Miami’s spring concluded this Saturday with the annual spring game. The Orange team defeated the Green 7-6 in what amounted to either sloppy offense, great defense, or a little from both column A and a little from column B. With Stephen Morris out until summer practice, Memphis transfer Ryan Williams had a great opportunity to get a leg up on the QB competition. All indications are that the battle will continue into the fall, with Williams appearing to be the more accurate of the two (despite the rough outing in the spring game) and Morris clearly having the bigger arm. In addition to the upcoming battle for the starting QB position here are some other things to consider as the ‘Canes get ready for the fall:
# 11 Ryan Williams will battle Stephen Morris for the starting QB job.
Freshman QBs Gray Crow and Preston Dewey both appear to be redshirt candidates heading into the fall. While both have tremendous upside, neither looks to be in position to challenge as a starter at this stage in their careers……
The most improved unit on the team could be Defensive Back.
“I really like how the DBs moved around and swarmed to the ball”,
said Carnell Jenkins, who attended the spring game at Sun Life Stadium.
“Brandon McGee looked especially good.”
McGee joins freshman Larry Hope and transfer Ladarius Gunter having nice springs, as well as veteran Ray Ray Amstrong. The unit will get even better when incoming freshman Deon Bush and Tracy Howard arrive in the fall. Could the days when guys like Ed Reed, Phillip Buchanon, and Mike Rumph dominated, be returning?…….
Miami's current group of DBs may be the best since the days of Ed Reed.
Speaking of the DBs, Miami’s depth chart currently lists AJ Highsmith as the starter at Strong Safety over Senior Vaughn Telemaque. Telemaque came to UM with a lot of hype but has had an up and down career. Look for VT to regain his starting role by the fall and provide veteran leadership to a young and talented secondary…..
While the DBs maybe the most improved, the O-Line should be the best unit on the team. Here’s a look at how they could line up:
LT Malcolm Bunche: the massive and talented Bunche may eventually be supplanted by Seantrel Henderson, but for now the job appears his to lose.
LG Jermaine Johnson: Something tells me come fall, Jon Feliciano will be manning this spot. Feliciano line up last year at RT, but appears to have the power and mean streak of a top line guard.
C Shane McDermott: McDermott could be a future all conference player.
RG Brandon Linder: Linder is as talented as McDermott, and could play C should he falter.
RT Seantrel Henderson: Perhaps the most talented player regardless of position on the roster, Seantrel could end up at LT. This guy is a future NFL 1st rounder……….
If Seantreal Henderson stays healthy, he could be a beast.
With the group above leading the way Mike James, Eduardo Clements, and freshman Duke Johnson & Dallas Crawford might get chances to break some long runs this year.
Sophmore DE Anthony Chickillo is coming off a tremendous freshman year, and should produce double-digit second numbers this season.
The sky is the limit for Anthony Chickillo
WRs Rayshawn Scott and Phillip Dorsett had solid springs. Scott was awarded the most improved offensive player by the coaches, and could team up with Dorsett and Sophomore Allen Hurns to form a nice trifecta of targets for the ‘Canes.
Summary: Miami has some nice pieces but remains a very very young team. The QB position remains a huge question mark. Either Williams or Morris will have to exceed expectations for UM to challenge for their first ACC crown. The offense will also sorely miss the huge play ability of Lamar Miller.
The linebackers are young and undersized. Head Coach Al Golden and Defensive Coordinator Mark D’Onofrio will have to find the right combination of players on the front 7 to improve on last year’s mediocre run defense.
That being said the O Line is filled with studs. The DBs have just the right mix of veterans and superstar newcomers to be one of the best groups in the country this year. Anthony Chickillo, Denzel Perryman, and Mike James are poised to have break out years.
Coach Golden and staff have their work cut out for them. If the spring is any indication, there are some definate speed bumps to overcome, but this is a team with a very bright future ahead of them.
Few things in life truly get me pumped up. Actually, I consider it one of my better traits. A calm demeanor has served me well both personally and professionally. However, I’m not a cyborg nor am I Dr. Spock.
There have been moments nonetheless, when I have gotten an energy boost similar to that of drinking 10 cortaditos (if you don’t know what this is, ask for it at any Cuban restaurant next time you’re in Miami) with the concurrent desire to get something accomplished. This transformation best summarizes how I felt after watching several motivational speeches by Ray Lewis.
