Tonight at 7 PM Canespace will be hosting our first LIVE chat of the 2008 football season with Manny 
Navarro of the Miami Herald. Manny, a true 305er and hard core Canes fan, is the hardest working man in sports writing and as most of you already know runs the "Eye On The U" blog at the Herald.
The Mandingo uses his hard earned street creds to access insider information and then combines that with his vast knowledge of Miami Hurricanes sports history and his extensive professional contacts to bring you the news you can use. Post your questions beginning at 6 PM to get the answers you need on all things Canes!
Note: Canespace has a new partner in the Palm Beach Canes Club. They are hosting a special event on Wednesday in West Palm Beach with former UM QB Steve Walsh as the guest speaker.
Click here for more info: http://www.561canes.clubexpress.com/content.aspx?page_id=87&club_id=325224&item_id=58975.
Manny, give me an injury status update on the roster, it seems the injury bug has finally moved on this year, has it not?
Posted by: orange 'n green in the vein | August 19, 2008 at 06:01 PM
Whats Up Canespace and Manny, Go Canes!!!
Posted by: BROWNSUB | August 19, 2008 at 06:03 PM
Manny will be on at 7 PM and have to leave a few minutes before 8 PM to do interviews after the scrimmage tonight.
Post some questions for him in advance...
Posted by: SOUP | August 19, 2008 at 06:09 PM
Manny my question is based on the information you have gathered, do you think that nix is gonna have a breakout year with the playbook and that he was just hiding stuff during the open spring and fall scrimmages so there wouldn't be any film on us?
Posted by: BROWNSUB | August 19, 2008 at 06:13 PM
Manny what up my man? we appreciate you coming over, your insight is much appreciated.
Posted by: reggaebob | August 19, 2008 at 06:14 PM
Legends of the Fall info to be posted soon...we will get Manny to select also.
Posted by: SOUP | August 19, 2008 at 06:15 PM
Q: Manny you picked Chavez Grant over DVD to start. When did that happen and why?
Posted by: SOUP | August 19, 2008 at 06:16 PM
Manny, great work on J-Mac. How does the defensive depth look?? I'm more concerned about the D's depth than anything.
I'm with Zakk about Ojomo and Wesley. I think those boys are ready to ball right with Bailey and Moncur.
I also like what I'm hearing from Coach Hill. He's like a WR version of Shannon and Stoudt. Exacting, perfectionist and knows exactly what it takes to shine all the time.
Posted by: Cavaleer | August 19, 2008 at 06:20 PM
Hola Manny. Do U think the coaching staff will "hold their Orange N' Green offensive and defensive cards" close to their chest, in the opening game, and save the Hurricane thunder for Florida!??
Posted by: macjones de Albuquerque | August 19, 2008 at 06:21 PM
Study before U ask ???
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/umiami/
Posted by: SOUP | August 19, 2008 at 06:23 PM
Manny- how much do you think nix will implement the backs in the passing game? a few of us seem to think coop will get the bulk of the carries, but i really think james will emerge as a very good passing threat. whats your take?
Posted by: reggaebob | August 19, 2008 at 06:24 PM
Sup Manny?
Hope the family is fine...
Q: Is bosher the guy? Will Taylor Cook be a weapon at this position for a possible fakey
A great punter will wi us two more games!!!
Posted by: OCALACANE | August 19, 2008 at 06:25 PM
just a side note...
A great punter will wi us two more games!!!
Posted by: OCALACANE | August 19, 2008 at 06:25 PM
just imagine where FSU would have been the last two years without gano and cismesia...
Posted by: reggaebob | August 19, 2008 at 06:30 PM
MDCane: Benjamin and Phillips
Solar: Byrd and C-Mac
Roach: Byrd and Spence
ReggaeBob: JJ and C-Mac
TimCanes: JJ and C-Mac
Orange: J-Mac and Jojo Nicholas
NYCanes: Cooper and Forston
360: Cooper and DVD Cooper
Mrs. 360: Marve and Brown
Canechic: C-Mac and Bon Jovi
KLCaneFan: Sam Shields and Bruce Johnson
djmoonbat: Sam Shields and Jojo Nicholas
Zakkee: Fox and Ojomo
386: JJ and Spence
86: AJ and Spence
Loco: Benjamin and Moncur.
Cat5: Marve and Brown.
