Eye on the U

Hot time in MIami: Gators at Canes in football: noon on Sept. 7 on ESPN.

University of Miami tailgaters might want to get to sleep early on Friday, Sept. 6th. That's because the highly anticipated Florida Gators at Miami Hurricanes football game was announced for a noon kickoff at Sun Life Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 7 on ESPN -- upsetting fans who would rather have a night game.

A night game would certainly be a great draw and the event to party around at Sun Life. UM would get heavy-duty exposure. And let's face it, night games are always more fun (unless you're on deadline or savor getting broiled outside).

Turns out that ABC has NASCAR from Richmond, Va., that night and ESPN is broadcasting the Notre Dame-Michigan football game in prime time. A game has not yet been announced for the prime-time ESPN2 slot.

"We requested and lobbied ESPN for an evening slot for the game vs #BeatUF.'' tweeted UM athletic director Blake James. "Unfortunately, they were unable to accomodate.'' 

 I just got off the phone with ESPN spokesman Mike Humes, whom I asked about the noon start.

"Essentially, we looked at all the options and this was the best available window for the game,'' Humes said. "We average probably around three million viewers for that time slot. So it wasn’t like, 'Let’s put the worst game on at noon.' The noon window does really well with fans.

"We view this as a great matchup. Scheduling games is like putting together differrent puzzles with different time zones and commitments, and this was the best window.''

 UM AD James also tweeted this: "espn/abc wanted to take game national 3:30 slot is regional coverage."

Humes said the 3:30 p.m. ABC game is Oregon at Virginia.

In other Canes football news, the Aug. 30 season opener at Sun Life Stadium against FAU will kick off at 8 p.m. Aug. 30 -- a Friday -- and will be aired by ESPNU.

SUSAN MILLER DEGNAN 

Golden letting the good times roll this spring for Canes because team has showed maturity

They filmed their own Harlem Shake video and have spent all spring bobbing their heads to music throughout practice.

Thursday morning the fun continued for the Miami Hurricanes as coach Al Golden ended practice by having his offensive and defensive linemen line up and try to catch a simulated punt from a jugs machine.

After 10 embarrassing and rip-roaring moments of laughter, defensive lineman Luther Robinson saved the team from sprints with a bobbling catch and a 50-yard dash and dive into the end zone with a happy team chasing him from behind.

"We capture that film now, hold it until the perfect time to show them," Golden said with a smile. "All those guys who think they're great athletes, AAU basketball players, the truth is revealed."

As tough as the past two years have been with an NCAA investigation hanging over the program's head and players getting themselves suspended with off-the-field issues, Golden said he's allowed the team to cut loose a little this spring because they've earned it.

"This is a very mature team," Golden said. "Every year is different. These guys go to work and they make it fun. They make it fun because they're where they need to be. There's not a lot of list guys. They got a purpose and a focus about them. When you have that you can really enjoy the journey."

Tight end Beau Sandland, one of the Hurricanes' most prized new additions, said he's been blown away by how much fun Golden and his staff have had this spring -- while also getting the important work done they need to get done.

"I'm so happy I'm here right now," Sandland said. "Coach Golden's been in our shoes. He played tight end, played in the league. He knows how tough it is. The vast majority of teams aren't going to have a three-day weekend on Easter and a barbeque. You saw there at the end we were supposed to run and he gave us every opportunity at the end to not make us run. It's definitely exciting to have a real close-knit team."

Part of that closeness, Golden pointed out, is built by having the team's out-of-state players like Sandland spend Easter weekend with their Florida-native teammates. Inside the team's locker room, Sandland said, is a list dubbed: "No Player Left Behind."

"Our parents are great," Golden said. "Kacy Rodgers' mom and Duke Johnson's mom cooked for players last Thanksgiving. Parents step up and say bring so-and-so over and will cook for them and spend the weekend and it's fun."

> Hundreds of local recruits and coaches attended Thursday's practice and were treated to a barbecue with the team afterward.

"It's great," Golden said. "What can be more revealing, an honest look at your program than having them watch you coach, interact with the players? We must have had 400, 500 people out here today including coaches, family."

THIS AND THAT

> Golden said Ryan Williams is continuing to fight off redshirt freshman Gray Crow for the backup quarterback job behind Stephen Morris. Williams has shown better arm strength and speed in the pocket.

"Stephen needs to understand his competition is not necessarily here" Golden said. "He's competition might be at Texas or USC. He has to understand if he wants to be the best he has to compete against the best in college football."

> Golden said the areas of improvement he wants to see in the team's next scrimmage a week from Friday in Naples is "goal-line offense and short-yard offense."

"We didn't finish drives as well as we needed to," he said. "Our tackling needs to improve dramatically on defense. I thought we did a much better job on defense of eliminating the explosive plays. But we didn't get the ball down the field enough on offense either."

> Golden said the biggest surprise of the spring at tight end has been redshirt freshman Jake O'Donnell.

"Now you're talking about five guys competing for playing time," Golden said. "It's raised Clive [Walford's] game. It's raised Asante [Cleveland's] game. I said last week Asante is having as good a spring as anybody. It gives us a chance to go with two tight ends on the field or in Clive's case deploy him, flex him out and get him the football more than we have the last two years."

Canes head to DC, Sweet 16 without Reggie Johnson

The Miami Hurricanes boarded a bus for the Sweet 16 on Tuesday evening without the biggest player on the roster and its top rebounder.

Center Reggie Johnson will not be making the trip to Washington, D.C., two teammates confirmed, because of a knee injury. UM later released a statement saying Johnson (6-10, 292) sustained a lower extremity injury in the win over Illinois Sunday and his timetable for a return is uncertain.

"We're all just going to have to step up," said sixth-year senior forward Julian Gamble. "Hopefully we get him back for the Final Four."

UM coach Jim Larranaga didn't discuss the injury before the news began to spread as players and coaches began boarding a bus bound for the airport in front of the BankUnited Center. By the time reporters began asking questions to players who were signing autographs and taking pictures with fans, Larranaga was already on the bus. 

UM faces Marquette Thursday night. Johnson, who is averaging 6.9 points and leads the team with 7.0 rebounds a game, is averaging 2.8 points, 3.8 rebounds and shooting 28.9 percent from the field (13 for 45 field goals) in 13.3 minutes per game over his last 12 games.  

"I've said this before and I know you guys make a lot more of it than we do, but we've had great performances from our big guys," Larranaga said when asked about Johnson earlier in the afternoon. "They combine to do what we need done."

The Hurricanes have been starting Gamble and Kadji in the post. Gamble is averaging 6.5 points and 4.9 rebounds a game. Kadji, a stretch-four, is averaging 13 points and 6.9 rebounds a contest. 

With Johnson out, UM will count on freshman Tonye Jekiri (1.4 ppg, 1.6 rpg) and junior Erik Swoope (1.4 ppg, 1.2 rpg) for more production.

Golden calls Tuesday's practice best since he's been coach; Dyron Dye, M. Lewis, Jontavious Carter news

The University of Miami did not release a new depth chart following its first football scrimmage of the spring on Saturday, but its safe to say whoever failed to perform to the level expected of them brought their A-games on Tuesday.

Hurricanes coach Al Golden called Tuesday's practice: "the best since I've been a Miami Hurricane coach."

Why so good? According to Golden the team's most talented players didn't play their best Saturday and a lot of them came out with "pride because they didn't live up to their own expectations or they felt a little heat from somebody."

"There were a lot of guys in that scrimmage the other day that either weren't happy with their performance or got a sniff of it or two and are now running with the [first team]. I think the whole competition level rose today and guys responded," Golden said. "It had all the elements of a great practice. It had very few mental errors and had a great approach from the get-go. They started fast and competed. I had to keep looking at my watch because it was moving so fast. We got a lot done."

> Despite acknowledging that a leg injury to Dyron Dye on Saturday is "significant," Golden wasn't ready to release any more news on the fifth-year senior defensive end on Tuesday "until I hear from the medical people."

"It's terribly disappointing. It was basically a non-contact [injury] if you will, just running," Golden said. "We're all praying for him. Hopefully we'll have some good news here."

While Dye's injury doesn't appear to be good, Golden said every other player dinged up on Saturday was back at practice Tuesday. One guy who isn't practicing, but showing positive signs coming off injury is sophomore receiver Malcolm Lewis.

"I don't know if you were at the scrimmage the other day but he was out pregame running routes, which I didn't okay and was surprised as anybody to see it," Golden said. "But if he's out there it's because the trainers said it was okay for him to do it. I was just shocked to go out there and see him coming out of a break.

"That's amazing. That is an amazing feat, really a medical miracle that he's able to do that. We'll be careful with him until June, keep his weight down and then condition him on the bike and get him stronger. We're really excited for him to have a full recovery."

> With the number of scholarship running backs a bit low, Golden said the focus this spring has been to get sophomore Duke Johnson to learn to carry the load "and teaching him to be a 20-carry guy" while also being careful with his reps.

In the meantime, Golden said: "The guy that is probably having the best spring right now is Dallas Crawford. We don't have a final word yet on Eduardo [Clements] so we don't know where he's at. But certainly Dallas stepping up and [redshirt freshman] Danny Dillard stepping up has helped a lot. We have Gus [Edwards] coming in. I think we'll be okay."