RL52 obviously needs no introduction here. Truth be told, his jersey number alone brings joyous mental images of opposing players getting plastered all over the field. While I’m pretty sure he never intentionally attempted to hurt another player, his intensity between the lines is unquestioned.
52 was always a man amongst boys, but never for the most obvious reasons. He wasn’t the tallest, fastest, or even the strongest player at “The U.” But he could never be superseded mentally. He was more determined than his opponent, worked harder, and knew that his relentless desire would ultimately crush anyone he faced. For Lewis, mental toughness and preparation were his biggest advantages. Lewis’ swagger isn’t merely arrogance or self-aggrandizing talk. He doesn’t just think it. He lives it.
While his on-field accomplishments alone make one gush, it’s the story behind those awards, numbers and highlights that is truly amazing. Though 52 came from your tragically typical broken inner-city home, his results are anything but usual. He is the most self-motivated and determined person I have ever witnessed. Watching some of these video’s inspire me to want to better myself. His speeches are filled with passion and personal stories that make one both motivated and acutely aware of how special this man truly is. His love of “the U” is unmatched and comes straight from the heart.
I remember driving home from work one day a couple of years ago listening to “The Dan LeBatard Show” on 790 “the ticket.” They had RL52 on and towards the end of the interview Dan asked Ray to give him an impromptu pregame motivational speech. Well, let me tell you something. I was so pumped up by his speech that I literally wanted to jump out of my moving vehicle and go tackle someone; anyone. I wish I could have found the audio. Simply incredible…
After recently coming across his motivational speech given to UM players last year, and the speech at the “powered by me” conference, I had to write about it. With all the new kids coming in this year (a class of 33) I thought this was the perfect time. It’s important to not only indoctrinate them (considering how young they are) on what means to be at “The U”, what our history is, and what the future demands are, but to also increase attention to what are the real factors that lead to success, both on the field and in life. Ray Lewis is the embodiment of all these and more. I only hope it has the same effect on those reading this as it did to me: hunger and desire to become better. This also summarizes everything Golden and his staff are trying to re-establish at Miami.
These four videos below caption RL52 at his best. And this new series will emphasize the history of Miami; its players, alumni, and coaches. Some will be fun, while others will take a more serious tone. Regardless, all will focus on the ‘Canes and hopefully give you some nuggets of enjoyment and knowledge.
Hope you Enjoy.
An aside: I hope someone writes an in-depth book about RL52 soon. My personal preference would be Michael Lewis (The Blind Side, Money Ball, The Big Short, etc..) He’s an incredible writer who loves sports and business, and has an uncanny ability to tell a story.
Ray speaking with players last year.
Speech at the “Powered by Me” Conference. Incredibly introspective by 52.
Here’s his basic offseason workout.
One Word: INTENSITY
If these video’s don’t move you, nothing will. Thank you Ray Lewis, for being a leading symbol of the greatness that is “The U.”
With the NFL Combine slated to begin on Feb. 22, I have decided to make a list of players from Miami that have declared for the 2012 NFL draft. We have added our two cents and also included the rankings and write-ups from WalterFootball.com.
Our thoughts:
Though some of the players are joining the draft for the right reasons, some others’ decisions are questionable. Personally, I come from the mind-set that you only leave early if you are projected to be drafted in the first or second round (there are some exceptions to this but this is my general principle.) This is especially true if you are a RB, since the wear-and-tear (i.e. number of carries) and risk of injury is so great. For all others, they should enjoy the benefits of staying in school for another year, finish getting their degree, and put together another strong year of play, thereby increasing the chances they get drafted higher, which results in a bigger payday and a larger commitment level from the NFL front office and coaching staff.
I understand the logic of some coaches and agents: players, especially with the new NFL rookie contracts, are really playing to get a second contract in which they receive their payday. It not an irrational or flawed decision, but I believe the added experience of staying all four years has more positives than leaving early does.
That being said, the NFL Combine will give some UM players the opportunity to display their talents – especially their speed and athleticism – which can make a considerable difference come draft day. This was especially true for the Raiders Organization (loved speed, just ask DVD) pre-Al Davis. Now it may be slightly less significant. Regardless, this is a great opportunity for many “day 2ers” to showcase themselves. Many ‘Canes have a lot to gain from this event.
