New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter has high hopes for the University of Michigan’s football team. In an interview with the Detroit Free Press, Jeter told reporter Joe Machota that he expects Michigan to “be competitive… Regardless of who the coach is or anything, people still expect the team to be good. So, I'm sure they will be fine.”

Right. The problem with this lofty sentiment is that Michigan’s new coach, Rich Rodriguez, is a recluse intent on changing everything about the program. He did it at West Virginia, and he will do it again at Ann Arbor.

Tradition, be damned. Everything must go!

Now, I’m not saying that his changes won’t help, but I wouldn’t be so quick to give him a vote of confidence. I’m taking a wait-and-see approach for now.

Still, Jeter hopes that, under Rodriguez’s guidance, Michigan will finally be able to curb stomp long-time rivals Ohio State.

“(George) Steinbrenner is an Ohio State guy. He's had bragging rights for a while, so hopefully they can beat them this year,” he told Machota.

I hope so too, Mr. Jeter. I hope so too.

For the full interview, go here.