2. The RichRod connection
The name Rich Rodriguez doesn’t sit well with many in Michigan circles. Hired to breathe new life into the program after the Lloyd Carr era came to an end, Rodriguez never had the success on or off the field that the Wolverines were looking for. There were multiple transfers, accusations of NCAA violations and the overarching feel that Rodriguez didn’t fit the mold of a “Michigan man.” His style of play never seemed to take root with the fan base either. Jones isn’t Rodriguez, but he’s been heavily influenced by him. Butch worked under RR at West Virginia and some of his offensive philosophy was shaped by him. That wouldn’t be ignored by some in Michigan.
