A return to a more traditional style offensive system following the graduation of Denard Robinson failed to yield quite the results expected out of Michigan this past season. The Wolverines dropped from eighth in the Big Ten in total offense in 2012 to 10th in 2013 after ranking third in total offense in the conference in 2011. Today Michigan took a step in shaking things up on offense by removing offensive coordinator Al Borges. He has already been replaced by Alabama offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier, according to reports.
Michigan head coach Brady Hoke brought Borges with him from San Diego State, where he served the same role under Hoke. According to a report by Bruce Feldman of CBSSports.com, Michigan acted quickly to hire Nussmeier from Alabama. Hoke and Michigan AD Dave Brandon made a big push to pluck Nussmeier away from Alabama and committed to make him one of the five highest paid assistant coaches in the country.
“Decisions like these are never easy,” said Hoke in a statement released by Michigan. “I have a great amount of respect for Al as a football coach and, more importantly, as a person. I appreciate everything he has done for Michigan Football for the past three seasons.”
Michigan actually saw their average per game scoring increase marginally in 2013 from 2012 by about three points, but struggles to consistently move the football and capitalize on some opportunities eventually caught up with Michigan with fewer yards per game. Michigan ended the year with a 7-6 record.
The pressure should start to be mounting on Hoke though. After three years on the job Hoke has seen his win total decrease each of the past two seasons after an 11-2 debut in Ann Arbor. With the roster more and more becoming his responsibility, Hoke will start to lose options before really starting to feel the heat if things do not turn around soon for the Wolverines.
This story was updated at 9:53 p.m. ET.