Great Lakes Divide

What a time to be alive. Ryan and Tom reflect upon the unprecedented, abrupt end to the 2019-20 NCAA Basketball season - as the Coronavirus pandemic forces the cancellation of the Big Ten Tournament and March Madness entirely. Tom relays observations from his trip to Indianapolis, and the surreal scene that unfolded in real time. Ryan puts the entire episode into historical perspective, comparing it to the world standing still after 9/11. Final thoughts on the season that was, and the seniors who will be moving on - including Zavier Simpson and Jon Teske for Michigan, as well as Kyle Ahrens, Conner George, and Cassius Winston for Michigan State. Societal, economic, and cultural impacts of these decisions send a ripple effect through the entire American ethos. What happens next? When will it all end? The guys discuss.

Ryan and Tom reflect upon the close of the 2019-20 regular season for both Michigan and Michigan State - with the Wolverines dropping their third of four games, 83-70 at Maryland, to finish 19-12 (10-10 B1G), and the Spartans (22-9, 14-6 B1G) riding a five-game winning streak after Sunday’s 80-69 Senior Day win over Ohio State to earn a three-way split of the 2020 B1G title with Maryland and Wisconsin. Tom diagnoses the power outage for Michigan in the front-court, while Ryan skewers Buckeyes head coach Chris Holtmann for complaining about MSU seniors kissing the floor at Breslin - as part of a 25-year tradition.

Ryan and Tom recap the penultimate games of the regular season for both Michigan State and Michigan - a stunning Spartans 79-71 comeback win from a 19-point deficit at Penn State, and an 82-58 senior night victory for the Wolverines over Nebraska in front of former head coach John Beilein at Crisler Center. Is Xavier Tillman the obvious Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year? Can MSU fans bring themselves to root for a Michigan victory at Maryland, if it means a shot at an outright conference title? And will the Coronavirus potentially have an impact on how the NCAA stages its upcoming tournament games?

Ryan and Tom analyze a big 78-66 revenge win for Michigan State on the road at Maryland, along with Michigan’s second straight loss - both overall and to Ohio State on the season - 77-63 to the Buckeyes in Columbus. What are the seed implications for where the Spartans and Wolverines stand? Ryan will have his next bracket projection out on Monday, which figures to have MSU as a #4 or #5 seed and Michigan at either a #6 or #7. Also, investigative reporter David Jesse of the Detroit Free Press joins Ryan to discuss the very latest in the Dr. Robert E. Anderson controversy at Michigan. And Cody Tucker makes his second visit on GLD, offering his Wyoming perspective on new Michigan State defensive coordinator Scottie Hazelton.

As the two teams jostle for position in the Big Ten Tournament and with the NCAA selection committee, Ryan and Tom reflect upon two more big wins for Michigan (71-63 at Purdue) and Michigan State (78-70 vs. Iowa). Zavier Simpson finds a way to lead the Wolverines to a hard-earned victory at Mackey Arena in West Lafayette, despite going 0-for-10 from the floor - while Cassius Winston finds his three-point groove for the Spartans, with able assistance from Rocket Watts against the Hawkeyes. Speaking of three-point grooves, nobody had it going better than Gabby Lutchka for Ryan’s high school alma mater Grass Lake. The sophomore poured in a MHSAA record 16 triples in a 58-point performance and win over Manchester.

Ryan and Tom break down two important road wins for Michigan (60-52 at Rutgers) and Michigan State (86-65 at Nebraska) respectively, highlighted by stingy second half defensive performances by both the Wolverines and Spartans. Scarlet Knights head coach Steve Pikiell comments on the impact of Zavier Simpson on both ends of the court, and Kyle Ahrens steps up to the mic and calls out his teammates at halftime in Lincoln. Also, Mel Tucker continues to assemble his assistant coaching staff - while still holding out for his choice at defensive coordinator. And a decades-long sex abuse scandal at Michigan suddenly, and finally, becomes public.

‘Time for change and turn the page,’ says Ryan as he implores Colorado fans, Michigan State fans, and the media at-large to let go of the past and let Mel Tucker move on to his job as head coach of the Spartan football program. The guys evaluate transitions and coaching departures of the past - from Bo Schembechler replacing Bump Elliott at Michigan in 1969, to Ryan’s first-hand account of Butch Jones awkwardly leaving Central Michigan for Cincinnati in 2009. MSU and U of M are going in opposite directions on the hardwood, Tom offers his observations on why that is the case. Also, it looks like things are coming to an abrupt and bitter end for John Beilein with the Cleveland Cavaliers. What’s next for the all-time great Wolverines coach?

