It’s like “playing school” in Columbus. Classes are virtual - everything is optional. But, remember - the classes on Ethics that Meyer or Tressel might instruct are “Don’t worry about attending class or the exams - if you’re a starter you’re guaranteed an “A”.”
As someone who grew up in Detroit - a Michigan alum - and having lived in Chicago for a while, I’m glad to see the direction the Bears are taking.
The only time I root for the Bears is when someone I know is on the roster - or coaching for them.
FWIW - Caleb Williams has some God given abilities - but, I don’t think he’s the next Patrick Mahomes or Tom Brady. Time will tell - but, my guess is - he’s not going to set the NFl on fire until he addresses his footwork, route reading, progressions, and realizes a seven yard completion is often more valuable than a downfield throw to a covered receiver. He may find receivers downfield - but, it’s very unlikely those receivers will have four or more yards of separation - which is what he was accustomed to with USC’s receiving corps.
You raise good and fair points. I can’t speak for the Legal knowledge of current / former NFL players - but, off the top of my head - the only former NFL player who’d I’d suggest my son engage in a legal matter would be Alan Page - who became an attorney and judge after his NFL career ended. And, I wouldn’t be surprised if Page would say - thanks for reaching out to me but, I’m not a contract law specialist and that’s what you need.
As for contract obligations - and interest in enforcement of commitments - it seems to me this falls into two major categories. The first is a booster who wants to increase his stature and will throw dollars at a desirable prospect to get them to commit - with no realistic expectation that services of some nature will be rendered. The second is a corporate entity who expects some sort of a return - and, Fanatics fits into this second category.
This does lead to another interesting question - which is “game worn” articles. While a player is an undergraduate - his equipment is the property of whom? I’d assume - the university unless it’s provided by a third party. In the case of MHJ - his shoes might be his own - through his agreement with Louis Vuitton. But, his jersey? I’d assume that’s Ohio State University / Athletic Department property. Does the player receive an allowance for practice apparel? Shoes? Helmets?
And - assuming it’s university / athletic department property - perhaps there’s an agreement that game worn gear becomes the player’s property after their playing career concludes. Or, while active, the player can donate “game worn gear” for charitable purposes - but - not for profit / personal gain.
It sounds like MHJ hasn’t signed the standard NFL “media / promotional player agreement” either.
Primadonna … mercenary. It will be interesting to see which Arizona mattress company - or used car dealership - Maserati Marv becomes the spokesperson for.
Respectfully, it sounds like Fanatics has tried to engage “the MHJ contingent” to address the obligations of the contract - but, MHJ is not responding. It seems that the MHJ contingent not having a copy of the term sheet - and challenging it’s validity after Fanatics provided it - reflects the degree of knowledge / engagement (and lack thereof) Maserati Marv and his contingent possess.
IMO, Fanatics is in a good position - since, in future deals - they can be proactive with NIL prospects and say…”We do it this way because of our experience - this is an example. The approach we will follow is better for you - and fair to us.”
I don’t think this is the only story we’ll hear about NIL obligations not being met.
On a bit of a tangent - there’s rumors in Chicago that the Bears want Caleb Williams to limit his commercial / marketing / media activities so he can focus on football and lessen distractions.
Of course, that will impact what he can make off the field - which, I’m sure (sarcasm intended) is not a priority to him.
I think the issue with the Duke regional is: there was a schedule (perhaps weather) impact which delayed the second game on the elimination side of the bracket.
As a result - two 1-1 teams play first - the winner will be 2-1.. and face a 2-0 Duke team.
If it’s NIL - there should be a written.. signed agreement. And, I’d assume a 1099 for the expenditure/ payment to the student athlete. Of course, 1099’s have tax implications. It usually takes the IRS a couple of years to “catch up” on filings - and, I’m pretty sure that seven figure deals - like the inferred $1M+ deal Fanatics had with MHJ - will draw their attention if appropriate taxes aren’t paid.
Cash and a car - are just the beginning of the deal.
Tressel had his ways. Meyer brought in SEC brown bagging. The new AD will show how Texas oil money can add talented mercenaries to a roster - through both NIL and brown bagging.