Golden said UM plans on recruiting two to three running backs in its next signing class.

> Golden said redshirt freshman receiver Jontavious Carter (6-2, 208) had too many plays on Saturday where he didn't finish.

"He's got to learn to play big," Golden said. "He's not Phillip. He's not Malcolm. He's got to learn to play big. Big receivers catch slants. Big receivers show up in the red zone. Big receivers are blocking and cracking and distorting safeties and outworking people. Once he understands that and does it everyday then he can be fine."

> Golden once again had high praise for freshman linebacker Alex Figueroa (I'll have a story on him in Wednesday's paper) and kicker Matt Goudis, who booted a 49-yard field goal Saturday. A scout on hand Tuesday told me he thinks Figueroa is a future NFL linebacker.

> Despite tallying a handful of sacks Saturday, defensive coordinator Mark D'Onofrio said a big reason for the success was having three guys out on the offensive line.

"I think we're getting better there, but that scrimmage shouldn't be the one indicator we're improving," D'Onofrio said. "I think the guys we've recruited -- [Al-Quadin] Muhammad and [Ufomba] Kamalu are going to make a big impact with the group."

> UM's receivers had about eight to 10 drops on Saturday and both Phillip Dorsett and Allen Hurns said that needs to improve.

"Every third down we've got to make the catch," Hurns said.

Said Dorsett: "We got to get better, show more effort."

> Hurns absolutely crushed safety Deon Bush during 7-on-7 work Tuesday.

"I wasn't supposed to do it. I was just caught up in the moment," he said afterward. "I have to apologize because that's not what we're supposed to do as teammates."

Hurns, who has taken a lot of big hits in his career, said it felt good though to dish out a little punishment. And Bush didn't seem to mind.

"It's all part of the game. It's nothing personal," Bush said. "It's a good sign to see that [from Hurns]. That's good that all the receivers they're really trying to get control of the blocking and stuff like that."

B-Rad named Atlantic Coast Conference Pitcher of the Week; Send off Canes' basketball team Tuesday

Congratulations to left-handed junior pitcher Bryan Radziewski, who was named ACC Pitcher of the Week on Monday.

After off-season surgery, B-Rad made his weekend rotation debut Saturday in a 2-0 win over Virginia Tech, and delivered the first complete game shutout for a UM pitcher since Carlos Gutierrez did it in 2009.

Radziewski, a former Baseball America Freshman All-American, tied for the sixth-most single game strikeouts for any Hurricanes pitcher in program history, striking out 16 Hokies. He gave up a double on his first pitch Saturday, but didn't allow another hit until a single in the eighth.

Radziewski is averaging more than 16 strikeouts per nine innings this season, and has a 0.42 ERA and 3-0 record. Pretty amazing. His 16 strikeouts were the most by a Miami pitcher in a single game since March 17, 1989, when Joe Grahe struck out 18 in a victory over Maine.

The Hurricanes (19-8, 4-5 ACC), who dropped the series finale Sunday, return to play Wednesday against FAU at Alex Rodriguez Park. The game will begin at 6 p.m.

SEND OFF CANES HOOPSTERS

Help send off the Miami Hurricanes men's basketball players as they depart for the Sweet 16.

The Sunday win against Illinois ensured Miami's second trip to the Sweet 16 and the first since the 2000
season.

The Hurricanes will leave Tuesday at 5 p.m. from the BankUnited Center. Fans are encourage to arrive early (4:45 p.m.). Miami, a No. 2 seed in the East Region, will face No. 3 Marquette at 7:15 p.m. ET (CBS) Thursday in Washington, D.C.

SUSAN MILLER DEGNAN

 

Julian Gamble discusses UM's run to the Sweet 16

** Courtesy of fellow Marlins beat writer Clark Spencer who was in Austin, Texas covering the tournament with Michelle Kaufman.

Miami Hurricanes complete first spring scrimmage of 2013 (with our take, plus quotes & stats)

Good afternoon everyone!

I am nursing a pretty bad cold/sinus infection/sore throat -- overall sickness and sent correspondent David Furones to today's scrimmage at Traz Powell.

He was kind enough to write a recap for the blog, so read below for his take on the scrimmage. I'm going to try to sleep, as four hours a night is not working. I've been on
Sony Tennis while MIchelle Kaufman covers the NCAA hoops tourney, and will be back there tomorrow, hopefully, if I can get any sleep.

Here's David's scrimmage recap. He also kept stats on the sideline.

Hope you all have a great weekend.

I heard from a few folks that Stephen Morris struggled a bit today, but also that it was so windy that it was hard to tell how much was him, how much was the wind (and of course, how much was his receivers, rest of offense, etc.).

I also heard that young linebacker Alex Figueroa looks really good. And how can you not love Duke Johnson's quote (all the way down below) on a hit he took from Figueroa. Duke is the ultimate team player.

Please let us know what you thought of today's performance and who you thought did very well -- or who might have disappointed you.

SUSAN MILLER DEGNAN

By David Furones

The UM football team took the field in front of fans
for the first time since the 2012 season finale at Duke.

About 4,000 fans came out to Traz Powell Stadium to
see the first of three spring scrimmages the Hurricanes will play. Coach Al Golden looked to get about 100 plays in, splitting them as evenly as he could between the first team and backups in an hour-and-a-half long scrimmage.

All in all, the scrimmage victor, if there even is
one, would have to be the defense.

Outside of goal-line reps, the Hurricane offense
only scored one touchdown, a three-yard pass from Stephen Morris to Herb
Waters, who was active with four catches for 40 yards.

Even on drives beginning beyond the 50-yard line,
the defense would hold the offense to field goal attempts. Projected starting
kicker Matt Goudis connected on all three of his attempts (37, 25, 49) while
walk-on Ricky Perez missed a pair of attempts from 49 and 50 yards out.

Morris was sporadic with his passing. In windy
conditions Saturday, he overthrew a few of his targets and toward the end of
the day began underthrowing almost as if he was overcompensating.

Overall, he completed 17 of 31 passes for 171 yards,
two touchdowns and two interceptions. Both Morris and Golden were pleased with
his decision-making despite some of the errant throws.

“Stephen’s sharp now,” Golden said. “I think we were
just a little bit off, but in terms of where the ball should go, Stephen was really on top of it today. He rushed a couple of throws, throws that weren’t as crisp as you’d like to be and he just sailed or was a little bit short on
depth, but in terms of his mind and knowing where the ball should go, I think he was right on. His completion percentage is really going to jump from this
scrimmage to the next one.”

Added Morris: “Overall, I feel like I did pretty
well. My reads were right, a couple of times I let my mechanics get to me, balls got a little high or a little too low. Those are all things that you can watch film and improve on.”

Morris’ first interception came on a ball tipped at
the line of scrimmage by defensive end Anthony Chickillo, who then got under it and caught it, and his second pick was an underthrow on a sideline pattern that
cornerback Antonio Crawford cut off on the last play of the scrimmage.

Morris hit junior college tight end transfer Beau
Sandland for a one-yard touchdown in goal-line drills. Running backs Duke Johnson and Danny Dillard ran for touchdowns in those same situations.

You couldn’t tell it was just a scrimmage by the
intensity the defense was playing with. Alex Figueroa set the hard-hitting tone early by knocking Johnson backward on a goal-line carry.

The defensive line was able to get a push up front
against a UM offensive line riddled by injury this spring with center Shane McDermott and guard Brandon Linder being held out. Kelvin Cain had 2.5 sacks,
and Dwayne Hoilett had a pair of sacks himself.

The Canes came out of the scrimmage relatively
healthy. The only apparent major injury came to fifth-year senior defensive end Dyron Dye, who’s moving back to his original position this season after playing tight
end the last two seasons. Dye was helped off the field with some type of leg injury (Achilles' related, possibly).

“I’m worried about Dyron Dye, but I’m just going to
reserve [judgment] until we know more,” Golden said. “Other than that, I think we’re fine.”

Phillip Dorsett also laid on the field for about a
minute after dropping a pass in the end zone, but he eventually got up on his
own power.

Post-game, Golden praised the work of redshirt
freshman guard Danny Isidora, who has cut his weight down to 308 pounds after coming in out of Weston Cypress Bay High School at 350. Isidora has been
working with the first team this spring with injuries on the offensive line.

 

Stats

Passing

Stephen Morris: 17 for 31, 171 yards, 2 TDs (one of
them in goal line drill), 2 INTs.

Ryan Williams: 7 for 14, 69 yards.

Gray Crow: 2 for 5, 16 yards.

Preston Dewey: 2 for 2, 16 yards

 

Rushing

Duke Johnson: 8 carries, 54 yards; in goal line
drill: 4 carries, 5 yards, TD

Dallas Crawford: 12 carries, 54 yards; goal line:
carry, -1 yard

Danny Dillard: 8 carries, 18 yards; goal line:
carry, 2 yards, TD

 

Receiving

Allen Hurns: 4 receptions, 45 yards

Herb Waters: 4 receptions 40 yards, TD

Phillip Dorsett: 4 receptions, 43 yards

Rashawn Scott: 3 receptions, 21 yards

Garrett Kidd: 3 receptions, 39 yards

Beau Sandland: 1 reception, 1 yard, TD

 

Defensive

Sacks: Jelani Hamilton, Dwayne Hoilett (2), Jalen
Grimble, Kelvin Cain (2.5), Dequan Ivery (.5).

