Input: [Date] 4 years 16 hours ago [Body] Great work on this information. So much so that ESPN cited your work in the Big Ten Lunch Links today! Thank you for keeping us informed! [Title]

Output: Great work on this


Input: [Date] 4 years 23 hours ago [Body] Its really hard for me to cheer for another team. But my wife is a die hard Kentucky Wildcat fan and she cheers for my Wolverines every Saturday and every bball game. So by default I have to be a UK fan second. But I have a two teams I cheer for past UK. In football its the Oregon Ducks. BBall it has to be the Syracuse Orange. [Title]

Output: Its really hard for me to


Input: [Date] 4 years 3 weeks ago [Body] We already hv 7 of the top 25 in the state of ohio committed so i dont really think he is going out on a limb when he says 8-9 could be comimg. We lead for wormley so that would make 8. Not to mention dunn, washington, and standeford. Its clearly in the realm of possibility. [Title]

Output: posted from iPhone


Input: [Date] 4 years 5 weeks ago [Body] The one team I didnt want him to go to. But Good Luck to him and he is back close to his family. [Title]

Output: The one team I didnt want him


Input: [Date] 1 year 27 weeks ago [Title] Interesting [Body]

Output: to see how this game shakes out. Nebraska has seemingly gotten to the basket at will. Ohio has seen a clear lack of actual offense, I.e. the late run was off of ad lib foul taking.


Input: [Date] 2 years 2 weeks ago [Title] Does Shea [Body]

Output: continue this small sample size? 15 minutes: a couple of poor touches with a good cross and great finish. Not too many exemplary pieces of play from the wing this game and he had the lone goal plus Klinsmann showed us how he isn't afraid to shake up the roster.


Input: [Date] 2 years 2 weeks ago [Title] Wondo [Body]

Output: you can see where he's lacking in this system, he doesn't come back and play off the ball very well minus his ability in front of the net.


Input: [Date] 2 years 3 weeks ago [Title] Can't deny [Body]

Output: how well Holden and Donovon looked out on the field together. I also liked the play of Corona and Torres. Wondo obviously stole the night with the hat trick, finally. Back line was never tested completely.


Input: [Date] 2 years 25 weeks ago [Title] Remember when we always [Body]

Output: freaked out whenever Morgan got in foul trouble during games? Don't have that problem anymore.


Input: [Date] 2 years 27 weeks ago [Title] Twitter [Body]

Output: will be the death of us. Coaches can't confirm a commitment at 2 in the morning, and insiders are sitting at their desks going "WTF?". I'm inclined to believe this isn't a commitment but a potential offer with the kid taking it the wrong way thinking he could commit.


Input: [Date] 2 years 34 weeks ago [Title] Burke [Body]

Output: making his way up the draft board.


Input: [Date] 2 years 34 weeks ago [Title] Just [Body]

Output: WOW


Input: [Date] 2 years 34 weeks ago [Title] Sloppy on both sides [Body]

Output: Run through the offense better and then tighten up defensively. Come on boys.


Input: [Date] 2 years 34 weeks ago [Title] Levert in off the timeout [Body]

Output: Quick off the bench, eh?


Input: [Date] 2 years 34 weeks ago [Title] Bad passing [Body]

Output: from Stauskas and Albrecht early lead to that situation. Calm the nerves boys.


Input: [Date] 2 years 34 weeks ago [Title] GR3 [Body]

Output: playing like a junior or senior at this point in the game.


Input: [Date] 2 years 36 weeks ago [Title] I've battled [Body]

Output: simliar issues. Stressful household, job, school, etc. I think the best advice for someone is that eventually it will get better if you keep trying to make it that way. No amount of self misery or loathing will help you, I've learned that much. Have a great Thankgiving, God Bless, and let your worst mistakes lead to your greatest triumphs in life.


Input: [Date] 2 years 36 weeks ago [Title] Caught the second half [Body]

Output: and watched the first half highlights. Apparently he did so well with the U-19 squad for the US, that the entire coaching staff was singing his praises. Definitely a player to keep an eye on for the future.


Input: [Date] 2 years 36 weeks ago [Title] Snipe show [Body]

Output: just got upper 90ed. Got to pressure the ball and then cover, not the other way around.


Input: [Date] 2 years 36 weeks ago [Title] Grinwis [Body]

Output: coming up huge with 2 straight there.


Input: [Date] 2 years 41 weeks ago [Title] Well [Body]

Output: if the officials that took bribes from Blatter put it towards the International side instead of their own coffers....


Input: [Date] 2 years 41 weeks ago [Title] Visits [Body]

Output: Most likely culprit.


Input: [Date] 2 years 41 weeks ago [Title] And TomVH [Body]

Output: TomVH has confirmed it. Sam Webb is checking his sources. Edit: Beaten to the punch, sorry.


Input: [Date] 2 years 42 weeks ago [Title] Gatt [Body]

Output: I'm not saying he should be on the roster, but with his speed and experience in the Tippaligaen, why isn't his name called on more often? Easily one of the best pure wing players the US could call upon.


Input: [Date] 2 years 47 weeks ago [Title] An experimental 4-2-3-2 [Body]

Output: would probably be likely if AVB wants to get all the worth out of his players.


Input: [Date] 2 years 49 weeks ago [Title] Well [Body]

Output: trick plays don't fool that defense very often. Pass plays against man coverage would be something to look at during the game. Safety check downs on Playaction are also useful against them.


Input: [Date] 2 years 50 weeks ago [Title] Ride the wave [Body]

Output: and hope this will put us on a streak of good play. Brek Shea's buildup was brilliant and luckily we smashed it home. Howard was playing like a man possessed for the last 10 minutes. Good result and always good to break a bad streak.


Input: [Date] 2 years 50 weeks ago [Title] Bad position for Williams [Body]

Output: Johnson has been serviceable but Williams is better as a winger instead of defending. Need his speed farther up the field.


Input: [Date] 2 years 50 weeks ago [Title] Half time [Body]

Output: Back line was solid for the most part, being as makeshift as it is. Biggest problem at half? Finding a way to control possession for more than a minute at a time. Also need to close down the easy passing lanes in the defensive third. All in all a solid half for a side without a lot of the top players.


Input: [Date] 2 years 50 weeks ago [Title] Wondo [Body]

Output: has never done anything internationally. He has no breakaway speed, a meh shot, and the only thing he really possesses is an aptitude for putting the ball in the back of the net against equal competition. I'd rather see Gomez or Boyd up top. Boyd is the big imposing presence in the middle needed for the wide system we play. The thing is though, we need to control the ball and pick the right pass or we'll get burned with how inept our defense has been. Plainly said we have a slim chance to win today and have to hope for plenty of mistakes on the other side.


Input: [Date] 3 years 1 week ago [Title] Voldermort giving [Body]

Output: comparisons on football. HALOL


Input: [Date] 3 years 1 week ago [Title] I think I figured out Dilfer's test [Body]

Output: "@S_Morris12 dropped back to the 35 and hit the End line, 75 yards" That sounds like a good test for his arm strength.


Input: [Date] 3 years 5 weeks ago [Title] Just get Brad from PSU [Body]

Output: and we'd have all 3. Great football family. Knew them since I was young.


Input: [Date] 3 years 5 weeks ago [Title] Sorry for not clarifying [Body]

Output: they also have a 2011 transfer available and a 2012 instant transfer.


Input: [Date] 4 weeks 4 days ago [Body] Lame bro. I rushed the BEFORE it was cool. Man, that game. I went into my room and sat on my bed and just held my head in my hands for a while after that. What...the...fuck?! [Title]

Output: Lame bro. I rushed the BEFORE


Input: [Date] 4 weeks 5 days ago [Body] Almost as excited for MBB as I am for the football season [Title]

Output: Almost as excited for MBB as


Input: [Date] 4 weeks 5 days ago [Body] Nothing new here. We already knew the 49ers are going to suck this year and that Jed York is a d-bag. This is not thread worthy. /s [Title]

Output: Nothing new here. We already


Input: [Date] 4 weeks 5 days ago [Body] "Given the high profile of this site I don't see why people think it's so completely inconceivable that people with actual sources would post things on scout and rivals but not here." That's not the worry. Given the high profile of this site, can't you also see why some people who are just talking out their ass would like to be worshipped as some news-breaking inside source? Not saying that's the case with this guy, but I don't know either way. I'm not aware of him posting anything here before that had inside info like this. There was a guy last season saying stuff about the team, I think something about playbooks, that a bunch of people immediately took as gospel. He posted other stuff as well and I'm pretty sure it turned out he was full of it. [Title]

Output: "Given the high profile of


Input: [Date] 4 weeks 5 days ago [Body] Funny how PeterKlima makes this post to supposedly make a statement about how it's not worthy of a thread and then it gets a bunch of comments. Note to the OP: If you wanna make a thread you think isn't worthy, don't make it about Harbaugh. [Title]

Output: Funny how PeterKlima makes


Input: [Date] 4 weeks 5 days ago [Body] I thought Ace was taking a week off. [Title]

Output: I thought Ace was taking a


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 8 hours ago [Body] You do realize he's had a bunch of injuries and THAT might be the reason he hasn't been the star we hoped for? I mean, it was apparently bad enough that the staff didn't think he should be playing anymore... [Title]

Output: You do realize he's had a


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 8 hours ago [Body] "There is no reason to do a story about your feelings on the situation unless you want the spotlight." Or because he thought he wasn't being treated fairly and wanted to speak about it. He didn't bomb the whole program. He didn't go on a twitter war like that Illinois player. Pipkins said his piece and I have no problem with that. He's upset he's not playing football and not playing with his teammates anymore. This is not like Boren at all. Boren shit on all his teammates and transferred to OSU. You say he has no evidence, but his evidence is his own body. Yes, he may be wrong and living dangerously playing with multiple concussions, but he has a nervous system. He can feel. [Title]

Output: "There is no reason to do a


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 2 days ago [Body] Shit like that really does prevent me from being a bigger soccer fan I feel. Yes, there's some flopping in the NBA, but it's not that bad and it's fairly recent. And I don't watch the NBA anyway. Also, a guy flopping doesn't result in some 15-minute bullshit argument that stops the game for so long. It really wouldn't be that hard to cut down on it. Just need stronger diving rules, perhaps even after the game with some officials making the call. [Title]

Output: Shit like that really does


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 2 days ago [Body] Harbaugh is so powerful he can build a pipeline without approval from Congress. [Title]

Output: Harbaugh is so powerful he


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 2 days ago [Body] "I was a weekend drinker. I'd start on Saturday and end on Friday." -Bill Hicks [Title]