How many contracts that you are involved with - where you pay everything up front - before a service is delivered? With NIL - I could see an up-front payment to secure the agreement - with the remainder paid as Services are delivered.
I look forward to seeing how this item is addressed.
Do the recent transfers relieve some of the angst associated with the roster - upcoming (‘25) signing class - etc.?
I will always respect Coach Harbaugh and appreciate all that he did for Michigan football. I’m drawn to a remark - many years ago - about the torch being passed to a new generation. I’m optimistic that this is also the case with Michigan football.
My cheers will be loud for Coach Moore, the staff, and the players of Team 145 - and every team that follows them.
Xander's round was fantastic - and, I first saw him about a decade ago when he was on the Web.com Tour. Incredible ball striker. Can he play four (4) rounds of fantastic golf - or - just three?
Before the kids were born - I played a lot and watched when I could.
The kids are rising Seniors at Michigan. I need to play the University course on one of my next trips.
As for watching - I’ll follow three of the majors online on Thursday / Friday - with a bit more time for the Opens on tge weekend. As for the Masters - count me in - I’ll watch as much as I can.
I don’t wish to bring up a delicate topic .. but, the temptation is too great to resist.
Yes - it deals with “signs”. I’m drawn to the alleged Advance work - and specifically, it’s repetitive nature.
Is it only my perspective - but, did Michigan notice something in common in The Game?
What exactly am I referring to? In ‘21 - it appeared the sign was… “Don’t Tackle Haskins.” In ‘22, the sign was changed to “Don’t Tackle Edwards.” In ‘23 - it seemed the sign was - “Don’t tackle Corum.”
I am hopeful there will be a similar sign on November 30th in the Shoe.
Those two Wrigley games this season - will be played in November. That’s after baseball season ends.
If Michigan @ NW is not a November game in ‘25, Soldier Field makes the most sense. However, that would require an agreement between NW and the Chicago Park District - and, potentially the NFL and its schedule.
Lane Kiffin has Ole Miss boosters aligned so effectively that JUCO transfers - not only arrive to their commitment / signing ceremony in a suit (which I find respectful and admirable).. but, they also arrive driving a Lamborghini.
But, there’s no “pay for play”, tampering, or incentives to sign going on down there..
My thought would be - "swapping out" Arkansas State - but that may create an issue with weeks 3, 4 and 5 =- consecutive games. Though - those three will be in September - good weather dates.
Your list / ranking seems fine to me. And - while the home schedule this season is fantastic - in terms of opponents, five consecutive home games to open the season is both "good and bad" - especially if you live so far away that you have to overnight in a hotel.
If you get the "1, 4, 6 and 8" sequence - your games would be weeks 1, 2, 3 and 9 (there's a bye week in there).
The other "set" of games would be weeks - 4, 5, 10 and 12.
The early season SEC conference games do the following:
Prior to the game - "It's a match up of two SEC squads that are talented - great teams - solid play - incredible coaches - and, it a Top Ten matchup."
After the game: The winner might move up a spot or two in the polls, while the loser doesn't fall far - "Because they played and lost to a very good SEC team."
And - in November - it turns out that both teams are fighting for bowl bids - and might end the season with 7-5 records - but, in August - they were powers - Top Ten teams - a tremendous matchup of two SEC powerhouses.
If there's one thing the SEC has done effectively - it's market the conference. It seems as if "every matchup is a bit bigger" - and, they promote the matchups very effectively.
It will be very interesting to see if the B1G - SEC conversations result in a mutually agreed to nine (or more) game conference season. The "late November" FBS opponent - that's pure SEC - you'll bring in the fans anyway - with the FCS team being significantly overmatched - which basically turns into a Bye Week - the top players on a roster don't play more than a half.
A B1G - SEC challenge weekend in September - two year series - home and home, with "reseeding" every two years - count me in. I think that would be incredible - and, must-see tv for practically everyone.
We're aligned - I agree. Those games "in 60 minutes" on BTN are enjoyable to watch. The teams were solid - complete - and physical.
