No. 10 Miami Takes Series Opener over Manhattan, 7-3
Junior right fielder Chris Pelaez continued his hot hitting going 3-for-3 with three runs scored and junior lefty Eric Erickson struck out nine in another solid start as the 10th-ranked University of Miami baseball team knocked off Manhattan, 7-3, Friday night at Alex Rodriguez Park. Freshman left fielder Michael Broad drove in two runs - including what proved to be the game-winner - and finished 2-for-3 on the night.
Pelaez, who went 8-for-11 last weekend against Rutgers, has now gone 11 for his last 12 going back to his last at-bat in the season-opener. Erickson struck out nine batters, allowing three runs on four hits in six innings of work in the no decision. He was impressive early on, striking out five of the first six batters he faced. Iden Nazario (1-0) won his first game of the season as he pitched 1 2/3 scoreless innings in relief and struck out two. Senior closer David Gutierrez picked up save No. 2 as tossed the final 1 1/3 inning.
With the score tied 3-3 in the bottom of the seventh, the `Canes scored a pair runs with the bases loaded on a single by Broad and a fielder's choice grounder by Stephen Perez to give Miami a 5-3 lead.
Miami took the 7-3 lead in the bottom of the eighth as Harold Martinez doubled in David Villasuso, who walked to lead off the inning. Zeke DeVoss' RBI triple later plated Martinez for UM's final run of the night.
Manhattan reliever Eric Luksis (0-1) suffered the loss, but allowed just one earned run on three hits in three innings of work. Starter Mike Giordano allowed three runs on six hits in four innings. Kyle Murphy and Austin Sheffield each had two hits for the Jaspers.
Miami got on the board first, jumping out to 2-0 lead in the second. Pelaez led off the inning with a single to center and after a sacrifice bunt and a strikeout, Broad and Nathan Melendres hit nearly identical back-to-back triples to left-center to give the `Canes the early advantage.
Manhattan quickly got those two runs back with solo home runs in each of the next two innings, as Murphy homered to left in the third and Chad Salem hit one to straight-away center in the fourth.
Pelaez re-gained the lead for Miami with a towering solo homer to right to lead off the bottom of the fourth.
Just as they had done two innings prior, the Jaspers quickly tied it back up - this time with an Austin Sheffield RBI single through the right side.
Martinez (2-for-3, two runs scored) and Yasmani Grandal (2-for-5) also finished with multiple hits for UM.
Game two of the series will be played Saturday night at 7 p.m. Miami will send lefty Chris Hernandez (0-0, 2.25) to the mound while Manhattan will counter with right-hander Tom Costigan.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Jimmy Graham Combine Update
No love lost
Jimmy Graham has played football in only two of the past eight years, yet the former Miami Hurricanes tight end earned an invitation to the combine because NFL scouts are very intrigued by his 6-foot-7, 259-pound frame and basketball background. Graham played football as a freshman in high school, but had to give the sport up after he was adopted by a youth leader at his church and his new school didn't have a football program. He focused on basketball, and earned a scholarship to Miami. Because he was a starter, the Hurricanes wouldn't let Graham play football until after his basketball eligibility expired following the 2008 season. That gave him one year to make an impression, and Graham's potential as a seam-busting tight end was evident despite a few drops early in the season -- including one on national television against Virginia Tech. Graham said his passion for the game is unquestioned -- the only reason he didn't play for six years was the lack of opportunity. "I think when [scouts] look back and see that I turned down all of my pro basketball tryouts, and I turned down all my overseas money, they see I am sold out for football," Graham said. "I turned down a lot to come back to college and play this game. That proves in itself how much I love this game." Because he has so little game film for scouts to break down, Graham is under intense pressure to work out well Saturday. "For a player like me it's a little bit early," Graham said of where he might be drafted. "I'm a guy that has to post great numbers. We'll see after Saturday."
UM's Graham remembers
Tight end Jimmy Graham, a former basketball player at the University of Miami who emerged as an NFL prospect in his only season on the football team, had a couple of costly drops in the Hurricanes' 31-7 loss at Virginia Tech, his third college game. He hasn't forgotten.
"Big-time game and I kind of let my teammates down," he said. "That kind of changed me as a football player. From then on I didn't drop another ball, and the very next game I scored a touchdown. So it made me go back to the fundamentals of catching.
"I was so confident in how I could catch I stopped looking the ball in. In practice I'm catching everything with one hand; I felt I didn't have to worry about it. But it definitely got me back to the fundamentals, and since then I've been very successful."
Jimmy Graham has played football in only two of the past eight years, yet the former Miami Hurricanes tight end earned an invitation to the combine because NFL scouts are very intrigued by his 6-foot-7, 259-pound frame and basketball background. Graham played football as a freshman in high school, but had to give the sport up after he was adopted by a youth leader at his church and his new school didn't have a football program. He focused on basketball, and earned a scholarship to Miami. Because he was a starter, the Hurricanes wouldn't let Graham play football until after his basketball eligibility expired following the 2008 season. That gave him one year to make an impression, and Graham's potential as a seam-busting tight end was evident despite a few drops early in the season -- including one on national television against Virginia Tech. Graham said his passion for the game is unquestioned -- the only reason he didn't play for six years was the lack of opportunity. "I think when [scouts] look back and see that I turned down all of my pro basketball tryouts, and I turned down all my overseas money, they see I am sold out for football," Graham said. "I turned down a lot to come back to college and play this game. That proves in itself how much I love this game." Because he has so little game film for scouts to break down, Graham is under intense pressure to work out well Saturday. "For a player like me it's a little bit early," Graham said of where he might be drafted. "I'm a guy that has to post great numbers. We'll see after Saturday."
UM's Graham remembers
Tight end Jimmy Graham, a former basketball player at the University of Miami who emerged as an NFL prospect in his only season on the football team, had a couple of costly drops in the Hurricanes' 31-7 loss at Virginia Tech, his third college game. He hasn't forgotten.
"Big-time game and I kind of let my teammates down," he said. "That kind of changed me as a football player. From then on I didn't drop another ball, and the very next game I scored a touchdown. So it made me go back to the fundamentals of catching.
"I was so confident in how I could catch I stopped looking the ball in. In practice I'm catching everything with one hand; I felt I didn't have to worry about it. But it definitely got me back to the fundamentals, and since then I've been very successful."
Three quarterbacks compete for No. 2 job as Miami Hurricanes open spring practice
Three quarterbacks compete for No. 2 job as Miami Hurricanes open spring practice - Jorge Milian, PBP
CORAL GABLES — There will be three quarterbacks vying for playing time when the University of Miami opens spring football practice today.
None of those players is Jacory Harris, who has started 14 straight games for the Hurricanes but won't participate this spring as he continues to recuperate from right thumb surgery he underwent in January to repair ligament damage.
Harris doesn't need the work. He saw action in all but about 50 of UM's 879 plays last season and faces a similar workload in 2010.
More uncertain are the players immediately behind Harris on the depth chart — A.J. Highsmith, Spencer Whipple and Stephen Morris — who will battle this spring to be the backup.
"It's kind of bad because Jacory is out, but the good thing is the young guys will get a chance to develop," coach Randy Shannon said.
Shannon said Highsmith, Whipple and Morris will divide snaps evenly between the first- and second-string offensive units leading up to the spring game on March 27.
Highsmith, a rising sophomore, was the Hurricanes' No. 2 quarterback last season, but was limited to playing at the end of three blowout victories.
Besides Harris, Highsmith was the only other scholarship quarterback on the 2009 roster and became the unexpected backup when two other quarterbacks, Taylor Cook and Cannon Smith, quit the team on the same day last August.
Asked if Highsmith had a jump on the No. 2 job, Shannon responded: "A slight advantage, but we always start from scratch."
Whipple, a walk-on and the son of offensive coordinator Mark Whipple, transferred to UM last fall from Massachusetts, where his father once coached.
Morris, a freshman, enrolled at UM in January.
There are also questions at tight end, center, right tackle and middle linebacker, but the focus of spring practice, Shannon said, will be to make the team "tougher."
Shannon pointed to defeats during last season's 9-4 campaign in which UM lost close games that were decided in the closing minutes.
"It's going to be physical football this spring," said Shannon, who is 21-17 in his first three seasons. "Some games we didn't have that extra oomph the last two minutes of the game to get us where we needed to be."
CORAL GABLES — There will be three quarterbacks vying for playing time when the University of Miami opens spring football practice today.
None of those players is Jacory Harris, who has started 14 straight games for the Hurricanes but won't participate this spring as he continues to recuperate from right thumb surgery he underwent in January to repair ligament damage.
Harris doesn't need the work. He saw action in all but about 50 of UM's 879 plays last season and faces a similar workload in 2010.
More uncertain are the players immediately behind Harris on the depth chart — A.J. Highsmith, Spencer Whipple and Stephen Morris — who will battle this spring to be the backup.