Mel Tucker is introduced as the 25th head football coach in Michigan State history on Wednesday, Ryan and Tom give their full analysis of the hire and timeline that brought the former Colorado Buffaloes coach to East Lansing. Some stinging commentary from Mike Griffith, former host of ‘The Spartan Beat’ in Lansing, on possible pending NCAA sanctions for MSU. Full sound package of ‘a day in the life’ of Coach Tucker while he was in Boulder, plus highlights from the press conference itself. Also, recaps of Michigan State basketball’s critical 70-69 road win Tuesday at Illinois and Michigan’s 79-54 drubbing of Northwestern in Evanston Wednesday night.

The curious case, and continuing legend, of ‘Jeff Jackson’ had the last laugh - as Zavier Simpson’s alter-ego poured in 16 points and 8 assists, making 4-of-7 three-point shots, en route to a 77-68 home victory for Michigan over Michigan State at Crisler Center on Saturday. Tom was there, and we hear from Wolverines head coach Juwan Howard and forward Isaiah Livers - who made his return from lingering groin and hip injuries - as well as Spartans head coach Tom Izzo. Ryan breaks down what went wrong for Michigan State in another slow start on the road, and Tom sings the praises of Eli Brooks defending Cassius Winston. Where does the Big Ten race stand? What are the current tournament prospects for U of M and MSU? The guys attempt to answer those questions and more in this spirited episode.

After the sudden retirement announcement of Mark Dantonio, Ryan and Tom reflect upon the complex - and complicated - legacy of the head coach’s 13-year tenure at the helm for Michigan State. The timing of the decision seems unusual, what reasons might explain why Dantonio decided to walk away the day before National Signing Day on February 5? Tom Izzo goes after the bane of his existence, Twitter critics, and defends his players after a 75-70 home loss to a very strong Penn State team. Juwan Howard is at a loss for words after a controversial flagrant foul call against Zavier Simpson that helped seal a 61-58 Ohio State win over Michigan at Crisler Center on Tuesday night.

Ryan and Tom reflect upon Saturday’s action, which saw Michigan grab an important win (69-63) at Madison Square Garden over #25 Rutgers - while #14 Michigan State struggled through another slow start on the road in a 64-63 loss to Wisconsin at the Kohl Center in Madison. Brandon Johns is emerging as a go-to player for the Wolverines in the absence of Isaiah Livers, but it was a tough day for a struggling Xavier Tillman and the Spartans that was hard to explain. Tom also reveals his Super Bowl game day rituals and traditions, which may surprise you - as Ryan compares him to another famous Michigan alum… Ted Kaczynski.

Ryan and Tom reflect upon Michigan’s short-handed win at Nebraska, without the injured Isaiah Livers - and the suspended Zavier Simpson. Brandon Johns steps up with what might have been his best all-around game of the season (16 points, 7 rebounds), and Eli Brooks gets back on track as well (20 pts, 9 reb, 4 ast) for the Wolverines in a 79-68 victory over the Huskers. Meanwhile, Michigan State laid down the law with Northwestern en route to a breezy 79-50 decision that vaulted the Spartans back atop the Big Ten standings by themselves. Also, Coack K goes off on the Cameron Crazies for mocking one of their own (Jeff Capel) in a harmless chant.

Ryan and Tom remember the life and legacy of Kobe Bryant (1978-2020), one of nine people killed tragically in a helicopter accident on Sunday morning in Calabasas, California - along with his 13 year-old daughter Gianna (GiGi), on their way to a basketball event with her and two teammates and their parents. While there might not be a single ‘must-win’ in January, the losses for Michigan are piling up after suffering their fourth straight defeat - 64-62 to Illinois at Crisler Center. Meanwhile, Michigan State corrected course with an impressive 70-52 victory at Minnesota on Sunday. Can a starting lineup shuffle ignite the Spartans down the stretch run of the Big Ten season?

