I watched Hoke's full presser from Wednesday to get a feel for Hoke. I can say I'm already 600% more excited about the direction this program's headed. Here are some thoughts.
- The biggest thing that stood out to me was the passion he has for the tradition and culture in Ann Arbor. Hoke WANTS to be here. This is his dream job, make no mistake. That's the key aspect to UM that RRod never got. It's about the kids, NOT the coach, not the money. While it will take a little time, he's a guy that will recruit solid kids that will COMPETE everyday.
- He's a defensive guy, so that toughness factor will be there. RRod teams simply weren't tough enough to win in the Big Ten. I'm convinced that whatever the results are these next 2 years, Hoke's teams will be miles more competitive.
- He will run the ship his way, he definitely is the captain of it, but he will be much more flexible. He will mold his system to fit the guys he has in the program. This reminds me SO MUCH of Jim Tressel and the transitions he's made offensively to his system to accomodate the talent he had. It is a BIG reason why the man has had the success he's had. With RRod, you either fit into his system, or you weren't coming to UM. This attitude is the reason we spent 3 years filling out our classes competing with MAC schools for 2 star guys who had the speed, but not the football instinct. I'm confident with Hoke, we can begin to attract the kids that are necessary for a solid program.
There are tons of unknowns to Hoke right now, but he definitely has the right idea. I can say I'm optimistic for the 1st time in 3 years that we're starting to get back on track.