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Michigan at The Voice of College Football

Michigan at The Voice of College Football

By: The Voice of College Football Network
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Welcome to Michigan at The Voice of College Football Network, your home for In-depth discussion, debate, & analysis on all things Michigan. We have you covered from offseason all the way to game day. Join us as we embark on another season as Leaders & Best!Go Blue!For business inquiries please contact: Markrogerstv@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.The Voice of College Football Network Football Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Michigan Spring Game PREVIEW - Three Keys

    Michigan Spring Game PREVIEW - Three Keys
    Apr 18 2026
    Video Basics Host: John D'Adamo (speaking from a hotel in Louisville; he won't attend live).Context: Less than 24 hours until the Michigan Wolverines spring game (Maize vs. Blue).Game Details: Date/Time: Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern.Broadcast: Big Ten Network (also free to attend at The Big House with tailgates). Postgame: TJ Ronin and the Avengers will host a live Michigan postgame show from Ann Arbor (studio setup on site); possible special guests.Call to Action: Like, subscribe, hit the bell for weekly content ("all gas, no breaks"). Three Keys / Things to Watch John outlines three main things to focus on during the spring game, which will be very basic/no-contact (like a Thursday practice — base defense, limited exotic looks, no blitzing). First Look at Jason Beck's Offense New offensive coordinator Jason Beck (came from Utah, where he built a top-5/6 offense nationally).Bryce Underwood (and most starters) expected to play only in the first quarter, no-contact.What to look for: RPOs (run-pass options) — watch Bryce's decision-making and choices post-snap.Improved footwork and fundamentals from Bryce Underwood.Overall offensive flow vs. the previous "Frankenstein's monster" of conflicting influences (e.g., Sherrone Moore + Chip Lindsay era). Scheme notes: Primarily 11 personnel (3–5 wide receivers), but will mix in some 12 personnel, eye formation, two-tight-end sets, and two-RB sets. Expect some physicality/run game elements to fit current personnel (many players from 2023–2025 teams are used to a physical style).Beck is the sole play-caller — first time in a while Michigan has had one clear voice (possibly since Rich Rodriguez or Al Borges eras; Harbaugh and Moore years had multiple inputs). Quarterback rotation: Bryce in Q1; Tommy Carr in Q2 and one half; Chase Herbstreit (likely a walk-on or developmental QB) in the other half of the second half — good battle to watch.Other notes: Andrew Marsh and JJ Buchanan likely limited after Q1. Offensive line will be without some players due to injury (e.g., Evan Link, Andrew Babalola). Showcase for Savon (Savion) Hiter Highly touted 2026 recruit (5-star, nation's top RB prospect) — exceptionally fast per high school film (possibly one of the fastest Michigan has seen).This will be his first game action at The Big House.Questions: How does his speed translate to college level? Can the offensive line (depleted by injuries/sit-outs like Evan Link and Babalola) create enough separation?Expect heavy showcasing, especially if Jordan Marshall (potential starter) sits — look for carries for Hiter, Bryson (likely Kudstall or similar), and other young RBs.Overall: First chance to see if he can "break out" in a Michigan uniform. Defense (Ahead of Offense, as Expected) + Jay Hill's Scheme Reports throughout spring: Defense has been ahead of the offense (standard and not concerning; opposite would be more worrisome).Kyle Whittingham noted the defensive line is currently ahead of the offensive line (partly due to injuries).Jay Hill (new DC, possible future head coach candidate) installing his system — likely a 4-2-5 base (Ravens-influenced elements?). Differences from prior Michigan 4-2-5 or 4-3 defenses: Watch for nuances in this "brand new" look.Game plan: Very base, hang-back, no blitzes or exotic looks (protecting the new offense from over-exposing schemes in front of fans/TV). Key questions: With stars like Will Johnson/Smith Snowden and others likely limited, who steps up? Potential standouts: Zeke Barry, Shamari Earles, or other young/backup defenders. Goal: See how the unit performs in a controlled setting while implementing new concepts. Additional Context from John The spring game is a low-stakes first public look — not full contact or game-speed, but still valuable for evaluating scheme fit, QB decision-making, young talent (especially skill players), and depth.Personnel adaptation: Beck knows he can't just install a Utah-style offense wholesale; he must adapt to Michigan's current roster strengths (physical run game roots).Excitement level: First real Michigan football action since the previous season — even if it's Michigan vs. Michigan. Promotion in the Video New article on Voice of College Football (vocfb.com) with a more fleshed-out version of these points.Regular shows: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:00 p.m. Eastern.Go Blue! These notes capture the full ~10-minute video cleanly. The spring game itself is today (April 18, 2026) — enjoy the broadcast on BTN and the postgame coverage from the VOCFB crew! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    11 mins
  • Spring Practice Buzz Buy or Sell - Michigan Wolverines LIVE 247