Interceptions: Anthony Chickillo, Antonio Crawford

Pass Deflection: Jimmy Gaines

 

Quotes (gathered by David)

WR
Herb Waters on the offense: “We got a long way to
go, but we’re still getting better every day, so I can’t complain about that.”

On the velocity on Stephen Morris’ passes: “Since
last year, it feels like the ball got faster, so he’s getting stronger as we’re getting stronger.”

Offensive
coordinator James Coley on his new team: “I love
everybody. From the players, to the strength coaches, to the assistant coaches, the kids, they give it their all. They’re hungry; they want to win. This is a
team that has a lot of potential.”

On what he wants to work on with offense: “I would say
finishing. It looks good the way the play is developing. Now we have to put that period at the end of that sentence. I love the explosive plays by the
receivers and the running backs. Let’s learn how to score. Let’s get strong in the red zone, in the tight zone. Let’s get in there.”

QB
Stephen Morris on working with Coley: “I think the
biggest thing was he made the adjustments for us, and he really made himself available for the players and he really [was] just able to make this offense understandable for everybody, for us to pick up just so we could play fast.”

On the defense: “They just played fast, and they
played great. They were great tacklers today. The coverages were really good and really sound.”

Coach
Al Golden: “I think we learned a lot about some guys. Herb Waters stepped up; Dallas Crawford stepped up.”

On the defensive line: “There’s a good group of guys
that are back. I thought they played strong. I thought Olsen Pierre played strong, [Anthony Chickillo] played strong, Tyriq McCord showed up on the goal
line.”

On Alex Figueroa hit on Duke Johnson at goal line:
“You want to talk about setting the tone early, there’s a young man that said we’re going to sell out, and you can tell right now there wasn’t anybody here that wouldn’t look at that play and say, ‘That thing must mean a lot to that kid.’”

RB
Duke Johnson on offense: “We’re coming together
pretty well. We’re missing three starting O-linemen. The guys that stepped into their place are doing a good job.”

On hit from Figueroa: “That’s what we need from the
defense. We need them to execute on the goal line like that. If we need them to show us how to do it, then that’s fine with me.”

 

UM Canes football scrimmage at 10 a.m. Saturday at Traz Powell; Hurtt put on administrative leave

Hurricanes to Host Spring Scrimmage at Traz-Powell Stadium
 

Saturday scrimmage will begin at 10 a.m.

 CORAL GABLES, Fla. – Six practices into their spring practice schedule, the Miami Hurricanes will host the first of their three spring scrimmages Saturday. The Canes’ first spring scrimmage will be held at Miami’s Traz-Powell Stadium, beginning at 10 a.m.

The Canes, according to UM, will then have four more practices before their second spring scrimmage of 2013 – an April 5 trip to Naples High School in Naples, Fla. (7 p.m. start). Miami’s annual Spring Game will conclude spring practice April 13 at Sun Life Stadium (3 p.m.) Admission to all three spring scrimmages is free and open to the public.

Head coach Al Golden and his Hurricanes squad opened their spring practice slate March 2, holding four practices before Spring Break.

Per NCAA rules, NCAA Division I football programs may conduct a spring practice segment in which a maximum of 15 practice sessions may occur. The segment must be conducted over a span of 34 consecutive days, excluding institutional vacation periods and exam days.

 CLINT HURTT PLACED ON ADMINISTRATIVE LEAVE

 LATEST ON HURTT, PER AP REPORT

LOUISVILLE, Kentucky — Louisville defensive line coach Clint Hurtt has been placed on administrative leave while preparing to answer allegations of violations the NCAA says he committed while he was a Miami Hurricanes assistant.

Cardinals coach Charlie Strong said Friday Hurtt has been given time away from the program so he "can concentrate on his case."

Hurtt, 34, faces allegations of receiving and providing impermissible benefits while at Miami. The NCAA last month sent Hurtt and Louisville a letter stating that he received a $2,500 loan and provided perks to Hurricanes recruits.

The NCAA also said Hurtt provided false and misleading information during the investigation.

Louisville athletic director Tom Jurich said last month Hurtt would remain on the Cardinals' staff while his case is pending but stopped short of saying he'd be with the program next season.

Hurtt has until May 20 to respond to the allegations.

Strong is handling Hurtt's defensive line duties during spring drills, which began on Wednesday. The coach also said Hurtt is not recruiting for Louisville while he prepares his response to the NCAA.

"We've given him that time and I think it's good that he's doing that," Strong said. "With the many distractions, he just can't do the job that we're asking him to do right now."

Hurtt, who played at Miami, was a Hurricanes assistant for eight seasons between 2001-09. He came to Louisville in 2010, Strong's first season as the Cardinals' coach.

Hurtt is one of three former Miami assistants the NCAA believes misled investigators during the Miami probe. Aubrey Hill and Jorge Fernandez were also accused of violating "principles of ethical conduct."

Several other former Miami coaches are named in the allegations as well, including one-time men's basketball assistant Jake Morton, who the NCAA said, among other things, accepted "supplemental income" of at least $6,000 from Miami former booster and convicted felon Nevin Shapiro.

Morton is now on the staff at Western Kentucky.

Miami is charged with a lack of institutional control, one of the worst allegations the NCAA can levy against a member school.

The NCAA has also revealed internal problems with its own investigative staff's handling of the Hurricanes' probe.

NCAA President Mark Emmert said in January that the organization discovered "a very severe issue of improper conduct" — specifically that the attorney for Shapiro was used "to improperly obtain information ... through a bankruptcy proceeding that did not involve the NCAA."

At least one of the people deposed by attorney Maria Elena Perez as part of Shapiro's bankruptcy case appeared under subpoena, and his testimony would not have been otherwise available to NCAA investigators. College sports' governing body does not have subpoena power.

The investigators who were involved are no longer with the NCAA.

 

2013 Hurricane Club football Spring Tour, with Al Golden, announced: 5 Florida Cities and NYC

The Hurricanes just announced their "Hurricane Club #BuildingChampions Spring Tour,'' which will encompass five Florida cities and New York city during April and May. Football coach Al Golden will attend each event.

Women's hoops coach Katie Meier will appear May 8 in Tampa, and Olympic track coach Amy Deem will be in NYC.

Additionally, the UM Alumni Club of Chicago and Hurricane Club will co-host the annual Chicago Coaches Dinner on Thursday, May 23, at the Westin River North in Chicago.

For questions about any of these events, please call the Hurricane Club at 305-284-6699.

2013 HURRICANE CLUB #BUILDINGCHAMPIONS SPRING TOUR AND SITE INFO

 

Saturday, April 6
Hurricane Club Southwest Florida Golf Classic and Luncheon in Naples (Register)
Registration at 7 a.m., shotgun start at 8 a.m.
Attendance: 128 golfers maximum, sponsorships available
Location: 9800 Treviso Bay Blvd., Naples, FL 34113

Friday, April 26
City Fish Market in Boca Raton, Fla. (Register)
Registration at 11 a.m., luncheon and program at 11:30 a.m.
Pre-RSVP Hurricane Club members: $50; Non-Hurricane Club members: $75
Location: 7940 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL 33434

Wednesday, May 8
Brickhouse Tavern & Tap in Tampa, Fla. (Register)
Hors d’oeuvres at 6:30 p.m., reception at 7:30 p.m.
Pre-RSVP Hurricane Club members: $25; Non-Hurricane Club members: $40; Day-of entry: $50
Location: 1102 North Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33607

Thursday, May 9
Panama Jack in Orlando, Fla. (Register)
Hors d’oeuvres at 6:30 p.m., reception at 7:30 p.m.
Pre-RSVP Hurricane Club members: $25; Non-Hurricane Club members: $40; Day-of entry: $50
Location: 724 Franklin Street, Orlando, FL 32801

Friday, May 10
Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center in Jacksonville, Fla. (Register)
Reception at 6:30 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m.
Pre-RSVP Hurricane Club members: $50; Non-HC members: $75
Location: 1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204

Thursday, May 16
Brother Jimmy’s in New York (Register)
Hors d’oeuvres at 6:30 p.m., reception at 7:30 p.m.
Pre-RSVP Hurricane Club members: $40; Non-HC members: $60; Day-of entry: $60
Location: 181 Lexington Ave., New York, NY 10016 

 

 

 

Copy of Administrative Order by U.S. District Judge Moreno to review conduct of Nevin Shapiro's lawyer

 Click on the link below for the exact document that U.S. District Judge Federico Moreno filed that has initiated a review of the conduct of Maria Elena Perez, the lawyer of former UM booster Nevin Shapiro. 

   "Recently, the Court has learned that Ms. Perez has engaged in conduct that warrants additional review by the Committee,'' it says in the order. "The specific issue is whether Ms. Perez acted unethically in accepting monies from the National Collegiate Athletic Association for her work on three depositions in the bankruptcy case of'' Shapiro.

