Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Coach smack: Strapping on an iron jock
Speaking at Big Ten media days in Chicago, Michigan Coach Jim Harbaugh said he did not have a lot of luggage to carry around. “I packed a toothbrush and a good attitude.”
Asked if the former Bears quarterback had had any fun during his time in Chicago, Harbaugh replied “No, I’m avoiding all fun stuff.
“We lost three of our last four games last year — two by one point, one by three points in overtime,” he said. “Didn’t like that feeling, and that has motivated us to pour more time — our hearts and souls — into the football team. Avoid fun stuff.”
The Harbaugh revolution has brought Michigan headlines and attention, not to mention two 10-3 seasons. But in terms of what really matters to the fan base, Harbaugh is 0-2 against Ohio State with no appearances in the Big Ten title game.
Now he has to replace 17 starters and have the Wolverines ready to face Florida in the Sept. 2 opener in Arlington, Texas.
“There are a lot of positions where the greaseboard has been wiped completely clean,” Harbaugh said, referring to mass departures at spots such as safety and cornerback.
“There are so many that have the opportunity.”
And because it’s Harbaugh: “Let’s strap on the iron jock and work like crazy and get the job done. Build the ball-team like that.”
Strap on the iron jock. That’s a new one.
“Coach Harbaugh thinks differently than a lot of people,” defensive tackle Maurice Hurst said. “He’s always changing plans, always has a new idea. It keeps us fresh, keeps us on our toes. No day is going to be exactly the same.”