Currently, 7 of the 10 players who declared for the draft have been invited to attend the event. They are: Brandon Washington, Marcus Forston, Olivier Vernon, Tommy Streeter, Travis Benjamin, Lamar Miller, and Jacory Harris.
Lamar Miller is projected as a late first, early second round pick (#2 RB overall), so his decision is a total no brainer.
Tommy Streeters’ decision on the other hand, being a red-shirt Sophomore, and only 1 real season of game tape, is a bit questionable. Yes, he’s ranked as the #8 WR, but with another year of film, he could have gone much much higher. Although, I’m sure the uncertainty of who was going to throw him the ball, and that many of his buddies are leaving probably factored into his decision. Overall, I don’t totally disagree with Streeter.
Spence, as a senior, had no choice, but he is highly ranked anyway, being the #7 overall LB prospect (may have improved after senior bowl). J12, Ojomo, Benjamin, Byrd, and Regis are also all seniors, so no questions here. Unfortunately though, Regis, Ojomo, Benjamin, Byrd and Jacory will all be lucky to get drafted (per the draftniks), but as usual, will likely get a Free Agent contract considering the number of players over the past several years that have underwhelmed at Miami and have gone on to have success at the NFL level (thanks again Coker and Shannon!!!!!!!).
The other players choosing to depart early leave me a bit confounded. Vernon has played few games over his three year career. Talented? Unquestionable. Proven? No chance. So why not return as the dominant favorite to start and potentially zoom up the draft board? No idea. Projected as a 4-5rd pick is nothing to laugh at, but little downside and huge upside exists if he returned in my opinion. Overall, don’t love the decision.
I view Forston exactly the same as Vernon. See above. Only thing I can add here is that all his childhood buddies from Northwestern are leaving, so he probably had little interest in staying behind. Probably part of their master plan hatched in High School.
Guard Brandon Washington is similar to Vernon and Forston with one major exception, he would have likely been a lock as a day 1 pick if he stayed one more year. He has the size, speed, aggression, and talent to be a top pick. Last year he played tackle, but his natural position is guard (projected at guard in NFL.) Another year in the system would have made a huge difference stock-wise. This is especially true if Seantrel Henderson moved to left tackle and the coaches allowed Washington to return to his natural position.
Though I have stated my case above its hard to really come down on a guy for wanting to leave early and reach his dream. All these guys have a chance to make a difference at the next level. I wish good luck to all the ‘Canes on their quest for success in the NFL!!!!!!
(So, I have included this tangential highlight reel of monster UM hits. I literally couldn’t help myself. See it in your heart if you can forgive me.)
Personal note: Dear Coach Golden, please show this video before each game next season. I think each and every current and future ‘Cane needs to know what we expect from players at “The U.” This is what our former glory looks like. Teams were literally afraid of playing Miami. Like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson in their heyday, the game was half over before it even started…….. Man am I excited for football season already!!
Here are the individual rankings and write-ups by WalterFootball.
DEFENSE
Olivier Vernon*, DE, Miami
Height: 6-4. Weight: 265.
Projected 40 Time: 4.71.
Position Rank #21
Projected Round (2012): 4-5. 12/21/11: Vernon was suspended for the first six games of the season by the NCAA. In six games, he had 18 tackles with 3.5 tackles for a loss, 1.5 sacks and a forced fumble. Vernon played well against Boston College in the season finale. He is a good athlete who should test well before the draft. Vernon has decided to skip his senior season, which looks like a questionable decision.
Adewale Ojomo, DE, Miami
Height: 6-4. Weight: 270.
Projected 40 Time: 4.81.
Position Rank #26
Projected Round (2011): 7-FA. 12/21/11: Ojomo was suspended for the first game of the season by the NCAA. He had 19 tackles with 3.5 tackles for a loss, 1.5 sacks and a forced fumble. Ojomo tried to return for another season but was denied a sixth year by the NCAA.
Marcus Forston*, DT, Miami
Height: 6-3. Weight: 310.
Projected 40 Time: 4.97.
Position Rank #17
Projected Round (2012): 3-4. 12/16/11: Forston was suspended for the first contest of the season. He recorded five tackles in three games before going down with a season-ending knee injury. Ohio State center Mike Brewster had a good game against Forston. Forston declared for the draft and signed with Drew Rosenhaus, so he cannot change his mind and return to school. Forston is a good athlete with potential but has legitimate durability concerns entering the NFL.
Micanor Regis, DT, Miami
Height: 6-2. Weight: 305.
