Staff Predictions: Vanderbilt Commodores
/The Hammer:
Vandy's two leading tacklers on defense in 2005 were defensive backs and they lost them to graduation. Their top middle linebacker signed a free-agent deal with the Titans and their four year starter at Quarterback could very well replace Jake Plummer in Denver by the end of the year. The coaching staff is talking about running the triple option with a sophomore or redshirt freshman. What does that say about Arizona's 2005 starter who transferred to the school this year to start his graduate work?
On the bright side they might possibly have the SEC's top wide out in sophomore Earl Bennett who set an SEC reception record in '05 with 79. Did I mention they're thinking of running the triple option? Yikes.
In short, whether it's the triple option, or the passing game, it won't matter in Ann Arbor. Their defense will have their hands on their knees by halftime. We won't hit our stride until the third quarter but look for three straight scores from the Wolverines in that quarter to finish off Vanderbilt.
Offensive MVP: Steve Breaston
Defensive MVP: Chris Graham
Michigan 34, Vanderbilt 13
Johnny Cleveland:
Setting up to be a typical home opener, a couple conservative drives establishing the run and throwing to the TE on third down. Look for 5 different Wolverines to score, with Henne throwing for two. Looks like 41 to 17 to me, with at least 10 of the 17 coming against the 2nd and 3rd team D. Best case scenario: we get a glimpse of the incoming Freshmen. Worse case: the weather is nice and we are back at the tailgate drinking by halftime. Either way, bring on the Chips cuz we are 1-0.
Offensive MVP: Kevin Grady
Defensive MVP: David Harris
Michigan 41, Vanderbilt 17
The Webmaster:
For the last nine months, the players have lived with the stigma of being labeled as the worst Michigan team in twenty years. They've heard it from the media, felt it from the fans, and seen it in the eyes of their classmates. Nine months of "coach-on-a-hot-seat" talk. Nine months of reliving lost 4th quarter leads. Nine months....and they could do nothing about it...until now.
Unfortunately for the Commodores, they will feel the frustration of 2005 from the kickoff THROUGH THE FOURTH QUARTER.
Offensive MVP: Chad Henne
Defensive MVP: David Harris
Michgan 45, Vanderbilt 3
The XBox 360:
Michigan 34, Vanderbilt 7