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Hoke Won't Discuss Discrepancies Between His Remarks, AD's Statement

By Ashley Dunkak
@AshleyDunkak

ANN ARBOR (CBS DETROIT) - Michigan head coach Brady Hoke declined Wednesday to address the discrepancies between his remarks to media Monday and the statement issued by athletic director Dave Brandon at 1 a.m. Tuesday.

"The statement itself is what we stand by," Hoke said.

Hoke had told reporters Monday that he had not spoken with Brandon about the situation regarding sophomore quarterback Shane Morris, who sustained a vicious hit under the chin in Saturday's game against Minnesota but remained in the game for one more play and then returned for another play later.

Brandon said in the statement that he had conversations with all parties involved in the matter - a description which would presumably include Hoke - and Brandon said Morris suffered a "probable mild concussion."

Brandon's statement contradicted much of what Hoke said Monday, when the coach said Morris would have practiced Sunday if not for a high ankle sprain. Hoke also repeatedly referenced a soon-to-be-released statement from the team's medical staff, and such a statement never came - only the one from Brandon.

Hoke said he did not feel hung out to dry by Brandon's statement.

"Not at all," Hoke said. "I believe ... the statement covers what we all have done to go through this ... Dave Brandon and I have a great relationship, a relationship that's built on trust, it's been built on integrity, it's been built on character ... He understands those expectations that we all have, and that is we want to win football games, we want to mentor kids ..."

Hoke accepted a portion of the blame for the communication issue that Brandon's statement cited.

"I think from the start, when you're a leader, you've got to take responsibility, and I take responsibility," Hoke said, "but I'll also make clear that I don't make decisions when injuries [are involved] ... and that shouldn't be a coach's decision."

Hoke said fifth-year senior Devin Gardner will start Saturday, and Russell Bellomy and Wilton Speight are competing for the backup spot. Gardner was benched in favor of Morris last week. Hoke provided no update on Morris.

 

 

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