   A group of U.S. District judges will recommend by May 8 what to do, if anything, in this matter.

   Click here for Court Order

Update on Florida Senator Joseph Abruzzo's quest for Attorney General to initiate investigation of NCAA

   I just spoke with Florida Senator Joseph Abruzzo, who asked Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi to launch an investigation "into the National Collegiate Athletic Association's (NCAA) actions during its probe of the University of Miami's athletic program, per a letter dated Feb. 20.

   Abruzzo said he met with Bondi late Thursday afternoon. He said she has gotten a copy of the 52-page report that came out after the NCAA's external review of its own improper conduct. The report details the NCAA's wrongdoings in the Miami investigation. 

  "She just received the internal report that the NCAA president issued,'' Abruzzo said by phone. "They gave me a copy, too.''

   Abruzzo said Bondi wants to review the report before they meet again next week.

   "Then we'll discuss what’s going to occur at that point,'' the senator said. "She understands my concerns and didn’t brush it off by any means. But she wants to completely familiarize herself with it.

    "We'll set a time to meet later in the week.''

    Abruzzo's Feb. 20 letter to Bondi said that "NCAA Enforcement Staff violated its own rules and engaged in corrupt behavior in an attempt to manufacture misdeeds against the University of Miami. In so doing, the NCAA has demonstrated a lack of institutional control and may have engaged in unfair trade practices in violation of Florida's Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (FDUTPA), Chapter 501, Florida Statues.

   "...I strongly feel that the NCAA's abuse of power and payoffs must be scrutinized to the fullest extent, especially considering the NCAA's role as a regulatory institution of more than 400,000 students across the nation.''

SUSAN MILLER DEGNAN 

 

UM Pro Day Info, Times, per University of Miami

 

Recapping Miami’s 2013 Pro Timing Day
30 of 32 NFL teams represented

 

CORAL GABLES, Fla. – Scouting personnel for 30 NFL teams and two CFL teams ascended upon the University of Miami's Hecht Athletic Center for UM's Pro Timing Day held Thursday. Seventeen athletes participated in drills, including 12 Miami Hurricanes seniors.

 

UM Pro Day began at noon, shortly after the Miami Hurricanes concluded their fourth spring practice and final session prior to Spring Break. Hurricanes players also entertained the NFL scouts while shooting a Harlem Shake video that is expected to drop soon.

 

Before workouts began, participants underwent physical testing in the weight room for height, weight, vertical jump, broad jump and 225-pound rep test. The second portion of UM's Pro Day featured the 40-yard dash, 20- and 60-yard shuttle runs, L drills and position drills.

 

FAMILIAR FACES
Several familiar faces dotted the sideline at GreenTree for UM's Pro Day, including alums Olivier Vernon, Sean Spence, Brandon Washington, Travis Benjamin, Darryl Sharpton, Jacory Harris and Graig Cooper.

 

VERTICAL JUMP
S Vaughn Telemaque recorded the highest vertical jump at 36 inches. WR Kendal Thompkins had the second-highest leap at 35 inches, while both LBRamon Buchanan and Brandon McGee posted 34-inch jumps.

 

BENCH TEST
DL Darius Smith was the lone participant to break the 30-rep plateau, recording 33 reps of 225 pounds. The next closest mark was OL Jeremy Lewis, who tallied 27 reps. Buchanan had the third-best performance at 20 reps.

 

40 FLASH
Both RB Mike James and DB Brandon McGee took their official NFL Combine 40 times. Thursday's best 40 time came from WR Kendal Thompkins, who was officially clocked at 4.37. Buchanan recorded a 4.55 and DB Andrew Swasey came in at 4.66.

 

BIG JUMPS
Buchanan tallied a UM Pro Day-best broad jump of 10 feet, 8 inches. Thompkins came in second at 10 feet, 4 inches.

 

NAME	POS	HT	WT	40 DASH	VERTICAL	BENCH	L DRILL	BROAD
Dalton Botts	P	6-3.4	208	4.85	29	14	-	-
Ramon Buchanan	LB	6-1.5	215	4.55	34	20	7.29	10-8
Mike James	RB	5-10.6	217	Combine	Combine	Combine	6.98	-
Davon Johnson	WR	5-10.3	193	-	-	-	-	-
Ben Jones	OL	-	-	-	-	-	-	-
Jeremy Lewis	OL	6-2.7	321	5.13	29.5	27	7.69	8-11
Brandon McGee	DB	5-11.2	191	Combine	34	Combine	-	9-11
Darius Smith	DL	6-1.4	334	5.55	23	33	8.52	8-2
Andrew Swasey	DB	5-8.7	198	4.66	31.5	18	7.03	9-1
Vaughn Telemaque	DB	6-1.2	200	4.70	36	11	6.97	9-7
Kendal Thompkins	WR	5-9.7	176	4.37	35	11	7.06	10-4
Jake Wieclaw	K	6-1.0	196	4.89	29.5	10	-	-

 

**Other measurements:

Ray Ray Armstrong (6-30, 216, Bench: 18, Vertical: 34.5, 40: 4.65, Broad: 9-8, L Drill: 7.23)

Ben Bruneau (5-11.3, 202, 40: 4.45, L Drill: 6.95)

Theron Collier (5-8.1, 193, 40: 4.67, L Drill: 7.17, Broad: 8.11)

Graig Cooper (5-10.4, 211, 40: 4.72, L Drill: 7.08)

Marcus Robinson (6-0.7, 252, 40: 4.75, L Drill: 7.20)

 

30 of the NFL's 32 teams were represented during Thursday's Pro Day in Coral Gables, including Hurricanes legend and Green Bay Packers scout Alonzo Highsmith, Miami Dolphins GM Jeff Ireland and New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick.

 

TEAM	SCOUT/COACH	TEAM	SCOUT/COACH
Arizona Cardinals	Luke Palko	Minnesota Vikings	George Paton
Atlanta Falcons	Marvin Allen	New England Patriots	Bill Belichick
Baltimore Ravens	Joe Hortiz	New England Patriots	Frantzy Jourdain
Buffalo Bills	Tom Roth	New Orleans Saints	Mike Baugh
Carolina Panthers	Jeff Beathard	New York Giants	Chris Mara
Cincinnati Bengals	Mark Carrier	New York Giants	Joe Collins
Cleveland Browns	Chisolm Opara	New York Jets	Brian Smith
Dallas Cowboys	Walter Juliff	New York Jets	Jay Mandolesi
Denver Broncos	Nick Schiralli	Oakland Raiders	Zack Crockett
Detroit Lions	Sheldon White	Oakland Raiders	Joey Clinkscales
Detroit Lions	Shack Harris	Philadelphia Eagles	Ed Marynowitz
Green Bay Packers	Alonzo Highsmith	Pittsburgh Steelers	Dave Petett
Houston Texans	Mike Maccagnan	San Diego Chargers	Jim Jauch
Indianapolis Colts	Todd Vasvari	San Francisco 49ers	Matt Malaspina
Indianapolis Colts	Roy Anderson	Seattle Seahawks	Scott Fitterer
Jacksonville Jaguars	Chris Driggers	St. Louis Rams	Brad Holmes
Kansas City Chiefs	Brett Veach	Tampa Bay Buccaneers	Mike Yowarsky
Miami Dolphins	Jeff Ireland	Tennessee Titans	Tim Ruskell
Miami Dolphins	Brian Gaine	Hamilton Tiger-Cats (CFL)	Dan McManus
Miami Dolphins	Cody Rager	Montreal Alouettes (CFL)	Uzooma Okeke
Miami Dolphins	Chase Leshin
Miami Dolphins	Chris Grier
Miami Dolphins	Chris Buford
Miami Dolphins	Lou Anarumo
Miami Dolphins	Jeff Nixon

 

Canes do the Harlem Shake

Canes Pro Day tomorrow: (Jacory, Ray-Ray on list); UM Sports Hall of Fame Banquet; More Baseball

The Hurricanes are off from football practice today, but resume tomorrow morning.

Pro Day is also taking place tomorrow at Greentree Field and inside the weight room at the Hecht Athletic Center. It's closed to the public.

The recently departed Hurricanes who will be working out tomorrow are, in alphabetical order, punter Dalton Botts, linebacker Ramon Buchanan, running  back Mike James, receiver Davon Johnson, offensive lineman Ben Jones, offensive lineman Jeremy Lewis, cornerback Brandon McGee, defensive tackle Darius Smith, defensive back Andrew Swasey, safety Vaughn Telemaque and kicker Jake Wieclaw.

The other list of former Canes includes names you know well: safety Ray-Ray Armstrong, receiver Ben Bruneau, receiver Thearon Collier, running back Graig Cooper, quarterback Jacory Harris, long snapper Chris Ivory, defensive lineman Marcus Robinson and defensive lineman Andrew Smith.

2013 UM SPORTS HALL OF FAME BANQUET

   Tickets are on sale for the 2013 UM Sports Hall of Fame banquet, set for April 11 at Jungle Island. Doors open for cocktails at 6 p.m, followed by dinner at 7.

    Individual tickets are $100 each, with tables for 10 available for $1,000.