Projected 40 Time: 5.13.
Position Rank #29
Projected Round (2012): 6-FA. 12/16/11: Regis had 41 tackles with 6.5 tackles for a loss and two sacks this season. He did not look good going against Ohio State center Mike Brewster.
Sean Spence, OLB, Miami
Height: 6-0. Weight: 225.
Projected 40 Time: 4.49.
Position Rank #7
Projected Round (2012): 2-3. 12/26/11: This season, Spence was all over the field, yet constantly around the football, for Miami. He is a good tackler who rarely gets caught out of position. For 2011, Spence had 106 tackles with 14 tackles for a loss, three sacks and a forced fumble. He played very well against Georgia Tech, Miami and in many other games. The only thing that holds him back from being ranked higher is a lack of size. Getting off blocks could be an issue for Spence at the next level
OFFENSE
Jacory Harris, Miami
Height: 6-4. Weight: 200.
Projected 40 Time: 4.75.
Position Rank #22
Projected Round (2012): FA. 1/9/12: After showing some improvement throughout the season, Harris ended the year with a four interception game at home against Boston College. He was suspended for the Hurricanes’ first game of the season for his role in the Miami scandal. Harris completed 65 percent of his passes for 2,486 yards for 20 touchdowns and nine interceptions.
Lamar Miller**, RB, Miami
Height: 5-11. Weight: 212.
Projected 40 Time: 4.46.
Position Rank #2
Projected Round (2012): 1-2. 1/16/12: Miller was a dynamic playmaker in 2011. He ran for 1,272 yards and nine touchdowns rushing while averaging 5.46 yards per carry this year. Miller showed the speed to break off long touchdown runs, and is a threat to score with any touch. He also has the size and strength to handle a large amount of carries. The redshirt sophomore was one of the most dynamic backs in college football.
Tommy Streeter*, WR, Miami
Height: 6-5. Weight: 215.
Projected 40 Time: 4.52.
Position Rank #8
Projected Round (2012): 2-3. 12/12/11: In his first season of playing time, the junior Streeter was a source of big plays. He is a tall, lanky wide receiver who has the speed to stretch the field. In 2011, Streeter caught 46 passes for 811 yards and eight touchdowns. He is an excellent red-zone weapon due to his height and leaping ability. Streeter is raw and needs a lot of work as a route-runner. His draft stock probably could have been enhanced if he returned to Miami for his senior season before going pro, but Streeter declared and hired an agent, so there is no turning back.
Travis Benjamin, WR, Miami
Height: 5-10. Weight: 175.
Projected 40 Time: 4.49.
Position Rank #33
Projected Round (2012): 6-FA. 12/12/11: Benjamin was suspended to start the season. He ended up catching 41 receptions for 609 yards and three scores. Benjamin needed to be more productive than that, and he also could have been more aggressive on some balls thrown to him deep downfield.
Brandon Washington*, G, Miami
Height: 6-4. Weight: 320.
Projected 40 Time: 5.21.
Position Rank #7
Projected Round (2012): 3-4. 1/16/12: After being a 2010 All-ACC pick at guard, Miami moved Washington to left tackle after Seantrel Henderson was injured. Washington had a mixed season at left tackle. He did a quality job of run blocking for Hurricanes running back Lamar Miller. Washington has a nice combination of power and mobility, but belongs on the inside.
Head coach Al Golden was openly critical of Washington after he struggled against North Carolina and defensive end Quinton Coples. Washington took offense at his coach’s criticism, but remained the starter at left tackle. He has some talent, and his situation at Miami led him to entering the draft. In the NFL, Washington definitely has to move back inside.
One position that Al Golden undoubtedly recruited vigorously in this year’s signing class would be Wide Receiver. Angelo Louis-Jean, Malcolm Lewis, and Robert Lockhart are among a deep group that all hope to be the next big playmaker at “The U”. But who is the greatest WR to ever lace them up in Coral Gables? Based on production, explosive ability, and impact on team success I put together the following Top 5. (special thanks to all who voted on our poll to help influence this list)
Former UM great Santana Moss.
(FYI my all time RB list can be foundhereand my greatest QB listhere)
Of note: My last two out were Eddie Brown, a key member of the 1984 National Championship team, and Leonard Hankerson who amassed 134 catches 2,160 yards, and 22 TDs but never played on an elite team.
