Greg Robinson Resurfaces in Ann Arbor

Coming this September to a stadium near you: the story of two men, their lives intertwined only by the jobs they do, their careers both at a crossroads. But instead of giving up hope, accepting defeat, they turn to each other.

This is Redemption: The Rich Rodriguez and Greg Robinson story.

At least, that's what the Michigan faithful are hoping -- this may just as well turn out to be Agony in Ann Arbor: The Rich Rodriguez and Greg Robinson story. The Wolverines, fresh off a miserable 3-9 season, have hired Robinson, recently run out of Syracuse, as their new defensive coordinator.

"Greg brings a wealth of experience as a defensive coordinator, both at the collegiate and professional level," said Rodriguez. "We are excited to have Greg, Laura and their entire family, join our Michigan family. I know that Greg will work well with our defensive staff, entire football staff and players."

This is a huge moment for both Rodriguez and Robinson. For Rich Rod, he's already feeling the heat in Ann Arbor after guiding Michigan to its worst season since dinosaurs roamed the earth. Robinson, meanwhile, had his first head coaching gig end in disaster -- a four-year mark of 10-37 with the Orange.

The scapegoat for Rodriguez's mediocre Michigan debut was former defensive coordinator Scott Shafer (who has since latched on, ironically, as Syracuse's new defensive coordinator). All the shifting in Ann Arbor and Syracuse opened the door for Robinson's move.

Robinson led Texas' 'D' in 2004 before jumping to the 'Cuse and, prior to that, had spells as defensive coordinator for the Chiefs, Broncos and Jets.

There may not be a bigger hire made in Rodriguez's tenure at Michigan -- you have to figure Robinson will get at least two years to turn around what was a horribly disappointing Wolverine defense. By that time, Rodriguez will have served three years in Ann Arbor. If the defense and, consequently, the entire Michigan program is not more successful by that time, both coaches will find their jobs in jeopardy.

We'll have to wait and see whether this is a script with a happy ending, or one where the two main characters get knocked off.