Thursday, September 8, 2005

Burning Questions

This is the best time for defensive changes

By Angelique S. Chengelis / The Detroit News

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Q. Lloyd Carr promised changes to his defensive lineup going into Saturday's game against Notre Dame. Too little, too late, or just the kind of shakeup the Wolverines need?

A: Too late, if you're still thinking about last season. But it's perfect timing for this year and it's the right thing to do.

Of course, no one knows if the changes will help. But Carr saw the need for a shakeup after the disappointing performance in the opener against Northern Illinois. He has talented players in the front seven, and for whatever reason, they are not producing.

If it takes demoting starters to get them to respond, at least Carr is doing it in week two.

Q: Are you surprised Carr went public with his displeasure with the defense?

A: Yes and no. Carr usually plays things close to the vest. But we've seen him break from that pattern occasionally -- and that proved to be the correct strategy with former U-M receiver Braylon Edwards.

In more typical Carr fashion, however, he was not specific about the changes he intended to make on defense.

Q: Will the offense have to carry Michigan throughout the season?

A: It sure looks like it, based on what the U-M offense did against Northern Illinois -- and you know they held back.

Q: What did you like most about the offense in the opener?

A: The offensive line, even without injured right tackle Jake Long, looked solid, and it was good to see freshman tailback Kevin Grady in there early. How could you not like that the coaches put him back in after he fumbled deep in the Huskies' zone? That says a lot about what they think he's capable of handling.

Q: Will Saturday's game be a shootout?

A: Based on first-game results, yes. Notre Dame gave up 220 passing yards and 21 points, so the Irish have holes defensively, as well.

Michigan's task will be to neutralize quarterback Brady Quinn, who accounted for 276 yards of offense against Pittsburgh.

Prediction: Michigan 35, Notre Dame 31.

Burning questions You can reach Angelique S. Chengelis at Angelique.Chengelis@detnews.com.