#5 – Lamar Thomas. Thomas was lanky but acrobatic. Perhaps the best in the group at jumping over a defender and making an impossible catch, Thomas finished his UM career with 144 catches, 2,271 yards, and 23 TDs.
#4 – Reggie Wayne. Wayne was probably the best route runner in UM history. The future favorite target of Peyton Manning also had excellent hands and was money in the red zone. Wayne finished with a UM career best 173 catches to go along with 2,510 yards and 20 TDs.
#3 – Santana Moss. Moss electrified crowds as a returner, but was also an incredibly explosive WR. Moss is Miami’s all time leader in receiving yards with 2,546 as well as all-purpose with 4,394. He also is the greatest run after catch reciever the school has seen.
#2 – Andre Johnson. Johnson was CO-MVP of the 2001 Rose Bowl, and a beast on the field (just ask Nebraska or any current NFL CB). Miami has never had a more physical WR in its history. Johnson finished his UM career with 1,831 yards and 20 touchdowns even though he only started 2 years.
#1 - Michael Irvin. “The Playmaker” helped invent swagger. Always at his best in the biggest games, Irvin epitomized everything the 80′s ‘Canes were all about. He also finished as the all time TD receptions leader with 26 to go along with 143 catches and 2,423 yards.
Michael Irvin loved toasting FSU
As always amassing a greatest of anything NFL list proved to be much harder. Nonetheless here are my 10 greatest NFL WRs, again based of how profilic they are, ability to score, and team success.
#10 – Andre Reed. Had Buffalo won just one Super Bowl, Reed might be higher. Either way he was a consummate pro, wonderfully skilled, and one of the best players of his era. Reed finished his brilliant career with 951 catches, 13,198 yards, and 87 TDs.
#9 – Steve Largent. Largent was certainly not the biggest, or most athletic receiver on this list, but few found a way to get open better. Largent also had some of the stickiest hands of all time, and his quickness was underrated. He finished a great career with 951 catches, 13,198 yards, and 87 TDs.
#8 – Andre Johnson. I know what your thinking, UM bias. Perhaps a little bit…. But one can argue by the conclusion of his career, AJ could be even higher on this list (some more playoff experience would also help). Through his first 9 years Johnson has 706 catches, 9,656 yards, and 56 TDs. More importantly he has been the prototype of what a franchise player should be. If you don’t believe Andre is one bad dude, watch the video below:
#7 – Michael Irvin. Aside from the fact Johnson’s and Irvin’s names look nice together, I had to include “The Playmaker” because he was the unquestioned leader of the Dallas Cowboys dynasty of the 90′s. He truly was a clutch player and his 750 catches, 11,904 yards, and 65 TDs barely portray his toughness and skill.
#6 – Lance Alworth. It’s always hard to compare players from different eras, but based on highlights I’ve seen and testimony I’ve read, I think Alworth would have been unstoppable in any day. “Bambi” had incredible hands, explosive speed, and a swiftness that made defenders look silly. Alworth finished his career with 542 catches, 10,266 yards, and 85 TDs.
#5 – Larry Fitzgerald. Still in the prime of his career, Fitz has already caught 693 passes for 9,615 yards and 73 TDs. With just 8 seasons under his belt he has become the best combination of power, size, and sheer athleticism the NFL has ever seen.
#4 - Marvin Harrison. Yes I know having Peyton Manning throwing your way helps. But Harrison ran near perfect routes, caught everything that came his way, and was a perfect mix of explosive deep threat and reliable possession receiver. Harrison finished with 1,102 catches, 14,580 yards, and 128 TDs.
#3 – Cris Carter. Carter had incredible numbers finishing his career with 1,101 catches, 13,899 yards, and 130 TDs. But what makes Carter stand out more then the numbers is the spectacular nature of those many catches. Carter mastered working the sideline like no other receiver in history, yet at the same time could work the middle of the field and take a big hit from any DB in the league.
