Hosted by Tony Garcia and Rainer Sabin of the Detroit Free Press. “Hail, Yes!†can be found a couple of times a week, including every Thursday wherever you listen to podcasts. Tune in to listen to engaging conversations and unique perspectives on your Michigan Wolverines. Tony, the U-M sports beat writer, and Rainer, the Big Ten insider, get a chance to talk to the main characters in Ann Arbor weekly and provide their insights and analysis for all the big games, news and events. “Hail, Yes!†is your go-to Wolverines podcast for all the best news, analysis, insights and opinions on the team.
The Hail Yes! A Detroit Free Press Podcast About University of Michigan Sports is a podcast that offers thoughtful and direct assessments of the football programs, individual games, and players. Hosted by Tony Garcia and Rainer Sabin, this podcast provides a give and take dynamic as they often don't always agree on certain topics. This adds value to the show as it presents different perspectives and creates engaging discussions for listeners. Not only is the podcast informative, but it is also entertaining, making it enjoyable for college and Big Ten football fans.
One of the best aspects of The Hail Yes! Podcast is its open assessment of the football programs. The hosts do not cover up or gloss over challenging situations, which allows listeners to gain a deeper understanding of the team's strengths and weaknesses. This level of honesty provides valuable insight into the state of Michigan's football program and keeps fans well-informed.
Another great aspect of this podcast is its focus on individual games. The hosts provide thorough analysis and breakdowns of each game, discussing key plays, player performances, and strategy. This attention to detail enhances the listening experience by offering in-depth coverage that goes beyond mere surface-level commentary. Listeners get a comprehensive understanding of what happened during each game and can appreciate the nuances within.
While there are many positive aspects to The Hail Yes! Podcast, one potential downside could be the occasional disagreements between the hosts. While some may enjoy hearing different opinions and engaging debates, others may find it frustrating or distracting. However, for those who appreciate diverse perspectives, these disagreements add value to the podcast by presenting multiple viewpoints for listeners to consider.
In conclusion, The Hail Yes! A Detroit Free Press Podcast About University of Michigan Sports is an excellent source of information for college and Big Ten football fans. With its thoughtful assessments of football programs, individual games, and players, this podcast offers valuable insights without covering up challenging situations. The dynamic between Tony Garcia and Rainer Sabin, even when they disagree, adds to the overall value of the show. It is both informative and enjoyable, making it a must-listen for fans of University of Michigan sports.
Spring football is in the books, and all that anyone can talk about is Michigan football quarterback Bryce Underwood, who made his debut at the Big House last weekend in the spring game. It wasn't smooth sailing for the highly-touted freshman, but the Belleville product showed flashes of why he is so exciting. Tony and Andrew open the show by answering three questions about the spring game, of course focusing on Underwood's performance, and then discuss why everyone is missing the mark about Underwood on both sides. After a quick break, Tony and Andrew discuss if Michigan has enough to get back to the College Football Playoff after last year's disappointing 7-5 season. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
It wasn't the dream ending anyone in Ann Arbor hoped for, but it sure was a successful season. Michigan basketball was knocked out of the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournament in Year 1 under Dusty May after looking like it might have just enough to outlast Auburn. That all came crashing down in the second half, as the Wolverines watched the Tigers hit one shot after another. Tony and Andrew talk about their biggest takeaways from May's first year in Ann Arbor and what lessons can be taken from the 2024-25 season going forward. Then, the guys talk about Michigan's busy start in the transfer portal, already landing Elliot Cadeau (North Carolina), Morez Johnson Jr. (Illinois) and Yaxel Lendeborg (UAB) in just the first few days after the season. Is this another sign that May is perfectly set up to succeed in this day and age? And last but not least, we can't forget about spring football. Sherrone Moore's crew is on the field and getting in work, with of course the biggest question still being who will be the starting quarterback. Tony makes a prediction for the starter against New Mexico in Week 1, and shares a takeaway from the offensive and defensive side of the ball. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
Michigan basketball is red-hot. After winning the Big Ten tournament, the Wolverines went to Denver for the opening weekend of the NCAA tournament and when the big moments came calling, the Wolverines had all the answers. Andrew and Tony open the show by discussing Michigan's wins over UC San Diego in the first round and Texas A&M in the second round and how Dusty May's squad keeps finding a way to win. What changed in that time off before the Big Ten tournament? And who deserves the most credit? Then after a quick break, the guys look forward to Atlanta, where the Wolverines are set to square off with the No. 1 overall seed, Auburn. The Tigers won the SEC crown and have been considered the top dog all year, but are they playing their best basketball? And last but not least, the elephant in the room: What do the guys make of a potential showdown with rival Michigan State with a trip to the Final Four on the line? Read all about the Michigan Wolverines by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