    The Class of 2013: QB Ken Dorsey (football 1999-2002), OL Brett Romberg (football 1999-2002), Don Soldinger (football assistant coach 1984-88 and 1995-2006), Jay Tessmer (baseball 1994-1995), Ed Contreras (baseball 1957-1959), Bryan Gillooly (diving 1994-1998) and Norm Parsons (administration/coaching 1972-2012).

    To purchase tickets, you can order online at www.UMsportshalloffame.com, or call 305-284-2775.

MIAMI BASEBALL BEATS MAINE, BACK TONIGHT VS. UCF

   Kudos to freshman pitcher Thomas Woodrey, who got his second win of the season by holding Maine to three hits and one run through eight innings last night. The Hurricanes won 6-2 and improved their record to 11-2.

    The Canes meet UCF at 6 tonight at Mark Light Field. The Knights (7-5) lost to North Florida 9-5 yesterday.

SUSAN MILLER DEGNAN

 

 

Sileo gone, Canes back at football, baseball tonight and Al Golden talks about QB/1B David Thompson.

My story from today is below-- what do you all think of Sileo's departure? I was playing his rant after Kansas State on YouTube yesterday and my husband was in the kitchen at the other end of the house and asking me who in the world (well, he didn't exactly ask it that way) was on the phone with me! Funny. 

    Dan Sileo finally wore out his welcome -- just a lot later than many had hoped.
   The WQAM-560 sports talk host, who began his stint in South Florida last April, was fired by the station and was not on the air in his usual daily time slot Monday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
   “We parted ways with him and we wish him well,’’ program director Jorge Sedano said of Sileo, adding that Kevin Rogers and Brandon Guzio will temporarily fill that slot until a permanent replacement is found. 
    John "The Freak" Renshaw, a Saturday host on WQAM and occasional weekday fill-in, is believed to be a front-runner to replace Sileo. 
   Sileo, a UM defensive lineman in 1986, infuriated UM fans with his tirades about the Canes’ football inadequacies — including a three-minute doozy in September after UM’s 52-13 loss at Kansas State. In that rant, which has topped 182,000 hits on YouTube, he urged players to “pull a knife” on the opposing quarterback, “and stick him! Gouge his eyes” and “kick him” in a certain body part. 
   “FIRED FOR SPEAKING MY MIND BABY!!!! Love it!!’’ Sileo posted on Twitter.
    Sileo was suspended for two days in January after posting on Twitter a series of sexist insults about Fox broadcaster Erin Andrews, including, “Love Erin Andrews either naked or in a porn. Not at a sports desk.”

 BACK AT FOOTBALL PRACTICE

   The Canes have resumed spring practice and are in the midst of third third of 15 sessions. Another gorgeous day at Greentree Field in Coral Gables. We get to watch the first 15 minutes of stretching and warmups and a few drills, and then we leave until interviews later. Be back later with update.

BASEBALL (AND DAVID THOMPSON) RESUMES TONIGHT

   Miami meets Maine tonight at The Light to begin a seven-game homestand against Maine.

   The Canes began the season 10-0 for the first time since 1981, but lost the last two against the Gators in Gainesville. On Wednesday night, Miami plays UCF, then goes into the weekend with its opening three-game ACC series against Duke.

   The UM homestand continues with two games against Illinois State March 12 and 13. 

  Freshman David Thompson, who doubles as a football scholarship quarterback during football season, leads the team and is fourth in the ACC with 16 RBI's.

    Thompson has at least one RBI in every game but two this season, and smacked his third game-winning hit of the season in Miami's 3-2 win over Florida last Friday. 

     I asked UM football coach Al Golden on Sunday about Thompson's accomplishments on the baseball field. Golden is well aware.

    "Tremendous,'' Golden said. "I got a text from him yesterday because I congratulated him. I happened to be in the car coming back [from a clinic] when he hit the game-winning RBI Friday night. His hand-eye is excellent, [he's] poised and again, a lot of confidence in that  young man. I'm really proud of him.     "I'm happy for him.''

    When asked by someone if he still expected Thompson to come back and play football, Golden said, "Oh, sure. I expect him to play good football. He's that kind of kid. He's a kid who just figures it out. He's a winner. He's going to help us...''

    SUSAN MILLER DEGNAN  

 

Day 2 of UM Hurricanes spring football practice: Tyriq McCord, Deon Bush, Phillip Dorsett, Tracy Howard

It was another beautiful day at Greentree Field on Sunday, with Day Two of spring practice in the books.

Coach Al Golden seemed pleased, saying the team "got a lot done'' and had "good energy again.''

Golden said he is now the special teams coordinator, taking the place of Micheal Barrow, who remains the linebackers coach. "I've been working with special teams my whole career,'' Golden said. "We wanted to free up Micheal to continue to recruit the way he recruits down here and also focus on the linebackers. A lot of them are very young, and they're going to have a lot to do.''

*Tyriq McCord has made the switch from defensive end to outside linebacker. Golden said "it's really not much of a departure for him'' because "he worked at open-side end or [strong-side] linebacker for us, and then obviously rushed the passer for us on third down.''

Last October, McCord, then a freshman, said sometimes he got "pushed around'' because he had only 232 pounds on his 6-3 frame. He started the 2012 season weighing 227, he told us Sunday. Today, he said he weighs 236 and would eventually like to hit 245.

 He said he's eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to keep his weight up.

He said he "took the challenge'' of changing positions to "help out my teammates.''

"The reaction time is much faster'' being a linebacker, said McCord, who had 15 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 3.5 tackles-for-loss and a fumble recovery last season. "I really see how fast the game is going because I have to read everything. I get to play out in space and sometimes I get to put my hand in the dirt -- I move the D-line sometimes. I get to run around and use my speed a little bit more.''

*Herb Waters, a rising sophomore receiver, had 10 catches for 227 yards and two touchdowns last season for a team-high 22.7-yards-per-catch average. He said quarterback Stephen Morris is looking very strong. "Better than ever,'' said Waters, who, according to Golden, had one of the best off-seasons. "I just worked out with my [more experienced] receivers and they've been helping me get better time-wise and in the weight room.''

*Safety Deon Bush, another rising sophomore, said this spring "feels very different having a year under my belt. Now I feel more comfortable out there and got adjusted to the speed. Sometimes it was difficult last year not knowing what was going on but I just had to learn quick.

    Bush, who had 34 tackles and three forced fumbles in 2012, struggled with stingers last year, but said his "neck is stronger than ever. I've been rehabbing it in the offseason and just working hard getting bigger and stronger.'' He is listed as 6-1 and 201 pounds.

*Phillip Dorsett, a 5-9, 185-pound rising junior out of Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas High, was the leading receiver last season with 58 catches for 842 yards and four touchdowns.

    He said competing in track has "helped me get in way better condition than last year.'' He also has put on five pounds since last season, weighing in now at 184 -- nearly 20 pounds heavier than as a freshman. 

* And Tracy Howard, a rising sophomore cornerback out of Miramar High, seemed contented and happy Sunday.

Howard is back in the coveted black jersey worn by defensive starters, and ready to replace his mentor, departed cornerback Brandon McGee.

     “The key is, he just had to live up to our expectation, not what the outside’s expectation was for him,’’ defensive coordinator Mark D’Onofrio said Sunday. “Once they become comfortable and understand that they don’t have to, Day One, come in and be the best corner that ever played… That’s unrealistic, and it’s really not fair.

    “He’s improved because he’s doing exactly what we’re asking him to do. He’s improved because he’s [doing] the same thing that got him here. The reason why he had such success in high school is because he really loves and game and he will work really, really hard at it.’’

     Howard ended his first season with 17 tackles and four pass breakups. He played in all 12 games and started the final one at Duke. He’s now listed as a starter opposite junior Ladarius Gunter, who had 27 tackles in 12 games (five starts) last season, plus an interception, two fumble recoveries and six pass breakups.

        “I learned to be more patient,'' he said of last year's experience. Everybody wants to come in and be very dominant. But at the cornerback position it takes a lot of learning.”

SUSAN MILLER DEGNAN

Day 1 of Hurricanes' spring football: Golden & James Coley, Hurlie Brown, Larry Scott sign in

 

Notes from Day One of UM spring practice at Greentree Field, where it was a brisk morning in the mid 50s and there was lots of loud music, including the Harlem Shake (players started doing the Shake during stretching) that blared from the loudspeakers:

Golden on...

*How the changes in the offensive coaching staff (new OC James Coley, new tight ends coach Larry Scott and new RB coach Hurlie Brown) have changed things: "Very little. Coach Coley and the offensive staff have done a great job of keeping the nomenclature, keeping the terminology, so that it's not a radical change for [the players]. That's very unselfish on their part, putting the players' first.

*Coley: "He brings a lot of energy, a lot of knowledge and passion. He's really done a great job taking over. He's put his ego aside because we really didn't want to mess with the quarterbacks and offense too much in terms of the terminology. He has adapted and learned some new terminology. He's putting his spin on things, which is great. He needs to do that. He needs to own it. We're very pleased with the way things are going.''

*Scott: "Larry is the consummate professional, just really brings a depth of experience to that position. I'm really pleased that we got off as well as we did today on offense, despite all the transition.''

