Michigan started the season 4-0 and looked to be an up-and-comer in Rich Rodriguez‘s second season in Ann Arbor.
Since that start, however, the wheels -- along with the transmission, both axles and the radiator --- have come off the Wolverine bandwagon.
Following today’s embarrassing 38-13 road loss to 2-6 Illinois, UM has now lost four of their last five games in falling to 5-4. That record includes an ugly 1-4 mark in the Big Ten.
Seeing as how the natives were restless in Rodriguez’s first season, and adding in the fact that the program is facing the looming specter of an NCAA investigation that could result in major penalties, the coach could find himself right back where he started 2009 -- firmly planted on the coaching hot seat.
Especially when you take into consideration Michigan’s remaining schedule; a trip to Madison to face Wisconsin and a season-ender against a team -- Ohio State -- that has absolutely owned them this decade.
Provided they can even get past Purdue -- not exactly a gimme given the way the Wolverines are playing -- UM is facing a 6-6 season square in the face. Good enough to get Rodriguez a third season in Ann Arbor?
Only time will tell.