic Harbaugh/Moore pattern) to find best five. Savion Hyder – Continues to look impressive (no surprise). Quarterback / Tight End / Fullback Bryce Underwood – Improvement noted (decision-making, trusting the pocket). Degree unknown (no eyes on practice). Working with Jordan Palmer + private coaches + now Jason Beck / Coy Detmer Jr. Feels like a “restart” of his freshman year with a real system, real OL coaching, and better weapons. Hosts emphasize how much better the setup is vs. last year. Tight end: Zach Marshall (“Zach the Mac”) getting almost all the press/attention. Appears locked as starter. Hogan Hansen quiet. Two-TE sets will still exist; split TBD (60/40?). Fullback: Jalen Hoffman mentioned; Eli Owens interesting. Defense (Camp Standouts + Projections) Edge: John Henry Daly (standout flashes) + Cam Brandt (high-floor, senior). TJ prefers Daly + Dominic Nichols or ideally Daly + Nate Marshall (pass-rush impact). Brandt would have been a lock under Harbaugh. Split possible (Brandt early downs / Marshall pass-rush). DT: Currently leaning Pierce + Enoetta, but not locked deep into the year. Jonah Lea (Utah transfer) fits 3-tech rush role and should get snaps. Alistair Vallejo (“Mason Graham” nickname from high school film similarities) is a 2027 problem / future starter – needs a year (though Mason Graham played early). Staff has never had this much talent; they know how to use it. Linebackers (big camp story): Nathaniel Staling and Chase Taylor have earned starting spots. Staling especially – TJ was a non-believer, now fully converted by the volume/consistency of positive buzz from credible sources. Troy Bowles as the third (4-3). Experience matters in the new scheme. Room better than expected – one reason Hausman interest may have cooled. Corner: Jair (sturdy CB1 outside). Smith-Snowden / Zeke Berry rotating at CB2/nickel. Versatility theme again – hard for offenses to get a read. Safety: Rod Moore (SS) + Chris Bracey (FS). Mason Curtis third. Taylor Tatum off the chart (RIP). Special Teams Kicker: Trey Bukowski (Pitt transfer, arrived with long-snapper Nico Crawford). Very accurate under 50 (5/5 from 20-29, 9/9 from 30-39, 6/9 from 40-49). No kicks beyond 50 in the data shown – distance is the question mark. Punter: Cam Brown (not Hollenbeck). More consistent profile; average was solid (~43.8). Field position matters in the Big Ten – hosts excited about the change. Hollenbeck still gets a Michigan degree. Returns: Debate. TJ wants Celestino Moa (and accepts Hyder). John leans Moa in the mix + Smith-Snowden + occasional Marsh (especially big moments / punt). Preference is not to risk Marsh on both kick and punt returns given his receiving role. Multiple speedy options now exist. Travis Johnson has hit 22 mph (same as Haynes/Hyder top gear – acceleration is the differentiator). Starting Roster Predictions (Hosts’ Early Camp Call) They took a viewer request and projected starters while it’s still early (will revisit). Offense highlights: LT: Babalola or Frazier (lean Babalola for TJ) LG: Fobi lean C: Granera (lock) RG: Norton lean (or Fobi) RT: Sprague (lock) TE: Zach Marshall WR: Buchanan + Marsh as the clear top two; Travis Johnson pushing hard for the third/rotation RB: Three-headed (details not fully locked in the notes section) FB: Hoffman Defense highlights: Edge: Daly + Brandt (or Nichols/Marshall) DT: Pierce + Enoetta (Lea rising) LB: Staling + Taylor (+ Bowles) CB: Jair + rotating Smith-Snowden/Berry S: Rod Moore + Chris Bracey ST: Bukowski (K), Cam Brown (P) Closing Notes / Other Coaching staff (Whittingham group) has never had this level of talent – they’re still evaluating. Track record of doing more with less creates optimism. Developers. Preseason NFL talk (Kyler Murray named Vikings starter over JJ McCarthy early) – hosts find the timing odd / potentially premeditated. Prefer they at least let them battle in one real preseason game. McCarthy still determines his own destiny. Next: Call-in Thursday 6 p.m., possible Mark Rogers guest call-in, regular Tuesday show + post-game Saturdays. Go Blue. Football is almost here. Key Themes for Notes/Clips: Run-first identity under Whittingham/Beck early. WR room depth and “go-get-it” traits (Buchanan/Johnson). OL still sorting (Granera/Sprague locks, LT/guards open). LB room surprise positive (Staling conversion story). Versatility on both sides of the ball. Special teams upgrades (consistent punter + accurate kicker under 50). Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  6. Aug 7

    Football IS BACK! - Michigan Wolverines Call-in Show LIVE 99