Output: "I was a weekend drinker. I'd


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 3 days ago [Body] "What does academic prestige do for an academic institution?" No, that's not my question. I worded it very poorly. What I should have said is how does being in the AAU raise their prestige? Does it actually make them a better university or have better professors? It seems a school joining the AAU just gets to now say it's an AAU member because you fit some criteria. Anyway, Nebraska isn't in the AAU. They were kicked out in 2011. So I guess the B1G doesn't actually have those standards anymore. Is Michigan really worse off because of that? http://espn.go.com/blog/bigten/post/_/id/26078/nebraska-loses-aau-status Wikipedia's AAU page also lists them as former members so I guess nothing has changed. It seems Stanford and Cal do fine with their academic reputations without worrying about their football teams playing other football teams who attend schools that aren't as prestigious. [Title]

Output: "What does academic prestige


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 3 days ago [Body] I hate the idea of a 16-team conference. The West is barely a part of our conference anymore right now. Hopefully will feel a bit different with more conference games. [Title]

Output: I hate the idea of a 16-team


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 3 days ago [Body] Well, at least they were dominating the North division when they were there. And I think they can recruit better in the Big 12 because of the Texas connection. What does the academic prestige actually do to Nebraska in practical terms? I agree though all the reasons they left in the first place seem the same, mainly Texas. EDIT: "As others have noted, significant revelation today about the Big 12's TV deal. If everyone's share is guaranteed, expansion far more viable" - Stewart Mandel's twitter [Title]

Output: Well, at least they were


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 3 days ago [Body] Yes, but with how ND has partially joined the ACC and conferences and conference championships seem very helpful for getting into the playoff, it seems things have changed. The thing about all the repeated attempts to get ND in the past is that nothing was any different year after year. Realignment and the playoff especially seem to have changed things. Would be great if we could replace Nebraska with ND. No idea about how open ND really is to it though. [Title]

Output: Yes, but with how ND has


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 3 days ago [Body] Made room how? At what point would we be oversigning and just kicking kids off to make room? [Title]

Output: Made room how? Some people


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 3 days ago [Body] That must have been a long time ago. I haven't seen him in forever. I thought maybe he just left. What finally got him kicked off? Just more of the same and wouldn't stop? I'm not sure I ever formed that much of an opinion on him because it seemed everything was tl;dr. [Title]

Output: That must have been a long


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 3 days ago [Body] Like War and Peace, but long. [Title]

Output: Like War and Peace, but long.


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 3 days ago [Body] OK, Ace Williams. [Title]

Output: OK, Ace Williams.


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 4 days ago [Body] Now this is something that can be evaluated. I wouldn't be very happy being a Bo Pelini Nebraska team. I wouldn't accept oversigning. What happened in the post Ace talked about? Eh, I thought it was bad. I'd definitely prefer that it doesn't happen and I'd hope Harbaugh would be put under some pressure. I would definitely accept a few recruits who the staff thought they don't need anymore because of higher-ranked guys knocking on the door if they had already committed. Would rather the staff waited until the next cycle to start picking higher-hanging fruit even if signing up a couple mediocre players cost us a win (don't see how it'd cost more than that for a couple guys who are just so-so). EDIT: Reading who Gameboy was originally replying to and what he said, I'm not sure we really disagree at all actually. I don't think Harbaugh should be fired if he does like he did in Stanford in 2010, but I would like to hear some pointed questions from the media that would cause him to back off of doing that in the future and hopefully a conversation with Hackett behind closed doors (that we would probably never catch wind of). [Title]

Output: Now this is something that


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 4 days ago [Body] Win what exactly? The Hoke question was a serious one. What win percentage or number of B1G titles over X number of years would you be happy with? Can you name a coach who is winning conference titles regularly that treats kids well according to your criteria? Again, it's great that you have standards, but it's easy to have standards on overcommitting without having standards on winning. Clearly teams who do shady shit are at an advantage. [Title]

Output: Win what exactly? The Hoke


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 4 days ago [Body] I hope you're wrong. I would be extremely disappointed. Even yanking an offer just before Signing Day would be less egregious but still really shitty. At least that recruit wasn't a part of team yet and has other options. [Title]

Output: I hope you're wrong. I would


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 4 days ago [Body] Most moms aren't 6'3" either. [Title]

Output: Most moms aren't 6'3" either.


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 4 days ago [Body] Especially in Quebec. [Title]

Output: Especially in Quebec.


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 4 days ago [Body] How about down here at the pawn shop? [Title]

Output: How about down here at the


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 4 days ago [Body] That's ridiculous. So much hindsight in there. You're blaming Carr for announcing his retirement before his career actually ended? That happens all the time. You can't blame him for the Miles' media fiasco blowing up or Bill Martin being on a boat. From your post, it sounds like Carr was irresponsible for not literally looking into the future. [Title]

Output: That's ridiculous. So much


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 4 days ago [Body] You're stupid! [Title]

Output: You're stupid!


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 4 days ago [Body] The Smoky Mountains area (beautiful by the way, Cherohola Skyway!) was definitely the most redneck area I've been to. I remember we walked into some restaurant or fast food place and got a bunch of looks when people heard us talking and knew we weren't from around there. It was weird. It's the same looks I've gotten traveling in Asia, except, ya know, I was in America still. EDIT: Not that anyone cares but this must be some kind of record for me. This is like the 20th post I've made today. Guess that's what happens when you're on vacation but have no responsibilities, like raising a family. [Title]

Output: The Smoky Mountains area


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 4 days ago [Body] It's true. That's why this generation of youth is called the "ME generation". Oh, no wait, that was the 60's... To be fair, I do think we're getting more and more egotistical. It's just that it's been going on for a long time and it's stupid to blame it all on rap. If you wanted to point to one specific thing, I'd pick cameras that allow us to take photos of ourselves and what we're doing at every moment over rap music. [Title]

Output: It's true. That's why this


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 4 days ago [Body] I actually went to a club in Saigon this past winter and basically got treated like royalty. It was fucking WEIRD. I couldn't stop smiling and laughing every time I saw an employee light someone's cigarette or pour my shots for me or escort me to the bathroom or even be the ones turning the water on and off at the sink. And to be fair, that's kind of how that recruit looks. I'd like to think I wouldn't be so wowed and would think it's absurd. Except for the women. I would definitely enjoy that part. [Title]

Output: I actually went to a club in


Input: [Date] 1 year 27 weeks ago [Body] to see how this game shakes out. Nebraska has seemingly gotten to the basket at will. Ohio has seen a clear lack of actual offense, I.e. the late run was off of ad lib foul taking. [Title]

Output: Interesting


Input: [Date] 2 years 2 weeks ago [Body] continue this small sample size? 15 minutes: a couple of poor touches with a good cross and great finish. Not too many exemplary pieces of play from the wing this game and he had the lone goal plus Klinsmann showed us how he isn't afraid to shake up the roster. [Title]

Output: Does Shea


Input: [Date] 2 years 2 weeks ago [Body] you can see where he's lacking in this system, he doesn't come back and play off the ball very well minus his ability in front of the net. [Title]

Output: Wondo


Input: [Date] 2 years 3 weeks ago [Body] how well Holden and Donovon looked out on the field together. I also liked the play of Corona and Torres. Wondo obviously stole the night with the hat trick, finally. Back line was never tested completely. [Title]

Output: Can't deny


Input: [Date] 2 years 25 weeks ago [Body] freaked out whenever Morgan got in foul trouble during games? Don't have that problem anymore. [Title]

Output: Remember when we always


Input: [Date] 2 years 27 weeks ago [Body] will be the death of us. Coaches can't confirm a commitment at 2 in the morning, and insiders are sitting at their desks going "WTF?". I'm inclined to believe this isn't a commitment but a potential offer with the kid taking it the wrong way thinking he could commit. [Title]

Output: Twitter


Input: [Date] 2 years 34 weeks ago [Body] making his way up the draft board. [Title]

Output: Burke


Input: [Date] 2 years 34 weeks ago [Body] WOW [Title]

Output: Just


Input: [Date] 2 years 34 weeks ago [Body] Run through the offense better and then tighten up defensively. Come on boys. [Title]

Output: Sloppy on both sides


Input: [Date] 2 years 34 weeks ago [Body] Quick off the bench, eh? [Title]

Output: Levert in off the timeout


Input: [Date] 2 years 34 weeks ago [Body] from Stauskas and Albrecht early lead to that situation. Calm the nerves boys. [Title]

Output: Bad passing


Input: [Date] 2 years 34 weeks ago [Body] playing like a junior or senior at this point in the game. [Title]

Output: GR3


Input: [Date] 2 years 36 weeks ago [Body] simliar issues. Stressful household, job, school, etc. I think the best advice for someone is that eventually it will get better if you keep trying to make it that way. No amount of self misery or loathing will help you, I've learned that much. Have a great Thankgiving, God Bless, and let your worst mistakes lead to your greatest triumphs in life. [Title]

Output: I've battled


Input: [Date] 2 years 36 weeks ago [Body] and watched the first half highlights. Apparently he did so well with the U-19 squad for the US, that the entire coaching staff was singing his praises. Definitely a player to keep an eye on for the future. [Title]

Output: Caught the second half


Input: [Date] 2 years 36 weeks ago [Body] just got upper 90ed. Got to pressure the ball and then cover, not the other way around. [Title]

Output: Snipe show


Input: [Date] 2 years 36 weeks ago [Body] coming up huge with 2 straight there. [Title]

Output: Grinwis


Input: [Date] 2 years 41 weeks ago [Body] if the officials that took bribes from Blatter put it towards the International side instead of their own coffers.... [Title]

Output: Well


Input: [Date] 2 years 41 weeks ago [Body] Most likely culprit. [Title]

Output: Visits


Input: [Date] 2 years 41 weeks ago [Body] TomVH has confirmed it. Sam Webb is checking his sources. Edit: Beaten to the punch, sorry. [Title]

Output: And TomVH


Input: [Date] 2 years 42 weeks ago [Body] I'm not saying he should be on the roster, but with his speed and experience in the Tippaligaen, why isn't his name called on more often? Easily one of the best pure wing players the US could call upon. [Title]

Output: Gatt


Input: [Date] 2 years 47 weeks ago [Body] would probably be likely if AVB wants to get all the worth out of his players. [Title]

Output: An experimental 4-2-3-2


Input: [Date] 2 years 49 weeks ago [Body] trick plays don't fool that defense very often. Pass plays against man coverage would be something to look at during the game. Safety check downs on Playaction are also useful against them. [Title]