1982: Marve and Marve
UMike: Cooper and C-Mac
DZ8: JJ and C-Mac
Hollywood: McNeal and Brandon Harris
Ocala: Marve and C-Mac
Dude: Cooper and C-Mac
Monty: Cooper and C-Mac
Money: JJ and Phillips
Pre83: Marve and Moncur
TLuv: Pamela Anderson and Heather Locklear
pb: Fox and Youngblood
Posted by: SOUP | August 19, 2008 at 06:58 PM
Hey guys. Just arrived. I'll start answering questions now.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:01 PM
And now we welcome Manny Navarro from the Miami Herald to The Space!
Posted by: SOUP | August 19, 2008 at 07:02 PM
Q: Manny, give me an injury status update on the roster, it seems the injury bug has finally moved on this year, has it not? Posted by: orange 'n green in the vein | August 19, 2008 at 06:01 PM
A: Good point OGV. I'll knock on wood before saying that it looks like Chris Barney is the only significant injury on the team. Anthony Reddick, Allen Bailey, Eric Moncur are guys that are just battling day-to-day issues. So far, the Canes have been lucky.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:03 PM
Manny there are a few questions above, but here's another:
Q: Who are your two picks for "Legends of the Fall". U get to choose one player on offense and one on defense that will have major breakout seasons for the Canes in 2008?
Posted by: SOUP | August 19, 2008 at 07:03 PM
Q: Manny my question is based on the information you have gathered, do you think that nix is gonna have a breakout year with the playbook and that he was just hiding stuff during the open spring and fall scrimmages so there wouldn't be any film on us? Posted by: BROWNSUB | August 19, 2008 at 06:13 PM
A: Anything better than last year will be a breakout year. I honestly don't think coach's hold back anything in spring and fall scrimmages (I used to). They are only allowed so many scrimmages to begin with. Why are they going to hold something back. The bottom line is this offense is going to be better because it's going to have more playmakers in it. The No. 1 thing I want to see is guys like Travis Benjamin catching short passes, making moves and going the distance. Can you guys honestly remember the last time we saw someone on this team do that? That classifies to me as a breakout.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:06 PM
Manny I just finished Tony Dungys book and thought I saw a lot of similarities between him and Boss Shannon. What role, if any does religion play in Shannons mental make up?
Posted by: DZ8 | August 19, 2008 at 07:08 PM
Seoul has H2: Hill (Patrick) and Hill (Ryan) on offense and defense.
Others I missed?
Posted by: SOUP | August 19, 2008 at 07:08 PM
Q: Manny what up my man? we appreciate you coming over, your insight is much appreciated. Posted by: reggaebob | August 19, 2008 at 06:14 PM
A: Thanks Bob. I enjoy being able to provide you with what I know.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:08 PM
Q: Manny you picked Chavez Grant over DVD to start. When did that happen and why? Posted by: SOUP | August 19, 2008 at 06:16 PM
A: DVD told me Chavez and Bruce have been running with the ones. He said he comes in on nickel situations on the outside, moving Chavez back inside. Brandon Harris then comes in on dime situations. DVD is going to play. All four of those guys are going to be on the field.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:09 PM
Q: Shandel Richardson from the SS had AJ as a starter but U did not. Please explain?
Q: Where does Streeter fit in in 2008 and who might red-shirt among the WRs this year?
Posted by: SOUP | August 19, 2008 at 07:11 PM
Q: Manny, great work on J-Mac. How does the defensive depth look?? I'm more concerned about the D's depth than anything. I'm with Zakk about Ojomo and Wesley. I think those boys are ready to ball right with Bailey and Moncur. I also like what I'm hearing from Coach Hill. He's like a WR version of Shannon and Stoudt. Exacting, perfectionist and knows exactly what it takes to shine all the time. Posted by: Cavaleer | August 19, 2008 at 06:20 PM
A: I don't think depth at linebacker or in the secondary is a concern. It's defensive line I'm worried about. They are so green there. Ojomo and Wesley got to prove to me they can do it on Saturdays. I like Hill too. He and Stoutland seem like perfectionists.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:12 PM
Manny,
We all love the way you keep it real in your blog...on your feature on McKenzie today, you mentioned that Aubrey Hill has not made much comment on McKenzie's game as was made this time last year before the accident sidelined McKenzie for the season....
do you think the lack of praise on McKenzie's game is attributed to the number of high flying speedsters in this year's camp or to a reduction in his game from last year's accident?
