ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- All of the drama finally ended Wednesday in the way many thought it would conclude the day before, with the firing of Michigan football coach Rich Rodriguez.
It took a second day of meetings between Rodriguez and athletic director Dave Brandon, an unforeseen twist, to complete the divorce. But Rodriguez's strange and awkward limbo is over.
"I have completed a systematic and thorough review of our football program and believe that a change in leadership is necessary," Brandon said in a statement released by the university Wednesday morning. "We have not achieved at the level that I expect.
"Rich is a good person and coach, It's unfortunate that it didn't work out at Michigan, but I'm sure that Rich and his staff will find opportunities at other institutions. I wish Rich and his family all the best in the future."
Brandon said during a Wednesday afternoon press conference that he will begin a national search for Rodriguez's replacement immediately.
"My timetable is fast, but do it the right way," he said.
The top candidates to replace Rodriguez include three with Michigan
ties: Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh, a former Michigan quarterback; San
Diego State coach Brady Hoke, a former Michigan defensive line coach;
and Louisiana State coach Les Miles, a former Michigan player and
offensive line coach.
Brandon said he has talked with Harbaugh and "will continue to talk" with him, but isn't confident about Michigan's chances to get him.
"I personally believe that Jim Harbaugh is headed to the NFL, that's my opinion," Brandon said.
Rodriguez, 47, had three years remaining on a six-year, $15 million contract. A buyout reportedly could pay him $2.5 million.
Michigan was 15-22 in three years under Rodriguez: 3-9 in 2008, 5-7 in 2009 and 7-6 this season. However, the Wolverines were 0-6 against top rivals Michigan State and Ohio State. They also got blown out in their final three games, including a 52-14 embarrassment against Mississippi State in the Gator Bowl, the only bowl appearance under Rodriguez.
"Michigan is not used to this," Brandon said. "Michigan fans expect more than this. So do Michigan athletic directors."
Rodriguez was hired in December 2007 by former athletic director Bill Martin to replace Lloyd Carr, who was soon to retire.
It was a bold move in a much different direction for the Michigan program. Rodriguez had no real Michigan ties. He had spent seven years at West Virginia, coming within a victory of taking the Mountaineers to the national championship game just days before he bolted for Michigan.
Affectionately known as RichRod, he brought a strong reputation for having a great offensive mind to Ann Arbor. He was a hot name at the time, and some thought he could turn Michigan back into a national title contender again within a few years.
But Rodriguez wasn't a good fit at Michigan. He was not embraced by former players, who clearly wanted one of their own, someone with Michigan connections.
"I don't think Rich Rodriguez has had a peaceful night's sleep since he arrived in Ann Arbor," Brandon said. "His three years can be defined as three years of turmoil.
"It seems like it was one thing after another. Clearly, it impacted recruiting, it impacted the positive energy needed to be successful. We had a lot of distractions. We need to put ourselves in a position where that is all history."
Rodriguez tried turning the Wolverines into something their fan base had never seen before under Bo Schembechler and his successors.
Instead of relying on a tough and disciplined defense, Rodriguez tried to win by outscoring opponents with a high-powered offense.
Off the field, he suffered through one drama after another, most notably a NCAA investigation that resulted in the program being put on three years of probation for exceeding practice and workout limitations.
On the field, the Wolverines had to adjust to this completely new offensive system, the spread option. It took a couple years, but that offense finally showed signs of developing this season under star quarterback Denard Robinson, although it remained inconsistent and didn't produce against quality defenses.
Michigan's defense, meanwhile, never showed any type of improvement and actually got worse throughout the three-year period. The Wolverines, under defensive coordinator Greg Robinson, rank No. 110 out of 120 teams nationally in total defense (450.8 yards allowed per game) and No. 108 in scoring defense (35.2 points per game).
The kicking game also was a mess this season. Michigan made 4 of 14 field goals with a long of 37 yards.
Put it all together, and it's certainly not up to Michigan standards. Which is why Rodriguez is out.
Jan. 5, 2011