A bit of a tangent - associated with the Rose Bowl against Bama. There were some commentaries that reflected on "what a team will do differently when they face Bama". And, the perspective of Michigan was - "We're not going to do anything differently. We are - who we are. We're going to do - what we're doing. The game will show what happens."
Respectfully - I don't believe the QB will be "below average" for a P5 / P4 team. That group - P5/P4 is over fifty teams - and, I'd expect Michigan will have one of the top 25 QBs in the country.
Now - will Michigan have an "elite" QB this season? And - I'd define "elite" as a top 5 QB / first round draft pick. I honestly don't know - but, the press would lean toward "no".
Let's see what Alex Warren can do - and, reach a decision after a few games. I'm hoping to be surprised - and - that "Alex Warren" - has an exceptional season or two...
I agree - after game 4 - we'll either know - OR - have a very good idea about - what Team 145 can do.
It seems that I may be in the minority - but, I wonder if there's still a QB competition going on. A lot of people are leaning toward Alex - which I don't have an issue with. It seems to me we might see quite a bit of both of them in the opener - and - Texas is the game with a lot of eyes on it. So - Alex Orji - Davis Warren - etc. - it doesn't matter to me - may the best man to play QB rise to the top - and - execute extremely well.
And... Michigan didn't run JJ a lot the last two seasons because... there was a realization of the impact an injury could have on the offense and team's potential.
I have immense respect for everyone on the roster - and, what the team accomplished last year. However, if there was a single straw that "stirred the drink" - my thought is - JJ was that straw - and, keeping JJ healthy was a very high priority for the offense / team.
I understand your perspective. My view is just a bit different. My view is - "the jury's still out" - and, we'll know by the end of September exactly what we have.
Until it's proven differently - I'll be guardedly optimistic - and eternally hopeful.
Wow - this is sounding like a "miss at all costs" event - if possible.
And - it makes me feel even better about our tailgating for Michigan home games. We're close to the stadium - we have great food - good friends - a lot of spirit - and, we don't need to wait for transportation.
I think they should get a collection of drones and have them fly a "huge" mirror. That way - people in boats on the lake - could look into the mirror - and - see exactly what's happening on the field in real time.
My concern is QB. BTN has shown several “Game in 60 minutes” with Michigan over the past two seasons.
So, JJ was at QB - and - his ability to read a defense, adjust, buy time (possibly run), and deliver the ball into a tight window - was clearly evident.
I’ll be cheering for every Michigan QB - my thought is - how far might the “delta” be? And - will the QB be able to do “enough”?
Recent Comments
It’s like “playing school” in Columbus. Classes are virtual - everything is optional. But, remember - the classes on Ethics that Meyer or Tressel might instruct are “Don’t worry about attending class or the exams - if you’re a starter you’re guaranteed an “A”.”
As someone who grew up in Detroit - a Michigan alum - and having lived in Chicago for a while, I’m glad to see the direction the Bears are taking.
The only time I root for the Bears is when someone I know is on the roster - or coaching for them.
FWIW - Caleb Williams has some God given abilities - but, I don’t think he’s the next Patrick Mahomes or Tom Brady. Time will tell - but, my guess is - he’s not going to set the NFl on fire until he addresses his footwork, route reading, progressions, and realizes a seven yard completion is often more valuable than a downfield throw to a covered receiver. He may find receivers downfield - but, it’s very unlikely those receivers will have four or more yards of separation - which is what he was accustomed to with USC’s receiving corps.
Go Lions - Go Blue!
It seems like that would be easy to figure out. There’s a start date and an end date - on an agreement / contract with MHJ’s signature on it.
I’ll get some popcorn…
Tater tots are the best….
You raise good and fair points. I can’t speak for the Legal knowledge of current / former NFL players - but, off the top of my head - the only former NFL player who’d I’d suggest my son engage in a legal matter would be Alan Page - who became an attorney and judge after his NFL career ended. And, I wouldn’t be surprised if Page would say - thanks for reaching out to me but, I’m not a contract law specialist and that’s what you need.
