Michigan Man

After a 15-22 record in three seasons under Rich Rodriguez, Michigan athletic director Dave Brandon decided to make a change. Rodriguez was making progress, but not fast enough. The former West Virginia coach was never fully embraced by the Michigan fan base, dealt with NCAA penalties in regards to extra practice time and won only six games in conference play - none against Ohio State or Michigan State. Although Rodriguez is still regarded as a good coach, it wasn't working out in Ann Arbor and there seemed to be a never-ending drama surrounding the program from the moment he took over.

Although Rodriguez never fulfilled expectations at Michigan, the fan base is due some of the blame. The Wolverines don't need a "Michigan Man" to win games or compete for Big Ten Championships. Find a coach that wins and he'll become a "Michigan Man." Had the Michigan fan base embraced Rodriguez and his staff, who knows, maybe the results would've been different. Rodriguez certainly could've done a better job embracing some of the history and traditions with the program, which was one of the downfalls to his tenure.

New coach Brady Hoke was born in Dayton, Ohio and coached from 1995-2002 at Michigan under Lloyd Carr. Hoke has repeatedly stated his love for Michigan and this move should unite the fan base wanting a "Michigan Man." Sure, Hoke isn't a big name, but he turned around Ball State and San Diego State. Give Hoke time and he will find a fix to the defensive struggles, as well as find an offense that suits Denard Robinson, yet gets back to more of a pro-style attack. To the Wolverine fan base, Hoke is more of a "Michigan Man" than Rodriguez, but it's up to them to support the coach and remain united for what could be a rebuilding process that takes two or three years.