What a weekend for the Wolverines! After stumbling to the finish line in the regular season, Dusty May's Michigan squad recaptured its magic in Indianapolis and rode it all the way to a Big Ten tournament title. But was it worth it for the Wolverines? Tony and Andrew open the show by talking about how the Wolverines got back on track and the eventful weekend in the Hoosier state. Plus, the guys talk about how the Wolverines ended up with a lower seed than Purdue, Maryland and Wisconsin, despite beating them all in the last week. After a quick break, it's time to look forward: How far can Michigan go in March Madness this year? And might we see an insane rivalry matchup in the Elite Eight? That and a lot more on this week's March Madness edition of Hail Yes. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
After a mostly awesome season, Michigan basketball appears to be limping into one-and-done time. The Wolverines lost their last three games of the regular season to Illinois, Maryland and Michigan State, where the story became a push from Tre Holloman in the final seconds. It's certainly not how the Wolverines wanted the season to end, but the great news is there's still plenty of time. Andrew and Tony open the show by discussing the Wolverines' really tough final week, why Michigan fans no-showed the final home game at Crisler Center and what to make of the whole floor-kiss incident in East Lansing. After a quick break, the guys talk about what the Wolverines need to do to get back on track and why the Big Ten tournament is the perfect opportunity for Michigan to turn things around. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
Plain and simple, Michigan basketball is not playing its best with just two games left in the season. The Wolverines have flashed some of the highest highs in college basketball this season, but even as Dusty May's squad has still found ways to win, it hasn't always been pretty. That finally caught up to the Wolverines on Sunday, who were run out of the gym by Illinois. Tony and Andrew open the show by discussing what has led to Michigan's downturn on the court and what the Wolverines can do to get it back on track with everything still on the line with two games to play. After a quick break, the guys take a look ahead at the matchups with Maryland and Michigan State, and discuss why Michigan might be a team to watch in the Big Ten tournament. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
What is this the 2010s? It sure feels like it in the college basketball world, when the Big Ten title often ran through whoever came out on top between the Spartans and Wolverines. More and more, that’s looking like it’ll be the case this year as the Wolverines and Spartans sit in first and second place in the conference respectively. To start the show, Andrew and Tony discuss Michigan’s recent win over Ohio State, another nail-biter, and the guys talk about how the Wolverines keep pulling out these insanely close games. Then, after MSU pulled out an impressive win over Purdue on Tuesday, Tony and Andrew talk about what kind of matchup the Wolverines are facing on Friday. What are the X-factors for both sides? And who comes out on top? You don’t want to miss this week’s episode! Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer Sabin, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
After Michigan basketball came out on top in an epic game against Purdue on Tuesday to take the lead in the Big Ten, Tony and Andrew are joined by Free Press sports columnist Shawn Windsor, who was at the Purdue game, to discuss how the Wolverines pulled out the crazy win. The guys talk about what makes this Michigan team unique and how they keep coming out unscathed in so many close games. Then after a quick break, the guys discuss how Michigan basketball has become the favorite to take home the Big Ten regular season crown in a remarkable turnaround from last year's disastrous 8-24 season, starting with Dusty May's positivity. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer Sabin, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
The Hail Yes crew was thrilled this week to welcome former Michigan basketball coach John Beilein to the show for the first time. Few, if any, can offer the level of insight on the Michigan basketball program that Beilein can, and coming off a clutch late win over Penn State, it was the perfect time to sit down with the former coach. Tony and John open by talking about the 2024-25 Wolverines and why John really likes this team and thinks it can go for a run. Then, Tony ask John about how he was able to build such a sustainable program and what principles Dusty May can use to return the Wolverines to a year in, year out winner. Plus, Beilein talks about the Big Ten race at large and how the Spartans and Wolverines (the best rivalry in the sport, according to him) could be in for a fight to the finish this regular season. This is a fantastic episode of Hail Yes that you just can't miss. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