    Spring Practice Buzz Buy or Sell - Michigan Wolverines LIVE 247
    Apr 15 2026
    Opening & Vibes (Early Segment) TJ and Chuck open with light-hearted banter about the recent Michigan football national championship "high" (still lingering), the transfer portal, and rivals' lack of recent titles (Big Ten drought noted for context).Shout-outs to the community, mods, and super chats. They emphasize appreciation for Michigan Nation.Quick NCAA/Iowa tampering discussion (related to past Michigan figures like Cade McNamara/Eric All and the Matt Weiss situation). They joke about selective enforcement and why the SEC often seems untouched ("cooperation" among programs). Ward Manuel Discussion (Polarizing AD) They address Manuel as a divisive figure in the fanbase, even amid recent athletic success (football + basketball nattys).Pros for keeping him: Hired Jim Harbaugh (and others like Dusty May); oversaw recent championships and program stability. Some rivals (e.g., Ohio State fans) have expressed envy. Strong donor base and NIL collective (Champion Circle) now organized and helping.Cons/Criticisms: Handling of NIL adoption (Michigan was slow, believing in "brand" over transactional era); perceived as a "yes man" to Regents rather than a strong independent voice; past incidents (Xavier Simpson accident in his vehicle, Chris Partridge situation, rushed judgments); delayed support for coaches like Harbaugh against NCAA/Big Ten issues.Hosts' takes: Both were previously anti-Manuel but have softened—"we're winning, athletics trending well across the board (basketball, hockey despite Frozen Four loss, etc.), everyone's aligned, so why disrupt?" They note Harbaugh-era baggage and an ongoing internal investigation but lean toward "status quo for now" unless major issues emerge. Chat input encouraged; many fans split but success mutes criticism. Recruiting Quick Hits Camden (Kamden) LaPotti: Fresh 4-star QB (class of 2027) commitment from Utah (West High). Decommitted from Illinois; Notre Dame was in the mix and felt good, but Michigan (leveraging Whittingham/Beck ties from Utah days) closed strong. Dual-threat traits highlighted; fits the new staff's preferred style (mobile, improvisational, physical). Big early win for the Whittingham era.Other names teased: Tyson Robinson (highly-rated RB visitor, Michigan surging); Colt Lumpris (Alabama commit, Michigan pushing hard with JJ Buchanan comp—big, physical, versatile); Ethan Hauser (underrated LB from Buford, GA; hosts high on his film—versatile "Viper"-type with coverage/run/pass-rush tools); Damani Warren (WR visitor, positionless athlete); others like Miles Smith (in-state edge). Spring Practice "Buy or Sell" (Core Segment) Position-by-position reactions to camp buzz (practices described as shorter, intense, professional/old-school under Whittingham; focus on competition, physicality, and scheme install). Overall optimism for the new staff/coaching upgrades. Savion Hyder (RB, true freshman): Strong Buy. Massive hype—described as an "alien," Bijan/Saquon-like build/explosiveness, NFL-ready lower body as a freshman, high 21+ mph speed, praised for pass pro by Whittingham. Potential to outproduce or split with Jordan Marshall (seen as 1A/1B with Marshall possibly starting; Hyder could take over as the "hot hand"). Explosive playmaker potential.Tommy Carr (QB, freshman): Buy (with nuance). Impressing with processing, decision-making, game management, and execution as a young player. Not necessarily "elite" takeover guy yet, but strong QB2 contender; third-level throwing needs work, but locked-in mentality noted. Surprising many.Bryce Underwood (QB, sophomore): Buy on improvement. Year-2 leap expected (private QB coach, maturity, leadership); more dangerous/athletic/dual-threat (will run in the new scheme); not necessarily pinpoint pocket passer but explosive playmaker who can nuke deep balls or break runs. Green light to run; facing Jay Hill's chaotic looks in practice.Wide Receiver Room: Strong Buy. Loaded and talented—best since 2017 or earlier eras in some views. Standouts: JJ Buchanan (dynamic, knows offense, strength gains post-Utah); Andrew Marsh; Travis Johnson (physical, running with 1s at times); Celeste/Salesi Moa (athletic); Jamie French (similar to Marsh); depth mentioned (Jamar Browder, etc.). Better catching emphasized. Buchanan often comped to Devin Funchess but more athletic.Offensive Line: Cautious/Lean Sell or Neutral (needs to see more). Pass pro concerns persist (Sprague/Frazier hit-or-miss); Evan Link transition to guard; hope for Babalola's return to shake things up and allow better alignment (e.g., Sprague to RG). Athletic/violent but strength/pass-blocking questions remain. Jim Harding seen as upgrade.Defensive Line: Sell on "five deep" hype (Whittingham claim). Biggest pre-camp concern; talent (fours/fives like Nate Marshall) but questions on impact (size/weight for some like Jonah La'ella; pass rush). Respectable/coachable potential with new staff (Jay Hill chaos + back-end turnovers could help), but not elite yet. ...
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    1 hr and 38 mins
  • BREAKING: ELITE 4* QB Kamden Lopati COMMITS to Michigan!