    Football IS BACK! – Michigan Wolverines Call-in Show LIVE 99 Hosts: TJ Ronin & Johnny Olden Jr. | MichiganVOCFB Intro & Vibe (0:01–4:00) Football is officially back. Hall of Fame Game is on. Hosts discuss the seasonal shift into fall — changing leaves, crisp air, cider — and how it makes them homesick for Michigan (the state and the football program). Approaching episode 100 next week; potential special plans. Shoutouts to regulars (B-Dub, Michigander, West Quad, Jackson Johnson, etc.). Show format: ~1 hour call-in focused on ball. Super chats put comments on screen. Season kickoff will push longer episodes. Early Fall Camp Nuggets (4:00–11:30) Roughly two days into camp; more public transparency/talk from the new staff than typical. Running game: Looking strong. Savion Hyder performing as advertised. Offensive line: Still sorting the best five. Center Jake Granera is essentially locked. Andrew Sprague currently at right tackle (“his job to lose” per staff comments). Andrew Babalowa likely left tackle. Blake Frazier in the mix (has not played inside much); possible scenario of Frazier at RT and Sprague sliding inside. Evan Link and Brady Norton currently working at guard. Jim Harding emphasis: best five will play; still evaluating. Johnny notes practice ≠ games; Saturday players and mental toughness will decide the final group. Defense: Early positive notes on the D-line. Secondary already making plays (Rod Moore interception in the limited highlight package). Front-seven depth (especially linebacker and D-line) remains a concern for the hosts. Freshman D-linemen: Kyle Whittingham said Alistair Vallejo, Titan Davis, Tariq Boney, and Carter Meadows will see the field and be in the rotation this year (high praise day one). Channel has tracked this class since the huddle tapes/commitments. Pads discussion (full pads/shields timeline still a bit unclear early). Hosts frustrated with only ~25 seconds of official camp highlights released. Caller: B-Dub (11:30–23:00-ish) Hyped for football and playing EA College Football (recruiting in ’27 is next-level with NIL depth; trying to play “legit” without heavy attribute editing). Roasts Michigan State recruiting (currently near bottom of Big Ten composite; only two four-stars, many players ranked 1,000+ or unranked; compares unfavorably even to MAC programs). Pat Fitzgerald hire discussion — good coach but recruiting and resources lag. Broader point: Program culture/resources matter more than coach name alone in the current landscape. Travis Johnson buzz as potential WR3 (height, speed ~22 mph, hands, routes). Rotation of hype from Jamie French (pre-spring) → Celeste Moa (post-spring) → now Johnson shows depth of competition at the position. Strength-and-conditioning revitalization and overall physical looks drawing positive comments. Excitement for the offense (fits personnel better) alongside the defense. Caller: AD (23:00–32:30) Strength coach impact and overall revitalization of the program. More excited for the offense relative to recent years (rare for him). Compares to earlier eras (Shea Patterson year, etc.). Strong Shea Patterson skeptic historically. Buying the hype: offseason S&C, physical development photos, Travis Johnson buzz, Rod Moore/John Henry Daly, scheme fit for the roster, Jay Hill’s comment that this is the most talented team he’s coached, and Whittingham’s disciplined/physical/tough identity. Bryce Underwood: Essentially Year 1 of real development (no dedicated QB coach last year; regressed). Working on footwork/mechanics/basics now. Predicts step forward. Offense and defense both unpredictable/multiple. Success hinges on Bryce’s processing speed. Rough stat projection (regular season): ~2,200 pass yards, 18–20 pass TDs + ~10 rush TDs, ~9 INTs. Run-heavy approach with three-headed backfield; passing more situational. Schedule takes (big games): Loss to Oklahoma, win vs. Indiana, loss to Oregon, loss to Ohio State → roughly 2-2 in the major ones. Harder schedule overall. Young projected starting unit (youngest in Big Ten). Debate on whether 9 wins would be enough for the playoff; AD not fully bought into “three losses and in.” Confidence in Whittingham & Broader Program Direction (mid-to-late show) Hosts’ confidence in Kyle Whittingham as the right hire is a 10. Program was “going full speed off the tracks” (S&C issues, no QB coach, accountability problems, late to meetings, etc.). Whittingham brings mastery, stability, and a clear plan. Possible succession discussion (Jay Hill and/or Jason Beck as future options; Whittingham’s son also on staff). Recruiting now more national (“in on every player”) because it’s Michigan + competent staff. Accountability and culture repeatedly praised across callers and hosts: being early is late, no free handouts, NFL-style camp structure, development of the depth instead of relying on stars who left. Caller: Michigan Metal (film breakdown, ~42:00–52:00) Has All-22 access across FBS/FCS; grinding film (working