#2 – Randy Moss. He may have never won a title but can anyone say he didn’t impact every game he ever played in? Moss had a graceful stride when simply jogging, and 4.2 speed when he turned it on. Leaving defenders in his wake and opposing coaches breathless, Moss finished with 954 catches, 14,858 yards, and 153 TDs. He may also be the greatest leaper in NFL history. See below for my evidence:
#1 – Jerry Rice. The easiest slection of them all, Rice is a class of his own. Rice shattered NFL record books to the tune of 1,549 catches, 22,895 yards, and 197 TDs. He is also the greatest route runner, and best run after catch reciever the league has ever known. Some might even argue Rice as the greatest football player period of all time:
(Just missed the cut: Don Maynard, Terrell Owens, Isaac Bruce, Andre Reed, James Lofton, Steve Smith, Calvin Johnson, Raymond Berry,Wes Welker, Sterling Sharpe, & Charlie Joiner)
I hope everyone enjoys the lists, and provides lots of feedback. Keep an eye out for more lists in the not too distant future.
When Al Golden took the podium in the BUC’s packed multipurpose room there was a roar of appreciation from the ‘Canes faithful. When Golden announced that his staff has recruited 50 players in just 13 months the applause was deafening. When the ‘Canes football skipper informed those gathered as to the extent of this year’s recruiting class . . . the results speak for themselves.
The ‘Canes are rising fast and the future looks very bright.
Al Golden is gigantic in person. He looks like mammoth NYG TE Jake Ballard.
Even 'Cane Vader is an Al Golden fan. After the signing day event, CV gave those interested a tutorial on how to appropriately use The Force.
'Cane Freak accompanied 'Cane Vader and was like his Chewbacca even though that relationship wouldn't make sense to Star Wars fans.
Chewbacca!
Sebastian wore his #0 jersey at the Signing Day party . . .
. . . changed into his unoffical Category 6 jersey for the Miami-Maryland double OT thriller.
I didn't have the high-speed lens with me but there is a reason Larkin is blurrier than everyone else . . . he's faster than everyone else.
Those numbers would end up changing quite a bit . . .
All we needed was for some tumbleweed to roll across the court. Notice the blind, deaf, sheriff (ref) watching on . . .
Al Goldens second recruiting class is something to behold. All ‘Canes fans should be very happy today, as nearly every need was filled and some monster recruits were pulled in.
According to Rivals.com, 5 ‘Canes are in their top 100 rated players in the country list. They are: Tracy Howard #13, Duke Johnson #30, Deon Bush #83, Tyriq McCord #92, and Raphael Kirby #94.
If there was ever any doubt about Golden’s recruiting ability, that concern can firmly be put to rest. He and the rest of the coaching staff did a marvelous job with the class of 2012. Though final rankings are not out, I wouldn’t be shocked if we pulled in a top 5 class.
This is a very large class, with 33 in total (9 were additions to last years class), so it was both quantity and quality. No doubt this further helps in reestablishing the “State of Miami”, with the vast majority of kids coming from South Florida to Tampa.
Offensively, major questions surround who will be QB next year. With several kids on campus someone will need to step up in the spring (Morris obviously has the advantage.) Thankfully, with this recruiting class and last years class combined, there will be no lack of talent to hand or pass the ball off too. The O-line (the best returning unit) will definitely do their part in providing running lanes and time to throw. Overall, I’m not overly concerned with the offense.
Defensively, besides Telemaque, Armstrong, Perryman and Chickillo, 7 positions are unsettled. Opportunities to impress and play immediately were likely big reasons Deon Bush and Tracey Howard, Tyriq McCord, Raphael Kirby and Jelani Hamilton decided to join. However, it will not be easy to immediately replace Sean Spence and the experience of last years team.
While, next year might be a tough year record-wise – with the number of Freshmen and Sophomores set to take considerable snaps – we should start to see some new players provide much needed hope towards building a dominate future, that we ‘Canes fans need so desperately.