Output: Well


Input: [Date] 2 years 50 weeks ago [Body] and hope this will put us on a streak of good play. Brek Shea's buildup was brilliant and luckily we smashed it home. Howard was playing like a man possessed for the last 10 minutes. Good result and always good to break a bad streak. [Title]

Output: Ride the wave


Input: [Date] 2 years 50 weeks ago [Body] Johnson has been serviceable but Williams is better as a winger instead of defending. Need his speed farther up the field. [Title]

Output: Bad position for Williams


Input: [Date] 2 years 50 weeks ago [Body] Back line was solid for the most part, being as makeshift as it is. Biggest problem at half? Finding a way to control possession for more than a minute at a time. Also need to close down the easy passing lanes in the defensive third. All in all a solid half for a side without a lot of the top players. [Title]

Output: Half time


Input: [Date] 2 years 50 weeks ago [Body] has never done anything internationally. He has no breakaway speed, a meh shot, and the only thing he really possesses is an aptitude for putting the ball in the back of the net against equal competition. I'd rather see Gomez or Boyd up top. Boyd is the big imposing presence in the middle needed for the wide system we play. The thing is though, we need to control the ball and pick the right pass or we'll get burned with how inept our defense has been. Plainly said we have a slim chance to win today and have to hope for plenty of mistakes on the other side. [Title]

Output: Wondo


Input: [Date] 3 years 1 week ago [Body] comparisons on football. HALOL [Title]

Output: Voldermort giving


Input: [Date] 3 years 1 week ago [Body] "@S_Morris12 dropped back to the 35 and hit the End line, 75 yards" That sounds like a good test for his arm strength. [Title]

Output: I think I figured out Dilfer's test


Input: [Date] 3 years 5 weeks ago [Body] and we'd have all 3. Great football family. Knew them since I was young. [Title]

Output: Just get Brad from PSU


Input: [Date] 3 years 5 weeks ago [Body] they also have a 2011 transfer available and a 2012 instant transfer. [Title]

Output: Sorry for not clarifying


Input: [Date] 3 days 5 hours ago [Body] That says a lot seeing as espn typically ranks the class when their 12 and never re-evaluates them before they graduate. [Title]

Output: That says a lot seeing as


Input: [Date] 3 days 10 hours ago [Body] People need to stop worrying about the stickers and more about the play on the field. The coaches in the 90s felt the egos were getting out of control on the team so they ended the stickers, and shortly after we won the national championship. If Harbaugh now thinks the players need some stickers to motivate them to make plays then I'm all for them, because we have had a serious lack of playmakers for the past few years. It's all about psychology. Harbaugh played on teams with stickers, so if he thinks they make the slightest bit of difference, I want them. [Title]

Output: People need to stop worrying


Input: [Date] 3 days 10 hours ago [Body] Then have you seen enough of every other player? Because no one on offense was any good last year. No one was set up to succeed with the coaching/playcalling we've had. [Title]

Output: Then have you seen enough of


Input: [Date] 2 weeks 5 days ago [Body] We just need to look like a D1 football program again. Crush the bad teams, beat the good teams and beat or lose close to the very good teams and we'll get him. We already have a very good shot before Harbaugh's first game. He's CB'd ti OSU because he's in the Midwest and they just won the NC and picked up a couple Cass guys. Nothing more. [Title]

Output: We just need to look like a


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 1 day ago [Body] Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think that's only according to ESPN, which is... yeah. Basically meaningless. [Title]

Output: Correct me if I'm wrong, but


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 1 day ago [Body] I don't know that Hoke had anything to do with any of that. He was very traditional. [Title]

Output: I don't know that Hoke had


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 1 day ago [Body] I think most people on this blog would write the same response if they didn't even look at the renderings. It's much better than any alternate we've had in my opinion. The only crazy thing is the undershirt. The uniform itself is actually pretty simple. I think it's pretty cool. You have to keep in mind that Louisville doesn't have half the history of UM. [Title]

Output: I think most people on this


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 1 day ago [Body] Second this. Been going there my whole life. That and Old Mission Peninsula in TC are my top two. Conveniently, they're only 45 minutes apart. [Title]

Output: Second this. Been going


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 3 days ago [Body] After what we've seen since Carr, his ugly looks like Rosie Huntington-Wheatley (Watched transformers 3 on tv last night. Damn). [Title]

Output: After what we've seen since


Input: [Date] 5 weeks 3 days ago [Body] How long do good periods of viewing last typically? Like only a night or longer? I've never seen them and I'm headed to Copper Harbor on Friday. Would be awesome to see. [Title]

Output: How long do good periods of


Input: [Date] 6 weeks 5 hours ago [Body] Why the hell would he change his mind 1 month after committing? I will never understand what goes through the minds of these kids and families... [Title]

Output: Why the hell would he change


Input: [Date] 6 weeks 5 hours ago [Body] If the camps were illegal Harbaugh wouldn't be allowed to have them Gary... [Title]

Output: If the camps were illegal


Input: [Date] 6 weeks 3 days ago [Body] All Hoke's guys were highly rated as well. They just had shitty coaching. They're all starting with Harbaugh from day one and will receive the same amount of coaching from him, so there's no reason Morris won't thrive. He has a lot of raw talent, and per scouting reports was more polished than Gentry coming out of hs. All I'm saying is don't count anyone out yet. [Title]

Output: All Hoke's guys were highly


Input: [Date] 7 weeks 11 hours ago [Body] I think you can tell from the initial returns you may have made a mistake coming here lol. I will say though, talking about it is pretty much always better than sweeping it under the rug. That's parenting. [Title]

Output: I think you can tell from the


Input: [Date] 7 weeks 4 days ago [Body] Where do you hear these rumors? I want to hear them too. [Title]

Output: Where do you hear these


Input: [Date] 7 weeks 4 days ago [Body] He better hurry up and make it official with the coaches or we're gonna fill our 8 linebacker spots... [Title]

Output: He better hurry up and make


Input: [Date] 7 weeks 5 days ago [Body] Do you recall Michigan ever seeing this many guys in person? These camps provide a unique level of exposure. [Title]

Output: Do you recall Michigan ever


Input: [Date] 7 weeks 5 days ago [Body] Personally coach? Or just be in the general vicinity of while playing football. There's no way to have that personal of a touch with that many guys. I'd think it would be a little bittersweet for some of those kids since I'm sure they all want to be coached by Harbaugh. [Title]

Output: Personally coach? Or just be


Input: [Date] 8 weeks 2 days ago [Body] Was really hoping you were annoying and asked him about Urbz or where DPJ is headed. You made the right call in taking the anti fanboy approach though. [Title]

Output: Was really hoping you were


Input: [Date] 9 weeks 2 days ago [Body] Also Erik Magnuson and Keith Washington. Still a rarity though. [Title]

Output: Also Erik Magnuson and Keith


Input: [Date] 10 weeks 2 days ago [Body] When did he say that? I only listen occasionally but last I heard about Harbaugh was that he loved all the camp moves because he was standing up to the sec and not backing down. [Title]

Output: When did he say that? I only


Input: [Date] 10 weeks 3 days ago [Body] Think about all the players who would become available to the other power conferences if 5 recruits per SEC team were still available every year. [Title]

Output: Think about all the players


Input: [Date] 10 weeks 3 days ago [Body] Wasnt Davonte Neal a very highly regarded WR recruit? Surprised he was flipped to the other side. [Title]

Output: Wasnt Davonte Neal a very


Input: [Date] 11 weeks 1 day ago [Body] Eh.. Usually this is a sour grapes type of statement but in this case we truly could have had him if we wanted him. I don't think any recruits outside the state of Michigan will turn their head for this pickup by Sparty. [Title]

Output: Eh.. Usually this is a sour


Input: [Date] 11 weeks 2 days ago [Body] Dang I totally missed Heitzman transferring I think. Countess is the toughest to see go for sure. Have to think it means they were being outplayed though, which is a good thing. [Title]

Output: Dang I totally missed


Input: [Date] 12 weeks 2 days ago [Body] "I'm wishing him a speedy recovery." It's an appendectomy. He's already recovered. [Title]

Output: "I'm wishing him a speedy


Input: [Date] 12 weeks 4 days ago [Body] I am shocked that ESPN predicted history to repeat itself. They always predict the same thing that happened he previous year. [Title]

Output: I am shocked that ESPN


Input: [Date] 13 weeks 1 day ago [Body] I guess if you're gonna make a bullshit list you might as well go all out and make it as bullshitty as possible. [Title]

Output: I guess if you're gonna make


Input: [Date] 13 weeks 2 days ago [Body] I don't think there's any problem with flipping recruits.. I read that as "flipping" with quotes indicating sarcasm as in, "flipping" aka buying recruits. [Title]

Output: I don't think there's any


Input: [Date] 13 weeks 3 days ago [Body] Gary. We need elite line play badly. It's been way too long. And I'm pretty stoked about our backcourt for next year already. IF YOURE READING JAYLEN WE ARE SO THIN IN THE BACKCOURT! [Title]

Output: Gary. We need elite line play


Input: [Date] 1 year 33 weeks ago [Title] point still stands [Body]

Output: OK, my count was off. I will admit I didn't know what to do with the 3 ties no loss season. But Michigan stil has half as many 2 or fewer loss seasons than Ohio State. In fact, OSU has 8 one or fewer loss seasons (or 7 if you take out Tressle's vacated season) while Michigan has 2. My point was simply that OSU found a way to win a couple of more games pretty consistently over this period. Is it some definitive statistic? No. But significantly more 1 or no loss seasons means more great seasons and it feels like Michigan just hasn't been able to consistently accomplish that.


Input: [Date] 1 year 33 weeks ago [Title] I wonder when the leap occurs [Body]

Output: (if it ever does- yes, that is depressing). Mchigan has a history at this point of losing three games or more. Since 1990 Michigan has had seasons with two or fewer loses four times. Ohio State has done it 13 times! With three or four undefeated regular seasons and a national title game. Michigan has one undefeated season and a shared title. Michigan State has won 11 games three out of four years. This is what worries me about Michigan football. We need to get out of that rut (3-5 losses) before worrying about being a national contender. But as Brian notes above, competing for Big Ten titles more than likely means a national contender in the East.


Input: [Date] 1 year 33 weeks ago [Title] I chuckled outl oud more than once [Body]

Output: Thanks for the lunchtime entertainment. I have to laugh about college football or I might remember what happened this season and start crying.


Input: [Date] 1 year 33 weeks ago [Title] Long time lurker without much commenting [Body]

Output: means a long road to be able to post. Man, can't believe I have been reading this blog for over five years and can't manage more than 17 points ...


