This teacher might grade the progress a little differently, but isn't that always the case? I offer these grades and rationale:

Offense: C
How does offense get an A- when scoring zero in the first at Northern Michigan and one in the first at Alaska? Indeed, we lost a lot of goalpower with our talented first line moving on, and these are some tough skates to fill. However, there are some very talented forwards that have returned to the Wolverines lineup, and haven't been able to produce as much as needed. Sure it takes time to gel an offense, but I look forward to seeing the puck in the back of the opponent's net more often as the season moves on. This team has the talent, and should score more.

Defense: B
This is a fair grade, especially considering there isn't a luxury of talent in reserve. The injuries are tremendously unfortunate, and other units need to raise their grades to boost the average. I agree that the healthy D-men have made contributions to minimize the shortfall, but gaining more experience will only help.

Special Teams: D
Unfortunately, powerplays haven't cashed in as often as they could or should, and the kill seems anemic. This is where the Wolverines are in danger of flunking. Getting more shots with the advantage would be helpful. I would like to see special teams become a strength for this team, because I think it has the talent.

Goaltending: B+
Michigan is fortunate to have depth in this position. Forget about about Denver...it's over, and it was one game. Sauer proved last year he could get the job done by being one of the best tenders in the country, and by breaking some season records. Losing 0-2 at Northern Michigan was not about goaltending. Losing 2-7 at Agganis Arena was proof that BU deserves their current #1 ranking, and a testament to the serious offense that they have put together. Hogan is healthy and has had the opportunity to demonstrate that he is a capable goaltender, but a home game vs. Niagara is not the same as a road game vs. BU. The rotation has prevented either goalie from getting into a groove, but I haven't anything that worries me from either of them. The flukes have been plenty, but I doubt that will continue. Riding the one with the better win/loss record might be like letting a computer decide which two teams should play for a national championship in football. At this point, I don't know that the rotation has shed any light, except that there are no goaltending concerns.

I see the season's success hinging upon individuals stepping up at all positions, rather than looking for excuses. Those uniforms are the most intimidating in college hockey. It’s time to win. Go Blue!