After an up-and-down week, the Michigan basketball squad will hit the road for its biggest test of the season at Mackey Arena against Purdue on Friday. Both teams should be hungry and desperate for a win as they've both recently suffered frustrating losses and this game will have a big impact on the rest of the Big Ten regular season. Tony and Andrew open the show by discussing the three keys for the Wolverines if they are to pull off an upset, then the guys share their prediction for who they see coming out on top. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
Hail Yes is back! After a holiday break, Tony and Andrew are back on the mic to talk about Michigan basketball's red-hot start to the season. With Rainer lending a hand to help cover the Lions' playoff run, Andrew and Tony dive into what has made this Michigan basketball team special so far, starting with unicorn big man Danny Wolf. The 7-foot ball handler has transformed Michigan's offense and helped lead them to the top of the Big Ten. Should Wolf be the Big Ten player of the year favorite?Then after the break, the guys talk about how guard Nimari Burnett is everything that can be right about college basketball and then close the show by discussing some breaking news that Michigan football defensive coordinator Wink Martindale is interviewing for the Atlanta Falcons DC job. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
It's safe to say that it's been a busy few weeks for Michigan football, between landing No. 1 recruit Bryce Underwood, the shocking upset of Ohio State, national signing day, firing and hiring offensive coordinators, landing in the ReliaQuest Bowl in a matchup with Alabama and so much more. The Hail Yes crew goes right down the lists and recaps all the major happenings for Michigan football over the last few weeks and how much of that momentum will carry over. Speaking of carry over, the Big Ten has released its 2025 schedules, so the guys take a little bit of time to talk about that as well.After unpacking the football sandwich in the first half of the show, Tony, Rainer and Andrew discuss Michigan basketball's super impressive start to the season (despite the loss to Arkansas), and Andrew gushes about how much he loves Danny Wolf's game. Plus, are the Wolverines a Final Four team? One of the hosts thinks they might be. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
It's ‘The Game' week with Michigan scheduled to play rival Ohio State on Saturday in Columbus (noon, Fox) and Tony and Rainer break it all down with a game preview. The Wolverines have won three games in a row in the series and not only seemingly hold a clear psychological advantage, but know their path to victory after winning the battle on the ground each of the past three seasons. That said, there's no doubt the Buckeyes are heavy favorites (Vegas says 20.5 points) behind an offense that is No. 10 in America and the No. 1 scoring and total defense. The Buckeyes spent $20 million this offseason in roster retention and acquisition, in large part because when they take the field Saturday it will have been five years to the day since they won the rivalry game. The fellas touch on Colston Loveland's importance to U-M's offense, the major improvements the defense has made and if those are enough reasons to believe Michigan can pull off its biggest upset (by the point spread) since they've been kept consistently beginning in 1969. That year, Michigan beat OSU as a 17-point underdog. Tony and Rainer finish up the show picking five games including the Iron Bowl, Michigan State's matchup with Rutgers for bowl eligibility and of course, The Game. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
With Michigan football's second bye week behind us, Tony and Rainer thought it'd be as good of a time as any to look back at some of the many inconsistencies between what Sherrone Moore and his staff indicated would happen and what the product ended up looking like. For example, all offseason the word coming out of the Wolverines' facility was this was going to be an explosive offense, yet the Wolverines have been one of the least affective offensive units in the country. Did Michigan mislead with this rhetoric, or did the staff misidentify the talent? And which is more damning? After a lengthy discussion, Andrew joins the show and the guys share their predictions for the Northwestern game and whether or not Michigan can lock up an appearance in a bowl game. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
Michigan football has hit its second bye week, and at 5-5, it's the perfect time to look at the Wolverines' season from a big-picture view. The guys open the show by talking about the underwhelming season from the coaching staff – top to bottom – and what shakeups could be in order. Then, Tony, Rainer and Andrew have a spirited debate about who is ultimately at fault for Michigan's disastrous season, and whether Sherrone Moore or Jim Harbaugh deserves more blame. After the break, the guys discuss the groundswell of rumors and noise surrounding Belleville quarterback Bryce Underwood and whether the nation's top recruit will flip from LSU to Michigan. Is going all-out on Underwood the right move? And what is the likelihood that the Wolverines actually land the superstar recruit? Then, the crew makes its picks for the college games across the nation this week, and briefly discusses the Michigan basketball squad and what to make of its start.