Input: [Date] 1 year 34 weeks ago [Title] Just a thought [Body]

Output: Ever thought about breaking this up into segments and posting one a day? Easier to listen to and more pageviews for the advertisers ...


Input: [Date] 1 year 34 weeks ago [Title] The past has a huge impact on my reaction [Body]

Output: I am totally with Brian on the emotions of this game. If we beat Penn State, Iowa and maybe Nebraska this game feels different. A great game after that season is both inexplicable and maddening. Winning was the only way that game felt good, IMO. But the even bigger picture is what really makes me depressed and even angry. Michigan has not won a truly big game or pulled the massive upset outside of Notre Dame in a decade or more. How many close games has Ohio State won? How many times have they upset us or pulled the big road win? The 11w writer was right about this game: stealing wins on the road is huge and we just don't manage to pull it off while OSU has. Living in Columbus makes this a nightmare for me as I have to have it thrown in my face practically every single day. But the record speaks for itself. In that context this was an opportunity of a lifetime and we blew it. Was it exciting and incredible while it lasted? Yes, but at the end of the day it is just another loss in a long series of losses. Two wins in thirteen tries! On top of that, since 1990 Michigan has had seasons with two or fewer loses four times. Ohio State has done it 13 times! With three or four undefeated regular seasons and a national title game. Michigan has one undefeated season and a shared title. John Cooper couldn't beat Michigan but he beat everyone else with some regularity. Tressel and Meyer had added beating Michigan to that recipe. If this does not depress you I don't know what to say. Does that mean I have no hope for the future? No, I think the young talent on this team has a great deal of potential but you have to be naive to believe that Michigan is going to be an elite team without some consistent proof on the field. They have been a 3-5 loss team with the occasional two loss team thrown in since the early 90s.


Input: [Date] 1 year 34 weeks ago [Title] Great game, still sucks [Body]

Output: I don't agree with the call to go for it. At home I say you play for OT when anything can happen instead of risking everything on one play. But I understand why Hoke did it and wished we would have pulled off the upset of the ages. To come so close and lose is a bitter pill. What is so frustrating is that it seems for the last ten years, Ohio State finds ways to win games like this and we find ways to lose. They win ugly, When was the last time Michigan actually pulled off the big upset? Feels like forever.


Input: [Date] 1 year 35 weeks ago [Title] I get the anger but [Body]

Output: I get the anger I really do. It has been maddening to watch this offense implode and become a laughing stock incapable of winning a game that is practically handed to them (Iowa, Penn State) or get manhanled and not respond (MSU, Nebraska). The defense has played their hearts out even as they eventually give up the game late. But this nuke the coaches from orbit and start over mindset is more madness. Continuity in coaching and players is critical in football. An offense has to become second nature, players have to gel, repition breeds success, etc. i am not syaing Borges is the answer on offense or I would be upset if we brought in someone new but we can't clean house. Just a few plays and a few games can change a seson very easily. Especially when you are talking sophmores in college. This year we just haven't found a way to make those plays. Missed field goals against Penn State ruined a nice second half. Today a number of dropped passes killed drives and momentum (Funchess in particular). Things just are not clicking. Everybody is talking about how Michigan State is in better shape than we are but have you forgotten last year? They lost a bunch of close games. Andin 2009 they lost 7 games. They have built a tought defense and found their offense. They used to have a reputation of not being able to win close games but this year they have been solid. Yes, the offense looks lost but an inability to block, a lack of identity and critical dropped passes will do that to you. There is no silver bullet that will magically make this team a contender. It will take time and development. Firing Hoke and starting over would be a disaster. We need to make some changes but wholesale change because the season went south is not the answer.


Input: [Date] 1 year 36 weeks ago [Title] "you'll all likely be angry at several points on Saturday" [Body]

Output: Um, yeah, bit of an understatement, no? Given past performance, etc. Perhaps it is ridiculous optimism but it has felt like Michigan is often just a few plays short of getting on track but just can't seem to make those plays. A dropped pass, a bad read of inaccurate pass, a missed assignment, not holding a block for half a minute longer, all these things keep the team from getting first downs or splash plays and destroys an rhythm. I wonder if the win last week and the success in OT could carry over and we could see some actually real live offense. Another ugly performance heading into The Game would be so depressing.


Input: [Date] 1 year 36 weeks ago [Title] Thanks, useful [Body]

Output: I was looking for something along these lines. Less Argh, Borges an idiot and more here is something we could do that is not a huge change but would work marginally better and that could add up to an offense that moves the ball more consistently. I agree that this spread them out more as a way to back off the pressure could work. I remember when on one of the Steelers Super Bowl runs they couldn't run the ball until they had success with passing early on. Against both the Colts and Broncos they came out passing more agressively against stacked fronts and then were able to go to more ball control offense with a lead and the defense backed off. The Steelers have never had a great offensive line but try to find ways to make it work and hope the line can gel at some point. Obviously, Gardner isn't neccesarily Ben Roethlisberger but since I am a fan of both teams the similarities struck me.


Input: [Date] 1 year 37 weeks ago [Title] "why are you the dumbest dumbass in the history of dumbasses?" [Body]

Output: That's a clown question, bro ... [but I will admit it has crossed my mind a time or two ...]


Input: [Date] 1 year 37 weeks ago [Title] What can we do in the short term to win games? [Body]

Output: This is really what I would like to see from the X and O folks (not me). What tyype of plays do you think would work and how can Hoke/Borges keep making progress on the offense they want to run while still winning games. My gut sense is that Brian and Space are both right to some degree. This is an execution and preparation problem but it is also play calling stubborness that is costing Michigan games this year. The eyeball test tells you that these runs have no chance of success. They are just running into bodies behind the line. So with a o-line that can't block and has serious confidence issues, a QB that has been abused for weeks, how can we move the football. Is it West Coast style quick hitting dink and dunk with some constraint plays that offer the opportunity for chunk gains? Is it some spread elements? A hurry up pass heavy style that gets the defense off rythym? If this has been posted elsewhere I would love to see it.


Input: [Date] 1 year 37 weeks ago [Title] Very useful [Body]

Output: if incredibly depressing post. It is hard to acknowledge that we are still digging out of a hole. Would love to see an x and O breakdown of the kind of offense we should be running give our current players.


Input: [Date] 1 year 37 weeks ago [Title] losing confidence [Body]

Output: I am not sure how you can have confidence in anyone at this point. It is one thing to get beat it is another to look absolutely clueless and lost at home for a critical conference game. I have not been on the fire Borges train but that game was attrocious. Key turnover and two runs for lost yards? That is just like giving up. And they just kept doing it over and over. Madness. Yes, the oline is a dumpster fire but a creative coach has to find a way to use the talent he has effectively. It is not like Nebraska is Alabama. As Ace notes, one drive of creativity and then hang on and hope not to lose? How can you possibly pick this team to win any of the game left? And then what? I am wondering just where the bottoum is at this point.


Input: [Date] 2 years 16 weeks ago [Title] Surprisingly less angry about this game [Body]

Output: I am not a big basketball fan. I grew up watch Michigan football and that is the strongest conenctionf for me. I didn't live in AA nor did any of my family go to UM. It was just a cultural aspect I picked up before I even realized it. I watch Michigan football and hated Ohio State. By a weird twist of fate I ended up living and working in Columbus, Ohio. I have now stocked and nursed my hatred of OSU into a fine sharp point. And with all of the ups and downs of football have developed a somewhat tragic sense of life when it comes to sports. And so I was afraid to start carrying about Mcihigan basketball again (I got caught up in the Fab Five frensy while in college and paid the psychic cost when that all unraveled). I followed the teams (mostly through this blog) and the last couple of years slowly began to increase my interest. Last year, I started to actually watch the games. This year I got sucked in. I started watching the games from the start and found myselfing reallying caring about the team again. As I watched heartbreaking losses to Ohio State, Indiana, Wisconsin, etc. I thought "what have I gotten myself into?" It isn't like I need more sports heartbreak, right? But I wasn't going to be one of those fans who abandones the team once they struggle and so I kept watching. And man did the tournament pay off that committment. It felt so good to see everything come together and see the players not only make big plays but seem to really have fun and play as a team. It felt like they were able to shake off the demons and bad bounces of earlier in the year and just play at a higher level. The first half last night felt like that trajectory would continue. But then Hancock began to rain down threes and my gut began to clench and suddenly it was more like a heavyweight fight - less joy, more determination. And in the end Michigan just didn't quite have enough to get past an incredibly determined and focused Louisville team. In the end I felt not anger but frustration a sense that those players were so close to an incredible opportunity only to fall just short. I wished all that joy could have continued in one last improbable victory. As Brian notes, I wished somehow I could reduce the misery they felt. And of course, lving in Columbus I had to deal with the jerks on FB and Twitter and everywhere else savoring the loss and the misery. But as my duaghter (age 8) said to me this morning as we were discussing it in the car, Michigan is clearly a program to be reckoned with again. And I think that takes a little of the sting of the loss away somehow. Michigan feels back somehow. Maybe I am a bandwagon fan compared to all of you longtime fans but it feels good to committ to a team and feel good about where they are and where they are headed.


Input: [Date] 2 years 16 weeks ago [Title] Thanks for the insight into your world [Body]

Output: Having been involved in blogging, both personally and professionally, I know how hard it can be even when you love your subject. Your unique health situation adds another wrinkle. I appreciate what you do and the passion you bring to it. Thanks for bringing the joys, and disappontments, of this season to me through your writing. Best of luck finding the right balance moving forward.


Input: [Date] 2 years 18 weeks ago [Title] This thread reminds me of this [Body]


Input: [Date] 2 years 35 weeks ago [Title] Two plays inflated offense in first half [Body]

Output: Take away the big Roundtree and Robinson plays and Michigan has like 137 yards in first half. I think it is a little over-the-top to just blame Borges for loss because of poor play calling in the second half. Yes, I think running up the middle was foolish and I wish there was more creative use of Denard and Devin. But the difference to me was turnovers and Carlos Hyde. Hyde allowed Ohio State to grind out yards. Michigan had no answer. Michigan had the opportunity to win and didn't make the plays when they needed to. The only difference between this game and Northwestern is a miracle throw.


Input: [Date] 3 years 35 weeks ago [Title] Thanks [Body]

Output: Sorry to have missed it. I am not an alum so probably why I didn't hear about it.


Input: [Date] 3 years 35 weeks ago [Title] Was Bacon in Columbus for a book signing? [Body]

Output: If so, that sucks that I missed him. Ironically, I talked with Michael Rosenberg when his book came out.