Posted by: Chris Clark | August 19, 2008 at 07:13 PM
Manny did Futch look like he'll be a player on the D this year. Foregone conclusion that he'll be a special team demon right?
Posted by: DZ8 | August 19, 2008 at 07:13 PM
Q: Hola Manny. Do U think the coaching staff will "hold their Orange N' Green offensive and defensive cards" close to their chest, in the opening game, and save the Hurricane thunder for Florida!?? Posted by: macjones de Albuquerque | August 19, 2008 at 06:21 PM
A: Yes. There is going to be something saved for Florida. But nothing extraordinary. Just a series of plays and maybe a few trick plays.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:13 PM
Manny how can you not be worried about our depth at Cornerback? Who would slide over after Armour? Ryan Hill?
Posted by: DZ8 | August 19, 2008 at 07:15 PM
Manny,
I think the defense will be much improved over last season with the addition of our new defensive coordinator, Bill Young.
Do you think Young will be able to draw up schemes for this defensive unit that will confuse Tebow on Sept. 6th?
I may sound crazy, but I like Miami's chances in the FL game!
Go 'Canes!!
Posted by: Sarasota 'Cane | August 19, 2008 at 07:15 PM
Q: Manny- how much do you think nix will implement the backs in the passing game? a few of us seem to think coop will get the bulk of the carries, but i really think james will emerge as a very good passing threat. whats your take? Posted by: reggaebob | August 19, 2008 at 06:24 PM
A: It's obvious the running backs are going to be more involved in the passing game. Javarris had four catches in the spring. I know both backs are going to be easy dump-off targets.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:17 PM
Q: Is Bosher the guy? Will Taylor Cook be a weapon at this position for a possible fakey? A great punter will wi us two more games!!! Posted by: OCALACANE | August 19, 2008 at 06:25 PM
A: The family is doing great Ocala, thanks for asking. Bosher is the man. I haven't heard Pannunzio or Shannon say Wieclaw won't be handling all the kicking duties. Cook could be a nice weapon on a trick play. We'll find out today, though, if anybody else in the special teams shines. Special teams is the focus of tonight's scrimmage.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:20 PM
Q: When we get to Canespace Stadium on 8/28/08 what do you expect to see during the game?
Q: Which goal is easier: The Canes beating CS by 38 or losing to the Gators by less than 18?
Posted by: SOUP | August 19, 2008 at 07:21 PM
Q: Who are your two picks for "Legends of the Fall". U get to choose one player on offense and one on defense that will have major breakout seasons for the Canes in 2008? Posted by: 86Cane | August 19, 2008 at 07:03 PM
A: My offensive MVP was split between JJ and Coop. Defensively, I'm picking Randy Phillips.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:22 PM
Q: Manny I just finished Tony Dungys book and thought I saw a lot of similarities between him and Boss Shannon. What role, if any does religion play in Shannons mental make up? Posted by: DZ8 | August 19, 2008 at 07:08 PM
A: Wow. To be honest I've never heard or seen Randy do anything remotely religious. But I don't know for sure. I know after the scrimmages, the team gets together in a circle and holds hands and pray. I'm not sure if Randy is the guy organizing that.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:25 PM
Q: How much better does this years team look compared to last years?
Posted by: HurricaneMitch | August 19, 2008 at 07:25 PM
Seoul has H2: Hill (Patrick) and Hill (Ryan) on offense and defense. Others I missed? Posted by: 86Cane | August 19, 2008 at 07:08 PM
Aubrey Hill.. receivers coach
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:26 PM
Q: Shandel Richardson from the SS had AJ as a starter but U did not. Please explain? Q: Where does Streeter fit in in 2008 and who might red-shirt among the WRs this year? Posted by: 86Cane | August 19, 2008 at 07:11 PM
A: I haven't heard enough about AJ since fall camp began to think he's going to start. I think Randy is going to go with two seniors to start. AJ will still play plenty. Streeter missed the second scrimmage and I haven't seen him practice since. He could be a redshirt.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:29 PM
Q: I'm in the Orlando area and the weather here is getting "interesting" thanks to TS Fay. What do you think the most INTERESTING ACC game on the Canes schedule is this year? NC? GT? VT? WF?