"It's kind of bad because Jacory is out, but the good thing is the young guys will get a chance to develop," coach Randy Shannon said.
Shannon said Highsmith, Whipple and Morris will divide snaps evenly between the first- and second-string offensive units leading up to the spring game on March 27.
Highsmith, a rising sophomore, was the Hurricanes' No. 2 quarterback last season, but was limited to playing at the end of three blowout victories.
Besides Harris, Highsmith was the only other scholarship quarterback on the 2009 roster and became the unexpected backup when two other quarterbacks, Taylor Cook and Cannon Smith, quit the team on the same day last August.
Asked if Highsmith had a jump on the No. 2 job, Shannon responded: "A slight advantage, but we always start from scratch."
Whipple, a walk-on and the son of offensive coordinator Mark Whipple, transferred to UM last fall from Massachusetts, where his father once coached.
Morris, a freshman, enrolled at UM in January.
There are also questions at tight end, center, right tackle and middle linebacker, but the focus of spring practice, Shannon said, will be to make the team "tougher."
Shannon pointed to defeats during last season's 9-4 campaign in which UM lost close games that were decided in the closing minutes.
"It's going to be physical football this spring," said Shannon, who is 21-17 in his first three seasons. "Some games we didn't have that extra oomph the last two minutes of the game to get us where we needed to be."
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Complete Spring Practice Breakdown
Miami QBs look good first day - Heather Dinich, Espn
One of the answers Miami coach Randy Shannon is looking for this spring is who will be his backup quarterback, and all of the young players got off to a good start on Tuesday, the Canes’ first day of spring practices.
A.J. Highsmith, Spencer Whipple and Stephen Morris are all competing for the spot behind injured starter Jacory Harris.
“They didn't do anything wrong,” Shannon said, according to the school’s practice notes. “You don't know until you watch tape, but they executed some of the things on offense that we needed to get done, which was good. You see the guys stepping up.”
Here’s what each of the quarterbacks had to say about their first day of spring practice, according to Miami’s practice notes:
A.J. Highsmith
"It's a good opportunity, but I'm trying to take everything the way I did before,” he said. “I'm still working hard on and off the field, just trying to get better every day."
"It's a competition, but that's what makes us good here. We have great quarterbacks. Jacory, when he goes down, we have guys that can step in. Stephen is adjusting real well. He did well today."
Spencer Whipple (found Tommy Streeter for a gain of over 40 yards)
"I'm just going out and competing -- every rep is an opportunity,” he said. “I'm excited to be in the mix of it. I'm not trying to think of the big picture. Every day you have to just go out and try to do your best on each rep; study the play book on your off time and just be ready when your number is called."
Whipple said it’s almost easier to compete in front of his father because he’s comfortable with him.
“I've known him my whole life so he knows how to talk to me, settle me down when things aren't going right and when things are going well keep my mind right. It's just great to have him around and to be able to talk to him not over the phone, face to face."
Stephen Morris
"Being at the next level is just amazing and fun. It's a lot faster than I expected. Every time I come here (for practice) I know I have to get better. I have a lot to work on. Being here is just a great opportunity for me to learn."
"It's a completely different playbook and is a lot bigger than I expected. Coach Whipple helps me out and I have great mentors like Jacory, A.J. and Spencer who helps me out all the time.”
"Coach Whipple is great at mechanics and he helps me a lot. I'm a little antsy in the pocket once in a while. I'm going to get better at my footwork and developing the reads for coverages. I'm pretty comfortable with the playbook
University of Miami has three arms in reserve - SUSAN MILLER DEGNAN, Miami Herald
One thing appears strikingly evident after the first day of University of Miami spring football practice: The backup quarterbacks aren't transferring.
With starter Jacory Harris unable to throw during the 15 practice sessions that began Tuesday and run through the March 27 spring game, reserves A.J. Highsmith, Spencer Whipple, and newcomer Stephen Morris are eagerly sharing reps in hopes of steadily improving and eventually being named the No. 2 guy.
Last year, in late August, backups Taylor Cook and Cannon Smith both shocked the program by requesting to be released before eventually transferring to separate schools. Suddenly, Highsmith became the backup by default, and Whipple -- the son of offensive coordinator Mark Whipple -- transferred to UM from Massachusetts to run the scout team.
`IT'S COMPETITION'
Highsmith probably could have been used more, given that Harris -- now recuperating from surgery on his throwing hand -- was often battered and bruised during a season in which UM allowed 35 sacks. But the son of former UM great Alonzo Highsmith only got into three games and passed six times, completing four for 53 yards and a touchdown.
``I always want to play,'' Highsmith said. ``But you know that's up to Coach. I don't press the playing time. I just go with the flow of things. Everything is even as of now. It's competition, but that's what makes us good here. Stephen is adjusting real well, Spencer is doing well and I think we all have fun out there just trying to get better.''
On Tuesday, all three backups were eager and excited to be getting the extra action. Morris, a 17-year-old who graduated early from Miami Monsignor Pace to begin college this semester, seemed humble and realistic about his role at this point. With Highsmith and Whipple way ahead in terms of knowing the playbook, Morris is intent on devouring an offense considerably more complex and diverse than in high school.
``It was monumental for me to get here early,'' said Morris, 6-2 and 185 pounds. ``It's a completely different playbook, a lot bigger than I expected. Every day I go in and ask coach Whipple, `What's for today?' And he helps me out every single time. . . . Coach Whipple is great on mechanics. I'm a little antsy in the pocket once in a while. I'm trying to get better with my footwork and developing the reads and coverages.''
Morris said his first practice experience ``was just overwhelming,'' though he was composed enough to toss two touchdowns, one of them to LaRon Byrd. ``It was great to be out there. I was a little nervous, but after that you get your first completion and you're fine.''
`ALMOST KIND OF DESTINY'
Whipple, 21 next month, also seemed pleased. The 6-2, 210-pound left-hander was a walk-on last season, but was recently awarded a scholarship. His college football career began at Pitt, continued at UMass and now will likely end in Coral Gables.
``It was almost kind of destiny because when I was growing up, I was a really big Miami fan for no particular reason,'' Whipple, a junior, said.
``I just loved them a lot when [Ken] Dorsey was playing quarterback. He was my favorite player. Then when I was at UMass and my dad came down here I just started thinking, `Maybe there's a shot I can come play down here for him.' ''
Whipple said it's not awkward having his father as the quarterbacks coach. ``My dad does a good job of being unbiased,'' he said. ``He's going to play the best player and organize the depth chart accordingly.
``Every rep is an opportunity. I'm excited to be in the mix.''
Canes focusing on creating turnovers this spring - Heather Dinich, Espn
After six weeks of weight lifting, Miami begins spring practices today, and if the defense isn’t ready to create some turnovers, the Canes better be ready to run.
A top priority for Miami this spring will be takeaways, coach Randy Shannon said, and he’s been tinkering with some ways to motivate the players after each practice if they’re not stripping the ball, recovering fumbles and snagging interceptions. Whether it’s running “gassers” at the end of practices or other competitions, Shannon said he’ll find a way to inspire his players.
“We’ve got to create turnovers,” Shannon said in a recent phone interview. “We’re not creating enough turnovers to give us field position in certain games and do certain things. That’s the one thing we’re having problems with that we’re not getting. We’ve got to do it. We can’t just sit back and say, ‘We’re going to be OK on defense.’ We’ve got to create turnovers.”
Miami gained 21 turnovers last year (12 fumble recoveries and nine interceptions), but the top-ranked teams in that category had at least 30. The Canes ranked seventh in the ACC in turnover margin, but for the second straight season they struggled to be among the top half of the nation’s interception leaders. In 2009, Miami was tied for 87th. It was an improvement, considering the Canes were last in the country in 2008 -- 119th -- with only four.
The good news, Shannon said, was that his running backs didn’t lose the ball once last year.
“It was amazing,” Shannon said. “Not one running back turned the ball over last year. Now Jacory [Harris] got stripped a couple of times, but that’s something that tells you, if your running backs aren’t turning the ball over, we’ve got to get more turnovers on defense.”
Hurricanes Football: Now With Depth - JANIE CAMPBELL, NBC
Miami started spring workouts yesterday without mangled starting quarterback Jacory Harris, but the day was just as notable for who was there as who wasn't: A.J. Highsmith, Stephen Morris, and Spencer Whipple, all happily reporting for duty at QB2-4.
After all, it was just August that saw the last of three backup QBs in six months head for lesser programs in search of a bigger role. First Robert Marve bailed in a ridiculous snit over his inability to throw interceptions at whimsy and retain his job at the same time, then Taylor Cook and Cannon Smith left 13 days before the first game after mistaking a letter of intent for a fast-food line to the first team unit.