    BREAKING: ELITE 4* QB Kamden Lopati COMMITS to Michigan!
    Apr 15 2026
    Intro & Commitment Announcement (00:00:01 – ~00:10:00) Host intro: TJ Ronan greets "Michigan Nation" and directs viewers to his socials (@TJ_Ronan).Michigan lands a cornerstone piece for the 2027 recruiting class: 4-star QB Kamden Lopati (often spelled "Lapati" or "LaPotti" in the video due to pronunciation).Physical profile: 6'3", 228 lbs (up from listed 220–225), out of West High School in West Valley City, Utah.Recent news: Lopati decommitted from Illinois after a Michigan visit. TJ teases a "funny story" involving Brett Bielema.Rankings: #9 QB in both Rivals and 247 Composite; #122 overall nationally (TJ believes he should rank higher, possibly top-100 player and higher among QBs). Bielema/Illinois Context (~00:35:00 – 00:11:00) Brett Bielema responded sarcastically to Josh Hinsky (Rivals) intel about Lopati's Michigan visit: "Been hearing several million different things... anything specific?"TJ's read: This implies Michigan offered a strong NIL package, upsetting Bielema.TJ enjoys seeing Bielema "getting upset" but isn't mad about the business side of recruiting. Prospect Breakdown & Scouting Report (Andrew Ivins, 247Sports – Feb 28, 2026) Style: Savvy dual-threat QB who excels as a vertical passer and power runner in a spread attack.Frame: "Built almost like a linebacker" — measured just under 6'3", ~225 lbs heading into senior year (now closer to 230 as a junior).Arm: Smooth 3/4 release, uses touch on deep balls, gets the ball out quickly.Strengths: Hits first read to keep offense on schedule.Best throws often come off-script — extends plays with short-area quickness and pocket awareness.Dangerous scrambler; forces defenses to account for him in the RPO game.Vision, creativity, and mobility fit modern spread systems. Projection: Potential power-force starter who thrives in a system capitalizing on mobility.TJ notes this perfectly fits Jason Beck's offense (5th nationally in scoring and total offense last year). Similar attributes seen in Bryce Underwood and Tommy Carr from spring camp. High School Stats (Junior Season Highlights) Passing: 64.8% completion, 2,671 yards, 34 TDs, 8 INTs, QB rating 128.8, long 87.Rushing: 90 carries, 730 yards (8.1 YPC), 10 TDs, 3x 100-yard games, long 60, 56 yards/game.Career context: Strong sophomore year too (over 3,000 pass yards, 25 TDs). Led West to 11-2 record and 5A semifinals as junior.TJ emphasizes the rushing production as a preview for how Michigan may use dual-threat QBs like Bryce Underwood. Film Analysis / Huddle Tape Breakdown TJ breaks down tape positively, calling Lopati a "quality player" and "problem" for defenses: Pocket presence & improvisation: Good feel/awareness even when O-line breaks down.Uses pump fakes effectively to freeze defenders.Extends plays, looks downfield while moving. Arm talent: Quick 3/4 release → "freaking laser."Strong arm for size; flicks wrist on deep/offs-platform throws.Back-shoulder throws, vertical shots, even into double coverage.Some off-platform throws with body twist (fundamentals can improve, but he's a junior "balling out"). Mobility & running: Power runner who takes on defenders (6'3" junior bowling over DBs).Designed runs and scrambles demoralize defenses.Quick to identify lanes when coverage holds. Decision-making: Decisive, keeps defense guessing with RPOs/versatility.Occasionally locks onto receivers (needs to look off safeties); one near-pick example shown.Thrives throwing on the run or rolling out (exactly what Jason Beck wants). Comparisons/ceiling: Some "Patrick Mahomes shit" creativity off-platform (safe in context, but old-school fans/coaches may cringe).Wasted movement in footwork at times — fixable as a junior.Fits Utah/Michigan system under Whittingham/Beck/Detmer: versatile, throws all three levels, improvises. Overall film verdict: Fantastic cornerstone for 2027 class. TJ is "very happy" and calls it a "good get." He was also high on previous target Peter Bork but loves this fit better. Quarterback Room & Future Outlook Current room: Bryce Underwood + Tommy Carr (wowing in spring).2027: Lopati.2028: Expected Donald T. Brown.TJ: "Don't worry about this quarterback room. We're good till 2030." Beck wants mobile, versatile QBs who keep defenses honest. Additional Notes & Plug Michigan's staff (Whittingham, Beck, etc.) had Lopati as their #1 QB target from the start.Connection: Whittingham's long Utah ties; Lopati from Utah high school football hotbed.Class context: 2027 class taking shape nicely; more updates coming.Plug: Watch "Michigan Wolverines Live" (Tuesdays 8 PM APM with John D'Adamo; Thursdays call-in with Johnny Olden). Spring game coverage this Saturday. "Go Blue!" Quick Summary Takeaways from TJ Elite dual-threat with size, arm, and legs — ideal for Michigan's evolving offense.Big win over Illinois (with NIL implications); solidifies QB pipeline.High-upside junior whose film pops; rankings may undervalue him.Exciting addition amid strong early recruiting momentum under...
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    15 mins
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