Posted by: SOUP | August 19, 2008 at 07:34 PM
I didn't think the similarities were of the religious sort, at least not publicly for Shannon.
Like all great coaches they both have a way of doing things entirely by their book. The players know exactly what is expected of them.
Thanks for all the time you spend covering the 'Canes and answering questions.
Posted by: DZ8 | August 19, 2008 at 07:36 PM
Q: We all love the way you keep it real in your blog...on your feature on McKenzie today, you mentioned that Aubrey Hill has not made much comment on McKenzie's game as was made this time last year before the accident sidelined McKenzie for the season... do you think the lack of praise on McKenzie's game is attributed to the number of high flying speedsters in this year's camp or to a reduction in his game from last year's accident? Posted by: Chris Clark | August 19, 2008 at 07:13 PM
A: I just think we're hearing a lot more about the young guys. You got to remember, Jermaine was a kid who was rising. He was doing so well, then he sits out of football for 3-plus months. Physically, his body is back where it was. He's run a 4.45. He weights close to 180 pounds. But he missed three months. And now, he's got to get back in the rhythm. I think missing the spring hurt him.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:36 PM
Manny, I know we all thing Marve is the starter but lets just say Jacory is named the starter, do u think Marve will transfer before Jacory, or do u think both will stay?
Posted by: BROWNSUB | August 19, 2008 at 07:36 PM
Q: Manny did Futch look like he'll be a player on the D this year. Foregone conclusion that he'll be a special team demon right? Posted by: DZ8 | August 19, 2008 at 07:13 PM
A: I think we'll see him more on special teams than anything else. He'll be a contributor on defense next year. He's good.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:37 PM
Q: Manny how can you not be worried about our depth at Cornerback? Who would slide over after Armour? Ryan Hill? Posted by: DZ8 | August 19, 2008 at 07:15 PM
A: I just think there is more talent right now at corner than there is at defensive end. Armour could play corner. Hill could play corner. Phillips could play corner. Just more depth. Take away Ojomo and Wesley, who comes next?
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:39 PM
Jamar Hornsby representing the Gators on the court docket
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Former University of Florida football player Jamar Hornsby was charged with four misdemeanors for using the credit card of a dead woman, the state attorney’s office said.
Posted by: Old Skool | August 19, 2008 at 07:40 PM
Q: Do you think Young will be able to draw up schemes for this defensive unit that will confuse Tebow on Sept. 6th? I may sound crazy, but I like Miami's chances in the FL game! Go 'Canes!! Posted by: Sarasota 'Cane | August 19, 2008 at 07:15 PM
A: Always good to be optimistic Sarasota 'Cane. I personally am hoping Miami keeps it close and actually has a chance at beating Florida. But professionally, I don't see it happening. Miami would need to cause 4-5 turnovers in that game and dominate on the ground, owning the clock to win it. Florida can light things up quickly. Miami can't get into a scoring fest.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:41 PM
Q: When we get to Canespace Stadium on 8/28/08 what do you expect to see during the game? Q: Which goal is easier: The Canes beating CS by 38 or losing to the Gators by less than 18? Posted by: SOUP | August 19, 2008 at 07:21 PM
A: So you got the naming rights now? Wow. Congrats SOUP. I expect to see a deeper, more talented team than in 2007. The Canes beating CS by 38 is easier than losing to UF by less than 18.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:43 PM
Q: How much better does this years team look compared to last years? Posted by: HurricaneMitch | August 19, 2008 at 07:25 PM
A: Loaded question Mitch. I think they are 2-3 wins better than last year. How's that.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:45 PM
Take away Ojomo and Wesley, who comes next?
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:39 PM
Shandel Richardson and Chris Stock, that's all we got after Rudy tore his Hammys! LOL
Actually, these guys are great reporters and Canes fans, just not ready to start...YET!
Posted by: SOUP | August 19, 2008 at 07:46 PM
Q: I'm in the Orlando area and the weather here is getting "interesting" thanks to TS Fay. What do you think the most INTERESTING ACC game on the Canes schedule is this year? NC? GT? VT? WF? Posted by: 86Cane | August 19, 2008 at 07:34 PM
A: North Carolina. Butch Davis comes back to Miami. The Tar Heels beat UM last year. That's No. 1 on my list. Virginia Tech is always up there. Wake Forest is going to be a great challenge, too.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | August 19, 2008 at 07:46 PM