Input: [Date] 4 years 35 weeks ago [Title] Agree about long term trends [Body]

Output: It would be more interesting to see how Michigan compares across a longer period of time. Was there quanatative decline at the end of Carr with 2008 being destruction and now clear rebuilding back to the average UM #s and beyond? Be interesting to see what the typical range for the team has been the last ten years. Easy to request others do more work ...


Input: [Date] 5 years 35 weeks ago [Title] Behind Enemy Lines in Columbus [Body]

Output: I live in Columbus and it gets old after a while. Most people are not real jerks about it but the overall assumption is that everyone is a Buckeye fan; plus you get lots of dirty looks when Michigan is doing well and lots of jokes when they are down (I have lived here during both Cooper and Sweater Vest). You really can't get away from it as it is on TV, radio, stores, work, even at church the pastor will mention the game (Chris Spielman and John Copper both attend my church). I will forget I have on my UM hat and when the guy at the drive-thru says he won't serve me with that hat on and starts laughing it often takes me a moment to figure it out. My mom came to visit close to The Game one year, however, and people were giving her crap all over town so she changed. I told her you can't let them win but she didn't think it was worth the hassle. Of course, my wife's family all went to Michigan State so I have to take crap from them now too ...


Input: [Date] 5 years 36 weeks ago [Title] What about Cliff Stoudt? [Body]

Output: What about Cliff Stoudt?


Input: [Date] 5 years 36 weeks ago [Title] I don't understand the complaint [Body]

Output: Having Michigan fans write and debate what happened and what they think it means is too much? If this is to be a true community where fans interact - in addition to reading Brian's unique perspective - then people will have to deal with comments, diaries, and board posts. I don't think it has descended into site destroying chaos and anger today.


Input: [Date] 5 years 36 weeks ago [Title] huh? [Body]

Output: If tl;dr means "too long didn't read" then how exactly do you know it isn't diary worthy? Do you get extra points for using internet slang even if it is nonsensical? Sorry it wasn't up to your obviously high standards ...


Input: [Date] 5 years 36 weeks ago [Title] Also keep in mind [Body]

Output: that Ohio State was trying not lose from the start (once we gave them a TD and missed a FG). I am not saying the D didn't play better because they did. But if OSU has to win that game - rather than watching us lose it - I think things would have been different. Maybe we win, maybe we don't, but it wouldn't have been the same game.


Input: [Date] 5 years 36 weeks ago [Title] Here is hoping [Body]

Output: I am shouting for joy instead of spending the weekend explaining to my kids why it is wrong to say bad words and why they shouldn't be repeating them all day (like happened for Purdue and when the Bengals swept the Steelers last Sunday). A win tomorrow would make my year (yes, it has been one of those years for me). Winning and losing can be a close thing. If everything comes together Saturday who knows what can happen.


Input: [Date] 5 years 36 weeks ago [Title] Tragic indeed [Body]

Output: I bear the burden of being a Michigan fan in Columbus. The Spielmans go to my church and I listen to him on the radio frequently so it feels like a death in the family somehow. Chris is a class guy and Stephanie always brightened whatever room she entered. Definitely praying for the family during what must be a very difficult time.


Input: [Date] 5 years 37 weeks ago [Title] I am actually rather calm for once [Body]

Output: Weird how expectations play out. Despite the desperate need to win one more game, I just felt like Wisconsin was the better team today. For, I guess, obvious reasons Illinois and Purdue felt very different.


Input: [Date] 5 years 37 weeks ago [Title] A little late [Body]

Output: I think a whole lot of people already panicked. Luckily by the time I signed in things began to return to normal.


Input: [Date] 1 year 33 weeks ago [Body] OK, my count was off. I will admit I didn't know what to do with the 3 ties no loss season. But Michigan stil has half as many 2 or fewer loss seasons than Ohio State. In fact, OSU has 8 one or fewer loss seasons (or 7 if you take out Tressle's vacated season) while Michigan has 2. My point was simply that OSU found a way to win a couple of more games pretty consistently over this period. Is it some definitive statistic? No. But significantly more 1 or no loss seasons means more great seasons and it feels like Michigan just hasn't been able to consistently accomplish that. [Title]

Output: point still stands


Input: [Date] 1 year 33 weeks ago [Body] (if it ever does- yes, that is depressing). Mchigan has a history at this point of losing three games or more. Since 1990 Michigan has had seasons with two or fewer loses four times. Ohio State has done it 13 times! With three or four undefeated regular seasons and a national title game. Michigan has one undefeated season and a shared title. Michigan State has won 11 games three out of four years. This is what worries me about Michigan football. We need to get out of that rut (3-5 losses) before worrying about being a national contender. But as Brian notes above, competing for Big Ten titles more than likely means a national contender in the East. [Title]

Output: I wonder when the leap occurs


Input: [Date] 1 year 33 weeks ago [Body] Thanks for the lunchtime entertainment. I have to laugh about college football or I might remember what happened this season and start crying. [Title]

Output: I chuckled outl oud more than once


Input: [Date] 1 year 33 weeks ago [Body] means a long road to be able to post. Man, can't believe I have been reading this blog for over five years and can't manage more than 17 points ... [Title]

Output: Long time lurker without much commenting


Input: [Date] 1 year 34 weeks ago [Body] Ever thought about breaking this up into segments and posting one a day? Easier to listen to and more pageviews for the advertisers ... [Title]

Output: Just a thought


Input: [Date] 1 year 34 weeks ago [Body] I am totally with Brian on the emotions of this game. If we beat Penn State, Iowa and maybe Nebraska this game feels different. A great game after that season is both inexplicable and maddening. Winning was the only way that game felt good, IMO. But the even bigger picture is what really makes me depressed and even angry. Michigan has not won a truly big game or pulled the massive upset outside of Notre Dame in a decade or more. How many close games has Ohio State won? How many times have they upset us or pulled the big road win? The 11w writer was right about this game: stealing wins on the road is huge and we just don't manage to pull it off while OSU has. Living in Columbus makes this a nightmare for me as I have to have it thrown in my face practically every single day. But the record speaks for itself. In that context this was an opportunity of a lifetime and we blew it. Was it exciting and incredible while it lasted? Yes, but at the end of the day it is just another loss in a long series of losses. Two wins in thirteen tries! On top of that, since 1990 Michigan has had seasons with two or fewer loses four times. Ohio State has done it 13 times! With three or four undefeated regular seasons and a national title game. Michigan has one undefeated season and a shared title. John Cooper couldn't beat Michigan but he beat everyone else with some regularity. Tressel and Meyer had added beating Michigan to that recipe. If this does not depress you I don't know what to say. Does that mean I have no hope for the future? No, I think the young talent on this team has a great deal of potential but you have to be naive to believe that Michigan is going to be an elite team without some consistent proof on the field. They have been a 3-5 loss team with the occasional two loss team thrown in since the early 90s. [Title]

Output: The past has a huge impact on my reaction


Input: [Date] 1 year 34 weeks ago [Body] I don't agree with the call to go for it. At home I say you play for OT when anything can happen instead of risking everything on one play. But I understand why Hoke did it and wished we would have pulled off the upset of the ages. To come so close and lose is a bitter pill. What is so frustrating is that it seems for the last ten years, Ohio State finds ways to win games like this and we find ways to lose. They win ugly, When was the last time Michigan actually pulled off the big upset? Feels like forever. [Title]

Output: Great game, still sucks


Input: [Date] 1 year 35 weeks ago [Body] I get the anger I really do. It has been maddening to watch this offense implode and become a laughing stock incapable of winning a game that is practically handed to them (Iowa, Penn State) or get manhanled and not respond (MSU, Nebraska). The defense has played their hearts out even as they eventually give up the game late. But this nuke the coaches from orbit and start over mindset is more madness. Continuity in coaching and players is critical in football. An offense has to become second nature, players have to gel, repition breeds success, etc. i am not syaing Borges is the answer on offense or I would be upset if we brought in someone new but we can't clean house. Just a few plays and a few games can change a seson very easily. Especially when you are talking sophmores in college. This year we just haven't found a way to make those plays. Missed field goals against Penn State ruined a nice second half. Today a number of dropped passes killed drives and momentum (Funchess in particular). Things just are not clicking. Everybody is talking about how Michigan State is in better shape than we are but have you forgotten last year? They lost a bunch of close games. Andin 2009 they lost 7 games. They have built a tought defense and found their offense. They used to have a reputation of not being able to win close games but this year they have been solid. Yes, the offense looks lost but an inability to block, a lack of identity and critical dropped passes will do that to you. There is no silver bullet that will magically make this team a contender. It will take time and development. Firing Hoke and starting over would be a disaster. We need to make some changes but wholesale change because the season went south is not the answer. [Title]

Output: I get the anger but


Input: [Date] 1 year 36 weeks ago [Body] Um, yeah, bit of an understatement, no? Given past performance, etc. Perhaps it is ridiculous optimism but it has felt like Michigan is often just a few plays short of getting on track but just can't seem to make those plays. A dropped pass, a bad read of inaccurate pass, a missed assignment, not holding a block for half a minute longer, all these things keep the team from getting first downs or splash plays and destroys an rhythm. I wonder if the win last week and the success in OT could carry over and we could see some actually real live offense. Another ugly performance heading into The Game would be so depressing. [Title]

Output: "you'll all likely be angry at several points on Saturday"


Input: [Date] 1 year 36 weeks ago [Body] I was looking for something along these lines. Less Argh, Borges an idiot and more here is something we could do that is not a huge change but would work marginally better and that could add up to an offense that moves the ball more consistently. I agree that this spread them out more as a way to back off the pressure could work. I remember when on one of the Steelers Super Bowl runs they couldn't run the ball until they had success with passing early on. Against both the Colts and Broncos they came out passing more agressively against stacked fronts and then were able to go to more ball control offense with a lead and the defense backed off. The Steelers have never had a great offensive line but try to find ways to make it work and hope the line can gel at some point. Obviously, Gardner isn't neccesarily Ben Roethlisberger but since I am a fan of both teams the similarities struck me. [Title]

Output: Thanks, useful


Input: [Date] 1 year 37 weeks ago [Body] That's a clown question, bro ... [but I will admit it has crossed my mind a time or two ...] [Title]

Output: "why are you the dumbest dumbass in the history of dumbasses?"


