Questions Still for Mighty Michigan

By his own estimation, Michigan running back Mike Hart has done about 50 interviews since the summer, a conservative guess. Quarterback Chad Henne puts his own count at around 150, at least.

In those interviews they are asked the same general questions over and over again, some more frequently than others. Both Hart and Henne said two questions are asked of them every single session.

1. How good is this offense going to be?

2. Are you going to beat Ohio State and finally win a bowl game?

"You keep the answers straightforward," Henne said. "We understand what we have to do and where we're at right now, so you just keep it as simple as possible and tell the truth."

The truth is that Michigan is coming off a strong season, winning 11 games to rebound from a disastrous 2005 campaign that saw the Wolverines slip to 7-5, an unacceptable win-loss figure in Ann Arbor. During that time, Henne, Hart and wide receiver Mario Manningham have helped the offense evolve into one of the nation's most dangerous.

Individually, a good argument could be made that each represents the best at his position. As a group, there may not be a better trio, especially when combined with standout tackle Jake Long, who anchors a strong offensive line.

"I think it's fun," Hart said. "When you have those choices, it makes it hard for defenses. Our camaraderie is amazing. We love to see each other succeed. We're loving life."

Yet, all of that success has been overshadowed by the premise behind question No. 2: Michigan's failure to beat arch rival Ohio State and end the season with a bowl victory.

The Wolverines last won a bowl at the end of the 2002 season; they lost to USC in the Rose Bowl last January. They have not beaten the Buckeyes since 2003.

"All the time," Hart said of the Buckeyes question. "That one's guaranteed."

The most difficult question to answer, however, is the standard follow-up.