Miami then spent a season with just Highsmith, a true freshman, on hand to relieve Jacory -- and if Highsmith hadn't only just arrived in Coral Gables, Harris might not have ended the season looking like a mummy rolled in athletic tape and scheduled for surgery.
So along with prematurely playing out next season through meaningless practice reports, Hurricanes fans have the satisfaction of knowing that someone -- any one of them -- will be that much closer to stepping in as a servicable replacement if the offensive line doesn't do its duty (again). Our money's on Highsmith, with a year of the playbook under his belt; Morris, an early enrollee from nearby Monsignor Pace, is a developable 17; Whipple, the offensive coordinator's son, has the smarts if not, perhaps, the tools -- he transferred in to run the scout team from the backup spot at Division II UMass.
It's got to be a huge relief for the 'Canes, even if at this point none of the three is the second coming of Jim Kelly. Able bodies at all spots are what the Hurricanes have been lacking most of all, something that Shannon has been working toward since taking over a program that sported punter Brian Monroe as a third-string wide receiver.
And how's it going?
"They didn't do anything wrong," Shannon said, which in our interpretive experience means, "Better than nothing."
And amen to that.
`Canes searching for backup quarterback - Shandel Richardson, Sun Sentinel
With starter Jacory Harris out for the spring, backups A.J. Highsmith, Spencer Whipple and Stephen Morris will receive the reps
CORAL GABLES — Their roles were switched following the first day of spring football practice.
Instead of being in front of the microphones and television cameras, Miami Hurricanes quarterback Jacory Harris stood in the background. He joined in the media huddle Tuesday at Greentree Practice Fields while his backups garnered the attention.
With Harris out for the spring because of offseason hand surgery, the biggest story is who will take advantage of the extended playing time and earn the No. 2 quarterback spot. The competitors, A.J. Highsmith, Spencer Whipple and Stephen Morris, enter with an even start, one hoping to emerge during the next month of practices.
UM coach Randy Shannon said Highsmith has a "slight advantage," but called it an open competition.
"We always start from scratch," Shannon said. "It's going to be a big challenge for (Highsmith). He may line up with the (starters) on the first day, but everybody has to get better. You can't stay the same."
Highsmith, a sophomore, is the most experienced of the group. He served as Harris' backup last season, his most action coming in a 48-16 victory against Florida A & M. He completed 3 of 3 passes for 38 yards and a touchdown.
"It's a good opportunity, but I'm trying to take everything the same way as I did before," said Highsmith, whose father, Alonzo, played running back at UM and in the NFL. "I'm still working hard on and off the field. I just want to get better everyday … It's not really a big deal. We're just trying to have fun out there."
Highsmith isn't the only member of the bunch with a well-known father. Whipple's dad, Mark, is the Hurricanes' offensive coordinator. He previously played at Pittsburgh and Massachusetts before transferring to UM last year so he could reunite with his father. Whipple, a redshirt junior, spent most of last season on the scout team, but is fully in the mix for a larger role.
"It's a lot faster than scout team," Whipple said. "…Every rep is just an opportunity. I'm not trying to focus on the big picture."
Morris, a freshman, is the underdog in the competition. Just a few weeks ago, he was completing his high school requirements at Miami Monsignor Pace. As an early-enrollee, he's began the process of learning the playbook and adapting to the college level. He said he's already benefited from working with Harris, who approached him about being a mentor.
"I think it was monumental for me to get here early," Morris said. "The coaches really stressed it, to understand the playbook and learn the playbook. That's whole point of spring is so coaches can go over the basics with you."
Hurricanes’ Tyler Horn center of attention this spring - Jorge Milian, PalmBeachPost.com
You’ve heard of three-star, four-star and five-star prospects.
Then there’s Tyler Horn, the Hurricanes’ junior center.
“I was a no-star kid who got a shot to play football at the University of Miami,” Horn said.
Horn, a native of Memphis, Tenn., isn’t exaggerating. Besides UM, the only schools to offer Horn a scholarship were Arkansas State, FiU and Central Arkansas, a Division I-AA school.
Fast forward three-plus years and Horn is the favorite to be UM’s starting center when the 2010 season opens on Sept. 2 against Florida A&M.
After redshirting as a freshman and barely playing the last two seasons, Horn has been given the first crack to win the starting job left vacant by the graduation of A.J. Trump. That opportunity began on Tuesday when UM opened spring practice.
“The way I see it, it’s my job, but I got to go out and take it,” said Horn, listed at 6-foot-4 and 300 pounds. “[Indianapolis Colts center] Jeff Saturday could come in and I would still feel like it’s my spot. That’s the way I’m going to look at it.”
The only spring competition for Horn comes from Shane McDermott, the Palm Beach Central grad who enrolled at UM in January. Another offensive lineman – most likely guard Brandon Washington – could be moved to center, but coach Randy Shannon made it clear he’d like to see Horn grab hold of the starting job.
“It’s about time for him,” Shannon said. “He’s been around, has been on offensive line for a while. Now it’s time for him to make that jump.”
Horn has limited playing experience. He played just a few snaps against Charleston Southern in 2008 and appeared in seven games in 2009, although he saw action almost entirely during garbage time.
“I haven’t played a lot,” Horn said. “But I’ve been here a long time and know the offense. What I have gotten is a lot of mental reps. I may not have been playing, but I know every single play and everything that’s happening. Now it’s time to go out there and get the experience on the field. That will come with time.”
Horn said he spent the past couple of months prepping for spring practice “by packing a lunch and spending the day watching film.” He likens the 15 practices this spring to a “job offer.”
“No different than if I was going to work for FedEx or anybody else,” Horn said. “I have to prove myself.”
Despite his lack of experience, Horn is convinced that’s going to happen. Asked if he visualized himself starting the 2010 opener, Horn responded: “Absolutely. No doubt in my mind.”
A few other notes:
….Shannon said that defensive tackle Marcus Forston will not participate in spring practice. Forston was redshirted last season because of a leg injury. UM previously listed Forston as “limited” this spring.
….Shannon was full of praise for running back Storm Johnson, one of six freshmen to enroll at UM in January. “Fast, a big kid that’s electrifying, very fast,” Shannon said of Johnson, a 5-foot-11, 210-pounder from Loganville, Ga. “He has some track ability in him, is very quick. He’s a big guy, [but] not a fullback. A Mike James type guy, maybe a little faster than Mike. You take those guys that can run because they give you an extra dimension in the open field. I’m kind of excited about that a little bit.”
….Spencer Whipple, one of three quarterbacks battling for the No. 2 job behind Jacory Harris, said he is now on scholarship. Whipple arrived at UM last fall as a walk-on.
….Former UM star Warren Sapp, arrested earlier this month and charged with domestic violence after allegedly choking his girlfriend, attended Tuesday night’s basketball game between the Hurricanes and Virginia at the BankUnited Center. Sapp was introduced to the crowd. Is there no shame?
One of the answers Miami coach Randy Shannon is looking for this spring is who will be his backup quarterback, and all of the young players got off to a good start on Tuesday, the Canes’ first day of spring practices.
A.J. Highsmith, Spencer Whipple and Stephen Morris are all competing for the spot behind injured starter Jacory Harris.
“They didn't do anything wrong,” Shannon said, according to the school’s practice notes. “You don't know until you watch tape, but they executed some of the things on offense that we needed to get done, which was good. You see the guys stepping up.”
Here’s what each of the quarterbacks had to say about their first day of spring practice, according to Miami’s practice notes:
A.J. Highsmith
"It's a good opportunity, but I'm trying to take everything the way I did before,” he said. “I'm still working hard on and off the field, just trying to get better every day."
"It's a competition, but that's what makes us good here. We have great quarterbacks. Jacory, when he goes down, we have guys that can step in. Stephen is adjusting real well. He did well today."
Spencer Whipple (found Tommy Streeter for a gain of over 40 yards)
"I'm just going out and competing -- every rep is an opportunity,” he said. “I'm excited to be in the mix of it. I'm not trying to think of the big picture. Every day you have to just go out and try to do your best on each rep; study the play book on your off time and just be ready when your number is called."
Whipple said it’s almost easier to compete in front of his father because he’s comfortable with him.
“I've known him my whole life so he knows how to talk to me, settle me down when things aren't going right and when things are going well keep my mind right. It's just great to have him around and to be able to talk to him not over the phone, face to face."
Stephen Morris
"Being at the next level is just amazing and fun. It's a lot faster than I expected. Every time I come here (for practice) I know I have to get better. I have a lot to work on. Being here is just a great opportunity for me to learn."
"It's a completely different playbook and is a lot bigger than I expected. Coach Whipple helps me out and I have great mentors like Jacory, A.J. and Spencer who helps me out all the time.”
"Coach Whipple is great at mechanics and he helps me a lot. I'm a little antsy in the pocket once in a while. I'm going to get better at my footwork and developing the reads for coverages. I'm pretty comfortable with the playbook
University of Miami has three arms in reserve - SUSAN MILLER DEGNAN, Miami Herald
One thing appears strikingly evident after the first day of University of Miami spring football practice: The backup quarterbacks aren't transferring.