Input: [Date] 1 year 37 weeks ago [Body] This is really what I would like to see from the X and O folks (not me). What tyype of plays do you think would work and how can Hoke/Borges keep making progress on the offense they want to run while still winning games. My gut sense is that Brian and Space are both right to some degree. This is an execution and preparation problem but it is also play calling stubborness that is costing Michigan games this year. The eyeball test tells you that these runs have no chance of success. They are just running into bodies behind the line. So with a o-line that can't block and has serious confidence issues, a QB that has been abused for weeks, how can we move the football. Is it West Coast style quick hitting dink and dunk with some constraint plays that offer the opportunity for chunk gains? Is it some spread elements? A hurry up pass heavy style that gets the defense off rythym? If this has been posted elsewhere I would love to see it. [Title]

Output: What can we do in the short term to win games?


Input: [Date] 1 year 37 weeks ago [Body] if incredibly depressing post. It is hard to acknowledge that we are still digging out of a hole. Would love to see an x and O breakdown of the kind of offense we should be running give our current players. [Title]

Output: Very useful


Input: [Date] 1 year 37 weeks ago [Body] I am not sure how you can have confidence in anyone at this point. It is one thing to get beat it is another to look absolutely clueless and lost at home for a critical conference game. I have not been on the fire Borges train but that game was attrocious. Key turnover and two runs for lost yards? That is just like giving up. And they just kept doing it over and over. Madness. Yes, the oline is a dumpster fire but a creative coach has to find a way to use the talent he has effectively. It is not like Nebraska is Alabama. As Ace notes, one drive of creativity and then hang on and hope not to lose? How can you possibly pick this team to win any of the game left? And then what? I am wondering just where the bottoum is at this point. [Title]

Output: losing confidence


Input: [Date] 2 years 16 weeks ago [Body] I am not a big basketball fan. I grew up watch Michigan football and that is the strongest conenctionf for me. I didn't live in AA nor did any of my family go to UM. It was just a cultural aspect I picked up before I even realized it. I watch Michigan football and hated Ohio State. By a weird twist of fate I ended up living and working in Columbus, Ohio. I have now stocked and nursed my hatred of OSU into a fine sharp point. And with all of the ups and downs of football have developed a somewhat tragic sense of life when it comes to sports. And so I was afraid to start carrying about Mcihigan basketball again (I got caught up in the Fab Five frensy while in college and paid the psychic cost when that all unraveled). I followed the teams (mostly through this blog) and the last couple of years slowly began to increase my interest. Last year, I started to actually watch the games. This year I got sucked in. I started watching the games from the start and found myselfing reallying caring about the team again. As I watched heartbreaking losses to Ohio State, Indiana, Wisconsin, etc. I thought "what have I gotten myself into?" It isn't like I need more sports heartbreak, right? But I wasn't going to be one of those fans who abandones the team once they struggle and so I kept watching. And man did the tournament pay off that committment. It felt so good to see everything come together and see the players not only make big plays but seem to really have fun and play as a team. It felt like they were able to shake off the demons and bad bounces of earlier in the year and just play at a higher level. The first half last night felt like that trajectory would continue. But then Hancock began to rain down threes and my gut began to clench and suddenly it was more like a heavyweight fight - less joy, more determination. And in the end Michigan just didn't quite have enough to get past an incredibly determined and focused Louisville team. In the end I felt not anger but frustration a sense that those players were so close to an incredible opportunity only to fall just short. I wished all that joy could have continued in one last improbable victory. As Brian notes, I wished somehow I could reduce the misery they felt. And of course, lving in Columbus I had to deal with the jerks on FB and Twitter and everywhere else savoring the loss and the misery. But as my duaghter (age 8) said to me this morning as we were discussing it in the car, Michigan is clearly a program to be reckoned with again. And I think that takes a little of the sting of the loss away somehow. Michigan feels back somehow. Maybe I am a bandwagon fan compared to all of you longtime fans but it feels good to committ to a team and feel good about where they are and where they are headed. [Title]

Output: Surprisingly less angry about this game


Input: [Date] 2 years 16 weeks ago [Body] Having been involved in blogging, both personally and professionally, I know how hard it can be even when you love your subject. Your unique health situation adds another wrinkle. I appreciate what you do and the passion you bring to it. Thanks for bringing the joys, and disappontments, of this season to me through your writing. Best of luck finding the right balance moving forward. [Title]

Output: Thanks for the insight into your world


Input: [Date] 2 years 18 weeks ago [Body] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gb_qHP7VaZE [Title]

Output: This thread reminds me of this


Input: [Date] 2 years 35 weeks ago [Body] Take away the big Roundtree and Robinson plays and Michigan has like 137 yards in first half. I think it is a little over-the-top to just blame Borges for loss because of poor play calling in the second half. Yes, I think running up the middle was foolish and I wish there was more creative use of Denard and Devin. But the difference to me was turnovers and Carlos Hyde. Hyde allowed Ohio State to grind out yards. Michigan had no answer. Michigan had the opportunity to win and didn't make the plays when they needed to. The only difference between this game and Northwestern is a miracle throw. [Title]

Output: Two plays inflated offense in first half


Input: [Date] 3 years 35 weeks ago [Body] Sorry to have missed it. I am not an alum so probably why I didn't hear about it. [Title]

Output: Thanks


Input: [Date] 3 years 35 weeks ago [Body] If so, that sucks that I missed him. Ironically, I talked with Michael Rosenberg when his book came out. [Title]

Output: Was Bacon in Columbus for a book signing?


Input: [Date] 4 years 35 weeks ago [Body] It would be more interesting to see how Michigan compares across a longer period of time. Was there quanatative decline at the end of Carr with 2008 being destruction and now clear rebuilding back to the average UM #s and beyond? Be interesting to see what the typical range for the team has been the last ten years. Easy to request others do more work ... [Title]

Output: Agree about long term trends


Input: [Date] 5 years 35 weeks ago [Body] I live in Columbus and it gets old after a while. Most people are not real jerks about it but the overall assumption is that everyone is a Buckeye fan; plus you get lots of dirty looks when Michigan is doing well and lots of jokes when they are down (I have lived here during both Cooper and Sweater Vest). You really can't get away from it as it is on TV, radio, stores, work, even at church the pastor will mention the game (Chris Spielman and John Copper both attend my church). I will forget I have on my UM hat and when the guy at the drive-thru says he won't serve me with that hat on and starts laughing it often takes me a moment to figure it out. My mom came to visit close to The Game one year, however, and people were giving her crap all over town so she changed. I told her you can't let them win but she didn't think it was worth the hassle. Of course, my wife's family all went to Michigan State so I have to take crap from them now too ... [Title]

Output: Behind Enemy Lines in Columbus


Input: [Date] 5 years 36 weeks ago [Body] What about Cliff Stoudt? [Title]

Output: What about Cliff Stoudt?


Input: [Date] 5 years 36 weeks ago [Body] Having Michigan fans write and debate what happened and what they think it means is too much? If this is to be a true community where fans interact - in addition to reading Brian's unique perspective - then people will have to deal with comments, diaries, and board posts. I don't think it has descended into site destroying chaos and anger today. [Title]

Output: I don't understand the complaint


Input: [Date] 5 years 36 weeks ago [Body] If tl;dr means "too long didn't read" then how exactly do you know it isn't diary worthy? Do you get extra points for using internet slang even if it is nonsensical? Sorry it wasn't up to your obviously high standards ... [Title]

Output: huh?


Input: [Date] 5 years 36 weeks ago [Body] that Ohio State was trying not lose from the start (once we gave them a TD and missed a FG). I am not saying the D didn't play better because they did. But if OSU has to win that game - rather than watching us lose it - I think things would have been different. Maybe we win, maybe we don't, but it wouldn't have been the same game. [Title]

Output: Also keep in mind


Input: [Date] 5 years 36 weeks ago [Body] I am shouting for joy instead of spending the weekend explaining to my kids why it is wrong to say bad words and why they shouldn't be repeating them all day (like happened for Purdue and when the Bengals swept the Steelers last Sunday). A win tomorrow would make my year (yes, it has been one of those years for me). Winning and losing can be a close thing. If everything comes together Saturday who knows what can happen. [Title]

Output: Here is hoping


Input: [Date] 5 years 36 weeks ago [Body] I bear the burden of being a Michigan fan in Columbus. The Spielmans go to my church and I listen to him on the radio frequently so it feels like a death in the family somehow. Chris is a class guy and Stephanie always brightened whatever room she entered. Definitely praying for the family during what must be a very difficult time. [Title]

Output: Tragic indeed


Input: [Date] 5 years 37 weeks ago [Body] Weird how expectations play out. Despite the desperate need to win one more game, I just felt like Wisconsin was the better team today. For, I guess, obvious reasons Illinois and Purdue felt very different. [Title]

Output: I am actually rather calm for once


Input: [Date] 5 years 37 weeks ago [Body] I think a whole lot of people already panicked. Luckily by the time I signed in things began to return to normal. [Title]

Output: A little late


Input: [Date] 34 weeks 3 days ago [Title] If Michigan lands Harbaugh [Body]

Output: If Michigan lands Harbaugh and we win a bunch of games, he can be the lamest, say-nothing sack of beans on the planet in press conferences and I don't care. If we lose a bunch of games, I will be frustrated if he refuses to address questions in an informative (or at least honest) manner. Such is the power of winning - it buys you a lot of good will.


Input: [Date] 35 weeks 6 days ago [Title] It'll be interesting to see [Body]

Output: It'll be interesting to see in the future how we look back and remember this period. I don't think anyone will "hate" Hoke - after all, he's our guy, he's leading our team, and he wants the same thing we all want. He cares, and he's giving it everything he's got. He's just ... not that good. I think people will view Hoke not as the source of our team's woes during this time, but as another symptom - the product of a poorly-conducted coaching search by Dave Brandon, who really didn't want the same thing as the rest of us. He is someone who also clearly loves our university and did his best for us, but his idea of success just wasn't the same as ours. That, and he seemed to not like us very much. He wasn't working for the community - he was working for the department and for the athletes, at the expense of the "customers". I think he will get the lion's share of our collective disdain years from now when we remember this low point, and Hoke will be only a footnote.


Input: [Date] 36 weeks 1 day ago [Title] I think that I will enjoy a [Body]

Output: I think that I will enjoy a long and prosperous career for Denard more than any Michigan player I've gotten to watch yet in the NFL. I know we have Tom Brady, but I guess I wasn't as invested in him by the time he graduated. The closest thing I have is Woodson, but it was never really a question whether or not he would excel in the pros. Something about seeing Denard Robinson succeed is just so satisfying. I'm sure it has a lot to do with his character, but also with the circumstances of his remarkable journey at Michigan and the adversity he faced in transitioning to professional football - hell, even in college. That famously unwavering positivity of his just makes him so darn endearing, and the success he's found is the icing on the cake. Long live Denard Robinson.


