After the disappointment of Selection Sunday and the terrible Tuesday of watching Iona blow a 25pt 2nd-half lead, we called on our Category 6 computer programmers to run a simulation. At first they resisted, despondent over What if Miami had been put in the play-in game instead of Iona? We also reverse simulated Durand Scott’s ridiculous suspension.
In the simulated play-in game, Miami took on BYU and came away with a virtually hard-fought 64-60 victory over the Cougars. The ‘Canes balanced attack was spearheaded by Trey McKinney Jones (12pts, 5reb, 1ast, 1stl).
After being cleared by the BSNCAA, Durand Scott (10pts, 7reb, 5ast, 1stl) struggled from the field but came up big on the glass and finding teammates for open looks. Scott drilled some big FT’s down the stretch to maintain Miami’s slim lead.
Kenny Kadji (11pts, 6reb, 1stl, 1blk) drilled his lone attempt from 3 and pinned Noah Hartsock against the glass on a big defensive possession. Malcolm Grant (9pts, 2reb, 2ast, 1stl) hit both his 3′s and DeQuan Jones (9pts, 5reb, 1) had a steal that led to a breakaway dunk.
Shane Larkin (5pts, 5reb, 4ast, 6stl) created chaos for BYU’s ball-handlers. Larkin picked Matt Carlino 3 times and finished one of those steals off with a spectacular lob to Rion Brown (6pts, 2reb, 1ast). Reggie Johnson (2pts, 6reb, 3ast) was double and triple-teamed when the ‘Canes tried to get it to him in the post. The attention paid to Reggie seemed to open up the deep ball for the ‘Canes. As a team Miami shot a sterling 9-17 (52.9%) from beyond the arc.
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.
Miami fans have much to cheer about, even with the loss to FSU on Saturday. Not only are the ‘Canes currently above .500 in the ACC, but the schedule looks favorable from here on out. With 4 of the remaining 6 games at the BUC, Miami has a real shot to finish with 10 wins and earn a trip to the “Big Dance.”
While that would be truly great feat (especially considering its Coach L’s first season and the underwhelming start to the season), what Miami fans should really feel good about is the future of the program. Though not a forgone conclusion, K2 and Big Reg have additional eligibility, we have the right coach to lead this program (Kudos to AD Eichorst for getting him an extension), and Shane Larkin is only going to get better.
Since Shane was originally committed to DePaul University little attention was paid to him by Miami fans coming out of High School. Upon arrival on UM’s campus, not much was known about the 6’1” point guard other than his pro sports pedigree (his father, Barry Larkin was an elite baseball player.) So, before we move forward, let me go backwards.
Coming out of Dr. Phillips (“DP”) High School, in Orlando, Larkin, was a two-time Class 6A first-team all-state player, the second-leading scorer in DP history (with 1,633 career points) and he holds Panthers records for steals in a season (114) and career (320). As a senior, he led DP to a 27-6 record and state runner-up finish with team-high averages in scoring (18.8 points), assists (6.4), rebounds (6.3) and steals (3.5).
Shane was the #3 Recruit in Florida and #93 Nationally. He was the #2 Point guard in Florida (behind that Rivers guy at Duke) and was ranked as the #16 PG in the country.
Here is a video of Larkin vs. Rivers in High School.
At our first sighting (Midnight Miami), it was easy to see that inherited talent on display. His quick hands, lighting fast speed, and incredible poise (as a true freshman nonetheless) was something to behold.
Since being put into the starting line-up, the ‘Canes are an impressive 5-1, beating Duke and having only FSU’s loss as a blemish (we couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn, no thanks to FSU’s tough D). This is no mere coincidence; Larkin is as talented a pure point guard as they come and is the glue that keeps this team together on the court. And while just a newbie to UM, he has quickly risen up the ranks of my favorite all-time UM hoops players.
However, this Michelangelo is not yet complete. There are several things (though mostly minor) that need to be refined in order for Larkin to become an elite player. Under Coach Larranaga’s tutelage, Larkin has a real chance to become a truly special player.
