ANN ARBOR – Following one of the most stunning losses in Michigan history last weekend, Wolverines coach Rich Rodriguez said today the only option was to “stay the course.”

UM was dropped 13-10 at home by Toledo – a loss many (including players) were comparing to last season’s unfathomable loss to Appalachian State.

“We have to stay the course,” Rodriguez said. “I know a lot of people are disappointed, a lot of fans are disappointed. … We’ve got to believe in what we’re doing.”

The Wolverines have lost four of six games to begin their first season under Rodriguez, the last being their first-ever loss to a MAC school. Their offense is ranked 109th in the country, and Rodriguez has come under fire for insisting UM run his spread-option scheme without enough players suited for that system.

Rodriguez countered that there are no seniors starting on offense and seldom is there more than one returning starter on the field. But Rodriguez also conceded that there have been more rough times so far this year than he expected.

“There’ve been moments in games where [it’s like] that didn’t just happen, did it?” Rodriguez said.

Now the Wolverines must transition from losing at home to the Rockets to playing a road game at No. 3 Penn State – a difficult test for anyone. UM has won its last nine meetings against the Nittany Lions, yet are 24-point underdogs.

Rodriguez said starting quarterback Steven Threet (bruised elbow) didn’t practice Sunday night and it was unclear how much he will be able to do tomorrow or Wednesday. The coach said Threet, who missed the second half against UT, will start against Penn State if he is “100 percent.”

Running back Brandon Minor (bruised ribs) is also questionable this week.

Defensive end Brandon Graham (leg infection), receiver Martavious Odoms (sprained shoulder) and Donovan Warren (quadriceps) all missed last week’s game but are expected to play against the Nittany Lions.

Rodriguez said linebacker Austin Panter (shoulder) will likely miss his second straight game, and receiver Junior Hemingway (mono) and running back Carlos Brown (sprained foot) are still out.

Additionally, Rodriguez said freshman Justin Feagin, once a hope for UM at quarterback, may see the field this year as a slot receiver.

Contact Joe Vardon at:

jvardon@theblade.com

or 419-410-5055.