Input: [Date] 36 weeks 4 days ago [Title] From a purely logic point of [Body]

Output: From a purely logic point of view, Dr. Schlissel's quote only truly asserts that some student-athletes wouldn't be at Michigan if it weren't for their talents on the field. Regardless of his intent, he didn't actually stereotype or generalize anyone. I know we're not robots, so it's natural to read between the lines, but I think the reaction to this is based more on historical frustration than any present reality. I also think the student-athletes are leveraging this comment as an excuse to express their displeasure at not having a say in the fate of Dave Brandon.


Input: [Date] 37 weeks 2 days ago [Title] Is this representative of [Body]

Output: Is this representative of Tosh.0 these days? He seems sharper than what I remember watching in the past.


Input: [Date] 37 weeks 3 days ago [Title] The overall tone of BBW's [Body]

Output: The overall tone of BBW's diary and subsequent comments was SUPER weird. He came across like an insecure android with a programming conflict - on the one hand he really really wanted us to know that he's an expert and he's smarter than Michigan's trainers, but on the other hand he needed to maintain a pretense of "inviting discussion" to keep his unsubstantiated claims from being challenged. They were naturally challenged anyway, because it's a diary and diaries are meant to be informative. This caused the android to malfunction and enter into a repeating loop of uttering meaningless buzz words like "integrative", "compensating modalities", "innovative", "advanced", and "kinetic chain."


Input: [Date] 37 weeks 4 days ago [Title] Innovative. Advanced. [Body]

Output: Innovative. Advanced. Integrative. Compensating modalities. Neuromuscular. Explosive. Kinetic chain. Qualified.


Input: [Date] 37 weeks 6 days ago [Title] This is all true. This [Body]

Output: This is all true. This segment is being hailed critically for it's comedic value right now by a LOT of people, so I mean, to each his/her own. I think a lot of good art is not easily digestible or immediately satisfying (OMG 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY DRAGGED ON WAYYYY TOO LONG AND I DONT GET WHATS UP WITH THE BABY AND THE LIGHTS???). A lot of the times you don't appreciate something right away, but that doesn't mean it sucks. Or maybe it does suck, but that's still just your opinion. Except Ohio State sucks, and that's a fact.


Input: [Date] 38 weeks 2 days ago [Title] You're the best. [Body]

Output: You're the best.


Input: [Date] 38 weeks 2 days ago [Title] ☞( ﾟヮﾟ)☞ [Body]

Output: ☞( ﾟヮﾟ)☞


Input: [Date] 38 weeks 3 days ago [Title] Ah yes, my bad, thanks. [Body]

Output: Ah yes, my bad, thanks. Sometimes I mix up Buckeyes and assume they all suck.


Input: [Date] 38 weeks 4 days ago [Title] I realize that Division III [Body]

Output: I realize that Division III exists (after all, I too graduated from a Division III college), so perhaps it's a testament to the format that I wish it could be extended to all universities.


Input: [Date] 38 weeks 4 days ago [Title] I would actually be ok with a [Body]

Output: I would actually be ok with a world where the NCAA football system as we know it is dissolved. Allow my imagination to run wild for a moment ... The distant future looks a lot like the distant past. When a talented high school football player graduates, he can go to college to get his degree, or he can join a football club and make money doing it. It's a job, he's an adult. If he wants to make it in the NFL, he could theoretically try out immediately. But more than likely, he'll need time to mature and gain experience in a lower league club team before getting the attention of NFL franchises. If he decided to go to college, there are absolutely no athletic scholarships. He goes to get his degree, and there is no financial incentive whatsoever to play football (or any other sport). These students are 100% students, and the school's athletic teams are truly, purely created from the men and women who choose to attend that school. To me, this sounds like the legendary days of football yore. The quality of football would never be as good as it is today, but the sense of identity to the men on the field would, in my opinion, be strengthened. Students would watch the games and cheer on their classmates; alumni would think "that could have been me out there battling for my school!" Now, if a guy chooses to enroll in college and later decides he wants to go pro, he has to quit the college team. He can join a paying club team, and he can even stay in school if he wants. What are the obstacles to making this world a reality? I wonder if/how the lower league of semi-pro clubs would be financially sustainable. Would it make money by itself? Would people watch it? Would it be supported by NFL franchises? Secondly, would a player ever go to college as a way to get attention for football? Would he maybe think "I could really demonstrate my skills in college in order to make a club team and eventually the NFL" Would college still just be a feeder system to the NFL through a 2-step, rather than direct, process? All right, that's all I had. I just think it would be cool to regain that vintage sense of "true" students representing the schools competing on the field. I know the guys we have now really are students, so I don't want to take anything away from them. But people like J.T. Barrett remind us that not all student-athletes are made of the same student-to-athlete ratio.


Input: [Date] 38 weeks 4 days ago [Title] Happy birthday! Seems [Body]

Output: Happy birthday! Seems fitting that Coach was born in the heart of football season.


Input: [Date] 39 weeks 3 days ago [Title] Well, look ... the board is [Body]

Output: Well, look ... the board is who has been hyping WD up so much - not WD himself. I mean, we created a thread inquiring as to whether or not he is alive or dead, banned or not banned. The board has definitely been the dramatic party here, so "I'm no hero" seems like an appropriately absurd response to the absurb behavior of all of us. My opinion.


Input: [Date] 39 weeks 3 days ago [Title] The internet is weird, don't [Body]

Output: The internet is weird, don't worry about it too much. Enjoy the blog, WD.


Input: [Date] 39 weeks 5 days ago [Title] Have you tried turning it off [Body]

Output: Have you tried turning it off and on again?


Input: [Date] 40 weeks 1 day ago [Title] This thread needs Rotel with [Body]

Output: This thread needs Rotel with cheese.


Input: [Date] 41 weeks 3 days ago [Title] Those uniforms would be [Body]

Output: Those uniforms would be pretty nice except for the green striping on the sleeves ... adds a touch of "Christmas Elf" or something to the vibe.


Input: [Date] 41 weeks 4 days ago [Title] I'm not saying that our [Body]

Output: I'm not saying that our loyalty makes everything else excusable or tolerable - it doesn't, and I even suggested that our A.D. may (should) be ousted before long. The university, the fans, and the alumni create the opportunities the athletic department has to succeed, and if they squander them then they should be replaced. But our loyalty makes it possible to offer better than average facilities, resources, and hopefully even talent to the next leadership as well.


Input: [Date] 41 weeks 4 days ago [Title] This is a good article, [Body]

Output: This is a good article, written by someone who is clearly used to hating us but by now is kind of standing back going "well, what do I do now?" It's certainly not pity, but curiosity. He makes some observations about college football at a major institution (it could very well be any struggling, historically excellent program) which suggest that the tradition behind the team simply has too much steam to be killed, no matter how grim the short term situation is. The fans are unhappy, but we are still here. Our current leadership may get vanquished, but the essence of what Michigan is will be intact. I think that the fans, more than anything else, are the continuous lifeblood of Michigan football. The players and coaches determine the success of the team at any given point in time, but I think the fans provide the base, generation in and generation out, upon which everything is built.


Input: [Date] 42 weeks 2 days ago [Title] Caning [Body]

Output: I first read that as "caking" Brandon and I thought "Well, it's either that or death."


Input: [Date] 43 weeks 4 days ago [Title] As Brian quoted Genuinely [Body]

Output: As Brian quoted Genuinely Sarcastic earlier today: "I understand how reprehensible that will sound to some. Many will say that it is still a fan's obligation to support these players. I implore you to reconsider. I beg of you to support these players by putting pressure on those who are destroying them. These players are having their careers derailed by people who are in painfully over their heads ..." I agree with this sentiment. I think the best thing we can do for the players is to demonstrate our disapproval of the program to which they are entrusting their careers. All of our guys appear to be stand-up gentlemen with talent and bright future prospects, and nobody faults them for their efforts. But as fans, we have only one avenue of communication with the program's administration: our money and our tickets. Witholding our attendance sends the message nonspecifically, to everyone - the players, the coaches, the athletic director. But Dave Brandon only speaks in dollars. If anyone can pick up on the distinction of the Michigan fan base between our disdain for the administration and our appreciation for the players, it's the players. They are not rich ex-CEOs hidden away in piles of money, they're young men living amongst their fellow students who know how to interpret social media, they are in tune with their communities in a way that the higher ups are not. We have to reach those in charge, even if it means not showing up to watch the kids we care about. It sucks, but I think it's probably for the best.


Input: [Date] 43 weeks 6 days ago [Title] I like how the commentator [Body]

Output: I like how the commentator accused Morris of "acting" with a tone of utter disgust.


Input: [Date] 44 weeks 2 days ago [Title] Yep, not a lot to see here. [Body]

Output: Yep, not a lot to see here. Hopefully the men on the field and the coaches are able to learn and improve quickly this season.


Input: [Date] 45 weeks 3 days ago [Title] It's true - MSU is a fine [Body]

Output: It's true - MSU is a fine academic institution. Stratifying the top 200 can separate "super elite" from "still pretty great", but how meaningful is the difference? It's hard to say ... I think you'd have great career opportunities graduating from MSU, and great career opportunities graduating from UM. At that point, variance in success would most likely be explained in larger part by the individual than the institution. In any case, we shouldn't disparage MSU as being "not good" because that's patently false. If you want to disparage them for being "not as good as us", then that's fine I guess, but still pretty petty.


Input: [Date] 48 weeks 4 days ago [Title] And our tailbacks will be [Body]

Output: And our tailbacks will be cutting their teeth on a tough D every weekday, too. Win win?


Input: [Date] 49 weeks 3 days ago [Title] If possible (on top of, oh, [Body]

Output: If possible (on top of, oh, everything else you guys already do), it might be neat to have some more crossover/perspective from other Big Ten blogs, a la the relationship we have with 11 warriors. I know mgoblog is a Michigan blog first & foremost, but I get a kick out of the conference comeraderie & the idea of mgoblog as a go-to source in broader sports media. I know, I know, I'm being Dave Branding - er, Dave Brandon. Really though, everything is great as-is.


Input: [Date] 49 weeks 4 days ago [Title] I'm excited about having a [Body]

Output: I'm excited about having a defense that inspires confidence as a fan, and I'm excited about having dangerous WRs that could break games open with big plays.


Input: [Date] 49 weeks 4 days ago [Title] What he said! Also, I'm [Body]

Output: What he said! Also, I'm going to the game. I'd prefer to be happy afterwards if I have to endure South Bend either way.


