The Wiz of Odds

The Animated Rich Rodriguez Evaluation

Rich Rodriguez should know his future at Michigan later this week, just as soon as athletic director Dave Brandon finishes his evaluation. Here is a simulated version of how it could end up for the coach. Thanks to Darren Rovell.

Who Will Be Michigan's Coach in 2011?

Jim Harbaugh, Rich Rodriguez and Brady Hoke. Why is Michigan in no hurry to name a coach for the 2011 season?

There are several reasons. Athletic director Dave Brandon, who will make the call on Rodriguez's future, won't make a decision until after the Wolverines' Jan. 1 Gator Bowl matchup against Mississippi State. The New Year is significant for another reason: After Jan. 1, the buyout of Rodriguez's contract decreases from $4 million to $2.5 million.

But money likely has nothing to do with the decision. In fact, terms of Rodriguez's contract call for him to have 30 days written notice of the termination, according to M Victors.

The root of the decision reaches all the way to California, where Stanford's Harbaugh and San Diego State's Hoke have used the uncertainty surrounding Rodriguez to negotiate bigger and better deals from their current employers.

Which doesn't guarantee that Harbaugh, a former Wolverine quarterback, and Hoke, a former Michigan assistant, would pass on an opportunity to return to Ann Arbor.

Hail to the Victors

Has Rich Rodriguez saved his job? Michigan's 27-16 victory over Purdue on Saturday lifted the Wolverines' record to 7-3 and assured Rodriguez of his first winning season at Ann Arbor. The Boilermakers (4-6) need a road victory over Michigan State (doubtful) and a home win over Indiana (a tossup) to become eligible for a bowl.

Wiz correspondent Greg Laughlin made the trip to West Lafayette to check out the scene and you can view his gallery by clicking here.

Michigan's Bag of Tricks

Love this stuff! A look at various trick plays that have worked for the Michigan Wolverines over the last 30-plus years. A list of the plays is after the jump.

Parachuting Into the Big House

This is beyond cool. Watch Sgt. Adam Sniffen of the 101st Airborne Division deliver the game ball by parachute for the Michigan State-Michigan game on Oct. 9 at Michigan Stadium. Thanks to M Zone.

Double Rainbows Have Nothing on Denard Robinson

M Zone, one of our favorite sites, is back in a big way and celebrating the rebirth of Michigan football behind the unstoppable Denard Robinson.