Rich Rodriguez Wednesday Press Conference
11/12/2008 12:00:00 AM | Football
ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- Michigan head coach Rich Rodriguez met with the media out on the practice field for a few minutes this afternoon, revealing who would be behind center for Saturday's game against Northwestern. Redshirt sophomore Nick Sheridan will be the starting quarterback this weekend, in part because he has been practicing, whereas usual starter Steven Threet has been out with side effects from a concussion he suffered at Purdue. Rodriguez did say, however, that Threet should be available to play.
The news isn't as good for starting running back Brandon Minor who Rodriguez qualified as being doubtful. He hasn't been practicing this week due to injuries sustained during the Minnesota game. In his place, Rodriguez will look to freshmen Michael Shaw and Sam McGuffie, redshirt junior Kevin Grady and redshirt sophomore fullback Mark Moundros.
Rodriguez also announced that redshirt sophomore John Ferrara would get the starting nod at left guard, but that Tim McAvoy would also see time at that position. Ferrara began the year as a defensive tackle before moving to the offensive line. He played 12 of 13 games in 2007 at defensive tackle.
With Saturday's forecast predicting cold temperatures, wind and precipitation, Rodriguez was asked if the staff would try to replicate the conditions this week during practice. The coach said they'd practice with wet balls this week, and that wind and rain are more of a concern than the temperature.