It's not everyday that we'd start a show in November talking about basketball over football, but that's just how impressive Michigan basketball was in its first game under Dusty May. The Wolverines smashed Cleveland State, 101-53, in their season opener and looked efficient and smooth while doing so. The biggest star of the day was Yale transfer Danny Wolf, and Tony and Rainer open the show by discussing how impressive Wolf was, how real this Michigan performance was and if it's too early to get (really) excited about this year's Michigan basketball squad. Then after the break, the guys look back on Michigan football's tough loss to Oregon, and if the Wolverines stand any chance against an Indiana squad that suddenly looks like a buzz saw. And last but not least, Andrew joins the guys to make predictions for Michigan's game on the road at Indiana, plus the other biggest games around the country. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
Tony and Rainer are back after Michigan's big win over a surging Michigan State team, but of course the game was overshadowed by the antics on the field after. The guys share their thoughts on the fight, what to make of it and what it means going forward. Plus, how Michigan was able to knock off MSU despite getting dominated in time or possession. Then after the break, Tony and Rainer preview the matchup with top-ranked Oregon and whether or not the Wolverines can pull out another big win. And last but not least, Andrew joins the guys to make predictions for the Michigan vs. Oregon game and some other big matchups around the country. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
Michigan and Michigan State enter their annual rivalry game in completely different spots. The Spartans are coming off their biggest win of the season over Iowa, while the Wolverines have lost two straight games as their offense has continued to sputter. Can the Wolverines get the train back on the track in time to beat a hungry Michigan State team? Tony and Rainer open the show by talking about how Michigan and Sherrone Moore got in this position in the first place and how it can be resolved. Then after the break, the guys discuss who has the advantage between the Wolverines and Spartans on offense, defense, and special teams and which team has the better coaching staff. Last but not least, Tony, Rainer and Andrew share their predictions for the rivalry game and take a look at some of the other big games around the country. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
With a new quarterback under center and half the season behind them, it's a perfect time for the Michigan Wolverines (4-2) to turn the page on a frustrating season thus far. The Wolverines have named 25-year-old veteran quarterback Jack Tuttle as their starting quarterback coming off the bye week after Tuttle came into the game in relief against Washington in Week 6. Tony and Rainer start the show by discussing whether or not the second QB switch this season can change Michigan's year and if Tuttle is the guy to lead the Wolverines. After a quick break, the guys preview the matchup with a surprisingly-tough Illinois squad, where the Wolverines are a 3½-point favorite on the road. And last but not least, Andrew joins the show and the guys make some picks for some huge games across the country. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
It certainly wasn't the start to the season anyone around the Michigan football program would've dreamed of, especially aesthetically, but there's a lot of football to play for the Wolverines. With six games completed and a bye week on the schedule, Tony and Rainer sit down to give the Wolverines some grades at the midpoint of the season. How bad were the quarterbacks? Was there anything positive on the offense? And what should we make of Michigan's defense under Wink Martindale. Then after the break, the guys talk about where Michigan can improve in the second half of the season and what can be reasonably expected. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
Time to hit the road! For the first time this season, the Michigan Wolverines will play a game away from the Big House after going 4-1 in their opening slate in Ann Arbor. The road trip isn't coming at a great time, though, as the Wolverines offense continues to sputter. Tony and Rainer open the show by discussing how Michigan's offense really made no tangible strides after the ugly win over USC and what that means going forward. After the first break, the guys talk about the Washington matchup and how the Wolverines matchup against a Huskies team that will look completely different from the team Michigan beat in the national title game just a few months ago. And last but not least, Andrew joins the show and the guys make predictions for who will win the Michigan game, plus other games around the country. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