With starter Jacory Harris unable to throw during the 15 practice sessions that began Tuesday and run through the March 27 spring game, reserves A.J. Highsmith, Spencer Whipple, and newcomer Stephen Morris are eagerly sharing reps in hopes of steadily improving and eventually being named the No. 2 guy.
Last year, in late August, backups Taylor Cook and Cannon Smith both shocked the program by requesting to be released before eventually transferring to separate schools. Suddenly, Highsmith became the backup by default, and Whipple -- the son of offensive coordinator Mark Whipple -- transferred to UM from Massachusetts to run the scout team.
`IT'S COMPETITION'
Highsmith probably could have been used more, given that Harris -- now recuperating from surgery on his throwing hand -- was often battered and bruised during a season in which UM allowed 35 sacks. But the son of former UM great Alonzo Highsmith only got into three games and passed six times, completing four for 53 yards and a touchdown.
``I always want to play,'' Highsmith said. ``But you know that's up to Coach. I don't press the playing time. I just go with the flow of things. Everything is even as of now. It's competition, but that's what makes us good here. Stephen is adjusting real well, Spencer is doing well and I think we all have fun out there just trying to get better.''
On Tuesday, all three backups were eager and excited to be getting the extra action. Morris, a 17-year-old who graduated early from Miami Monsignor Pace to begin college this semester, seemed humble and realistic about his role at this point. With Highsmith and Whipple way ahead in terms of knowing the playbook, Morris is intent on devouring an offense considerably more complex and diverse than in high school.
``It was monumental for me to get here early,'' said Morris, 6-2 and 185 pounds. ``It's a completely different playbook, a lot bigger than I expected. Every day I go in and ask coach Whipple, `What's for today?' And he helps me out every single time. . . . Coach Whipple is great on mechanics. I'm a little antsy in the pocket once in a while. I'm trying to get better with my footwork and developing the reads and coverages.''
Morris said his first practice experience ``was just overwhelming,'' though he was composed enough to toss two touchdowns, one of them to LaRon Byrd. ``It was great to be out there. I was a little nervous, but after that you get your first completion and you're fine.''
`ALMOST KIND OF DESTINY'
Whipple, 21 next month, also seemed pleased. The 6-2, 210-pound left-hander was a walk-on last season, but was recently awarded a scholarship. His college football career began at Pitt, continued at UMass and now will likely end in Coral Gables.
``It was almost kind of destiny because when I was growing up, I was a really big Miami fan for no particular reason,'' Whipple, a junior, said.
``I just loved them a lot when [Ken] Dorsey was playing quarterback. He was my favorite player. Then when I was at UMass and my dad came down here I just started thinking, `Maybe there's a shot I can come play down here for him.' ''
Whipple said it's not awkward having his father as the quarterbacks coach. ``My dad does a good job of being unbiased,'' he said. ``He's going to play the best player and organize the depth chart accordingly.
``Every rep is an opportunity. I'm excited to be in the mix.''
Canes focusing on creating turnovers this spring - Heather Dinich, Espn
After six weeks of weight lifting, Miami begins spring practices today, and if the defense isn’t ready to create some turnovers, the Canes better be ready to run.
A top priority for Miami this spring will be takeaways, coach Randy Shannon said, and he’s been tinkering with some ways to motivate the players after each practice if they’re not stripping the ball, recovering fumbles and snagging interceptions. Whether it’s running “gassers” at the end of practices or other competitions, Shannon said he’ll find a way to inspire his players.
“We’ve got to create turnovers,” Shannon said in a recent phone interview. “We’re not creating enough turnovers to give us field position in certain games and do certain things. That’s the one thing we’re having problems with that we’re not getting. We’ve got to do it. We can’t just sit back and say, ‘We’re going to be OK on defense.’ We’ve got to create turnovers.”
Miami gained 21 turnovers last year (12 fumble recoveries and nine interceptions), but the top-ranked teams in that category had at least 30. The Canes ranked seventh in the ACC in turnover margin, but for the second straight season they struggled to be among the top half of the nation’s interception leaders. In 2009, Miami was tied for 87th. It was an improvement, considering the Canes were last in the country in 2008 -- 119th -- with only four.
The good news, Shannon said, was that his running backs didn’t lose the ball once last year.
“It was amazing,” Shannon said. “Not one running back turned the ball over last year. Now Jacory [Harris] got stripped a couple of times, but that’s something that tells you, if your running backs aren’t turning the ball over, we’ve got to get more turnovers on defense.”
Hurricanes Football: Now With Depth - JANIE CAMPBELL, NBC
Miami started spring workouts yesterday without mangled starting quarterback Jacory Harris, but the day was just as notable for who was there as who wasn't: A.J. Highsmith, Stephen Morris, and Spencer Whipple, all happily reporting for duty at QB2-4.
After all, it was just August that saw the last of three backup QBs in six months head for lesser programs in search of a bigger role. First Robert Marve bailed in a ridiculous snit over his inability to throw interceptions at whimsy and retain his job at the same time, then Taylor Cook and Cannon Smith left 13 days before the first game after mistaking a letter of intent for a fast-food line to the first team unit.
Miami then spent a season with just Highsmith, a true freshman, on hand to relieve Jacory -- and if Highsmith hadn't only just arrived in Coral Gables, Harris might not have ended the season looking like a mummy rolled in athletic tape and scheduled for surgery.
So along with prematurely playing out next season through meaningless practice reports, Hurricanes fans have the satisfaction of knowing that someone -- any one of them -- will be that much closer to stepping in as a servicable replacement if the offensive line doesn't do its duty (again). Our money's on Highsmith, with a year of the playbook under his belt; Morris, an early enrollee from nearby Monsignor Pace, is a developable 17; Whipple, the offensive coordinator's son, has the smarts if not, perhaps, the tools -- he transferred in to run the scout team from the backup spot at Division II UMass.
It's got to be a huge relief for the 'Canes, even if at this point none of the three is the second coming of Jim Kelly. Able bodies at all spots are what the Hurricanes have been lacking most of all, something that Shannon has been working toward since taking over a program that sported punter Brian Monroe as a third-string wide receiver.
And how's it going?
"They didn't do anything wrong," Shannon said, which in our interpretive experience means, "Better than nothing."
And amen to that.
`Canes searching for backup quarterback - Shandel Richardson, Sun Sentinel
With starter Jacory Harris out for the spring, backups A.J. Highsmith, Spencer Whipple and Stephen Morris will receive the reps
CORAL GABLES — Their roles were switched following the first day of spring football practice.
Instead of being in front of the microphones and television cameras, Miami Hurricanes quarterback Jacory Harris stood in the background. He joined in the media huddle Tuesday at Greentree Practice Fields while his backups garnered the attention.
With Harris out for the spring because of offseason hand surgery, the biggest story is who will take advantage of the extended playing time and earn the No. 2 quarterback spot. The competitors, A.J. Highsmith, Spencer Whipple and Stephen Morris, enter with an even start, one hoping to emerge during the next month of practices.
UM coach Randy Shannon said Highsmith has a "slight advantage," but called it an open competition.
"We always start from scratch," Shannon said. "It's going to be a big challenge for (Highsmith). He may line up with the (starters) on the first day, but everybody has to get better. You can't stay the same."
Highsmith, a sophomore, is the most experienced of the group. He served as Harris' backup last season, his most action coming in a 48-16 victory against Florida A & M. He completed 3 of 3 passes for 38 yards and a touchdown.
"It's a good opportunity, but I'm trying to take everything the same way as I did before," said Highsmith, whose father, Alonzo, played running back at UM and in the NFL. "I'm still working hard on and off the field. I just want to get better everyday … It's not really a big deal. We're just trying to have fun out there."
Highsmith isn't the only member of the bunch with a well-known father. Whipple's dad, Mark, is the Hurricanes' offensive coordinator. He previously played at Pittsburgh and Massachusetts before transferring to UM last year so he could reunite with his father. Whipple, a redshirt junior, spent most of last season on the scout team, but is fully in the mix for a larger role.
"It's a lot faster than scout team," Whipple said. "…Every rep is just an opportunity. I'm not trying to focus on the big picture."
Morris, a freshman, is the underdog in the competition. Just a few weeks ago, he was completing his high school requirements at Miami Monsignor Pace. As an early-enrollee, he's began the process of learning the playbook and adapting to the college level. He said he's already benefited from working with Harris, who approached him about being a mentor.
"I think it was monumental for me to get here early," Morris said. "The coaches really stressed it, to understand the playbook and learn the playbook. That's whole point of spring is so coaches can go over the basics with you."
Hurricanes’ Tyler Horn center of attention this spring - Jorge Milian, PalmBeachPost.com
You’ve heard of three-star, four-star and five-star prospects.