*2013 schedule (which appears to be much easier than last year's): "I don't worry about that. We're going to play them one way or the other.''

*Who impressed him during the UTough off-season strength and conditioning program: WR Herb Waters, "RB Dallas Crawford, FB Maurice Hagens, TEs Clive Walford and Asante Cleveland, OL Sunny Odogwu, OT Seantrel Henderson, G Jon Feliciano, DT Curtis Porter, DT Olsen Pierre, LB Alex Figueroa, LB Raphael Kirby, CB Tracy Howard, CB Ladarius Gunter ("He might have had the best offseason of anybody'') and "Highsmith and Kacy were steady as always.''

 *Here's who we saw on crutches: linebacker Gabe Terry (right foot in boot), defensive end David Perry (he was recently switched from tight end and had his left foot in a boot).

* We knew those two would be missing spring football, but we didn't know Kacy Rodgers II would come into spring football injured. Rodgers, not listed on the two-deep spring depth chart at safety, is recuperating from minor knee surgery, according to Golden. Rodgers was on the sideline and could not bend his left leg, keeping it very stiff when he walked. "That could be a little while longer, but we expect him to return.''

* Safety A.J. Highsmith, atop the depth chart, wore a red jersey Saturday for no contact. Golden said he has a "little hamstring" injury, but had a "tremendous offseason" and should be back when he's healed.

* Golden confirmed that linebacker Eddie Johnson is still suspended, and that he did not take part in the offseason UTough strength and conditioning program. Golden said he is "hopeful'' that Johnson will return, but unfortunately, the talented redshirt sophomore doesn't have a great track record.

   "I'm hopeful. I pray for him everyday that we'll get through this and we'll make it back but it's on him to be honest with you. He has been suspended. He's on campus but he's suspended.'

* Position changes: former DE Tyriq McCord to outside linebacker -- "That's pretty much what he was before. He worked at open-side end or strongside-linebacker for us, and then obviously rushed the passer on third down.'' TE Dyron Dye to DE, where he started his career at UM -- "He had a really good offseason and he's really serious and focused right now.'' TE to DE David Perry -- "Perry is out right now, but he's a welcomed addition to defensive line. We couldn't do that a year ago because we couldn't do that a year ago because we didn't have [former DE and now TE) Jake O'Donnell over there and Beau Sandland and Stan Dobard over at tight end.

 *RB Eduardo Clements: "We're hopeful [he returns]. Everything we understand is that he is healing and he should be able to return to the action, but that's out of my hands.''

*Rashawn Scott (previously suspended): "He did a good job and earned an orange shirt.''

*Stephen Morris: "Tremendous first day. He really must be studying the playbook like crazy. There's a self-assuredness, there's a confidence and there's a poise about him that he probably didn't have at this time last year.''

James Coley, the new offensive coordinator:

* On whether he is resorting back to the playbook they used last year or is incorporating his own plays: "It’s a little dabble of both. Football is football. We brought some new things in on Day One and kept some terminology to make it easier for the transition. But obviously we’ll be doing things the way it’s best for this team. So, as far as scheme, we’re going to use our personnel."

*On QB Stephen Morris: "Phenomenal. Sharp kid, a real good qb, a great leader. Things get taught and then he reteaches them."

*On RB Duke Johnson: "If you don’t use him you’re crazy. He’s a dynamic player. He’s explosive. He’s what you want in a guy with the ball in his hands. He changes the scoreboard."

* On any good natured ribbing from friends because he made the switch from FSU: "You can just imagine. It’s been crazy. But it’s all fun. I don’t take it personal. This is my team now and these guys are my players, our players. This is my family now."

*On being back where he grew up in Miami: "Great. I wish the Orange Bowl was still around. That’s a sentimental deal for me. It’s crazy driving by 95 and not seeing the Orange Bowl, you know what I mean? But it’s been good being back home. My dad came to practice today and that’s something I haven’t experienced in about seven years."

*On what his offensive philosophy might be with the Hurricanes: "I think it’s important, especially here, to create a vertical passing game because you have a big offensive line and you can create a vertical running game so I think they go hand in hand rather than dinking and dunking. I think there’s places for a dink and dunk offense but I think this offense needs to be an explosive offense.’’

Tight Ends coach Larry Scott: 

 *On his lineup of TEs: "They're talented. They do a good job of retaining information. [New junior-college transfer Beau Sandland] "catches the ball well, runs around well and he's focused.'' [Freshman Standish Dobard], as far as raw talent, it's all there. Once he gets it all and continues to learn and develop and mature he's going to be really good.''

Running backs coach Hurlie Brown: 

*On Dallas Crawford: "Dallas is one of the hardest working guys I've been around. He works his butt off, he's extremely smart, he's up for it. He's very competitive and loves the game.''

 *On transitioning from being a former DB coach: "Attention to detail. Coaching is coaching. As long as you're organized, and that's the biggest key, understanding what your role is and allowing those guys to perform. And teach -- I've got to study a lot more because it's new to me, but that's what you do as a coach.''

 SUSAN MILLER DEGNAN (and thanks to correspondent Steph Rogers for plenty of help today!)

 

Miami Hurricanes' spring practice has sprung: Harlem Shake, crutches and black jerseys

We just witnessed our first 15 minutes of University of Miami's spring practice.

With a considerable chill in the air (temps in the mid 50s), the Hurricanes were outside far before the 9 a.m. time that was given as the starting time (if you're on time, you're late).

Everyone seemed excited to be starting, including defensive end Anthony Chickillo and company, who began dancing to the Harlem Shake during stretching. It didn't last very long, and it was the most entertaining part of our 15 minutes. Chickillo looks like he has the moves.

Here's who we saw on crutches: linebacker Gabe Terry (right foot in boot), defensive end David Perry (he was recently switched from tight end and had his left foot in a boot).

We knew those two would be missing spring football, but we didn't know Kacy Rodgers II would come into spring football injured -- or it sure seemed that way. Rodgers, not listed on the two-deep spring depth chart at safety -- was on the sideline in gray sweats and a red (injured) jersey, and walked with his left leg completely stiff and seemingly unable to bend.

The coveted black jerseys were back, and the ones I noticed (there might have been more) were worn by  Chickillo, incoming freshman linebacker Alex Figueroa, cornerback Ladarius Gunter, cornerback Tracy Howard, defensive end Shayon Green, linebacker Jimmy Gaines, defensive tackle Curtis Porter, linebacker Denzel Perryman and Rayshawn Jenkins, who wore No. 29 but is listed on the roster as No. 26.

Be back after we talk to Al Golden and assistant coaches and some players after practice.

SUSAN MILLER DEGNAN

Football is upon us! Miami Hurricanes release first depth chart for spring practice -- mostly based on offseason program

Could it be football season already?

Not exactly, but it's the closest thing Hurricanes fans will have until fall camp opens in August.

University of Miami coach Al Golden released his first depth chart Friday going into the start of spring practice (at 9 a.m. Saturday and closed to the public). Please keep in mind that the first depth chart is mostly based on the offseason, UTough strength and conditioning program. For example, Golden's first spring depth chart two years ago had Spencer Whipple as the No. 1 quarterback, followed by Jacory Harris and Stephen Morris.

Per UM: Eight players will be held out of spring practice: LB Thurston Armbrister, RB Eduardo Clements, LB Eddie Johnson (suspended indefinitely), WR Malcolm Lewis, WR Robert Lockhart Jr., C Shane McDermott, DL David Perry and LB Gabe Terry.

Here it is, folks (AT THE BOTTOM OF THE CURRENT DEPTH CHART IS THE FINAL DEPTH CHART OF LAST SEASON):

2013 OFFENSE (PRO)

WR 1 ALLEN HURNS 6-3, 195, Sr.
80 Rashawn Scott 6-2, 204, Jr.

LT 79 MALCOLM BUNCHE 6-7, 327, RJr.
74 Ereck Flowers 6-6, 315, So.

LG 70 JONATHAN FELICIANO 6-5, 318, Jr.
64 Hunter Wells 6-4, 310, So.

C 75 JARED WHEELER 6-5, 317, Sr.
54 Hunter Knighton 6-5, 278, Fr.

RG 65 BRANDON LINDER 6-6, 317, Sr.
63 Daniel Isidora 6-4, 308, RFr.

RT 77 SEANTREL HENDERSON 6-8, 340, Sr.
66 Sunny Odogwu 6-8, 318, Fr.

TE 46 CLIVE WALFORD 6-4, 259, Jr.
82 Asante Cleveland 6-5, 258, Sr.

FB 33 MAURICE HAGENS 5-11, 247, Sr.

QB 17 STEPHEN MORRIS 6-2, 214, Sr.
11 Ryan Williams 6-5, 228, Jr.

RB 8 DUKE JOHNSON 5-9, 194, So.
25 Dallas Crawford 5-10, 196, So.
32 Danny Dillard 6-2, 210, RFr.

WR 4 PHILLIP DORSETT 5-10, 185, Jr.
86 Herb Waters 6-2, 188, So.

2013 SPECIALISTS

P 18 MATT GOUDIS 6-0, 172, So.
27 Ricky Carroll –OR– 6-3, 192, Sr.