Ryan and Tom analyze basketball losses for Michigan at home against Penn State (72-63) and for Michigan State on the road against Indiana (67-63), as well as the current state of the Big Ten race. The Wolverines struggled again from 3-point range, hitting just 5-of-28 shots from beyond the arc, and continue to miss the presence of Isaiah Livers - his long-distance shooting, transition defense, and strength in the post against opposing big men. The Spartans again sputtered to a slow start in the state of Indiana - falling behind 18-4 against the Hoosiers at Assembly Hall, after trailing 19-4 in their last trip to Purdue. Both games ended in losses, as Tom Izzo looks for answers after a rare instance where MSU was outrebounded (31-29).

Ryan and Tom recap Friday’s action, with a 67-55 win for Michigan State at home against Wisconsin - and a 90-83 loss for Michigan at Iowa. Cassius Winston became the Big Ten’s all-time assist leader, passing his predecessor Mateen Cleaves with #817 on a high feed for a Xavier Tillman dunk. Rocket Watts is taking off, finally rounding into form after an early-season injury that slowed him down, notching 11 points including three impressive 3-pointers that helped seal the game for the Spartans. The Wolverines continue to struggle down low against opposing big men, as Luka Garza registered 33 points for the Hawkeyes. Michigan struggled with foul trouble throughout, despite a career-high 25 from Eli Brooks. The guys also discuss Tony Paul’s recent article in the Detroit News, outlining the timeline of events that led to a downward spiral for Michigan State football, following Mark Dantonio’s deposition in Curtis Blackwell’s lawsuit against MSU.

Ryan and Tom take a look back at Sunday’s action, with disappointing road losses for Michigan State at Purdue (71-42) and Michigan at Minnesota (75-67) - proving just how daunting the Big Ten gauntlet is this season, away from the comforts of home. Ryan opines that the team with the best road record in the Big Ten is likely to win the conference regular season title, while Tom laments the fact that Juwan Howard refuses to double down on opposing big men who have dominated the Wolverines - including Luka Garza (Iowa), Kofi Cockburn (Illinois), Xavier Tillman (Michigan State), Trevion Williams (Purdue)… and, on Sunday, Daniel Oturu for the Golden Gophers. Ryan asks Tom which stat might bother Tom Izzo the most from MSU’s Sunday box score: turnovers, assists, 3-point percentage, or the final score itself?

Ryan and Tom sum up Big Ten basketball wins for #19 Michigan over Purdue and #8 Michigan State against Minnesota, examine some poorly-chosen words for John Beilein with his Cleveland Cavaliers players, and reflect upon the life and times of former Michigan State football head coach George Perles (1934-2020). Zavier Simpson’s 22 points and 9 assists led the Wolverines to an 84-78 double overtime triumph over the Boilermakers, but Michigan continues to struggle against strong post players - as Trevion Williams posted 36 points and 20 rebounds for Purdue. Xavier Tillman continued his strong play (19 pts, 16 reb) in a 74-58 Spartans victory against the Golden Gophers, as MSU claimed its eighth straight win and remained a perfect 5-0 in conference play to start the season.

Ryan and Tom reflect upon Michigan State’s dominant 87-69 win over Michigan at Breslin Student Events Center on Sunday, led by a virtuoso performance from Cassius Winston (32 points, 9 assists). The Wolverines try to figure out a path forward without Isaiah Livers for the time being, and Tom offers his thoughts as to what the team misses and lacks in his absence. Juwan Howard pushes back on a reporter’s question about his level of ‘hate’ in the rivalry against MSU as a head coach, and the guys take to Twitter for a couple of jabs thrown by Spartans quarterback Brian Lewerke and former Michigan center Jordan Morgan. Can this rivalry be fun without getting nasty?

Ryan and Tom ring in 2020 with an episode bursting at the seams - full recaps of Michigan State’s 27-21 New Era Pinstripe Bowl win over Wake Forest and Michigan’s 35-16 loss to Alabama in the VRBO Citrus Bowl, along with a breakdown of MSU Basketball’s impressive 76-56 victory over Illinois at Breslin Student Events Center on Thursday night. It all leads to the Spartans’ showdown at home this Sunday against Juwan Howard’s Wolverines, who will be playing without Isaiah Livers - due to a serious groin injury. What went right for Michigan State in their bowl triumph over the Demon Deacons, and what still needs to change going forward for Spartan football to be better than break-even in the win-loss column? Why can’t Jim Harbaugh recruit and develop his own ‘four-year program guy’ at quarterback, and where did Shea Patterson fall short against the Crimson Tide? Xavier Tillman breaks through with a monster performance against the Illini, is there more in store against Michigan this weekend? Can Marcus Bingham be the Dennis Rodman/John Salley type player who does all the little things like Kenny Goins did for MSU?