Then there’s Tyler Horn, the Hurricanes’ junior center.
“I was a no-star kid who got a shot to play football at the University of Miami,” Horn said.
Horn, a native of Memphis, Tenn., isn’t exaggerating. Besides UM, the only schools to offer Horn a scholarship were Arkansas State, FiU and Central Arkansas, a Division I-AA school.
Fast forward three-plus years and Horn is the favorite to be UM’s starting center when the 2010 season opens on Sept. 2 against Florida A&M.
After redshirting as a freshman and barely playing the last two seasons, Horn has been given the first crack to win the starting job left vacant by the graduation of A.J. Trump. That opportunity began on Tuesday when UM opened spring practice.
“The way I see it, it’s my job, but I got to go out and take it,” said Horn, listed at 6-foot-4 and 300 pounds. “[Indianapolis Colts center] Jeff Saturday could come in and I would still feel like it’s my spot. That’s the way I’m going to look at it.”
The only spring competition for Horn comes from Shane McDermott, the Palm Beach Central grad who enrolled at UM in January. Another offensive lineman – most likely guard Brandon Washington – could be moved to center, but coach Randy Shannon made it clear he’d like to see Horn grab hold of the starting job.
“It’s about time for him,” Shannon said. “He’s been around, has been on offensive line for a while. Now it’s time for him to make that jump.”
Horn has limited playing experience. He played just a few snaps against Charleston Southern in 2008 and appeared in seven games in 2009, although he saw action almost entirely during garbage time.
“I haven’t played a lot,” Horn said. “But I’ve been here a long time and know the offense. What I have gotten is a lot of mental reps. I may not have been playing, but I know every single play and everything that’s happening. Now it’s time to go out there and get the experience on the field. That will come with time.”
Horn said he spent the past couple of months prepping for spring practice “by packing a lunch and spending the day watching film.” He likens the 15 practices this spring to a “job offer.”
“No different than if I was going to work for FedEx or anybody else,” Horn said. “I have to prove myself.”
Despite his lack of experience, Horn is convinced that’s going to happen. Asked if he visualized himself starting the 2010 opener, Horn responded: “Absolutely. No doubt in my mind.”
A few other notes:
….Shannon said that defensive tackle Marcus Forston will not participate in spring practice. Forston was redshirted last season because of a leg injury. UM previously listed Forston as “limited” this spring.
….Shannon was full of praise for running back Storm Johnson, one of six freshmen to enroll at UM in January. “Fast, a big kid that’s electrifying, very fast,” Shannon said of Johnson, a 5-foot-11, 210-pounder from Loganville, Ga. “He has some track ability in him, is very quick. He’s a big guy, [but] not a fullback. A Mike James type guy, maybe a little faster than Mike. You take those guys that can run because they give you an extra dimension in the open field. I’m kind of excited about that a little bit.”
….Spencer Whipple, one of three quarterbacks battling for the No. 2 job behind Jacory Harris, said he is now on scholarship. Whipple arrived at UM last fall as a walk-on.
….Former UM star Warren Sapp, arrested earlier this month and charged with domestic violence after allegedly choking his girlfriend, attended Tuesday night’s basketball game between the Hurricanes and Virginia at the BankUnited Center. Sapp was introduced to the crowd. Is there no shame?
Seantrel Henderson still uncertain
Top recruit still uncertain
For those of you thinking that the end of USC's hearing in front of the NCAA might bring some closure -- one way or the other -- to the Seantrel Henderson "situation", think again.
The father of one of the highest-rated high school players in the country tells the Orange County Register that there is no timetable on a decision for his son, the Minnesota offensive tackle rated by most of the major recruiting services as the No. 1 prospect for the Class of 2010.
Henderson verbally committed to the Trojans on signing day, but has thus far held off on signing a Letter of Intent until they get an inkling as to what sanctions may or may not be headed to USC by the NCAA. The father reiterated that the LOI has yet to be signed.
Sean Henderson also told the paper that, at this point in time, the pair are just gathering info.
For those of you thinking that the end of USC's hearing in front of the NCAA might bring some closure -- one way or the other -- to the Seantrel Henderson "situation", think again.
The father of one of the highest-rated high school players in the country tells the Orange County Register that there is no timetable on a decision for his son, the Minnesota offensive tackle rated by most of the major recruiting services as the No. 1 prospect for the Class of 2010.
Henderson verbally committed to the Trojans on signing day, but has thus far held off on signing a Letter of Intent until they get an inkling as to what sanctions may or may not be headed to USC by the NCAA. The father reiterated that the LOI has yet to be signed.
Sean Henderson also told the paper that, at this point in time, the pair are just gathering info.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Who are John Hunt & Jeff Smith?
Two confused Douchebags. John Hunt & Jeff Smith, write for the The Oregonian. Here is a brief quote from a recent blog on their website;
"Their uniforms are flashy, their connection to Nike is powerful, and the program has been on the rise for 15 years. But recent criminal issues have the Oregon Ducks football team picking up where the the Miami Hurricanes of the 1980s and 1990s left off. Needless to say, many UO fans are not pleased."When has the Ducks won a National Title, nevermind 5 of them? When have they set a record for longest home win Streak? Has any of their players won a Heisman? The only thing the Ducks are famous for is getting arrested, having Ugly Uniforms and Cheap Shots.
Spring Practice Complete Preview
Backup QB Highsmith to see time - Heather Dinich, Espn
Miami quarterback Jacory Harris will participate in some non-throwing drills during spring practice as he recovers from surgery on his throwing hand.
When the Hurricanes open the spring season Tuesday, most of the throws will be handled by returning backup A.J. Highsmith and incoming freshman Stephen Morris, coach Randy Shannon said, and they'll essentially be competing for the No. 2 spot on the depth chart this fall.
"Going to be kind of a bad, but a good situation just to find out who is going to be our No. 2 quarterback," Shannon said Monday. "With Jacory not going to be able to participate as far as actually running plays, you'll find out on developing a No. 2 guy, which is very key to the stages of getting your football program ready."
The Hurricanes were 9-4 last season, with Harris throwing for 3,352 yards and 24 touchdowns. He struggled with a sore thumb much of the second half of last season, and had surgery Jan. 6.
UM set to open spring football practices - Shandel Richardson, Sun Sentinel
After having so much turnover on their coaching staff, the Hurricanes are hoping stability can lead to a productive spring
A meeting between players their new coaches has become a recent norm at the University of Miami during the spring.
Significant staff turnover has marked Hurricanes coach Randy Shannon's first three seasons, but things have stabilized this year. A fairly quiet offseason in terms of coaching changes has made today's start of spring practices less of an adjustment period. The 15 days of practices conclude with the spring game March 27.
"It's great for us, having two coordinators that are back," Shannon said. "You have some players understanding the full board of what we need to get done. The mindset is they can go in and know to expect out of coach [Mark] Whipple and [John] Lovett."
This marks the first season under Shannon the Hurricanes enter with the same offensive and defensive coordinators as the previous year. Last year they had to replace Bill Young and Patrick Nix. Young left for Oklahoma State, while Nix was fired. In 2007, defensive coordinator Tim Walton and wide receivers coach Marquis Mosely were fired.
The only departures this year were running backs coach Tommie Robinson and defensive line coach Clint Hurtt leaving for jobs with the Arizona Cardinals and Louisville. Shannon said it will create a more familiar environment, with players already accustomed to the staff.
"Last year [the coaches] didn't know anyone's athletic ability," Shannon said. "Coach Whipple coming from the NFL to college, the speed difference you really don't know until you get involved. Then you go from the standpoint of coach Lovett, he's trying to recognize and figure out guys. Right now, both have a good mindset of what our players can do after a year of going through the whole process of coaching offense, defense and evaluating."
Shannon even hired two coaches with UM ties to replace Robinson and Hurtt. Rick Petri, who was on staff from 1993-95, returns to coach the defensive line. Mike Cassano, a former Hurricanes graduate assistant, will coach the running backs.
"I worked with both of the coaches so it's nothing new to me," Shannon said. "I worked with coach [Rick] Petri when I was here and he had Warren Sapp, Kenard (Lang), Kevin Patrick, Kenny Holmes and those guys who back then were very productive. It's great to have an opportunity to get him back at Miami. He's a proven commodity. Coach Cas has always been a great recruiter, great coach."
With the team not dealing with as much change, it should allow more time to focus on more important issues. Quarterback Jacory Harris will miss the spring after having offseason hand surgery. A.J. Highsmith, Spencer Whipple and freshman Stephen Morris will take most of the reps. All are in competition for the No. 2 job.
"It's also a bad but good situation to find out who is our No. 2 quarterback with Jacory [Harris] not being able to participate, running plays," Shannon said. "He will be doing drill work but won't be throwing the ball. We'll find out on developing a No. 2 guy, which is very key to the stage of getting you football ready."