The Michigan Wolverines are coming off their biggest win of the season, an upset of USC at the Big House, but is Michigan's run-first style sustainable? Tony and Rainer open the show discussing how the Wolverines were able to knock off USC despite throwing the ball just 12 times and how far this team can really go playing that kind of football. Then, the guys preview the Minnesota matchup and talk about what Michigan fans can expect now that the book is out on the Alex Orji-led offense. Then after the break, Andrew joins to make predictions for the Michigan (-9) vs. Minnesota game, plus some of the other massive games around the country this weekend, including Alabama vs. Georgia. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
It's another huge week for Michigan football with the Wolverines set to host Big Ten newcomers USC for the first time. However, headlines this week have been dominated by Sherrone Moore announcing that he's making a change at the quarterback position. Out is Davis Warren, winner of the quarterback competition in the offseason, and in comes Alex Orji. Tony and Rainer debate whether this was the right move and if it signifies a strong change or a sign of further concern. Then after the break, the guys talk about the matchup with USC and what problems the Trojans present.And last but not least, Andrew joins the show to take a look across college football this week and the crew shares their predictions for Michigan vs. USC. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports
For the first time since 2021, the Michigan football team looks to rebound after a regular season loss. The Wolverines fell to No. 16 in the coaches poll after a 31-12 defeat to the Texas Longhorns and now the question is how concerned should U-M fans be?Tony and Rainer open the show discussing the defeat and perhaps some overlooked areas in the transfer portal. Were coaches too confident about the roster given how things have looked through two weeks? Did Kirk Campbell oversell and under deliver on offense?After the break, the guys breakout the worry-o-meter and assess each position group on the team and give their level of concern on a scale of 1 to 10 and discuss whether the issues can be fixed or if it will be a lingering problem throughout the season. Last but not least, Andrew joins the show to take a big-picture look at what we saw across college football in Week 2 and to make some picks for Week 3, including if Michigan can bounce back and cover against Arkansas State. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports
One of the most anticipated nonconference football games ever at Michigan Stadium is finally here. The Wolverines will host No. 3 Texas at noon on Saturday as Sherrone Moore tries to keep Michigan's 16-game winning streak rolling with a massive game against the Longhorns. Tony and Rainer open the show by talking about what we learned from Michigan's 30-10 win over Fresno State, why the Wolverines might have to make a tough call with Donovan Edwards and what to make of the Wolverines' new-look units on both sides of the ball. After the break, the guys preview Texas and discuss everything you need to know before the Longhorns step foot in the Big House on Saturday. And last but not least, Andrew joins the show to take a big-picture look at what we saw across college football in Week 1 and to make some picks for Week 2, including who the guys think will win the Michigan vs. Texas showdown. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
It's game week! The long wait for Michigan football to return to the field is finally over, as the new-look Wolverines appear geared up for another big run. Tony, Rainer and Andrew start the show by talking about what they're looking forward to seeing on Saturday before doing a full-roster breakdown so Michigan fans can know what to look for across the team when the Wolverines play a feisty Fresno State team. After the break, the guys are back with their college football picks with a look at the five most interesting games of the week. Follow them or fade them, but you know it'll be interesting. Of course, the Hail Yes crew had to discuss the new Netflix documentary "Untold: Sign Stealer," which focuses on Connor Stalions' sign-stealing campaign. The guys saved the conversation for the end (1:02:25) for the listeners who want to focus on football. Tony, Rainer and Andrew talk about why it was simply too soon for the documentary to be made and what Michigan fans should think of the film. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
The crisp fall weather was in the air this week in Michigan, and while it might not stay long, it has the guys fully ready for football season to get underway. Tony, Rainer and Andrew sit down to do a full season preview for the Wolverines this year, spending the first half of the show talking about the defense(25:12), the second half of the show breaking down the offense (53:04), and the third part making game-by-game predictions. The guys discuss the biggest questions facing the Wolverines on both sides of the ball, why the quarterback competition remains open, what Davis Warren brings to the table, and ultimately, what record they think Michigan will finish with this year. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