As for contract obligations - and interest in enforcement of commitments - it seems to me this falls into two major categories. The first is a booster who wants to increase his stature and will throw dollars at a desirable prospect to get them to commit - with no realistic expectation that services of some nature will be rendered. The second is a corporate entity who expects some sort of a return - and, Fanatics fits into this second category.
This does lead to another interesting question - which is “game worn” articles. While a player is an undergraduate - his equipment is the property of whom? I’d assume - the university unless it’s provided by a third party. In the case of MHJ - his shoes might be his own - through his agreement with Louis Vuitton. But, his jersey? I’d assume that’s Ohio State University / Athletic Department property. Does the player receive an allowance for practice apparel? Shoes? Helmets?
And - assuming it’s university / athletic department property - perhaps there’s an agreement that game worn gear becomes the player’s property after their playing career concludes. Or, while active, the player can donate “game worn gear” for charitable purposes - but - not for profit / personal gain.
It sounds like MHJ hasn’t signed the standard NFL “media / promotional player agreement” either.
Primadonna … mercenary. It will be interesting to see which Arizona mattress company - or used car dealership - Maserati Marv becomes the spokesperson for.
Respectfully, it sounds like Fanatics has tried to engage “the MHJ contingent” to address the obligations of the contract - but, MHJ is not responding. It seems that the MHJ contingent not having a copy of the term sheet - and challenging it’s validity after Fanatics provided it - reflects the degree of knowledge / engagement (and lack thereof) Maserati Marv and his contingent possess.
IMO, Fanatics is in a good position - since, in future deals - they can be proactive with NIL prospects and say…”We do it this way because of our experience - this is an example. The approach we will follow is better for you - and fair to us.”
I don’t think this is the only story we’ll hear about NIL obligations not being met.
On a bit of a tangent - there’s rumors in Chicago that the Bears want Caleb Williams to limit his commercial / marketing / media activities so he can focus on football and lessen distractions.
Of course, that will impact what he can make off the field - which, I’m sure (sarcasm intended) is not a priority to him.
I think the issue with the Duke regional is: there was a schedule (perhaps weather) impact which delayed the second game on the elimination side of the bracket.
As a result - two 1-1 teams play first - the winner will be 2-1.. and face a 2-0 Duke team.
If it’s NIL - there should be a written.. signed agreement. And, I’d assume a 1099 for the expenditure/ payment to the student athlete. Of course, 1099’s have tax implications. It usually takes the IRS a couple of years to “catch up” on filings - and, I’m pretty sure that seven figure deals - like the inferred $1M+ deal Fanatics had with MHJ - will draw their attention if appropriate taxes aren’t paid.
It’s the tip of the iceberg.
Cash and a car - are just the beginning of the deal.
Tressel had his ways. Meyer brought in SEC brown bagging. The new AD will show how Texas oil money can add talented mercenaries to a roster - through both NIL and brown bagging.
Agreed. Will’s interception might have been broken up IF MHJ fought for the ball - but, he didn’t - and, I appreciate his lack of effort.
How many contracts that you are involved with - where you pay everything up front - before a service is delivered? With NIL - I could see an up-front payment to secure the agreement - with the remainder paid as Services are delivered.
I look forward to seeing how this item is addressed.
So, they need to defeat Kentucky tonight.. and win both of a double header against the home town team tomorrow.
It’s a challenge - and, I’m confident the team will embrace it.
Go Blue!
Do the recent transfers relieve some of the angst associated with the roster - upcoming (‘25) signing class - etc.?
I will always respect Coach Harbaugh and appreciate all that he did for Michigan football. I’m drawn to a remark - many years ago - about the torch being passed to a new generation. I’m optimistic that this is also the case with Michigan football.
My cheers will be loud for Coach Moore, the staff, and the players of Team 145 - and every team that follows them.
Go Blue!
Unidy is a good thing. Nice to see their Literature / English departments Wotan with the student body in their signage too…
Good luck capturing the data - I've submitted a response. And - head out to the course- take dead aim - and go low!
Let's Go Blue!
