The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/122487
from our readers truly remarkable, especially given it was pretty much the same players as with coach RichRod's last season. Yes, the 2012 season left a little to be desired. But then, if Denard Robinson wouldn't have gotten injured, Michigan might have won the Nebraska game, had one less loss, and played Wisconsin for the Big Ten championship. If only … But given what Hoke and his team accomplished in 2012, given the makeup of his team and the horrendous schedule he was faced with, his achievement was most admirable. With an easier schedule in 2013, the success and upward climb should only continue. But I won't expect a Big Ten championship just yet. It is said that games are won and lost up front, in the trenches. Another cliché is that defense wins championships. UM's defense should be even better in 2013 and keep them in the hunt. However, it usually takes about three years for a new recruit offensive lineman to develop into a starting, effective blocker. Even the most talented will take at least two years, and rare is the recruit who comes in and plays, especially as a starter, as a true freshman. When Hoke came in, there were very few good players in the developmental pipeline of offensive linemen from which to draw from in 2012. In 2013, there will be at least three new, inexperienced redshirt or true freshmen. Make no mistake, Hoke and his staff have done an incredible job of righting the ship and bringing in top talent throughout. There are four good offensive linemen from last year's recruiting class and several more in the next recruiting class. It takes time for young, inexperienced linemen to develop, and it takes time for an offensive line to jell and mesh. Thus, I expect Michigan will struggle and spit and sputter on offense for the first four or five games next year as so many new, young, inexperienced players find their way. With a slightly easier schedule, hopefully the defense will be able to prevail and win. I expect Hoke, his staff, and the players will find a way to win at least nine games next year. In 2014 and beyond, with all the highly talented recruits brought in, Michigan will once again be hailed as The Victors. Gordon Craig Crown Point, Ind. Much to like here, Gordon, but don't write them off for a Big Ten title run in 2013 just yet. After all, the Wolverines featured multiple redshirt freshman offensive linemen in 1997, although they were of exceptional caliber. It happens. ❏ Be Heard! Send your letters to: Wolverine Letters • P.O. Box 1304 Ann Arbor, MI 48106 Or e-mail: jborton@thewolverine.com Letters may be edited for clarity or length.