Tonight will be a tough match-up and a good test for Larkin as the ‘Canes are going up against one of the premier teams in both the ACC and Country in No. 5 ranked UNC. With practically 4 starting caliber NBA players on their team, UNC will be hard to contain. However, after toppling Duke at Cameron (I’m still riding high on that one), I believe the Hurricanes have enough to win this game.
Miami headed into Tallahassee riding a 5-game winning streak but fell 64-59 to the Seminoles. The game was marked by rough rival-style play reminiscent of a time when Miami was in the Big East and Leonard Hamilton was their skipper. Hamilton brought his physical brand of basketball to the ACC and Miami was ready to go toe-to-toe.
The ‘Canes threw everything they had at the Seminoles but Bernard “Social Security” James (18pts, 6reb, 2stl, 4blk) was too much for the ‘Canes to handle. James, an FSU elder-statesman at 27 years-old, had one of his best games of the season and was a nightmare for the ‘Canes all afternoon. All kidding aside, James served the U.S. Air Force admirably before winding up at Florida State – and Category 6 salutes his service. Cool story about him here. Well, maybe not all kidding aside . . .
The game was a physical bloodbath for the most part as the referees let both teams play. There were a few early possessions where Reggie Johnson (4pts, 6reb, 1ast, 1stl) was creamed trying to establish post position and it seemed to take him out of his game. Here’s some footage of the back-and-forth action from Tallahassee . . .
FSU’s blistering physical defense was also a culprit on Miami’s inability to score in the post. Kenny Kadji (14pts, 6reb, 1ast, 1blk) led the ‘Canes in scoring, but most of his shots (4 out of 7) were 3-pointers. Kadji can definitely nail the 3 and ‘Canes fans worldwide hold up their arms in anticipation of a make when he shoots ‘em, but the ‘Canes inability to get it going inside was evident in the team’s collective woes from beyond the arc (5 out of 23 – 21.7%). Sure, there were some open looks that were missed, but for the most part Miami had to jack up 3′s as the shot clock faded to zero. FSU’s tough defense deserves a tip of the cap.
Durand Scott (12pts, 5reb, 3ast, 2stl) surged late in the game. Scott’s two steals resulted in coast-to-coast dunks, the latter kept the door open for a possible ‘Canes comeback. Malcolm Grant (9pts, 3ast, 1stl) found some range inside the arc. Shane Larkin (5pts, 1ast, 1stl) was cold from the field, but he was pesky on defense and helped force a number of turnovers. Rion Brown (5pts, 3reb) and Trey McKinney Jones (3pts, 2reb, 1ast) played tough defense, but quality scoring opportunities were few and far between for all ‘Canes players.
DeQuan Jones (7pts, 5reb, 1stl) played another physical game. When Larranaga went small late in the game, Jones played center for the ‘Canes and did an admirable job. Jones also flirted with technical fouls on almost every play he was involved in by staring down FSU players after dunks and put-backs.
The 3-point shooting was reminiscent of the home loss to N.C. State, but the ‘Canes played with effort and were in the game until the end against a very good (and #15th ranked) team on the road. Miami will get a chance for revenge @ the BUC on Sunday, Feb. 25 @ 6PM.
Next Game: The ‘Canes (15-8, 6-4) have a huge home match-up against UNC on Wednesday night @ 8PM. Come out and support the team!
Coming off a monumental win at Cameron over Duke ‘Canes fans wondered if the next match-up was the definition of a “trap game”. It had all the ingredients of a let-down in the making. VT has been struggling this season getting wins, but they’ve played some of the better ACC teams tough. Miami had the momentum and used it early and often on their way to a 65-49 drubbing of the Hokies. The win also moved Miami to 6-3 in the ACC with 7 games to play.
Just before tip-off . . .
Coach Larranaga had his squad ready to play and the Hurricanes coasted to an easy win. The ‘Canes used a balance attack to systematically wear-down the Hokies. Miami didn’t go away from their big match-up advantages and utilized Reggie Johnson (15pts, 7reb, 4ast, 1blk) and Kenny Kadji (11pts, 4reb, 3blk) effectively in building a 8 point halftime lead.