Say what you want about the Michigan football program, but it sure isn't boring. It was another busy week in Ann Arbor as Sherrone Moore held his first and only media availability of fall camp, with multiple storylines coming out of the press conference. First and foremost, former Michigan football coach Jim Harbaugh will now NOT be returning to the Big House for the Wolverines' season opener. However, there was some on-field news that surfaced as well, which Tony and Rainer spend the first half of the show discussing. Then after the break, Andrew joins the guys to discuss some recent comparable situations to what Sherrone Moore has stepped into across college football and what it can tell us about Moore's chances for success. Is Sherrone in a better place than Lane Kiffin was when he took over for Pete Carroll at USC? What about Ed Orgeron taking over for Les Miles at LSU? If you're a diehard college football fan who likes to go into the weeds, this conversation is for you. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
Right as the guys were getting ready to record their latest episode, there was breaking news that the NCAA has handed former Michigan football coach Jim Harbaugh a four-year show-cause order and a one-year suspension for misleading investigators looking into violations of a COVID-19 dead period. Tony, Rainer and Andrew spend the first part of the show breaking down the latest report and the new details that came out of it and discussing what it means big picture for a Michigan football program that seems to always be putting out some type of fire. Then after the break, the guys talk about what the Michigan football players had to say about Sherrone Moore being investigated for his alleged role in the sign-stealing saga. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
As the football season creeps ever closer, the Hail Yes crew is back with another episode. With the Michigan football team opening camp this week with less than a month until the first game, Tony and Rainer got the chance to speak with offensive coordinator Kirk Campbell and defensive coordinator Wink Martindale. The guys share their biggest takeaways from their chats and talk about some interesting comments made about the quarterback competition. Then after the break, Tony and Rainer each share one player they think is overrated coming into the year, and one player who is underrated. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
The Hail Yes crew is back! With Big Ten media days signifying the unofficial start to the college football season, Tony, Rainer and Andrew sit down to talk some Michigan football. The guys start the show by talking about what happened over the summer, Michigan's recruiting turnaround and what they heard from the players they talked to at different events, like Mason Graham and Alex Orji. Then after the break, the crew debates where Michigan stands in the new and improved Big Ten, its chances of winning the league for the fourth year in a row and how the Wolverines can make the expanded 12-team playoff. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
As things quiet down for the summer, Rainer and Tony sit down to answer the five biggest questions facing Michigan football this season. Of course, the biggest question starts at the quarterback position, but what might this offense look like overall under Sherrone Moore and Kirk Campbell? Plus, will this group get back to the College Football Playoff for the fourth straight season? The guys cover those topics and more in the final episode before they take a quick break during the slower summer period. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
Man, what a crazy academic year it was for Michigan athletics. From a national championship to multiple suspensions for Jim Harbaugh to new coaches in football and basketball in a matter of months, this year pretty much had it all. As we approach the summer months – a slower time in the college sports landscape – we thought it would be the perfect time to rank the most memorable moments from 1-10 from an unforgettable year. Rainer and Tony break down their rankings and discuss what will be the No. 1 thing they'll remember from this season 20 years down the road. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
Tony and Rainer open the show by discussing Michigan basketball's media availability on Tuesday and what they heard from Dusty May and the rest of his new staff. Did the Wolverines nail this difficult and important offseason? And could this team make the NCAA tournament? Then after the break, Andrew and Rainer ask Tony about his one-on-one interview with Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel, what went into setting the meeting up, his biggest takeaways and other behind-the-scenes notes. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
Transfers, transfers and more transfers. That's the state of college sports these days and with Tuesday serving as the official deadline for entering your name in the transfer portal, there was a rash of players testing the waters. Tony and Rainer open the show by discussing how we got to this point and the sustainability (or lack thereof) long term. Then the guys break down how Michigan has navigated the madness so far and debate whether their model of building through development is even sustainable anymore. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