Input: [Date] 49 weeks 5 days ago [Title] The classic "feign [Body]

Output: The classic "feign misunderstanding" ploy. Hoke, you wiley fox, we can never know how deep and vast is your mastery of human psychology.


Input: [Date] 50 weeks 5 days ago [Title] Those sprint cars don't turn [Body]

Output: Those sprint cars don't turn on dirt the same way your car turns on ashphalt - those drivers actually have to accelerate during turns to force their car inside due to the low friction environment. Braking causes wobble and a skid towards the outer edge of the track. It's extremely difficult to interpret the driver's intent based on the behavior of the vehicle. Perhaps Stewart only had a moment in time to actually spot Ward - what would he do? If he coolly stuck to his racing instincts, maybe he would gun the engine to turn left and avoid him. Maybe he panics and slams on his brakes, causing an outward skid. As a juror, your self-assuredness would be a detriment to a fair and accurate trial.


Input: [Date] 51 weeks 1 day ago [Title] It's so beautiful. [Body]

Output: It's so beautiful.


Input: [Date] 51 weeks 1 day ago [Title] Now I know who to ask for [Body]

Output: Now I know who to ask for XCOM advice. QUESTION - do you prioritize engineer rewards in the early game over anything?


Input: [Date] 51 weeks 1 day ago [Title] Someone who is very afraid of [Body]

Output: Someone who is very afraid of being ambushed alone ... the aliens are sneaky.


Input: [Date] 1 year 12 weeks ago [Title] Hey man, you gotta get ranked [Body]

Output: Hey man, you gotta get ranked low before you can get ranked high. I don't think anyone here is super amped about a #25 ranking as an endpoint, but probably more as a glimmer of hope for the possibility that exceeding expectations could put us in a nice spot.


Input: [Date] 1 year 16 weeks ago [Title] Hey, it's understandable - [Body]

Output: Hey, it's understandable - people are afraid of rare occurrences, like shark attacks and lightning strikes. Plus, regardless of frequency, fear can be very personalized and arbitrary. I was never afraid of tackling somebody, but I had a speedy ground ball take a weird jump off an infield pebble and hit me square in the face when I was certain it was going into my glove. The result? A lasting hesitancy to scoopi up hard grounders. I knew it was silly, but what are you gonna do? Hard to wrestle your own reptile brain into logical servitude sometimes.


Input: [Date] 1 year 16 weeks ago [Title] If we were to rank "best" [Body]

Output: If we were to rank "best" seasons by which fan base enjoyed it most, I would go with Michigan number 1, because our guys are so dang likeable and we never saw this coming with McGary down. And we got to enjoy B1G competitiveness and ultimately victory for a significant period of time. I'd put Wisconsin at number 2 because they were INSANELY happy to make the final four - sure, having a good regular season is par for the course when you're Wisconsin, but deep tournament runs are rare for them. They were definitely partying their hats off. MSU comes in last because they don't know how to be happy unless they're conference/national champs. Otherwise they're just pitching a fit, crying about this or that, and generally pointing their shaking little finger at Michigan. EDIT: Michigan was also the most fun to watch! Beautiful Belein basketball.


Input: [Date] 1 year 16 weeks ago [Title] It's not a valid measure of [Body]

Output: It's not a valid measure of correlation because Google casts a very loose net - it's awesome for finding the most relevant things and putting them at the top of your search results, but the sheer number of results can be influenced by many, many factors. As someone already pointed out, there are more soccer games played around the world every year than there are football games. There are also a lot more soccer fans around the world. They generate content and post it on the internet, where it becomes searchable by Google. No matter what amount of actual diving happens in soccer games, the subsequent discussion vastly amplifies the coincidence of the terms. Additionally, a truckload of variance is introduced when you consider the diversity of search terms you could use for one topic - maybe instead of "diving", you chose "flopping" or "faking"? What if you searched "soccer" instead of "European football?" Answer: the numbers change. A lot. Plus, you're assuming that any coincidence of the terms is evidence of a positive association, which is erroneous. If someone typed the sentence "There was very little diving in last night's soccer match" onto a blog somewhere, then Google would see "DIVING" and "SOCCER", put that result into a giant pile with millions of others, and hand it to you, who says "SEE? LOOK. TOLD YOU SO." It's too opaque. While the number of search results is a clean, simple number, what actually goes into creating it is too ambiguous and complex to be reliably interpreted.


Input: [Date] 1 year 16 weeks ago [Title] Actually, according to the [Body]

Output: Actually, according to the good people at Google, the number of hits returned is not a scientifically valid measure of correlation between two search terms. I know this because that's what they personally told me when I asked permission to use Google Scholar in exactly that way when I was writing a program to automatically perform thousands of searches simultaneously to generate sets of gene-disease associations for a bioinformatics project.


Input: [Date] 1 year 16 weeks ago [Title] In direct contrast to [Body]

Output: In contrast to 'pretending' anything about magnitude, my use of gifs was to illustrate how poorly isolated moments are able to characterize a sport in any quantitative way. To keep things quantitative, however, my real claim is absolute, rather than relative. I think football is cooler and features less flopping (relative), but there is greater than zero to like about soccer (absolute). The existence of amazing soccer highlights proves that pure moments exist.


Input: [Date] 1 year 16 weeks ago [Title] It was onside. [Body]

Output: It was onside.


Input: [Date] 1 year 16 weeks ago [Title] I too think football is way [Body]

Output: I too think football is way more fun to watch than soccer. However, it would be simplistic to paint soccer as merely a bunch of actors flopping around. Let's not forget that soccer does feature some incredible feats of athleticism and teamwork: And even our beloved football is not free from sin: Again, I think football is 1000x better than soccer. But soccer can still be pretty cool, too.


Input: [Date] 1 year 17 weeks ago [Title] Before the game against [Body]

Output: Before the game against Kentucky, I knew there were two scenarios in which I would feel really upset about a loss. (1) We blow a 20-point lead in the second half. (2) We get blown straight out of the building and it looks like we don't belong on the court with those guys. In scenario 1, I would have had a tough time not feeling like we were the better team but we collapsed. I would have felt like we stumbled. In scenario 2, I would have had doubts about the fundamental quality of the team, and maybe I would have felt bad because we weren't as good as I believed. The way we lost is the best way to lose - we did great, and we were overcome by a slightly superior combination of effort, planning, talent, and athleticism. We are as good as I hoped we were, I love the team, but we just got outplayed. Hard to stay mad like that. That's going out like a warrior, you know? And the optimism for the future certainly helps.


Input: [Date] 1 year 17 weeks ago [Title] What about me? I attended a [Body]

Output: What about me? I attended a small college in Michigan, but my career was launched in earnest when I became a lab technician at UM in the department of MCDB. That experience enabled me to enter a PhD program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In a few weeks, I am going to earn my doctorate and take a postdoctoral position, perhaps at another Big Ten university. What am I - a Wolverine, a Badger, or something yet to be determined? The line you've drawn doesn't hold as fast as you seem to think. There are complexities to sports allegiances and group memberships that you're neglecting. No matter what institution I am affiliated with at any given time, I certainly feel that I am a Wolverine when it comes to sports. I grew up that way, and UM will always be my first love. Perhaps that's where you need to set an endpoint to your exclusivity - sure, you're an academic Michigan Wolverine by definition, but athletic fandom is and should be open to the public.


Input: [Date] 1 year 18 weeks ago [Title] "If you take the revenue out [Body]

Output: "If you take the revenue out ..." That's the thing that will never happen. NCAA athletes are a very heterogenous population - some of them have to overcome greater competition than others to earn a spot on the team, some of them put in more practice hours per week than others, perhaps some of them get more academic support than others, they all face very different sets of challenges and responsibilities ... and yes, some of them are more directly involved with the financial success of your athletic department. The one thing that ties them all together is their status as NCAA athletes. How strong of a link is that? Is it strong enough to warrant equal pay despite all the other factors? I would suggest that maybe it's not. I do think you've made a lot of good points, just this one doesn't make that much sense to me.


Input: [Date] 1 year 18 weeks ago [Title] It seems that you've based [Body]

Output: It seems that you've based your equal pay idea on an anology in the business world (the Microsoft thing). Just because Microsoft does it one way doesn't mean that's the right way or the only way, does it? So they pay all their programmers the same. What about a different company? In many fields (including my own), your pay is based on your accomplishments and performance - not effort. Even employees who hold the same position can be paid differently based on how well they do and what they're worth to the company. Your adherence to an equal pay model as an example of how business works in the "real world" seems arbitrary.


Input: [Date] 1 year 21 weeks ago [Title] I mean, just the constant [Body]

Output: I mean, just the constant hating Ohio thing. I thought perhaps it was unconditional, but I guess it has its limits.


Input: [Date] 1 year 21 weeks ago [Title] Today I realized I'm not a [Body]

Output: Today I realized I'm not a horrible person when I found myself saying out loud "please be ok, please be ok" as I clicked on this thread link. I'm happy to hear he's doing well.


Input: [Date] 1 year 21 weeks ago [Title] Hard to top Levert's run-off [Body]

Output: Hard to top Levert's run-off against MSU!


Input: [Date] 1 year 21 weeks ago [Title] Feels good, man. Feels good. [Body]

Output: Feels good, man. Feels good.


Input: [Date] 1 year 22 weeks ago [Title] It's gotta be "AHHHHHHHH" for [Body]

Output: It's gotta be "AHHHHHHHH" for me (broadcast). I love that moment when the ball meets GRIII's hands at the apex of his jump and just comes to a total standstill ... just for a fraction of a moment, it hangs there like a priceless work of art on display for all to see. GRIII's not in a hurry to immediately stuff it through the hoop. He wants the Spartans to behold their downfall ... he wants them to watch. There's a perfect rhythm to it, almost like the eerie calm before a tornado lands. And then wrath.


Input: [Date] 1 year 22 weeks ago [Title] Feeling so good and energized [Body]

Output: Feeling so good and energized from the win that I'm gonna go for a run. YES.


Input: [Date] 1 year 26 weeks ago [Title] "Maybe forever." Damnit [Body]

Output: "Maybe forever." Damnit Brian. That's not what I wanted to hear.


Input: [Date] 1 year 26 weeks ago [Title] What? Your words, they hurt [Body]

Output: What? Your words, they hurt me. I am not siding with anybody here. If anything, there is a trace of derision in my comment aimed at the university because I implied that they'd rather not take any punitive action against football players if they aren't compelled to. As far as 'sympathies' and 'small print', I choose not to ascribe such emotionally-laden connotations to a complicated matter which I aim to treat as logically as possible. Naturally, I sympathize with any innocent people who were harmed unjustly. I don't know who they are, but I am sorry for what happened.