The Rich Rodriguez Era has begun quickly for Michigan, as three prominent offensive players have chosen to leave school.
Highly touted freshman quarterback Ryan Mallett, has announced his intention to transfer. Mallett was 61 of 141 for 892 yds with 7 touchdowns and 5 interceptions filling in for Chad Henne in 2007.
He will likely enroll at school that runs a pro-style offense, with Tennessee, rumored to be hiring former Michigan Offensive Coordinator Mike DeBord and quarterback coach Scott Loeffler, appearing at this stage to be the front-runner. Mallett has also been linked with Texas A&M, Arkansas, and UCLA.
Mallett’s departure will leave Michigan’s quarterback cupboard depressingly bare, particularly if #1 recruit Terrelle Pryor commits elsewhere. The thought of David Cone trying to run the spread offense is none too inspiring.
The new quarterback will also face a depleted receiving core with junior wideouts Mario Manningham and Adrian Arrington both expected to leave early for the NFL Draft. Arrington caught 67 balls for 882 yds and 8 TD last season, while Mario Manningham caught 72 balls for 1,174 yds and 12 TD. Manningham also ran the ball 19 times for 119 yds and a TD.
Michigan will also lack the stabilized running attack provided by departing seniors Mike Hart and Jake Long.
The Wolverines don’t rebuild they reload, so the saying goes. But, unfortunately for Rich Rodriguez, they are reloading for the wrong offense. If Rich-Rod cannot manifest his magic immediately, next season could be yet another transition year.