Highlights from the year that was 2019, in conversations - as Ryan and Tom go in-depth on all things Big Ten, Michigan State, and Michigan with authors John U. Bacon (Overtime) and Ed Sherman (This Is B1G). Shawn Windsor of the Detroit Free Press takes us behind the scenes into one of the most difficult and important pieces he has ever written, the timeline and impact of Cassius Winston losing his brother Zachary to suicide at the dawn of this basketball season. Riveting interviews, in case you missed them, that you won’t want to miss again - and are definitely worth revisiting, if you haven’t heard them in a while. Happy New Year!

In case you missed it, Ryan and Tom offer up their previews and predictions for Michigan State vs. Wake Forest in the New Era Pinstripe Bowl and the Citrus Bowl pitting #14 Michigan against #13 Alabama. Also, a look back at the FS1 documentary ‘Divided We Stand’ from a critical perspective - as Tom has an ‘airing of grievances’ in the spirit of Festivus over some elements of the production, while Ryan tries to rise above the ‘humbug’ of it all.

Ryan and Tom recap Saturday’s basketball action with easy home wins for Michigan State over Eastern Michigan (101-48) and Michigan over Presbyterian (86-44). For the Spartans, is Aaron Henry coming out of his funk and beginning to put it all together? Can Foster Loyer be a consistent relief option to spell Cassius Winston for key minutes the rest of the season? For the Wolverines, what is the concern level with the abdominal strain that took Isaiah Livers out of action? Which players benefit most from the upcoming holiday break for Juwan Howard’s team? Also, previews and predictions for the New Era Pinstripe Bowl pitting Michigan State against Wake Forest and the Citrus Bowl between #14 Michigan and #13 Alabama.

Shawn Windsor (Detroit Free Press) joins Ryan and Tom to discuss his poignant article detailing the suffering of Michigan State’s Cassius Winston through the tragic loss of his brother, Zach. Shawn takes you behind the scenes during one of the most difficult and challenging times of Tom Izzo’s coaching career, revealing the raw emotion that Cassius and the entire team has dealt with since that fateful night in November. Also, the guys recap MSU’s 77-72 win at Northwestern, as the Spartans become the only Big Ten team to remain undefeated through the first two games on the schedule - and the first team to win a road game in conference play. Finally, Ryan and Tom recap National Signing Day 2019 for both Michigan and Michigan State football, and address the question of why Jim Harbaugh did not add a single recruit from the state of Ohio in this year’s class.

Ryan and Tom recap a tough home loss for #5 Michigan, 71-70 in overtime to #10 Oregon at Crisler Center, capping off a stretch of three losses in their last four games. Also, Michigan State cruises to a 72-49 win over Oakland University at Little Caesar’s Arena - despite the continued emotional struggle of senior captain Cassius Winston in coping with the death of his brother Zach. And in case you missed it, a fascinating conversation with Ed Sherman (author of ‘This Is B1G’) is revisited in time for the holiday shopping season.

Ryan and Tom discuss the all-encompassing book “This Is B1G,” detailing the entire history of the Big Ten Conference in stories and pictures, with author Ed Sherman. The former Chicago Tribune sportswriter and editor details his research in compiling the book, including a focus on the Michigan-Michigan State and Michigan-Ohio State rivalries, as well as ground-breaking innovations by commissioner Jim Delany and others in setting the tone nationally with projects like the Big Ten Network. Also, a full recap of #5 Michigan’s 71-62 loss in Champaign against Illinois on Wednesday night - as Kofi Cockburn gave Jon Teske and the Wolverines fits, en route to a dominant 19-point, 10-rebound performance. Plus a look ahead at Saturday’s basketball action for both Michigan State, at Little Caesar’s Arena in Detroit against Oakland University, and Michigan taking on #10 Oregon at Crisler Center.

Ryan and Tom recap the weekend’s college football conference championship games, and the resulting four-team College Football Playoff field - did the committee get it right? Does the playoff need to expand to 8 teams? Initial bowl prospects for Michigan (in the Citrus against Alabama) and Michigan State (New Era Pinstripe bowl vs. Wake Forest) are explored, along with the entire slate of bowl games for the Big Ten’s nine qualifying teams. Also, reflecting on Michigan’s wild 103-91 home win over Iowa to start conference play - as well as Michigan State’s slugfest against Rutgers in a 77-65 win at Breslin.