Trey McKinney Jones (7pts, 3reb) and Rion Brown (8pts, 3reb, 1stl) both played with energy and really stretched the floor for the ‘Canes and finished breaks with athletic dunks. DeQuan Jones (4pts, 2reb, 1stl, 3blk) played great defense and continues to focus on being opportunistic on offense.
Coach Larranaga has some final words for the team in the waning moments of the win over VT.
Again, one of the hallmarks of ‘Canes victories this year is the assist/turnover differential. Against VT, the ‘Canes dished out 13 assists and only turned the ball over 9 times. There is no question that the approach Coach Larranaga has brought to the Hurricanes is already paying dividends in a variety of areas.
But there is also little doubt that the emergence of true freshman point guard Shane Larkin (14pts, 2reb, 4ast, 1stl) has really solidified the ‘Canes offense. Larkin was all over the court (as usual) and was deadly from behind the arc. Larkin is also a calming influence on the Hurricanes, even with his frenetic style of play. I’ve heard a rumor that Larkin was just a so-so athlete before he arrived at the U. There was something about an accident in his chemistry class. Someone made a mock trailer for his story . . .
Durand Scott and Malcom Grant both struggled from the floor but contributed in other ways. Scott hit the glass and Grant found teammates for open looks. It’s never good when two of your best offensive players can’t find the range, but it’s also a testament to how far this team has come. The ‘Canes are deep and can cover for each other on a day when the shots just aren’t falling.
This game wasn’t a sterling display of basketball, but it was evident that Miami had more talent and experience than a very young Virginia Tech team. They seemed to coast to a lopsided victory. There was a brief moment where VT cut the lead to 5 in the 2nd half, but there wasn’t an ominous feeling. On the next possession McKinney Jones nailed a three and the Hokies seemed to be looking for a way out of the BUC.
Offensive Player of the Game: Reggie Johnson continued his torrid week. After feasting on the Plumlee brothers Miami’s marshmellow-handed center played with energy and intensity. He even hit a 3 which drew some rousing cheers. No offense Reg, but your 3-pt form looks like what I’d imagine a giant would look like throwing stones at a village nestled in a canyon below. Since I couldn’t find that on the interwebs . . .
Defensive Player of the Game: This was a team effort, but Kenny Kadji had a ridiculous block. I’m shocked the ball didn’t fuse with the backboard somehow.
Player of the Game: Reggie Johnson takes it by a nose in a team-effort.
The Good: The ‘Canes won and didn’t have to sweat all that much.
The Bad: Too many empty seats at the BUC. There was a decent student turnout – and they were plenty noisy – but we need more foot-soldiers from the campus. We especially need more support from alumni and the community.
Sebastian leads the student section battlecries!
The Ugly: The post I’m going to pen discussing the volume of empty seats at the BUC.
Next Game: The ‘Canes venture to Tallahassee on Saturday to take on the Seminoles of FSU @ 1pm.
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)
Somewhat inspired by Jerry’s sudden desire to post about football, I contacted the computer programmers at Category 6 and gave them this challenge: What would a game between the 2001-2002 undefeated national championship Miami Hurricanes team and the Cam Newton-led Auburn Tigers who took home the bacon last season look like?
Ken Dorsey (11) looks for a future NFL star to throw the ball to.
Cam Newton (2) stiff-arms a defender face-first into the turf.
Ken Dorsey was a mentor to Cam Newton before his scintillating rookie season. Netwon is poised to be a future NFL superstar and Category 6 thinks that Dorsey has a career as a head coach somewhere in his future. Maybe at the U.
FIRST QUARTER: Auburn won the toss and elected to receive. After a modest return to their own 31, the Tigers sputtered on offense, despite a 28-yd hookup from Newton to Darvin Adams. Ed Reed blew up a draw play on 3rd and 2 to force a punt. Miami fared better on their first possession, despite some silly penalties. Dorsey hit Andre Johnson with a 32-yd strike. Locked-in, Dorsey hit Kevin Beard and Jeremy Shockey for a succession of first downs moving the ‘Canes into the red zone.