With the Michigan football and basketball seasons wrapped up, you'd expect things to be slowing down, but if anything. this week seems to be the opposite. The guys start the show by getting into the talk of the state, the NFL draft, and what to expect from some of the big-name former Wolverines who have entered their names, including star quarterback J.J. McCarthy. Then after the first break, Tony and Rainer discuss the program's spring game last weekend and the questions raised from the exhibition, particularly at quarterback. And last but not least, the guys discuss Dusty May's hot streak in the portal, landing five players since Saturday from all over the country. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
The Michigan football program is many things, but you can't say it is boring. Tony and Rainer react to the breaking news from this week that the Wolverines have been placed under a three-year probation, given an undisclosed fine and some recruiting penalties for violation under Jim Harbaugh. The guys talk about what the news means, how big of an effect it will have going forward and more. Then after the break, Tony and Rainer hold a Michigan football spring game draft, in honor of the NFL draft coming to the state this week. Both guys select 14 total players, seven on offense and seven on defense, and Andrew plays judge and jury in deciding which team would come out on top. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
With spring football well underway, we're starting to learn more about the upcoming rendition of Michigan football. Looking ahead, Tony comes up with five hot takes for Michigan football in 2024, with Rainer and Andrew rating the takes on a scale of 1-5, with a 1 being "not that crazy" and a 5 being "that's totally crazy." The guys talk about everything from Michigan's defense returning to its 2023 dominance to Donovan Edwards' role as the lead back, with even some talk about Rainer's (supposedly) really good cooking in between. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
The Michigan Wolverines officially have a new men's basketball coach. After a whirlwind few days, Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel formally introduced Dusty May as the school's next basketball coach on Tuesday after firing Juwan Howard at the end of the 2023-24 season. Tony and Rainer, who were both at the press conference, share their biggest takeaways from the big day and say why this move just felt right. Then the guys talk about how the hiring came about, John Beilein's involvement, how Manuel got it done, and the future of the Michigan basketball program now under May's leadership. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
The bat signal was flashed, and an emergency podcast was called. Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel announced Friday the school has parted ways with basketball coach Juwan Howard after a tumultuous 8-24 season. Tony and Rainer spend the show focusing on answering three questions: What went wrong, why now and what's next for the Wolverines basketball program? After the break, Tony and Rainer discuss some early names that have emerged as potential candidates to replace Howard in what Manuel has promised will be a national coaching search. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
We could all see it coming from a mile away, but over the course of the NFL combine, J.J. McCarthy became THE story. First, he was a certain first-round talent. Then, some mock drafts had him as a top-10 pick. Before you knew it, ESPN's Louis Riddick said an executive told him he'd be in the top 5. So we thought now is the time to plant your flag: Rainer and Tony both watched every snap McCarthy took over the last two seasons. Do they think he'll be a good NFL quarterback? Tune in to find out. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
The NFL combine is here, and the Michigan Wolverines are the talk of the town. Between the Wolverines having a record 18 former players invited to the event in Indianapolis and the debates surrounding quarterback J.J. McCarthy, there is certainly plenty to talk about from a Michigan perspective. Tony and Rainer join the show from the Hoosier state to talk about what they've noticed so far from the combine and to discuss what's ahead for the remainder of the week. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
The nightmare season continued for Michigan basketball on Wednesday with the program's announcement that Olivier Nkamhoua will miss the rest of the season after undergoing wrist surgery. Tony and Rainer open the show by discussing the news and how Michigan into such a dire place, plus some talk on the transfer portal and the future of college basketball. After the break, the guys talk about former Michigan safety Keon Sabb transferring to Alabama, J.J. McCarthy's rise up draft boards, and what to know ahead of the NFL combine. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