Ryan and Tom go double-barrel basketball, with a pair of marquee college hoops match-ups that ended in disappointing fashion for the #4 Michigan Wolverines (58-43 loss at #1 Louisville) and the #11 Michigan State Spartans (87-75 home loss to #10 Duke). Draymond Green is honored at Breslin with his number 23 being raised to the rafters, we hear from him and Tom Izzo on the celebration. Post-game comments from Izzo reveal a team still trying to find itself, as the Spartans were outworked and outcoached by Vernon Carey, Jr. and Mike Krzyzewski. Jordan Nwora provided the ‘smoke’ David DeJulius was asking for, as the Cardinals clamped down on the road-weary Wolverines. Despite the team’s first loss, Juwan Howard remains optimistic on his team’s effort and accomplishments at this early stage. Plus, the guys make their picks on the Big Ten Championship Game between #1 Ohio State and #8 Wisconsin - as well as the four spots in the College Football Playoff.

Ryan and Tom look back at lamentable performances by both the Wolverines in ‘The Game’ against Ohio State, and the Spartans in a backdoor escape against woeful Maryland to become bowl-eligible. Has time run out on Don Brown and the current Michigan defensive scheme and personnel? Does Michigan need to make full-scale changes on that side of the ball to keep up in the arms race with Ohio State? Is ‘Meeting the Minimum Standard’ now the acceptable mantra for Michigan State football? And WHY did they have hats inscribed with ‘Program Win’ made for this game? Juwan Howard provides a bright spot for discussion with a Battle 4 Atlantis Championship, beating North Carolina and Gonzaga in the process, as Wolverines basketball prepares for a tough trip to Louisville. Michigan State basketball must find a way to stop Vernon Carey, needing more from Xavier Tillman in their rematch of last season’s Elite 8 against Duke.

Ryan and Tom are joined by New York Times best-selling author and University of Michigan historian John U. Bacon for a fun-filled Thanksgiving podcast, previewing Michigan and Ohio State on the gridiron. Ryan incorrectly guesses John’s middle name, but gets him to reveal his prediction for the game and his fondest memories of the rivalry. Tom asks about the heel turn of Greg Mattison from the Wolverines to the Buckeyes, and how that might impact the temperature of the battle. Highlights from Mark Dantonio’s press conference are featured, along with the guys making predictions against the spread for Michigan State-Maryland, as well as The Game itself. Looking back on MSU Basketball’s performance in Maui, along with Michigan getting started against Iowa State in the Battle 4 Atlantis in The Bahamas.

Ryan and Tom look back at Michigan’s impressive 39-14 road victory in Bloomington over Indiana, highlighted by another standout passing performance from Shea Patterson. Jim Harbaugh discusses a breakout game for Nico Collins, which included a big splash 76-yard touchdown reception - one of three scores on the day for the Wolverines wideout. Does this mean Michigan is ready for Ohio State? Aidan Hutchinson touches on the momentum from this win for the Maize and Blue. Michigan State does what they needed to do to remain on a path to bowl-eligibility with a 27-0 win at Rutgers, as Cody White dominated the Scarlet Knights secondary to the tune of 11 catches for 136 yards and three TDs of his own. Meanwhile, Michigan basketball takes care of Houston Baptist in a tune-up for the Bahamas and the Battle For Atlantis - and Michigan State prepares for Landers Nolley II and Virginia Tech in the Maui Invitational on Monday. Featuring Queens of the Stone Age new re-release of Songs for the Deaf on vinyl, brought to you by The Record Lounge.

Tom didn’t mean to get off on a rant here, babe, but Ryan dragged him into an in-depth conversation about last week’s FS1 documentary ‘Divided We Stand.’ The guys had some major problems with the production, and what was left out. Ryan reminisces about growing up in the rivalry as a Spartan fan behind enemy lines around Ann Arbor - as a neighbor of former Michigan basketball player Larry “Trigger” Tregoning, and as a camper being addressed by Bo Schembechler at U of M’s baseball camp in the 1980s. Tom is miffed at Devin Gardner’s performance in the documentary, and at important facts left out on the Wolverines’ behalf.