Here is the complete list of committed recruits per Rivals.com:
Pos
Nat’l Rank
HT/ WT/ 40
Nat’l Rating
Name, School, Hometown
CB
4
Tracy Howard
6-0/175/4.40
(Miramar HS)
Miramar, FL
RB
5
Duke Johnson
5-9/188/4.48
(Miami Norland HS)
Miami, FL
DE
15
Jelani Hamilton
6-5/245
(St. Thomas Aquinas HS)
Fort Lauderdale, FL
OLB
17
Raphael Kirby
6-2/218
(Stephenson HS)
Stone Mountain, GA
S
18
Deon Bush
6-1/185/4.40
(Christopher Columbus HS)
Miami, FL
OT
23
Ereck Flowers
6-6/300
(Miami Norland HS)
Miami, FL
DE
28
Tyriq McCord
6-3/223
(Jefferson Senior HS)
Tampa, FL
WR
35
Angelo Jean-Louis
6-0/185
(Palm Beach Central HS)
Wellington, FL
MLB
27
Jawand Blue
6-1/200
(West Boca Raton HS)
Boca Raton, FL
QB
43
Gray Crow
6-4/220
(Countryside HS)
Clearwater, FL
OLB
48
Josh Witt
6-2.5/210
(Cypress Bay HS)
Weston, FL
DT
49
Jacoby Briscoe
6-4/310
(Carencro HS)
Lafayette, LA
DE
49
Jake O’Donnell
6-6/235/4.67
(Central Bucks HS-East)
Doylestown, PA
OG
51
Danny Isidora
6-4/300
(Cypress Bay HS)
Weston, FL
S
52
Rayshawn Jenkins
6-1/190
(Admiral Farragut Academy)
Saint Petersburg, FL
DT
56
Earl Moore
6-2/280/4.85
(Hillsborough Senior HS)
Tampa, FL
RB
63
Danny Dillard
6-2/200/4.40
(Venice Senior HS)
Venice, FL
QB
65
Preston Dewey
6-3/196
(St. Andrew’s)
Austin, TX
DT
67
Dequan Ivery
6-1/310
(Columbia High School- South)
Lake City, FL
OLB
77
Gabriel Terry
6-3/210/4.60
(Palm Beach Central HS)
Wellington, FL
CB
81
Vernon Davis
5-10/170
(Coral Reef Senior HS)
Miami, FL
WR
83
Herbert Waters
6-0/170/4.50
(Homestead Senior HS)
Homestead, FL
CB
86
Nate Dortch
6-1/165
(South Fort Myers HS)
Fort Myers, FL
CB
89
Antonio Crawford
5-11/180
(Plant Senior HS)
Tampa, FL
WR
90
Malcolm Lewis
6-0/185
(Miramar HS)
Miramar, FL
CB
98
Larry Hope
6-0/160/4.50
(American Senior HS)
Hialeah, FL
DE
99
Dwayne Hoilett
6-3/215/4.80
(Vero Beach HS)
Vero Beach, FL
WR
170
Jontavious Carter
6-4/190
(Crisp County HS)
Cordele, GA
WR
PG
Robert Lockhart
6-2/180
(Fork Union Military Academy)
Fork Union, VA
OT
PG
Taylor Gadbois
6-8/300
(Fork Union Military Academy)
Fork Union, VA
QB
99
David Thompson
6-1/215
(Westminster Christian School)
Miami, FL
WR
226
D’Mauri Jones
6-4/185
(Leesburg HS)
Leesburg, FL
CB
JC
Ladarius Gunter
6-2/200
(Fort Scott)
Fort Scott, KS
Since it would result in an encyclopedic blog entry, we will not highlight every player individually. However, we are looking forward to highlighting these student athletes in future blogs as they become established parts of the UM Football family.
Here are some highlights of the headliners in the Class of 2012:
Tracy Howard (#1 DB in Country and #1 Player in Florida)
Special thanks to http://hurricanesports.cstv.com/signingday/ for providing live coverage of today’s events. Today is the most exciting day in college football!!! It’s like Christmas for coaches and fans.
Loving the enthusiasm today of Cane Nation!!! Twitter and Facebook are blowing up with Canes fans.
Here are some random thoughts and updates as they occur:
By 9am EST Randy “Duke” Johnson, Danny Isadora, & Deon Bush had all faxed in their LOIs. No surprises here, as all three had verbally committed. But worth mentioning the top all-purpose back in the country (think Reggie Bush with power), a road-grading guard to make a path for him, and a play-making defensive back could all be cornerstones of monster class.
Early enrollees: The big news here is quarterbacks Preston Dewey and Gray Crow arrived in time for the spring semester. While we fully expect either Stephen Morris or Ryan Williams to emerge as the starter, both guys give themselves a better chance to play early on by enrolling early. Dewey appears to have the bigger arm and the higher upside. Linebacker Raphael Kirby is also on campus. I can’t help but to compare him to Sean Spence after watching his highlight reels. Also on campus are offensive lineman Taylor Gadbois and Erick Flowers along with corner Ladarius Gunter (JUCO transfer), and linebacker Josh Witt.
QB Preston Dewey could be a key to the class.