on Malachi Tony vs. Andrew Marsh comparison; prefers Marsh with context). Jay Hill defense film clips: heavy disguise, coverage shifts, communication, prisms/zones, edge drops, twists/stunts, chaos/turnover-oriented style. Reminds him of Mike McDonald. DBs should feast. Active, communicating defense. Projection: Top-10 defense by end of year possible (floor more like top 15); depends on health/production from John Henry Daly, Rod Moore, Trey Pierce, etc. Schedule is arduous — good for development if they can handle the fire. Callers: T-Money & Marmo / Insight from Inside (~52:00–end) T-Money (son on the team, former USC fan who switched): Strong faith in Whittingham. Last year’s team played timid in big spots (OU, OSU). New staff has changed energy/approach. Accountability is real (early is late; shortcuts = bench). Camp run more like an NFL camp. Players feel coached and developed. Expectation: competitive; Oregon the toughest. Whittingham’s West Coast experience is a plus for upcoming road games. Coaching staff already knows what it wants — not figuring it out on the fly. Marmo and others reinforce foundation, strength in the trenches, recognition/communication/execution (RCE) returning after last year’s breakdowns. Contrast with previous staff’s practice habits (moving on from imperfect reps). Broader consensus: Culture, strength, discipline, and scheme clarity are the biggest upgrades. Sunshine-pumping mode activated for many (Johnny claims the “sunshine pumper” role this year). Closing Notes Football is back; enjoy the process and the next several months. Watch for more camp buzz (positive so far, still early). OL starting five and true contribution level of the freshman D-linemen will be key storylines. Go Blue. Overall tone of the episode: High energy, early-camp optimism tempered by realism about youth, depth questions, and a tough schedule. Strong buy-in on Whittingham, the new staff’s culture/accountability, physical development, and scheme fits on both sides of the ball. Heavy emphasis on the defensive line class and secondary making plays early. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  7. Aug 5

    Fall Camp - What to Expect? / Michigan Wolverines LIVE 261

    Intro & Show Open (0:00–6:00) Go Blue open. Fall camp is officially here; first practice tomorrow. Football is “f*****g here.” Hosts hyped for the stretch from now through January/February (football + cider mills). Super Chats prioritized. Shoutouts to regulars (Jackson/double J, Austin, Moose). Early Super Chat banter: Utah without Whittingham, Strickland/Ray Roy jokes. FanDuel Odds & Michigan vs. Oklahoma (6:00–9:00) Michigan favored by 2.5 vs. Oklahoma (Big Noon Kickoff). Both hosts lean Michigan cover/win. TJ sees a potential “statement” Week 2 game. Offense formula: three-headed running back monster (Jordan Marshall, Savion Hyder, Bryce Underwood as runner) + limited but efficient passing + misdirection/play-action. Defenses will struggle to track the ball. Mobile QB fits the scheme. Still have to get through camp clean. Breaking News: Two Players Exit (9:00–15:00) Taylor Tatum and CJ Charleston no longer with the football program. Tatum (former #1 high-school RB in his class, same year as Jordan Marshall who was #5; OU transfer converted to safety/secondary) choosing to focus on baseball. Michigan supported dual-sport path earlier. Charleston denied another year of eligibility (per Aaron McMahon/MLive report that broke during show prep). Tatum the bigger surprise given athletic profile. Hosts wish both well; expect Tatum to stay at Michigan for baseball (outfield/middle infield). Notes the shift from more relaxed prior era to current more intensive S&C/accountability under Whittingham/Ben Herbert. High-school film still viewed positively by hosts; dual-sport balance may simply have been too much. Big Ten Media Days Recap & Rivalry Approach (15:00–30:00) Whittingham, Bryce Underwood, and others handled Chicago well — old-school coach-speak, cards close to the vest with Oklahoma looming. Notable: Whittingham downplayed treating the Ohio State rivalry as the absolute end-all; “week-at-a-time” focus, no room for “hatred.” Urban Meyer may sit in on practices/games. Debate: Is this a red flag? TJ acknowledges Urban and Ryan Day talk a lot and that Urban likely prefers Ohio State, but believes the long Whittingham–Meyer relationship (Utah days) creates a real boundary. Still some mild concern. Contrast with Harbaugh/Moore eras that kept “Beat Ohio” drills weekly. Hosts prefer sustained intensity against the rival but will judge results first. “If he wins, who gives a f**k?” Whittingham is a “good dude” who respects opponents; fan base (and hosts) are built differently. Expect tone to shift if results against Ohio State go south. Bryce