Ryan and Tom go all out in previewing Michigan’s road test against a feisty Indiana football team this Saturday in Bloomington, as Josh Gattis tries to keep the Wolverines offense humming to keep up with a formidable Hoosiers offensive attack. Mark Dantonio gives some much-awaited response to the state of the Spartans football program, as Michigan State prepares for a trip to Piscataway, New Jersey to face a woeful Rutgers bunch. As usual, they both make predictions against the Vegas line. Also, Cassius Winston addresses the MSU faithful at Breslin after a win over Charleston Southern on Monday night - thanking them for their support following the death of his brother Zach. Finally, Tom gives his take on Michigan basketball’s checklist for Friday night’s home contest against Houston Baptist.

Ryan and Tom revisit the pummeling Michigan delivered to their cross-state rival Michigan State, in a 44-10 decision in Ann Arbor. Shea Patterson turns in the performance of his career as a Wolverine, and Ronnie Bell contributed his finest game in the Maize and Blue as well. What the win means for Michigan, and what the loss means for Mark Dantonio and the Spartans - who appear to be adrift at sea, in the midst of a five-game losing streak after a 4-and-1 start to the season. Malik Hall’s landmark performance puts him on the map in MSU’s 76-73 late comeback victory over Myles Powell and Seton Hall, and Michigan continues to build their new identity under Juwan Howard with a 70-50 win over Elon.

Ryan and Tom dive into the “Great Lakes Divide” itself - the Michigan-Michigan State football rivalry, with the Paul Bunyan Trophy on the line. Is Mark Dantonio ‘The Teflon Don’ or ‘Rasputin’ - how many more hits can he survive? Tom argues Dantonio is invincible in East Lansing, and he may well be right. How did Brian Lewerke avoid concussion protocol against Illinois? Should he have? Ryan peppers Tom with lightning round questions - on the toughest controversial loss in rivalry history (Desmond Howard trip, Spartan Bob, or Trouble With the Snap), his most annoying colleague or friend this week, and whether Tom dislikes Dantonio or President Trump more. The guys offer predictions for the game against a 13.5-point spread for the Wolverines as a home favorite. Also, recapping Michigan’s 79-69 home basketball win over Creighton, and previewing Cassius Winston’s status for a road trip to Seton Hall on Thursday night.

Ryan and Tom begin with the tragic passing of Zachary Winston, younger brother of Michigan State basketball star Cassius Winston, and the effect the 19-year-old’s death had on his family - as well as the entirety of Spartan basketball, its fanbase, and college basketball across the country. An emotional night at Breslin ends in a 100-47 win for MSU over Binghamton, with post-game comments from Tom Izzo featured in the podcast. The guys also assess the moribund state of the Spartan football program, and what it will take for Mark Dantonio to give up the ghost (if anything will) after a breathtaking collapse against Illinois.

Ryan and Tom are joined by John Borton of TheWolverine.com to assess Michigan football during its final bye week, and to reflect on the Wolverines’ clinging to a 79-71 win in Juwan Howard’s head coaching debut against Appalachian State at Crisler Arena. Also, analysis of Michigan State’s season-opening 69-62 loss to Kentucky in the Champions Classic at Madison Square Garden. Sound from Mark Dantonio’s weekly press conference are reviewed in the wake of Joe Bachie’s suspension for a positive PED test, as the guys contemplate whether the two-year captain’s continued presence with the team is a good thing for the team. As always, the two make their picks against the spread for Michigan State vs. Illinois - with the Spartans somehow instilled as 14.5-point favorites.

Ryan and Tom reflect upon Michigan’s 38-7 win over Maryland, and discuss what needs to be accomplished and straightened out during their bye week to prepare for their stretch run against Michigan State, Indiana, and Ohio State. Ryan adamantly states that there is no excuse for Joe Bachie failing a PED test, explains why the two-year captain has no one to blame but himself. The guys also preview and offer up predictions for #1 Michigan State basketball and #2 Kentucky in the Champions Classic, as well as Michigan hosting Appalachian State, on Tuesday night.

Ryan and Tom preview Michigan’s trip to College Park, Maryland to take on the Terrapins, looking to build from their sea change of momentum in last Saturday’s 45-14 drubbing of #8 Notre Dame in Ann Arbor. Jim Harbaugh comments on immediate impact of freshman Daxton Hill in the Wolverines secondary, while Jordan Glasgow sings the praises of sophomore transfer Cam McGrone. Mark Dantonio’s winter of discontent may have just begun, with grumblings out of East Lansing describing a team that may have checked out on the season. Tom Izzo beams with pride as son Steven scores a point against Albion, and Rocket Watts looks ready to go as #1 Michigan State prepares for #2 Kentucky on Tuesday.