88 Zach Costa 6-2, 290, So.

FG 18 MATT GOUDIS 6-0, 172, So.

46 Ricky Perez 5-8, 178, So.

KO 18 MATT GOUDIS 6-0, 172, So.
46 Ricky Perez 5-8, 178, So.

H 11 RYAN WILLIAMS 6-5, 228, RSo.
17 Stephen Morris 6-2, 214, Jr.

LS 61 PAUL KELLY 6-1, 262, RSr.
60 Sean McNally 5-10, 205, RJr.

SS 61 PAUL KELLY 6-1, 262, RSr.
65 Brandon Linder 6-6, 317, Sr.

PR 4 PHILLIP DORSETT 5-10, 185, Jr.
8 Duke Johnson 5-9, 194, So.

KR 4 PHILLIP DORSETT 5-10, 185, Jr.
8 Duke Johnson 5-9, 194, So.

2013 DEFENSE (4-3)

DE 71 ANTHONY CHICKILLO 6-4, 269, Jr.
92 Jalen Grimble 6-2, 290, Jr.

DT 96 CURTER PORTER 6-1, 312, Sr.
72 Earl Moore 6-1, 300, So.

DT 91 OLSEN PIERRE 6-4, 300, Jr.
67 Corey King 6-1, 295, So.

DE 51 SHAYON GREEN 6-3, 262, Sr.
49 Dyron Dye 6-5, 261, Sr.

SLB 36 ALEX FIGUEROA 6-3, 231, Fr.
17 Tyriq McCord 6-3, 236, So.

MLB 58 RAPHAEL KIRBY 6-0, 230, So.
59 Jimmy Gaines 6-3, 235, Sr.

WLB 52 DENZEL PERRYMAN 6-0, 236, Jr.
31 Tyrone Cornileus 6-2, 215, Sr.

CB 37 LADARIUS GUNTER 6-2, 196, Jr.
11 Larry Hope 6-0, 183, RFr.

S 26 RAYSHAWN JENKINS 6-1, 215, So.
57 Nantambu-Akil Fentress 5-9, 205, Jr.

S 30 AJ HIGHSMITH 6-0, 210, Sr.
2 Deon Bush 6-1, 201, So.

CB 3 TRACY HOWARD 5-11, 184, So.
35 Nate Dortch 5-11, 175, RFr.

 

FYI, for comparison, here is the final 2012 chart 

2012 OFFENSE 

WR 86 HERB WATERS 6-2, 185, Fr.

1 Allen Hurns 6-3, 192, Jr.

87 Garrett Kidd 6-2, 186, RFr.

LT 79 MALCOLM BUNCHE

–OR– 6-7, 325, RSo.

74 ERECK FLOWERS 6-6, 314, Fr.

LG 70 JONATHAN FELICIANO 6-5, 314, RSo.

68 Jeremy Lewis 6-4, 316, RSr.

C 62 SHANE MCDERMOTT 6-4, 295, RSo.

75 Jared Wheeler 6-5, 314, RJr.

RG 65 BRANDON LINDER 6-6, 308, Jr.

63 Daniel Isidora 6-4, 320, Fr.

RT 77 SEANTREL HENDERSON 6-8, 340, Jr.

74 Ereck Flowers 6-6, 314, Fr.

TE 46 CLIVE WALFORD 6-4, 250, RSo.

82 Asante Cleveland 6-5, 263, Jr.

49 Dyron Dye 6-5, 255, RJr.

FB 33 MAURICE HAGENS 5-11, 240, Jr.

43 Sean Harvey 6-4, 262, RSo.

QB 17 STEPHEN MORRIS 6-2, 214, Jr.

11 Ryan Williams 6-5, 221, RSo.

RB 5 MIKE JAMES 5-11, 220, Sr.

8 Duke Johnson 5-9, 188, Fr.

25 Dallas Crawford 5-10, 192, RFr.

WR 4 PHILLIP DORSETT 5-10, 185, So.

83 Kendal Thompkins 5-10, 182, RSr.

2012 SPECIALISTS

P 13 DALTON BOTTS 6-3, 205, Sr.

40 Jake Wieclaw 6-2, 193, RSr.

FG 40 JAKE WIECLAW 6-2, 193, RSr.

18 Matt Goudis 6-0, 170, RFr.

KO 40 JAKE WIECLAW 6-2, 193, RSr.

18 Matt Goudis 6-0, 170, RFr.

H 13 DALTON BOTTS 6-3, 205, Sr.

11 Ryan Williams 6-5, 221, RSo.

LS 61 PAUL KELLY 6-1, 262, RSr.

59 Jimmy Gaines 6-3, 230, Jr.

SS 61 PAUL KELLY 6-1, 262, RSr.

65 Brandon Linder 6-6, 308, Jr.

PR 4 PHILLIP DORSETT 5-10, 185, So.

8 Duke Johnson 5-9, 188, Fr.

KR 4 PHILLIP DORSETT 5-10, 185, So.

8 Duke Johnson 5-9, 188, Fr.

2012 DEFENSE (4-3)

DE 71 ANTHONY CHICKILLO 6-4, 262, So.

99 Jelani Hamilton –

OR– 6-5, 271, Fr.

90 Ricardo Williams 6-5, 240, RFr.

DT 96 CURTIS PORTER 6-1, 305, RJr.

67 Corey King –

OR– 6-1, 295, RFr.

72 Earl Moore 6-1, 300, Fr.

DT 91 OLSEN PIERRE 6-4, 300, So.
93 Luther Robinson 6-3, 288, RJr.

DE 51 SHAYON GREEN 6-3, 260, RJr.

17 Tyriq McCord 6-3, 236, Fr.

94 Kelvin Cain 6-3, 245, Jr.

OLB 34 THURSTON ARMBRISTER 6-3, 222, So.

44 Eddie Johnson 6-1, 234, RFr.

MLB 59 JIMMY GAINES 6-3, 230, Jr.

56 Raphael Kirby 6-0, 218, Fr.

OLB 52 DENZEL PERRYMAN

–OR– 6-0, 229, So.

36 GIONNI PAUL 6-1, 230, So.

31 Tyrone Cornileus 6-2, 210, Jr.

CB 37 LADARIUS GUNTER 6-2, 198, Jr.

3 Tracy Howard 5-11, 185, Fr.

20 Thomas Finnie 5-10, 183, So.

S 29 RAYSHAWN JENKINS

–OR– 6-1, 203, Fr.

30 AJ HIGHSMITH 6-0, 202, RJr.

S 22 KACY RODGERS II 6-2, 210, Jr.

7 Vaughn Telemaque 6-2, 204, RSr.

2 Deon Bush 6-1, 190, Fr.

CB 21 BRANDON McGEE 6-0, 194, Sr.

39 Antonio Crawford 5-11, 188, Fr

 FYI: The Canes' three open scrimmages are at  10 a.m. Saturday, March 23, at Traz Powell Stadium; at 7 p.m. Friday, April 5 at Naples High School; and at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 13 for the Spring Game finale at Sun Life Stadium.

The Canes practice four times before spring break (March 10-16) and six times before their first scrimmage.

SUSAN MILLER DEGNAN

 

New UM Canes football roster: Eddie Johnson's name removed from roster

The University of Miami has posted a new football roster with the newest players and jersey numbers, in anticipation of spring football, which begins at 9 a.m. Saturday (closed to the public).

Linebacker Eddie Johnson is still suspended indefinitely. His name was mistakenly added to the new roster, then removed in the afternoon by UM.

Some new players with their jersey numbers: Fr TE Standish Dobard, 5 (Mike James' old number); Fr QB Garrison Lassiter, 16; Fr LB Alex Figueroa, 36; Fr OL Sunny Odogwu, 66 (same as Dequan Ivery's); Jr TE Beau Sandland, 85 (same as David Perry).

David Perry, who was a tight end, is now officially listed as a D-lineman.

Dyron Dye, who also was a tight end, is now also listed as a D-lineman, and keeps his former No. 49.

Also, former D-lineman Jake O'Donnell has changed his jersey number from 95 to 83. O'Donnell is now a tight end.

Safety Rayshawn Jenkins has changed his number from 29 to 26 -- that of the late, great Sean Taylor.

The depth chart for tomorrow's first practice is expected to be released today.

