Spunky

January 25th, 2017 at 9:12 AM ^

I was expecting a more experienced RB coach. It's not a big deal, but I'm slightly disappointed. I have so many concerns about the running game and O-Line, I guess. 

buddhafrog

January 25th, 2017 at 9:19 AM ^

The board generally went from RB coaching isn't too important to RB coaching is very important after watching the continual lack of production in the last years of Fred Jackson. Now, I guess we're back to RB coaching isn't too important. We'll see.

However, the kid has been pretty great so far. He carries the Harbaugh name which I'm sure means something on the recruiting trail.

Coldwater

January 25th, 2017 at 9:21 AM ^

Jay may end up being a great RB coach. This is nothing personal But we're going from the best RB in Michigan history and NFL seasoned player and coach to the coaches son who never played the position. But if what I read is correct, the running back coach is fairly insignificant in the grand scheme of things. Running back is a god given talent, not much a coach can do.

C Tron

January 25th, 2017 at 9:45 AM ^

I don't think this move is exciting, but it is fine.  I fail to see where all the negativity is coming from. I don't think Jim would put Jay in a position he doesn't think he would succede at. If Jay fails, Jim will take alot of flak. Also, Jay has done nothing but positive things for this program and given his projection looks like he could be a hot comodity years down the road. All you doom and gloomers need to go away.

JoJo5285

January 25th, 2017 at 9:47 AM ^

Jay Harbaugh has been around football his entire life, much the way this father was. I understand he doesnt have the personal expierences that Wheatley did at the postion, but I wouldnt discount his knowledge of the game.  I also, dont believe Jim would make him the RB coach if he didnt think he was ready and/or could handle the job.  I do agree though that if that extra postion coach does come to fruition that he would most likely have some knowledge with RB's.  

Its also evident that Jim is going to replace coaches as they go with the best football minds he can find and he will just figure out official titles and who is going to coach what postion.  Much like his players, he wants coaches that are flexible and that can be multiple.

SteamboatWolverine

January 25th, 2017 at 10:48 AM ^

Drevno was considered for HC jobs (WMU, SJSU).  If it had materialized, perhaps Wheatley would have been in line for a promotion to run game coordinator / co-offensive coordinator.  It didn't happen, and Wheatley was ready for a change after completing his 2 year commitment so he found a new job / challenge.  

Meanwhile, Jay Harbaugh has done a good job with TEs, and a great job with special teams.  He has earned the opportunity to grow his coaching experience as the RB coach.  

Next year, everybodys shuffling again.

Honk if Ufer M…

January 25th, 2017 at 9:51 PM ^

It might already have been the plan to move Jay from job to job every couple of years or so as spots open up, depending on who else is available etc., as his career plan to get an advanced degree and real experience in all phases on his way to a masters, then PHD in coaching so that he'll be in total command & ready to burst on the HC scene like a rocket when the time is right. 

 

BlueinOK

January 25th, 2017 at 11:45 AM ^

I like this move. Have Jay coach RBs for a little bit and recruit the hell out of the position for the new few months. Move him to special teams and whatever else when a RB coach is hired. Have him still recruit the hell out of any RB and other top guys. 

Michrider41

January 25th, 2017 at 11:45 AM ^

If yes, hire Barry Sanders.

If no, get one of the guys from either PSU or Indianna. 

Indiana, has put a guy in the NFL the last two years and Devine Redding will be a third in 3 years.  

Deland McCullough 
Running Backs

4yearsofhoke

January 25th, 2017 at 12:02 PM ^

I think WR/RB coaches are some of the most flexible in the coaching sphere. Jay probably understands blocking schemes pretty well and tbh the roles of a RB in a Michigan offense are:

1. Stick your foot in the ground and go upfield

2. Pass protect.

He'lll do fine. Plus he's young and the recruits/players like him.

Honk if Ufer M…

January 25th, 2017 at 10:10 PM ^

If you think there's nothing to really teach and you just give them the ball watch this video of Wheatley coaching Najee how to block. I haven't watched other guys coaching RB's, but there are many aspects of his coaching that seem very damn good to me, but maybe I'm wrong, and even if I am, it shows the complexity of it, and that's just one of the responsibilities that he has to teach them.

 

DMack

January 25th, 2017 at 12:14 PM ^

I went into my disappointment about the whole thing a few days ago. Someone on the site told me to be patient. They would hire a RB coach when they are given an additional spot via the new rules. I pray to god this is in fact true because  . . . well for obvious reasons.  

I'm glad there are a few people here who are willing to state what they really think without the whole Harbaugh can do no wrong narrative.  If this little experiment doesn't turn out that way, I will again say its a terrible idea and it make the RB position weaker.

I ultimately have to ride with Harb. and trust he will do whats right by everybody including the RB's. I have my fingers crossed. 

Baffin

January 25th, 2017 at 2:53 PM ^

From some of these comments, it seems some people think Jay should have no more responsibility than Associate Long Snapping Coordinator or Deputy Fullbacks Analyst. 

Jay has been great so far. Unless Tim Biakabatuka's walking through the door, I'm fine with Jay for now. I wonder if he can coach basketball, too.  

 

Bp6

January 25th, 2017 at 11:09 PM ^

I'm really excited about these staff shakeups. Really seems like Jay Harbaugh is putting in the work necessary to become a seriously good football coach.

Keep up the good work Jay!!!!



Sent from MGoBlog HD for iPhone & iPad

Bp6

January 25th, 2017 at 11:21 PM ^

For many people freaking out, coaching RB's is one of the easiest positions to coach in the game of football. Jay will do just fine.



Sent from MGoBlog HD for iPhone & iPad