showed media training and stayed on message. Overall positive presentation (drip + Michigan values). Side discussion: Indiana under Cignetti, SEC “whining,” and how winning allows coaches to talk freely. Fall Camp Expectations – What to Watch (30:00–~50:00+) Bryce Underwood Critical filter for coach/media comments: Work-ethic talk (“stays late watching film”) = potential soft red flag / camp not going as hoped. Tangible, specific growth language (better touch, processing, running the offense, decision-making) = positive. Avoid over-buying the old “88% completion” style leaks (Davis Warren memory). Hosts are in “results phase, not hype phase” but remain believers that Underwood takes a step. Biggest test: processing the new offense and playing with instinct/speed rather than overthinking. Detailed statistical comparison to Dante Moore’s UCLA year (Underwood superior in most categories including rushing production; identical TD/INT ratio). Context of dysfunctional prior staff/program noted. “Do not rush to judgment — the movie’s not over.” Year 2 in this offense (2027) is the bigger long-term excitement. Offensive Line / Left Tackle Battle Real competition at left tackle: Andrew Babalola has “real smoke” (Whittingham impressed with pre-injury film). Blake Frazier will push hard. Early edge to Babalola reported by at least one outlet; Frazier could slide to right tackle or sixth/jumbo role. Andrew Sprague viewed as locked in (possibly interior). Malachi Lee (6-8, 345) generating buzz as potential sixth/jumbo package guy. Hosts expect him to see the field in some capacity; “man mountain” comparisons and future OL depth (Polynesian/Samoan pipeline) praised. Overall OL physical transformation in the weight room repeatedly highlighted as exciting. Broader Camp Tone Youngest starting unit by average age in the Big Ten. Five-year window to contend for a national title under the current staff. Floor outlook ~8 wins; question is whether they can take 2 of the 4 toughest games (Oklahoma, Indiana, etc.). Oklahoma viewed as beatable; Indiana projected as a “fist fight/slobber-knocker.” Return of physical “bully” identity expected. Rod Moore health also noted positively. Other Notes & Community Segments Penn State schedule breakdown and 8-4 type outlook (multiple losable games: Wisconsin, Northwestern, USC, Michigan, Washington). Soft non-conference + byes after tough games noted with sarcasm. Matt Campbell needs time; Michigan expected to handle them comfortably this year. Super Chat / membership run: multiple new/renewed members recognized. Members-only show teased. Shoutouts throughout (Ryan, Austin, Moose, Marmar, etc.). Light segments: favorite tailgate rituals (mostly drinking), preferred drinks (rum & Coke / Captain Morgan, Maker’s Mark / 46, Blue Moon, etc.), college drinking stories, Channing Goodwin transfer watch / legacy status, Jaden Davis at East Tennessee State, stadium size banter with Penn State fans, and general community energy. Indiana getting a key defensive lineman back noted. Close (approx. 1:30+) Momentum in the community is building. Best four months of the year are here. Reminder of Thursday call-in show (potential light Hall of Fame game watch + early camp talk). Final message: Spread the word, support the show across platforms, Go Blue / F**k Ohio. Key recurring themes: Excitement for the physical transformation and new coaching intensity; measured optimism on Underwood and the offense; preference for results over rhetoric on the rivalry; young roster with a multi-year window; strong community engagement. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  8. Jul 31

    Big Ten Media Days - Michigan Wolverines Call-in Show LIVE 98

    Episode Notes: Big Ten Media Day – Michigan Wolverines Call-in Show LIVE 98 Hosts: TJ Ronan & Johnny Olden Jr. Platform/Show: MichiganVOCFB (The Call-In Show) Focus: Big Ten Media Days reactions, Kyle Whittingham comments, Bryce Underwood, rivalry talk, strength & conditioning, player interviews, schedule outlook, and caller/super-chat discussion. Opening & Context Show opens with energy around Big Ten Media Days. Hosts discuss catching clips of Bryce Underwood, Jordan Marshall, Trey, and especially Kyle Whittingham’s press conference. Format is call-in oriented; hosts invite topics while centering Whittingham’s comments and Media Day takeaways before opening lines and reading super chats. Bryce Underwood & Offense Discussion Pushback against Ohio State fans mocking Underwood for doing running-back drills. Hosts emphasize he is a true dual-threat athlete (unlike more pocket-oriented comparisons such as Julian Sayin). RPO/Jason Beck offense requires a running-capable quarterback to keep defenses off-balance. Plays will feature multiple options: handoff, QB