HERE'S THE FULL ROSTER, COURTESY OF UM:

1   Allen Hurns WR 6-3 195 Sr. Miami, Fla. (Carol City HS) 2   Deon Bush DB 6-1 201 So. Miami, Fla. (Columbus HS) 3   Tracy Howard DB 5-11 184 So. Miramar, Fla. (Miramar HS) 4   Phillip Dorsett WR 5-9 187 Jr. Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. (St. Thomas Aquinas HS) 5   Standish Dobard TE 6-4 255 Fr. Belle Chasse, La. (Edna Karr HS) 6   Robert Lockhart Jr. WR 6-1 183 So. Delray Beach, Fla. (Fork Union (Va.) Military Academy) 8   Duke Johnson RB 5-9 194 So. Miami, Fla. (Miami Norland HS) 9   Malcolm Lewis WR 6-0 195 So. Miramar, Fla. (Miramar HS) 11   Larry Hope DB 6-0 183 RFr. Miami, Fla. (American Senior HS) 11   Ryan Williams QB 6-6 228 Jr. Pembroke Pines, Fla. (Memphis) (Miramar HS) 12   Preston Dewey QB 6-2 208 RFr. Austin, Texas (St. Andrew's Episcopal) 13   Gray Crow QB 6-3 224 RFr. Clearwater, Fla. (Countryside HS) 15   D'Mauri Jones WR 6-4 192 RFr. Leesburg, Fla. (Leesburg HS) 16   Garrison Lassiter QB 6-2 210 Fr. High Point, N.C. (West Forsyth HS) 17   Tyriq McCord DL 6-3 236 So. Tampa, Fla. (Jefferson HS) 17   Stephen Morris QB 6-2 214 Sr. Miami, Fla. (Monsignor Pace HS) 18   Chad Barnes WR 5-8 170 RSr. Weston, Fla. (Cypress Bay HS) 18   Matt Goudis K 6-0 172 So. West Hills, Calif. (Chaminade-Madonna College Prep) 19   David Thompson QB 6-2 210 RFr. Miami, Fla. (Westminster Christian) 21   Antonio Crawford DB 5-11 185 So. Tampa, Fla. (H.B. Plant) 22   Kacy Rodgers II DB 6-2 212 Sr. Southlake, Texas (Southlake Carroll HS) 23   Eduardo Clements RB 5-9 192 Sr. Miami, Fla. (Booker T. Washington HS) 24   Joey McNeill WR 5-10 172 Jr. Newton, Pa. (The Pennington School) 24   Stephen Sweeney WR 5-11 180 So. Ridgewood, N.J. (New Hampshire) (Don Boscoe Prep) 25   Dallas Crawford RB 5-10 196 So. Fort Myers, Fla. (South Fort Myers HS) 26   Rayshawn Jenkins DB 6-1 215 So. St. Petersburg, Fla. (Admiral Farragut Academy) 27   Ricky Carroll P 6-3 192 Sr. Mission Viejo, Calif. (Orange Coast College) 27   Jameson Labady RB 5-11 220 Sr. North Miami, Fla. (North Miami) 28   Brandon Yosha RB 6-0 188 So. Carmel, Ind. (Cathedral) 30   AJ Highsmith DB 6-0 210 Sr. Missouri City, Texas (Hightower HS) 31   Tyrone Cornileus LB 6-2 215 Sr. Stone Mountain, Ga. (Stephenson HS) 32   Danny Dillard RB 6-2 210 RFr. Bradenton, Fla. (Venice) 33   Maurice Hagens FB 5-11 247 Sr. Riverview, Fla. (Tampa Bay Tech HS) 34   Thurston Armbrister LB 6-3 220 Jr. Hollywood, Fla. (Hollywood Hills HS) 35   Nate Dortch DB 5-11 170 RFr. Fort Myers, Fla. (South Fort Myers) 36   Alex Figueroa LB 6-3 231 Fr. Stafford, Va. (Brooke Point HS) 37   Ladarius Gunter DB 6-2 196 Jr. Montgomery, Ala. (Jefferson Davis) 37   Alex Irastorza WR 6-3 192 Sr. Miami, Fla. (Christopher Columbus HS) 38   Jordan Tolson DB 6-1 195 Jr. Inglewood, Calif. (Harvard-Westlake School) 40   Keion Berry DB 6-0 178 Unk West Palm Beach, Fla. (Berean Christian HS) 41   Wyatt Chickillo DB 6-0 200 Fr. Miami, Fla. (Miami Palmetto HS) 43   Sean Harvey TE 6-4 265 Jr. Largo, Fla. (Indian Rocks HS) 46   Ricky Perez K 5-8 178 So. Miami, Fla. (Dr. Krop HS) 46   Clive Walford TE 6-4 259 Jr. Belle Glade, Fla. (Glades Central HS) 47   Akil Craig LB 6-1 226 Sr. Tampa, Fla. (Tampa Jesuit HS) 48   Hugo Delapenha Jr. DB 5-11 189 Sr. Cape Coral, Fla. (Bishop Verot HS) 49   Dyron Dye DL 6-5 261 Sr. Sanford, Fla. (Seminole HS) 51   Shayon Green DL 6-3 262 Sr. Tifton, Ga. (Tifton County HS) 52   Denzel Perryman LB 6-0 236 Jr. Coral Gables, Fla. (Coral Gables HS) 54   JaWand Blue LB 6-0 225 RFr. Boca Raton, Fla. (West Boca Raton HS) 54   Hunter Knighton OL 6-5 278 Fr. Pottstown, Pa. (The Hun School of Princeton) 55   Frank Gabriel LS 6-3 215 So. Monmouth Beach, N.J. (Red Bank Catholic HS) 56   Raphael Kirby LB 6-0 230 So. Stone Mountain, Ga. (Stephenson HS) 57   Nantambu-Akil Fentress DB 5-9 200 Jr. Nashville, Tenn. (The Ensworth School) 58   Gabe Terry LB 6-3 210 So. Wellington, Fla. (Palm Beach Central HS) 59   Jimmy Gaines LB 6-3 235 Sr. Getzville, N.Y. (Canisius HS) 60   Sean McNally LS 5-10 205 Sr. Bakersfield, Calif. (Garces Memorial HS) 61   Paul Kelly LS 6-1 250 Sr. Davie, Fla. (Archbishop McCarthy HS) 62   Shane McDermott OL 6-4 296 Jr. Lake Worth, Fla. (Palm Beach Central HS) 63   Danny Isidora OL 6-4 308 RFr. Weston, Fla. (Cypress Bay HS) 64   Hunter Wells OL 6-4 310 So. Canton, Ill. (Canton HS) 65   Brandon Linder OL 6-6 317 Sr. Southwest Ranches, Fla. (St. Thomas Aquinas HS) 66   Dequan Ivery DL 6-1 302 So. Lake City, Fla. (Florida Columbian HS) 66   Sunny Odogwu OL 6-8 318 Fr. Baltimore, Md. (Hargrave Military Academy) 67   Corey King DL 6-1 295 So. Boca Raton, Fla. (West Boca Raton HS) 69   Ryan Shiver OL 6-2 226 Fr. Weaverville, N.C. (North Buncombe HS) 70   Jon Feliciano OL 6-5 318 Jr. Davie, Fla. (Western HS) 71   Anthony Chickillo DL 6-4 269 Jr. Tampa, Fla. (Alonso HS) 72   Earl Moore DL 6-1 300 So. Tampa, Fla. (Hillsborough HS) 74   Ereck Flowers OL 6-6 315 So. Miami, Fla. (Miami Norland HS) 75   Jared Wheeler OL 6-5 317 Sr. Hollywood, Fla. (American Heritage HS) 76   Taylor Gadbois OL 6-8 312 RFr. Dallas, Ga. (East Paulding HS) 77   Seantrel Henderson OL 6-8 345 Sr. St. Paul, Minn. (Cretin-Derham Hall HS) 79   Malcolm Bunche OL 6-7 327 Jr. Newark, Del. (Newark HS) 80   Rashawn Scott WR 6-2 204 Jr. Melbourne, Fla. (Melbourne Central HS) 81   Jontavious Carter WR 6-2 208 RFr. Cordele, Ga. (Crisp County HS) 82   Asante Cleveland TE 6-5 258 Sr. Sacramento, Calif. (Christian Brothers HS) 83   Jake O'Donnell TE 6-6 250 RFr. Doylestown, Pa. (Central Bucks East HS) 85   David Perry DL 6-7 262 Jr. Pembroke Pines, Fla. (University School HS) 85   Beau Sandland TE 6-6 255 Jr. Woodland Hills, Calif. (Pierce College) (Simi Valley HS) 86   Herb Waters WR 6-2 188 So. Homestead, Fla. (Homestead HS) 87   Jacoby Briscoe DL 6-5 302 RFr. Lafayette, La. (Carencro HS) 87   Garrett Kidd WR 6-2 188 So. Midland, Mich. (Herbert Henry Dow HS) 88   Zach Costa K/P 6-2 209 So. Hillsdale, N.J. (Pascack Valley HS) 88   Ronald Regula LSLB 6-2 234 Jr. Miami, Fla. (Palmetto) 90   Ricardo Williams DL 6-5 251 So. Homestead, Fla. (Homestead Senior HS) 91   Olsen Pierre DL 6-4 300 Jr. Rahway, N.J. (Fork Union Military Academy) (Rahway HS) 92   Jalen Grimble DL 6-2 292 Jr. Las Vegas, Nev. (Bishop Gorman HS) 93   Luther Robinson DL 6-3 290 Sr. Fort Pierce, Fla. (Westwood HS) 94   Kelvin Cain DE 6-3 242 Sr. Clovis, Calif. (Buchanan HS) 96   Curtis Porter DL 6-1 312 Sr. Charlotte, N.C. (Victory Christian HS) 97   Dwayne Hoilett DL 6-3 240 RFr. Vero Beach, Fla. (Vero Beach HS) 99   Jelani Hamilton DL 6-5 280 So. Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (St. Thomas Aquinas HS)

 

---

 

SUSAN MILLER DEGNAN