Ryan and Tom reflect upon a tale of two programs - Michigan State hitting rock bottom (so far) in a dreary 28-7 home loss to Penn State, and Michigan flying high after a signature 45-14 home win over #8 Notre Dame. The guys ponder and marvel at the post-game quote from Mark Dantonio, one which lowers the bar and goes on full spin cycle in saying MSU is fortunate to be 4-and-4 instead of 2-and-6. Will he be forced to resign at season’s end, either from without or within? Tom says ‘yes.’ Meanwhile, the Wolverines ground game minces Notre Dame for over 300 yards… and fortune smiles upon the Maize and Blue after a Will Hart punt is blocked, but somehow turns up in Michigan’s favor.

Ryan and Tom deliver another loaded podcast, chock full of football previews for Penn State-Michigan State and Notre Dame-Michigan, along with an update on the injury situations for both Spartan and Wolverine basketball. Can the Spartans right the ship after hitting an iceberg in Madison? Ryan breaks down why match-ups on both sides of the ball concern him for MSU. Tom gives his thoughts on another Harbaugh dust-up in the media, with rumors of him ‘seeking an exit strategy.’ As usual, the guys give their mid-week predictions for Saturday against the line in Vegas (Ryan is 7-7 on the year, Tom is 6-8).

Ryan and Tom reflect upon another near-miss for Michigan on the road against a ranked opponent, as the Wolverines fall 28-21 at Happy Valley against Penn State on Saturday night. Drops were a big issue throughout the game for the Maize and Blue, with none bigger than the heartbreak of Ronnie Bell unable to hold onto a potential game-tying touchdown in the closing minutes. K.J. Hamler runs roughshod over the Michigan secondary, how much blame does Don Brown deserve schematically for allowing big plays to the top receiver of the Nittany Lions? Did Shea Patterson play well enough for the Wolverines to win, and can fans be confident in his play going forward? Where does the season go from here for U of M, with Notre Dame coming to Ann Arbor - and the Big Ten title game in Indianapolis again out of reach for another year?

Ryan and Tom reflect upon another near-miss for Michigan on the road against a ranked opponent, as the Wolverines fall 28-21 at Happy Valley against Penn State on Saturday night. Drops were a big issue throughout the game for the Maize and Blue, with none bigger than the heartbreak of Ronnie Bell unable to hold onto a potential game-tying touchdown in the closing minutes. K.J. Hamler runs roughshod over the Michigan secondary, how much blame does Don Brown deserve schematically for allowing big plays to the top receiver of the Nittany Lions? Did Shea Patterson play well enough for the Wolverines to win, and can fans be confident in his play going forward? Where does the season go from here for U of M, with Notre Dame coming to Ann Arbor - and the Big Ten title game in Indianapolis again out of reach for another year?

In an epic mega-episode, Tom and Ryan assess #16 Michigan’s chances in Happy Valley this Saturday night against #7 Penn State. Is Jim Harbaugh’s voiced satisfaction with the progress of his offense justified, or just a psychological ploy to keep Shea Patterson’s morale up? Also explored, the ‘Dantonio vs. Daugherty’ question posed by Chris Solari in the Detroit Free Press - and the eery similarities between the two coaches, for better or worse. Finally, the guys take a close look at the upcoming Michigan State basketball season - with comments from head coach Tom Izzo at the Breslin Center this week. As always, the duo makes their picks against the spread for UM-PSU. Ryan stands at 6-7 on the year, leapfrogging Tom at 5-8.

Ryan and Tom reflect upon Michigan’s uneasy path to a 42-25 victory, after jumping out to a 28-0 lead on the road at Illinois - and the shellacking Michigan State endured in a 38-0 loss in Madison against Wisconsin, as head coach Mark Dantonio bristles at a ‘dumbass question’ in the post-game press conference. Tom expresses concern as the Wolverines head to Happy Valley next Saturday to face a Penn State team that just won on the road at Iowa, and describes Michigan’s performance as uninspired this season. Ryan follows up on questions regarding the state of the program at MSU, and where it all goes from here.

