Previewing Non-Conference: UMass

Michigan has a much different opponent on Sept. 15th.  This year the MAC conference welcomes a new school, the University of Massachusetts Minutemen, as it will be replacing Temple. I know some people might be scratching their heads, wondering why. It's about money. Scheduling some of the bigger name teams means revenue, and revenue keeps the ball rolling.  The former Colonial Athletic Association school decided to move into the FBS, and will have their home games played at Gillette Stadium for 2012 and 2013 while theirs is being renovated. I have to wonder what the mindset of the team will be when they have to play their home games an hour and a half away from home.

2011 Record: 5-6 (3-5)
Head Coach: Charley Molnar
Returning Starters: 15 (6 offense, 9 defense)