Sleeper Alert: I am hearing nice things about defensive end Jake O’Donnell, a 3 star prospect from Pennsylvania. At 6’6 233 he runs a 4.6 forty. Once he fills out he could be a strong run stuffer as well as a nice pass rusher.
9:52 AMTracy Howard is coming to the U!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The Best corner in the nation makes signing day even sweeter!! This kid might play right away. The U nation is erupting right now!!!!!
Welcome to the U, Tracy Howard!!!
10:02 am:Reggie Northrup to FSU. A bit disappointing, but with Kirby in the mix and some of the other young linebackers on the roster, UM should be fine. Also LB Josh Harvey-Clemons to UGA, no surprise there either.
10:07 am: #1 DT Eddie Goldman to FSU. Our bitter rivals are putting together a nice class as well. FSU war room erupts on ESPNU.
Another huge piece in this year’s class is Tyriq McCord. The 4 star defensive end from Tampa is rated as the #7 DE in the nation. He could pair nicely with Anthony Chickillo over the next few years. 6’5 250 pound Jelani Hamilton from powerhouse St. Thomas Aquinas also figures prominently.
Future UM stars Tyriq MCord and Deon Bush flash the U
10:17 AM: All World WR Dorial Green-Beckham announces he will attend Mizzou!!! Big Surprise. He is already drawing raves and being compared to Calvin Johnson. With Missouri headed to the SEC they just got a major piece to compete with the Alabamas and LSUs.
(Josh asks did Haith recruit him? LOL)
Breaking down the WRS:Angelo Louis-Jean has the highest upside. If he can get his academics in order, he might play immediately. He’s a burner with good hands and superior athleticism. Malcom Lewis (from Miramar, same school as Tracy Howard) could be a Steve Breaston type. He’s shifty as well as sure handed and may be a punt returner as well down the line. He also has the experience of making a bunch of clutch catches in the state playoffs. D’Mauri Jones is 6’4 red zone threat, who could step in to the void left by Tommy Streeter. Herb Waters is a 3 star guy who may be a project early on. Rayshawn Jenkins may end up at DB, but is another good athlete. The sleeper of the group might be Robert Lockhart, a 6’2 do it all type from Fort Union Military Academy in VA, who will come in more mature then your average freshman. Jontavious Carter is another talented kid in the mix. Louis-Jean and Lewis look like future starters, but overall a very deep and potentially special group.
10:45 am: Will Avery Young come to the U???? The 4 star O Lineman would be another nice pickup. Alabama proved that National Championships start up front. Fingers crossed here!!
Sleeper Alert Part 2: Watching some highlights of RB Danny Dilliard may not make you forget Duke, but he looks like a load. Already 210, he should get bigger and provide a “smash” to Johnson’s “dash”.
11:04 AM: Miami adds DT Dequan Ivery 6’4 310, originally a Louisville commitment. Ivery is a 3 star prospect who adds depth to the D line. Ivery looks to be a run stuffer. A nice steal by Golden and Co.
(Jerry wonders, Can he dunk like Dequan Jones?)
My top 5 UM recruits:
1) RB Randy “Duke” Johnson
2) CB Tracy Howard
3) DB Deon Bush
4) WRs Angelo Louis-Jean/Malcolm Lewis
5) LB Raphael Kirby
Another steal: 4 star DB Antonio Crawford and his 4.4 speed are headed to UM. Crawford was a verbal commit to Georgia Tech. Along with Larry Hope, Vernon Davis, and of course Howard, Crawford adds to Miami’s very deep class of DBs. Are the days of Sean Taylor, Antrel Rolle, & Ed Reed returning?
Rumor has it, 3 star MLB Jawand Blue has switched commits from VA Tech to UM. Coach Beamer must be steaming!!! Al Golden is a closer!!!
1:40 EST:Andrus Peat declares for Stanford, phew. Was worried he’d go to FSU. The massive offensive lineman is a steal for the Cardinal!!
2PM EST: Avery Young announces he will be attending Auburn. War Eagle it is.
At this point all of the major announcements affecting Miami are through. We will do a full write-up on the class in the next few days for those interested. What an exciting day so far!!!! The big news being the addition of Tracy Howard. Congratulations to all the newest ‘Canes and Al Golden and staff.
Don’t forget this evening’s signing day party at the BUC, leading up to Miami’s critical home Men’s Basketball game against Maryland starting at 8pm EST. Go ‘Canes!!!!!