Ryan and Tom take a look at a cold, gloomy forecast in both Champaign and Madison, as the Michigan Wolverines visit the Illinois Fighting Illini and Michigan State travel to Wisconsin to take on the Badgers. Comments from Don Brown on consistent defensive preparation, along with Shea Patterson on the offense “hitting its stride” - as head coach Jim Harbaugh stated in his post-game press conference after a 10-3 home win over Iowa. The Spartans prepare to face another elite running back in Jonathan Taylor, and need to find a way to stop the big plays they allowed to Ohio State - according to Mark Dantonio. The guys also break down Dantonio’s upcoming deposition in January in Curtis Blackwell’s lawsuit against MSU, and offer up their weekly predictions against the point spreads in Vegas.

Ryan and Tom look back at two struggling offenses - both Michigan and Michigan State - each of whom scored just ten points on Saturday, with the Wolverines defense carrying them to a 10-3 homecoming win over Iowa… while the Spartans fell 34-10 at Ohio State. Jim Harbaugh provides thoughts on his offensive and defensive efforts, and Khaleke Hudson reveals Don Brown’s theme in practice this week. For Michigan State, the defense also set the tone early - but back-to-back turnovers on offense were an ominous sign of troubles to come for a Spartan attack that continues to lack consistency, as Ryan contends that drops have a lot to do with that.

Ryan and Tom look ahead to a big weekend of games, as four ranked teams combine for two top-tier match-ups in Big Ten play - with the #14 Iowa Hawkeyes traveling to Ann Arbor to face #19 Michigan, and #25 Michigan State venturing down to Columbus to take on the #4 Ohio State Buckeyes. Tom shares his harrowing experiences on the OSU campus, and has a colorful term of endearment for most of their fans - and reveals who he roots for in this showdown as a Michigan fan on the outside. Ryan challenges Tom on the recently passed California law allowing college athletes to profit from their own identities, and the two discuss life in the age of the ‘transfer portal’ as well. Some basketball talk winds things down - and, as always, the guys make their predictions against the Vegas spread for both football games.

Ryan and Tom discuss Michigan’s State’s escape from their own homecoming in a 40-31 win over the plucky Indiana Hoosiers and their impressive redshirt freshman quarterback Michael Penix, Jr. What is wrong with the Spartans’ secondary? Ryan has a theory that might make sense to a lot of MSU fans. Meanwhile, the Wolverines recover from ‘The Madison Disaster’ by overwhelming an overmatched Rutgers team in the trenches on both sides of the ball in a 52-0 drubbing at The Big House. After offensive coordinator Josh Gattis is summoned to the sidelines, is there reason for optimism with the play of Shea Patterson at quarterback?

Ryan and Tom discuss Michigan State’s homecoming match-up against the Indiana Hoosiers, and what needs to carry over from their mercurial and tenuous offensive success against Northwestern - in what should be a tune-up game before the Spartans’ schedule turns into a buzz saw. Also, the Wolverines are a mess after getting torched by Wisconsin in Madison - where is the leadership? Is it a Harbaugh problem? Are DPJ and Tarik Black really considering entering the transfer portal? Michigan should dominate Rutgers in Ann Arbor - but how and will they? And the guys give predictions against the spread for both games, as usual.

Ryan and Tom marvel at the ineptitude on all fronts for Michigan in a 35-14 drubbing at the hands of the Wisconsin Badgers in Madison on Saturday. Is it time to make a change at quarterback for the Wolverines? How did they get dominated in the trenches on both sides of the ball? Tom answers a direct question on what percentage of the UM fanbase has lost faith in Harbaugh. Meanwhile, Michigan State’s Jekyll and Hyde offensive season continues with an impressive 31-10 victory in Evanston over Northwestern. Joe Bachie was spectacular, and Brian Lewerke seemed to get his groove back after a reported players-only meeting earlier in the week after the Spartans’ loss to Arizona State.

Ryan and Tom break down #11 Michigan traveling to Madison to face #13 Wisconsin, where the Wolverines have not won at Camp Randall Stadium in 18 years. Shea Patterson makes a bold statement - was it for his team’s benefit, his own, or both? The inspiring tale of Ambry Thomas and his recovery from colitis is discussed. Also, Michigan State looks to get up off the mat after a lackluster loss to Arizona State as they travel to Evanston to face a Northwestern team who has beaten the Spartans three straight times. Is MSU finally ready to turn to 5-star freshman offensive tackle Devontae Dobbs? As always, the guys make their final score predictions - with some contrasting opinions on both games.