Stability on staff should make spring more productive - Shandel Richardson, Sun Sentinel
Change is often said to be good.
But too much can take its toll. The UM football program knows that. After having several staff changes under coach Randy Shannon, especially at the coordinator spots, the Hurricanes finally have some stability. When spring practices open Tuesday, it will mark the first time both coordinators have been on the field for consecutive seasons.
This is important because there is no adjustment period for the coaches and players. The focus is growth instead of learning.
“It’s great for us, having two coordinators that are back,” Shannon said. “You have some players understanding the full board of what we need to get done. The mindset is they can go in and know what to expect out of coach (Mark) Whipple and (John) Lovett.
Here are a few other notes from Shannon’s press conference Monday morning
Shayon Green in middle of things as Hurricanes ready for spring practice - Jorge Milian, PBP
A few notes and thoughts heading into Tuesday’s opening of spring practice at UM:
….Redshirt freshman Shayon Green has never played a down of college football, but he enters spring practice as the team’s starting middle linebacker. The 6-foot-2, 235-pound Green injured his knee during fall practice and underwent surgery. With the departure of Darryl Sharpton and the decision by Arthur Brown to transfer, Green moved all the way up the depth chart to No. 1. Whether he can keep hold of the job is another question. “He blew his knee out early so you can’t really give him a fair assessment,” coach Randy Shannon said while meeting with reporters on Monday morning. “He’s a hard worker, a big, big guy that has athletic ability, can run.” The coaching staff considered moving Colin McCarthy to middle linebacker, but would prefer to keep him on the outside. Depending on Green’s performance, that’s subject to change. “We’re giving Shayon his opportunity to play that position,” Shannon said. “After 15 days of spring football, we’ll assess it and reevaluate what we need to get done.”
….Shannon said that linebackers coach Micheal Barrow did not interview at Florida for a job on Urban Meyer’s staff as reported elsewhere.
….Asked if he considered pushing back spring practice so that starting quarterback Jacory Harris could participate as Ohio State did with quarterback Terrelle Pryor, Shannon said: “Nope. You can’t let one person dictate what you want to get done.”
….Fans will get two chances to watch the Hurricanes this spring – a scrimmage at Fort Lauderdale’s Lockhart Stadium on March 11 at 6:30 p.m. and the spring game on March 27. The spring game is expected to be held at Traz Powell Stadium in Miami.
….Chris Ivory is expected to handle short- and long-snapping duties next season. Ivory has been UM’s long snapper for two seasons. Shannon said the No. 3 quarterback will serve as a holder for extra points and field goals.
….Shannon said that UM baseball coach Jim Morris asked if freshman safety Jamal Reid could also play baseball. Shannon declined, saying that Reid, an outstanding baseball player in high school, needed to learn the team’s defense. Shannon did say he was not opposed to Reid playing baseball when spring practice ends.
….Shannon said his overall goal for spring practice is to make his team “tougher”” and promised workouts will be very physical. There will be an emphasis at the end of practices of putting players in positions where they either fail or succeed. “Finishing is the biggest thing,” Shannon said. “Some games [last season] we finished strong. Some games we didn’t have that extra oomph the last two minutes of the game to get us where we needed to be. At the end of practice we’ll put them in situations that , ‘offense we need this done, defense we need this done.’ And whoever doesn’t get it done we’ll know and we can evaluate who we can really rely on at those critical times
Hurricanes' Practice Starts With QB Competition - Solange Reyner, CBS 4
Miami quarterback Jacory Harris will be watching spring practice from the sideline as the Hurricanes look to shore up their backup position.
Harris, a junior, is sitting out as he recovers from off-season hand surgery on his throwing hand. He'll be limited to non-contact and conditioning drills for the 15 practice session, which starts on Tuesday.
His absence is good - and bad - news for the Hurricanes.
"Going to be kind of a bad, but a good situation just to find out who is going to be our number two quarterback," said Miami coach Randy Shannon. "With Jacory not going to be able to participate as far as actually running plays – you'll find out on developing a number two guy, which is very key to the stages of getting your football ready."
Sophomore A.J. Highsmith and newcomer Stephen Morris will compete for that number two spot.
Highsmith, who completed 4 of 6 passes last year for 53 yards, should have a slight advantage because he's been around for an extra season.
"[A.J.] will probably be the guy lining up with the 1s on the first day, but like anything else everybody has to get better. You can't stay the same," Shannon said. "He knows that, he's excited about it and I think the other two guys are excited about it."
Morris, a graduate of Miami Monsignor Pace high school, enrolled early so he could participate in spring practice. He threw for 1,531 yards and 22 touchdowns in his senior high school season.
Other notes from Shannon's press conference on Monday included news that Colin McCarthy will not move to middle linebacker to take over Darryl Sharpton's spot.
Miami quarterback Jacory Harris will participate in some non-throwing drills during spring practice as he recovers from surgery on his throwing hand.
When the Hurricanes open the spring season Tuesday, most of the throws will be handled by returning backup A.J. Highsmith and incoming freshman Stephen Morris, coach Randy Shannon said, and they'll essentially be competing for the No. 2 spot on the depth chart this fall.
"Going to be kind of a bad, but a good situation just to find out who is going to be our No. 2 quarterback," Shannon said Monday. "With Jacory not going to be able to participate as far as actually running plays, you'll find out on developing a No. 2 guy, which is very key to the stages of getting your football program ready."
The Hurricanes were 9-4 last season, with Harris throwing for 3,352 yards and 24 touchdowns. He struggled with a sore thumb much of the second half of last season, and had surgery Jan. 6.
UM set to open spring football practices - Shandel Richardson, Sun Sentinel
After having so much turnover on their coaching staff, the Hurricanes are hoping stability can lead to a productive spring
A meeting between players their new coaches has become a recent norm at the University of Miami during the spring.
Significant staff turnover has marked Hurricanes coach Randy Shannon's first three seasons, but things have stabilized this year. A fairly quiet offseason in terms of coaching changes has made today's start of spring practices less of an adjustment period. The 15 days of practices conclude with the spring game March 27.
"It's great for us, having two coordinators that are back," Shannon said. "You have some players understanding the full board of what we need to get done. The mindset is they can go in and know to expect out of coach [Mark] Whipple and [John] Lovett."
This marks the first season under Shannon the Hurricanes enter with the same offensive and defensive coordinators as the previous year. Last year they had to replace Bill Young and Patrick Nix. Young left for Oklahoma State, while Nix was fired. In 2007, defensive coordinator Tim Walton and wide receivers coach Marquis Mosely were fired.
The only departures this year were running backs coach Tommie Robinson and defensive line coach Clint Hurtt leaving for jobs with the Arizona Cardinals and Louisville. Shannon said it will create a more familiar environment, with players already accustomed to the staff.
"Last year [the coaches] didn't know anyone's athletic ability," Shannon said. "Coach Whipple coming from the NFL to college, the speed difference you really don't know until you get involved. Then you go from the standpoint of coach Lovett, he's trying to recognize and figure out guys. Right now, both have a good mindset of what our players can do after a year of going through the whole process of coaching offense, defense and evaluating."
Shannon even hired two coaches with UM ties to replace Robinson and Hurtt. Rick Petri, who was on staff from 1993-95, returns to coach the defensive line. Mike Cassano, a former Hurricanes graduate assistant, will coach the running backs.
"I worked with both of the coaches so it's nothing new to me," Shannon said. "I worked with coach [Rick] Petri when I was here and he had Warren Sapp, Kenard (Lang), Kevin Patrick, Kenny Holmes and those guys who back then were very productive. It's great to have an opportunity to get him back at Miami. He's a proven commodity. Coach Cas has always been a great recruiter, great coach."
With the team not dealing with as much change, it should allow more time to focus on more important issues. Quarterback Jacory Harris will miss the spring after having offseason hand surgery. A.J. Highsmith, Spencer Whipple and freshman Stephen Morris will take most of the reps. All are in competition for the No. 2 job.
"It's also a bad but good situation to find out who is our No. 2 quarterback with Jacory [Harris] not being able to participate, running plays," Shannon said. "He will be doing drill work but won't be throwing the ball. We'll find out on developing a No. 2 guy, which is very key to the stage of getting you football ready."
Stability on staff should make spring more productive - Shandel Richardson, Sun Sentinel
Change is often said to be good.
But too much can take its toll. The UM football program knows that. After having several staff changes under coach Randy Shannon, especially at the coordinator spots, the Hurricanes finally have some stability. When spring practices open Tuesday, it will mark the first time both coordinators have been on the field for consecutive seasons.
This is important because there is no adjustment period for the coaches and players. The focus is growth instead of learning.
“It’s great for us, having two coordinators that are back,” Shannon said. “You have some players understanding the full board of what we need to get done. The mindset is they can go in and know what to expect out of coach (Mark) Whipple and (John) Lovett.