keep/tuck, or quick throw. Whittingham noted the need to get Underwood off-platform and throwing on the run. Hosts see this as a strength that will put linebackers in difficult positions. Overall optimism: Underwood is saying the right things off the field; on-field progression is the next step. Hosts expect him to get meaningful carries (“steady eddies”). Kyle Whittingham Media Day Comments (Main Focus) Ohio State rivalry / “hatred”: Whittingham said rivalry can be intense and emotional without hatred (“hate is a strong word”) and prefers a one-game-at-a-time approach. He wants to win the game as badly as anyone in Ann Arbor. Hosts and callers push back that this is the #1 rivalry in the country with year-round vitriol (unlike many other rivalries). They note Harbaugh-era “Ohio State drill” intensity helped turn the series and that preparing for OSU elevates the whole team. Michigan State rivalry: Whittingham suggested the in-state rivalry can feel more important in some ways because of state supremacy. Hosts strongly disagree—MSU is not on the same level as Ohio State; the OSU game remains the clear priority. They attribute some of the framing to Whittingham’s Utah–BYU background. Hosts still view Whittingham positively overall as the right coach, a veteran who understands rivalry intensity, and someone bringing needed accountability. They expect the full intensity to show closer to November. Strength & Conditioning / Physicality Major positive: Players have made massive gains; testing numbers improved; many hit personal bests. Whittingham indicated some players were not passing strength/conditioning standards entering spring and now are. Contrast with recent seasons: Michigan lost physical edge in third/fourth quarters of big games (Oklahoma, USC, Ohio State, Texas, etc.) and was no longer the “bully.” Hosts credit the prior regime’s lack of accountability in the weight room/nutrition and celebrate the return of toughness under the new staff. Outlook: Expect Michigan to punch opponents in the mouth again. A solid (top-15/20-range) offensive line would make them a playoff team in the hosts’ view. Player & Roster Notes Jordan Marshall: Highly praised for attitude, demeanor, and leadership (Blake Corum-like vibes). Confirmed as RB1 with Hyder as RB2; both get carries. Positive media-day and Rich Eisen interview impressions. Safeties: Rod Moore reported fully healthy and ready. Starting duo projected as Moore + Chris Bracey (Memphis transfer)—viewed as potential All-Big Ten caliber. Media Day representation: Michigan brought Underwood, Marshall, and Trey Pierce. Some surprise that Rod Moore was not the defensive representative; hosts interpret it as staff pushing Underwood into more visible leadership. Ohio State note: Only brought offensive players—read by hosts as possible signal on defensive confidence after personnel losses. Schedule, Ceiling/Floor & Season Outlook Tougher schedule than 2025. Key early test: Oklahoma in the Big House (Week 2). Other major games: Indiana, Oregon, Ohio State. Floor discussed as 8-4 possible even while improving (last year’s weaker slate inflated the 9-3 record). Ceiling around 10-2; undefeated at home (8-0) plus a couple of the big road/conference wins would put them in playoff contention. Emphasis on trenches (O-line and D-line recruiting continuity), secondary depth, dual-threat QB, and restored physicality. Hosts and callers express confidence Michigan can return to competing for Big Ten titles and playoffs if they win the physical battles. Notable Caller & Super-Chat Themes Multiple callers (Maniac, Marmar, Michigan Man, etc.) and super chats reinforce: don’t overreact to Whittingham’s measured language; he understands rivalry; focus on process and one game at a time while still prioritizing the big games. Additional banter: Ohio State historical titles (shared/fraudulent claims, two-loss 2024 title critique), SEC vs. Big Ten talk, Nick Saban comments, sign-stealing/NIL comparisons, fan-base intensity, and classic “F**k Ohio” energy. Strength staff accountability, run defense priorities (Whittingham: stop the run, force one-dimensional offenses), and commitment to running the ball all emphasized. Closing Tone High energy and optimism for the Whittingham era. Football is back; training camp approaching. Hosts close with appreciation for callers, super chats, and the community, ending on “Go Blue.” Overall episode vibe: Passionate Michigan fan discussion mixing measured critique of specific Whittingham quotes with strong belief in the new staff, roster talent, physical turnaround, and dual-threat Underwood-led offense. Heavy rivalry banter and schedule realism throughout. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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