Just when you thought things may die down after a crazy national championship season, the Michigan football program began its reboot under Sherrone Moore. Tony and Rainer open the show by ranking the five biggest stories for Michigan football since Jim Harbaugh left and Sherrone Moore took over. Then after the break, the guys discuss athletic director Warde Manuel's comments about Juwan Howard and the status of the Michigan basketball program. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
It didn't have the fanfare of Jim Harbaugh's introductory press conference almost a decade before, but Michigan football formally introduced Sherrone Moore as the program's next head coach on Saturday. What was the vibe like at the event, and what challenges are ahead for the first-time head coach? Tony and Rainer open the show by breaking it down. After the break, the guys talk about what has gone wrong with the Michigan basketball program after their latest blowout loss to Michigan State. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
After years of rumors and a national championship to boot, Jim Harbaugh is officially heading to the NFL to take the head coaching gig with the Los Angeles Chargers. Tony and Rainer open the show by discussing if this was always how the saga was going to end, what Michigan did to try and keep Harbaugh, and where the coach ranks historically after his run in Ann Arbor. Then after the break, the guys talk about what's next for the Michigan football program. Is Sherrone Moore the guy for the job? And what are some realistic expectations for the first-time head coach? Catch all of that and more on this edition of Hail Yes! Read all about the Michigan Wolverines' historical season and Jim Harbaugh's decision to leave, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
Well, that was fun. As the dust settles on an incredible season, Tony and Rainer sit down to discuss how Michigan finally got over the hump and what it looked like behind the scenes as the Wolverines celebrated the championship. Then, the guys talk about the vindication for Jim Harbaugh and Warde Manuel and their decision to stick it out when things got tough in 2020, the history behind Michigan's accomplishments, and much more. Finally, what is next for Michigan football, and some potential landing spots for Jim Harbaugh if he does in fact decide to move on to the NFL. Come for the football talk, and stay for Tony ripping off Eminem lyrics at the end of the show. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines historical season, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports. Also, we are selling two commemorative books, front-page wall art, and a 4-page stadium edition for Michigan's national championship win. Check it all out by clicking here.
The Michigan Wolverines are the last team standing. After a crazy season, both off and on the field, the Wolverines delivered when it mattered most, squeezing the life out of Washington's high-powered offense in a 34-13 win. Immediately after the game, Tony and Rainer met up on the field at NRG Stadium to record their instant reactions. How did the Wolverines get this done? And was it always this team's destiny to end up here? Start your day off by listening to Tony and Rainer break it all down right from the field where it all happened. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines historical season, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
The job is still not finished. Not for the Michigan football team trying to win a national championship, and not for the podcasters who cover the team. Tony and Rainer open the show by recapping a very eventful Rose Bowl with Michigan beating Alabama, 27-20. The crew talks about how Michigan ultimately pulled off the win, plus the sights and sounds from the incredible day of football. Then, Tony and Rainer spend some time previewing the matchup with Washington and superstar quarterback Michael Penix. The guys discuss the names to watch out for and what you need to know before the Wolverines attempt to finish off their national championship run Monday night in Houston. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
What. A. Day. Tony and Rainer sat down for a quick emergency podcast after Michigan beat Alabama, 27-20, in overtime at the Rose Bowl. The guys discuss how this was the ultimate culmination of the last three years with the Wolverines finally getting over the hump on the biggest stage. Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.
Live from Los Angeles, Tony and Rainer discuss the latest development in the alleged scandal, with Alabama wide receiver Isaiah Bond telling the Free Press they haven't been able to watch any individual film out of fear that Michigan football allegedly may have poached information off of the team's Catapult tracking system. Then, the guys talk about the seemingly endless SEC vs. Big Ten debate. Is SEC speed a real thing? And can the Wolverines physically match up with Alabama? Finally, Tony and Rainer discuss what it's like being in L.A. as the huge showdown approaches, and some crazy sights and sounds from Disneyland (and yes, that includes Nick Saban in a carriage). Read all about the Michigan Wolverines, including some great pieces by Tony and Rainer, by heading to our website at freep.com/sports.