Xander's round was fantastic - and, I first saw him about a decade ago when he was on the Web.com Tour. Incredible ball striker. Can he play four (4) rounds of fantastic golf - or - just three?
I believe the research will include - what can be done to increase alcohol sales during sporting events?
I’m not a fan of this - but, my opinion doesn’t matter.
Getting out of the parking lots just got a lot more interesting.
Fourth quarter is underway.. BC maintains a 13-7 lead.
I know how far it is from Indy - my daughter attended swim camps in Bloomington. Though - that was several years ago.
They finally finished the construction between Indy and Bloomington - which, I’ve heard - has made getting there both easier and quicker.
Before the kids were born - I played a lot and watched when I could.
The kids are rising Seniors at Michigan. I need to play the University course on one of my next trips.
As for watching - I’ll follow three of the majors online on Thursday / Friday - with a bit more time for the Opens on tge weekend. As for the Masters - count me in - I’ll watch as much as I can.
There is discussion about “throttling back” the ball - which would bring a lot more courses and strategy into play.
One of many reasons the Bears can’t “take flight”…
I don’t wish to bring up a delicate topic .. but, the temptation is too great to resist.
Yes - it deals with “signs”. I’m drawn to the alleged Advance work - and specifically, it’s repetitive nature.
Is it only my perspective - but, did Michigan notice something in common in The Game?
What exactly am I referring to? In ‘21 - it appeared the sign was… “Don’t Tackle Haskins.” In ‘22, the sign was changed to “Don’t Tackle Edwards.” In ‘23 - it seemed the sign was - “Don’t tackle Corum.”
I am hopeful there will be a similar sign on November 30th in the Shoe.
Go Blue:. End the conference regular season oh a high note - and - earn a high seed for the conference tourney.
Bloomington is a great college town - though, it is in the middle of nowhere.
Go Blue!
I think it will depend on the schedule.
Those two Wrigley games this season - will be played in November. That’s after baseball season ends.
If Michigan @ NW is not a November game in ‘25, Soldier Field makes the most sense. However, that would require an agreement between NW and the Chicago Park District - and, potentially the NFL and its schedule.
Regardless - I’ll be at that ‘25 game.
Are you saying that Wrigley has hosted more NFL games than Lambeau? I find that hard to believe.
They have more than 15K seats - but, I don’t think they have more than 15K fans.
It’s probably the easiest “away” ticket to buy - in terms of lowest cost.
It’s not just streaming. Ticket prices.. parking.. any refreshment / concession.
The cost to attend any professional sports event / game is approaching ridiculous…
Lane Kiffin has Ole Miss boosters aligned so effectively that JUCO transfers - not only arrive to their commitment / signing ceremony in a suit (which I find respectful and admirable).. but, they also arrive driving a Lamborghini.
But, there’s no “pay for play”, tampering, or incentives to sign going on down there..
LSU has deeper pockets than Ole Miss…
My wife and I are talking about something similar - potentially moving to the Ann Arbor area.
We live in the north / northwest suburbs of Chicago - but, high school won’t be an issue, since our children are students at Michigan right now.
The quality of life associated with the university is one attractive aspect of it.
I’m sorry I can’t help with more details about the broader area. Rochester might be worth considering - Oakland is nearby.
Yes.. to a degree.. Remember.. “1-0” in hexadecimal is actually 16 (base 10). Could ND be playing chess when almost everyone else is playing checkers?
Hmmm … I don’t think so. It appears the Irish “10” might be associated with Commandments.
Is it possible more than one O$U coach has a degree of intelligence?
My thought would be - "swapping out" Arkansas State - but that may create an issue with weeks 3, 4 and 5 =- consecutive games. Though - those three will be in September - good weather dates.
Your list / ranking seems fine to me. And - while the home schedule this season is fantastic - in terms of opponents, five consecutive home games to open the season is both "good and bad" - especially if you live so far away that you have to overnight in a hotel.
If you get the "1, 4, 6 and 8" sequence - your games would be weeks 1, 2, 3 and 9 (there's a bye week in there).
The other "set" of games would be weeks - 4, 5, 10 and 12.