Here are a few other notes from Shannon’s press conference Monday morning
Shayon Green in middle of things as Hurricanes ready for spring practice - Jorge Milian, PBP
A few notes and thoughts heading into Tuesday’s opening of spring practice at UM:
….Redshirt freshman Shayon Green has never played a down of college football, but he enters spring practice as the team’s starting middle linebacker. The 6-foot-2, 235-pound Green injured his knee during fall practice and underwent surgery. With the departure of Darryl Sharpton and the decision by Arthur Brown to transfer, Green moved all the way up the depth chart to No. 1. Whether he can keep hold of the job is another question. “He blew his knee out early so you can’t really give him a fair assessment,” coach Randy Shannon said while meeting with reporters on Monday morning. “He’s a hard worker, a big, big guy that has athletic ability, can run.” The coaching staff considered moving Colin McCarthy to middle linebacker, but would prefer to keep him on the outside. Depending on Green’s performance, that’s subject to change. “We’re giving Shayon his opportunity to play that position,” Shannon said. “After 15 days of spring football, we’ll assess it and reevaluate what we need to get done.”
….Shannon said that linebackers coach Micheal Barrow did not interview at Florida for a job on Urban Meyer’s staff as reported elsewhere.
….Asked if he considered pushing back spring practice so that starting quarterback Jacory Harris could participate as Ohio State did with quarterback Terrelle Pryor, Shannon said: “Nope. You can’t let one person dictate what you want to get done.”
….Fans will get two chances to watch the Hurricanes this spring – a scrimmage at Fort Lauderdale’s Lockhart Stadium on March 11 at 6:30 p.m. and the spring game on March 27. The spring game is expected to be held at Traz Powell Stadium in Miami.
….Chris Ivory is expected to handle short- and long-snapping duties next season. Ivory has been UM’s long snapper for two seasons. Shannon said the No. 3 quarterback will serve as a holder for extra points and field goals.
….Shannon said that UM baseball coach Jim Morris asked if freshman safety Jamal Reid could also play baseball. Shannon declined, saying that Reid, an outstanding baseball player in high school, needed to learn the team’s defense. Shannon did say he was not opposed to Reid playing baseball when spring practice ends.
….Shannon said his overall goal for spring practice is to make his team “tougher”” and promised workouts will be very physical. There will be an emphasis at the end of practices of putting players in positions where they either fail or succeed. “Finishing is the biggest thing,” Shannon said. “Some games [last season] we finished strong. Some games we didn’t have that extra oomph the last two minutes of the game to get us where we needed to be. At the end of practice we’ll put them in situations that , ‘offense we need this done, defense we need this done.’ And whoever doesn’t get it done we’ll know and we can evaluate who we can really rely on at those critical times
Hurricanes' Practice Starts With QB Competition - Solange Reyner, CBS 4
Miami quarterback Jacory Harris will be watching spring practice from the sideline as the Hurricanes look to shore up their backup position.
Harris, a junior, is sitting out as he recovers from off-season hand surgery on his throwing hand. He'll be limited to non-contact and conditioning drills for the 15 practice session, which starts on Tuesday.
His absence is good - and bad - news for the Hurricanes.
"Going to be kind of a bad, but a good situation just to find out who is going to be our number two quarterback," said Miami coach Randy Shannon. "With Jacory not going to be able to participate as far as actually running plays – you'll find out on developing a number two guy, which is very key to the stages of getting your football ready."
Sophomore A.J. Highsmith and newcomer Stephen Morris will compete for that number two spot.
Highsmith, who completed 4 of 6 passes last year for 53 yards, should have a slight advantage because he's been around for an extra season.
"[A.J.] will probably be the guy lining up with the 1s on the first day, but like anything else everybody has to get better. You can't stay the same," Shannon said. "He knows that, he's excited about it and I think the other two guys are excited about it."
Morris, a graduate of Miami Monsignor Pace high school, enrolled early so he could participate in spring practice. He threw for 1,531 yards and 22 touchdowns in his senior high school season.
Other notes from Shannon's press conference on Monday included news that Colin McCarthy will not move to middle linebacker to take over Darryl Sharpton's spot.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Walk Off Blast Sweep Rutgers
CORAL GABLES, Fla. - Trailing 7-5 with two on and two out in the bottom of the ninth, freshman centerfielder Zeke DeVoss smacked a three-run, walk-off homer to propel No. 12 Miami to a 9-7 victory Sunday afternoon over Rutgers at Alex Rodriguez Park.
Down two with one out in the bottom of the ninth, junior leftfielder Chris Pelaez started the rally with single to center of Rutgers reliever Charlie Law. After a wild pitch moved Pelaez over to second, Harold Martinez flew out to right for the second out of the inning but was able advance Pelaez over to third. With no more room for error, Frankie Ratcliff kept the rally alive with a walk, putting runners on the corner with two outs. Nathan Melendres followed with a hard grounder to third that got through third baseman Russ Hopkins, allowing Ratcliff to move to third and Melendres to second. Down a run at this point, DeVoss - UM's No. 9 hitter - smacked a outside fastball on a one-and-one count over the wall in left to give the `Canes the two-run win.
The win for Miami (3-0) secured the series sweep of the Scarlet Knights (0-3) in both team's 2010 season-opening weekend series.
Pelaez, who went 8-for-11 on the weekend in his first action as a Hurricane, finished the day 4-for-5 with a homer, a double, two singles, two runs scored and a run batted in. David Villasuso, who got his first start at catcher this season, went 2-for-5 with two homers and three RBI.
http://hurricanesports.cstv.com/sports/m-basebl/recaps/022110aae.html
Down two with one out in the bottom of the ninth, junior leftfielder Chris Pelaez started the rally with single to center of Rutgers reliever Charlie Law. After a wild pitch moved Pelaez over to second, Harold Martinez flew out to right for the second out of the inning but was able advance Pelaez over to third. With no more room for error, Frankie Ratcliff kept the rally alive with a walk, putting runners on the corner with two outs. Nathan Melendres followed with a hard grounder to third that got through third baseman Russ Hopkins, allowing Ratcliff to move to third and Melendres to second. Down a run at this point, DeVoss - UM's No. 9 hitter - smacked a outside fastball on a one-and-one count over the wall in left to give the `Canes the two-run win.
The win for Miami (3-0) secured the series sweep of the Scarlet Knights (0-3) in both team's 2010 season-opening weekend series.
Pelaez, who went 8-for-11 on the weekend in his first action as a Hurricane, finished the day 4-for-5 with a homer, a double, two singles, two runs scored and a run batted in. David Villasuso, who got his first start at catcher this season, went 2-for-5 with two homers and three RBI.
http://hurricanesports.cstv.com/sports/m-basebl/recaps/022110aae.html
Randy Shannon Contract Update
Are the University of Miami and Randy Shannon close to signing a contract extension. If you listen to AD Kirby, has repeatedly said that he expects Shannon to be Miami’s coach for years to come, but there has been no extension.
With it taking years to come to an agreement, it becomes less and less likely to sign one. With some improvement, but no big wins, inclduing no bowl wins, Randy Shannon's Job is in jeaopardy. Expect a lame Duck contract to be put in place with a low buy-out or none at all.
With it taking years to come to an agreement, it becomes less and less likely to sign one. With some improvement, but no big wins, inclduing no bowl wins, Randy Shannon's Job is in jeaopardy. Expect a lame Duck contract to be put in place with a low buy-out or none at all.
Canes Sneak By Rutgers 10-8
CORAL GABLES, Fla. - The 12th-ranked University of Miami baseball team scored double-digit runs for the second straight night to open the season as the Hurricanes downed Rutgers, 10-8, Saturday night at Alex Rodriguez Park at Mark Light Field.
For just the second time in head coach Jim Morris' 17 seasons in Coral Gables and the sixth time in school history, the Hurricanes scored double-digit runs in back-to-back games to open the season - scoring 10 a night after plating 12 runs in the opener on Friday. The win also secured a series win for the `Canes - the second straight year Miami opened its season with a series win over the Scarlet Knights.
Junior leftfielder Chris Pelaez and senior second baseman Scott Lawson led the offensive charge for the `Canes. Pelaez finished the night 3-for-3 with a double, two singles, a hit-by-pitch, three RBI and a run scored while Lawson also went 3-for-3 with a triple, two singles, two hit-by-pitches, three runs scored and a run batted in. Through UM's first two games, Lawson and Pelaez have combined to reach base in 12-of-16 plate appearances.