Ed Reed (20): making life difficult for opposing defenses one play at a time.
Clinton Portis (28) had a monster simulated game with 238 total yards and 4TD's.
The drive stalled after Dorsey was sacked by Ryan Smith on 3rd and 2, resulting in a 27-yd field goal by Todd Sievers. After a quick 3-and-out, Miami took possession again and Clinton Portis went to work, busting a 16-yd run on a draw on 3rd and long to keep the drive going.
Dorsey then hit Shockey, Robert Williams, and finally, Ethnic Sands in the end zone for the game’s first TD. Nick Fairley blocked the PAT and showed why he was the Lions 13th pick in last year’s NFL draft.
Nick Fairley (90) blocked a PAT and was held to only a single sack in the simulation.
Michael Dyer (5) was Auburn top player, rushing for 141-yds and 2 touchdowns on 14 carries.
After a return to their own 41-yd line, the Tigers went to the option on their first play. Netwon made the first defender miss with his strength and pitched to Dyer who bolted down the sideline for a 59-yd score. The Hurricanes only needed one play to answer after a short return to their own 16.
Dorsey faked an end-around to Andre Johnson which confused Auburn’s linebackers. Portis leaked into the flat and Dorsey floated a pass that just missed the outstretched hand of LB Craig Stevens who was struggling to recover. Portis caught it and turned on the jets, streaking for 84-yds and a score. END OF FIRST QUARTER: MIAMI 16 AUBURN 7.
Wes Bynum (18) wishes via leaning and contorting that his simulated kick was 18-inches further to the left.
SECOND QUARTER: After a return to the 20, the Tigers struggled to move the ball until Netwon hit Terrell Zachery for a 28-yd gain. Netwon then used his legs to scramble for a couple of first downs. Newton continued to press his luck and the ‘Canes corralled him for two consecutive losses bringing up a 41-yd field goal attempt by Wes Bynum that sailed wide-right. Usually, this kind of effort is reserved for Seminole kickers. On their first play of the drive, Miami went to the screen pass.
Bryant McKinnie got out in front and leveled Stevens, freeing up space for Portis to operate. Portis made three additional defenders miss before being forced out of bounds. Dorsey hit Andre Johnson with a short pass. Johnson shed tacklers turning a short gain into a 39-yd pass play that took the ‘Canes into the red zone.
Bryant McKinnie (78) was a pancake machine.
Andre Johnson (5) = BEAST
However, the drive stalled there and the ‘Canes called on Sievers who converted a 24-yd try. Auburn returned the kickoff to their own 35 and went back to the ground game. After converting a couple of short first-down opportunities, the Tigers went back to the draw and Dyer didn’t disappoint.
He darted past an overzealous defensive front and sped 42-yds to the promised land. The ‘Canes tried to answer with Portis but the Tigers stopped a 3rd and short plunge forcing a punt. Auburn faced the same fate, going 3-and-out. Miami returned the resulting punt to their own 35 and Dorsey went to work hitting Beard, Shockey and Williams for first downs to lead the ‘Canes deep inside Auburn territory. Auburn defenders were gassed and Miami called on Portis to score on a 7-yd run. After this score both defenses stiffened. Auburn went 3 and out and Miami did the same as Fairley sacked Dorsey on a big 3rd and long pass attempt. Auburn tried to get something done in the 2-minute drill, but the ‘Canes defense stopped the Tigers in their tracks. END OF HALF: MIAMI 26, AUBURN 14.
As the teams headed into the locker room, Netwon implored his offensive line to give him more time to look down field. Auburn appeared fired-up, despite being down by 12 at the half. The ‘Canes appeared confident and looked to continue to stifle Auburn’s offense. Before vanishing into the tunnel, Portis gave “The U” salute and nodded his head confidently.
Tune in later this week for the 2nd half and the conclusion of the game.