So - spacing of the games will be a question.
The early season SEC conference games do the following:
Prior to the game - "It's a match up of two SEC squads that are talented - great teams - solid play - incredible coaches - and, it a Top Ten matchup."
After the game: The winner might move up a spot or two in the polls, while the loser doesn't fall far - "Because they played and lost to a very good SEC team."
And - in November - it turns out that both teams are fighting for bowl bids - and might end the season with 7-5 records - but, in August - they were powers - Top Ten teams - a tremendous matchup of two SEC powerhouses.
If there's one thing the SEC has done effectively - it's market the conference. It seems as if "every matchup is a bit bigger" - and, they promote the matchups very effectively.
It will be very interesting to see if the B1G - SEC conversations result in a mutually agreed to nine (or more) game conference season. The "late November" FBS opponent - that's pure SEC - you'll bring in the fans anyway - with the FCS team being significantly overmatched - which basically turns into a Bye Week - the top players on a roster don't play more than a half.
A B1G - SEC challenge weekend in September - two year series - home and home, with "reseeding" every two years - count me in. I think that would be incredible - and, must-see tv for practically everyone.
We're aligned - I agree. Those games "in 60 minutes" on BTN are enjoyable to watch. The teams were solid - complete - and physical.
A bit of a tangent - associated with the Rose Bowl against Bama. There were some commentaries that reflected on "what a team will do differently when they face Bama". And, the perspective of Michigan was - "We're not going to do anything differently. We are - who we are. We're going to do - what we're doing. The game will show what happens."
Seth - thanks for your perspectives & thoughts.
Respectfully - I don't believe the QB will be "below average" for a P5 / P4 team. That group - P5/P4 is over fifty teams - and, I'd expect Michigan will have one of the top 25 QBs in the country.
Now - will Michigan have an "elite" QB this season? And - I'd define "elite" as a top 5 QB / first round draft pick. I honestly don't know - but, the press would lean toward "no".
Let's see what Alex Warren can do - and, reach a decision after a few games. I'm hoping to be surprised - and - that "Alex Warren" - has an exceptional season or two...
I agree - after game 4 - we'll either know - OR - have a very good idea about - what Team 145 can do.
It seems that I may be in the minority - but, I wonder if there's still a QB competition going on. A lot of people are leaning toward Alex - which I don't have an issue with. It seems to me we might see quite a bit of both of them in the opener - and - Texas is the game with a lot of eyes on it. So - Alex Orji - Davis Warren - etc. - it doesn't matter to me - may the best man to play QB rise to the top - and - execute extremely well.
And... Michigan didn't run JJ a lot the last two seasons because... there was a realization of the impact an injury could have on the offense and team's potential.
I have immense respect for everyone on the roster - and, what the team accomplished last year. However, if there was a single straw that "stirred the drink" - my thought is - JJ was that straw - and, keeping JJ healthy was a very high priority for the offense / team.
I understand your perspective. My view is just a bit different. My view is - "the jury's still out" - and, we'll know by the end of September exactly what we have.
Until it's proven differently - I'll be guardedly optimistic - and eternally hopeful.
Go Blue!
Wow - this is sounding like a "miss at all costs" event - if possible.
And - it makes me feel even better about our tailgating for Michigan home games. We're close to the stadium - we have great food - good friends - a lot of spirit - and, we don't need to wait for transportation.
I think they should get a collection of drones and have them fly a "huge" mirror. That way - people in boats on the lake - could look into the mirror - and - see exactly what's happening on the field in real time.
My concern is QB. BTN has shown several “Game in 60 minutes” with Michigan over the past two seasons.
So, JJ was at QB - and - his ability to read a defense, adjust, buy time (possibly run), and deliver the ball into a tight window - was clearly evident.
I’ll be cheering for every Michigan QB - my thought is - how far might the “delta” be? And - will the QB be able to do “enough”?
Fair point - what I was trying to establish is a framework / approach which incorporates the various revenue streams.
My view of percentages is to reflect the contribution of different sports - hopefully - in a manner that would satisfy Title IX.