Eric Whaley (1-0) earned his first career win as a Hurricane, allowing two runs on one hit while striking out three in two innings of work. David Gutierrez came on in the ninth with the `Canes up two and retired the Scarlet Knights in order to record his first save of the season and the second of his career.
http://hurricanesports.cstv.com/sports/m-basebl/recaps/022110aab.html
For just the second time in head coach Jim Morris' 17 seasons in Coral Gables and the sixth time in school history, the Hurricanes scored double-digit runs in back-to-back games to open the season - scoring 10 a night after plating 12 runs in the opener on Friday. The win also secured a series win for the `Canes - the second straight year Miami opened its season with a series win over the Scarlet Knights.
Junior leftfielder Chris Pelaez and senior second baseman Scott Lawson led the offensive charge for the `Canes. Pelaez finished the night 3-for-3 with a double, two singles, a hit-by-pitch, three RBI and a run scored while Lawson also went 3-for-3 with a triple, two singles, two hit-by-pitches, three runs scored and a run batted in. Through UM's first two games, Lawson and Pelaez have combined to reach base in 12-of-16 plate appearances.
Eric Whaley (1-0) earned his first career win as a Hurricane, allowing two runs on one hit while striking out three in two innings of work. David Gutierrez came on in the ninth with the `Canes up two and retired the Scarlet Knights in order to record his first save of the season and the second of his career.
http://hurricanesports.cstv.com/sports/m-basebl/recaps/022110aab.html
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Canes Open Season with 12 -1 Win
Miami hurricanes Stater left-hander Eric Erickson pitched 5 2/3 innings in his first start in two years as Miami defeated Rutgers, 12-1, in the season opener for both teams at AROD Park at the Light.
Erickson has missed almost two solid years following Tommy John Surgery gave up only 2 hits and 1 uneared run in the game. Rutgers starter Casey Gaynor (0-1) lasted 4 1/3 innings. He gave up four runs all of which were earned on seven hits.
Sophomore Harold Martinez smacked two deep homers to left was the biggest Highlight of the game. He had only 9 HR all of last season as a Freshman. In all 9 Canes had at least one hit on the night.
The Hurricanes and Rutgers Scarlet Knights will play again Saturday at 7 p.m.
Erickson has missed almost two solid years following Tommy John Surgery gave up only 2 hits and 1 uneared run in the game. Rutgers starter Casey Gaynor (0-1) lasted 4 1/3 innings. He gave up four runs all of which were earned on seven hits.
Sophomore Harold Martinez smacked two deep homers to left was the biggest Highlight of the game. He had only 9 HR all of last season as a Freshman. In all 9 Canes had at least one hit on the night.
The Hurricanes and Rutgers Scarlet Knights will play again Saturday at 7 p.m.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
"The U" ESPN's 30 for 30 Complete Series
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Part 6
Part 7
Part 8
Part 9
Part 10
All Videos Posted By m2diggs
http://www.youtube.com/user/m2diggs
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Part 6
Part 7
Part 8
Part 9
Part 10
All Videos Posted By m2diggs
http://www.youtube.com/user/m2diggs
Canes New Linebacker Coach
Linebacker Coach. Barrow who recently interviewed for the University of Florida Defensive Coordinator position was demoted after 2008 from Coaching Linebackers. John Lovett will go back to just being the Defensive Coordinator.
Other Coaching Carousel News for the Canes, Miami assistant coaches Wesley McGriff, Jeff Stoutland, Joe Pannunzio and Aubrey Hill have all been interviewing at other places. So far they are staying with the Canes, but expect a new Strength and Conditioning coach in the Near Future.
Other Coaching Carousel News for the Canes, Miami assistant coaches Wesley McGriff, Jeff Stoutland, Joe Pannunzio and Aubrey Hill have all been interviewing at other places. So far they are staying with the Canes, but expect a new Strength and Conditioning coach in the Near Future.
A Look Ahead to 2010 Starters
It will be very interesting how the Offensive Line looks after Spring Practice is over. There will be a ton of changes this year. Here is our early look at the 2010 Starting Line Up.
2010 Starters
Offensive
QB Jacory Harris
RB Damien Berry
WR Leonard Hankerson
WR LaRon Byrd
WR Travis Benjamin
TE Billy Sanders
LT Orlando Franklin
LG Harland Gunn
C Brandon Linder
RG Jared Wheeler
RT Benjamin Jones
Defense
DE Adewale Ojomo
DT Allen Bailey
DT Marcus Forston
DE Marcus Robinson
MLB Colin McCarthy
WLB Sean Spence
SLB Jordan Futch
CB Brandon Harris
CB DeMarcus Van Dyke
FS Ray Ray Armstrong
SS Vaughn Telemaque
2010 Starters
Offensive
QB Jacory Harris
RB Damien Berry
WR Leonard Hankerson
WR LaRon Byrd
WR Travis Benjamin
TE Billy Sanders
LT Orlando Franklin
LG Harland Gunn
C Brandon Linder
RG Jared Wheeler
RT Benjamin Jones
Defense
DE Adewale Ojomo
DT Allen Bailey
DT Marcus Forston
DE Marcus Robinson
MLB Colin McCarthy
WLB Sean Spence
SLB Jordan Futch
CB Brandon Harris
CB DeMarcus Van Dyke
FS Ray Ray Armstrong
SS Vaughn Telemaque
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Canes Go To 0 - 7 in ACC Road Games
The Canes played tough and were tied with 12 minutes left, but faded down the Stretch. The Men's Hoops Team lost its 7 time in 7 tries on the road in the ACC. They are 3 and 1 at the BUC in Conference with 4 of the last 5 games at Home.
The Canes shot well from the Field hitting a clip of 26 of 50 even with poor 3 point shooting. The Canes were awful at the Charity Stripe going 7 of 17. Malcolm Grant led the team with 13 points.
The Canes host Duke on Wednesday at the Bank United Center.
The Canes shot well from the Field hitting a clip of 26 of 50 even with poor 3 point shooting. The Canes were awful at the Charity Stripe going 7 of 17. Malcolm Grant led the team with 13 points.
The Canes host Duke on Wednesday at the Bank United Center.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Blue Light Special on Miami Hurricanes Football Tickets
Blue Light Special on Miami Hurricanes Football Tickets as the Athletic Department drops ticket prices to Home Games in 2010 at Sun Life Stadium. The U dropped prices in 40 sections including dropping prices in the Lower East End Zone $186 from $385 to $199. They are Hoping the New Prices will bring a home field advantage at Sun Life.
Also reduced nearly the entire upper-level sections of the Stadium. $199 will get you season Tickets in 80 percent of the Upper Deck. There are approximately 17,000 seats at $149 or lower.
The biggest change is that you may now pay in installments instead of one lump sum. The Canes have historically drawn few Fans to Both Sun Life and the Old Orange Bowl.
Also reduced nearly the entire upper-level sections of the Stadium. $199 will get you season Tickets in 80 percent of the Upper Deck. There are approximately 17,000 seats at $149 or lower. The biggest change is that you may now pay in installments instead of one lump sum. The Canes have historically drawn few Fans to Both Sun Life and the Old Orange Bowl.
Canes Hit Buzzer Beater to Beat Tech
The Miami Hurricanes blew a 14 point lead against Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and found themselves to be tied with seconds left. James Dews had the ball in his hands with the game on the Line and Missed...
He came up big seconds later hitting the winning shot, one of the few bright moments and this seemingly endless ACC schedule for the Canes Basketball Team. This is the Second large lead at home that this team has Blow.
A few weeks ago, the choked away a 17 point lead and lost to Boston College. This season has been full of highs and lows, but this night was special for the Canes. Hopefully this team can rally behind this moment and make something of their season.
He came up big seconds later hitting the winning shot, one of the few bright moments and this seemingly endless ACC schedule for the Canes Basketball Team. This is the Second large lead at home that this team has Blow.
A few weeks ago, the choked away a 17 point lead and lost to Boston College. This season has been full of highs and lows, but this night was special for the Canes. Hopefully this team can rally behind this moment and make something of their season.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Less Than Two Weeks Till Spring Practice
We are less than 2 weeks till Miami Kicks off Spring Practice. First day of practice is Feb. 23 with the Spring Game being March 27th.
Miami No. 23 Miami in 2010
The Canes are currently ranked 23rd in the Country according to Mark Schlabach of ESPN, in his pre-spring rankings. Of course these rankings are very fluid, but shows that Miami needs to make major improvements on Both Sides of the Ball.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Welcome to the "U" Mike Cassano
As mentioned by CanesNews on Sunday, Mike Cassano was added as the Coach for Running Backs and Recruiting. Mike has previously worked with Offensive Coordinator Mark Whipple at Both Umass and Brown.
Cassano has also been a coach for the Canes in the 2005 and 2006 Seasons when he was a Graduate Assistant. Expect Mike Cassano to right the ship that Clint Hurtt sunk the last two years in recruiting.
Welcome to the U!
Cassano has also been a coach for the Canes in the 2005 and 2006 Seasons when he was a Graduate Assistant. Expect Mike Cassano to right the ship that Clint Hurtt sunk the last two years in recruiting.
Welcome to the U!
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