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15 November 2010
Who in the world can figure out this Miami Hurricanes football team? After yesterday's performance against Georgia Tech I don't think even Dr. Phil would be able to dissect this team's multiple personalities. Simply put, Miami had its most complete performance this year on Saturday afternoon. From the first drive of the game the offensive line set the tone. Freshman quarterback Stephen Morris had another solid outing going over 200 yards passing. The mistakes seen all year long were greatly reduced and the rushing attack was phenominal as Miami ran the ball 46 times in the game for over 200 yards. On top of that four different backs had touchdowns. Offensively this team is beginning to create an identity of run first and pass second. With an offensive line which averages around 320lbs, hopefully they can carry this formula forward into this week's game.
As for the defense... Who were these guys and where have they been all year? The Hurricane front seven had their best game of the year. McCarthy and Spence were terrific defending the triple option threat and the defensive line did a masterful job in neutralizing Georgia Tech's dive and QB-keep plays. They played very displined football for four quarters and shut down the option attack. The secondary also did a great job with run support and tackling on the edge. I thought Vaughn Telemaque had a standout game yesterday in that role. I have to admit watching this defense yesterday I was dumbfounded. If we could have played like this the entire year, we don't get blown out by FSU and we definitely don't lose to Virginia.
Yesterday's game was an example of what could be for this Miami Hurricanes football team. When you don't make mistakes and don't turn the ball over the team gets into a rhythm and starts clicking. Running the football right now is the key. Miami needs to continue to pound the football with its big O-line and stable of running backs. If they can duplicate the last two games offensively, then there is no way Virgina Tech or South Florida beats them. Miami has too much talent for those teams. I've said all year that Miami's talent is not the problem. The problem has been consistentcy, atitude, and confidence. If they can gain those three intangibles as a team, then the sky's the limit for their success.
A word on the quaterback controversy that will most certainly erupt this week. I know everyone loves Stephen Morris including myself. He has shown lots of moxy in the past two games leading the team to victory. He has a lively arm and a pocket presence that is critical when running a pro-style offense. However, He is still a true freshman. If I am Head Coach this week and Jacory Harris is cleared to play, I start Harris. Why? One glaring reason: Defensive Coordinator for Virginia Tech Bud Foster. V Tech is on a roll right now and you can bet Bud would be licking his chops at the prospect of a true freshman starting against his defense. Under these circumstances... I have to disagree with Gary Ferman and go with experience. This doesn't mean I wouldn't go to Morris if Harris struggles, but for me Harris gets the nod.
Another point... The key to Miami's offense isn't really Harris or Morris anyway, its Mark Whipple. Just because Harris starts doesn't mean you fall in love with the pass and start chucking it all over the field. If your Whipple, you don't change the gameplan that has just won you two straight games. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.. meaning run the football no matter who is taking the snaps from center.
