Duper, Hankerson Are Proof That Coaching Matters

Many Hurricane fans recently made a big commotion over the fact that UM WR Leonard Hankerson is getting all "coached up" by former Miami Dolphin WR and NFL superstar Mark Duper.  

In case you weren't around or simply don't remember, Duper was Dan Marino's favorite target back in the day for the Dolphins, accounting for 64 NFL touchdowns during his career. 

Here is a video flashback for your viewing pleasure for all of you 'Fins fans:

Hankerson (seen below with Canespacers at the team hotel prior to the 2009 FSU game) actually started working with the former Dolphins WR last year before the 2009 season.  The results were immediately evident.

Hankerson went from being just another receiver on the team in 2008 with just 11 catches for 140 yards and 2 TDs to being the Hurricanes leading WR and Jacory Harris' favorite target with 45 catches for 801 yards and 6 TDs in 2009. 

During that time Hankerson overcame an acute case of the "dropsies" that was so severe that it even rivaled former UM WR Lance "quick everybody duck" Leggett.  Last season the suddenly reliable and sure-handed Hankerson put those demons to rest once and for all.

Still, some fans were so excited and intrigued by the concepts included in the training sessions that they recently posted links to the videos on YouTube showing the specific techniques and drills that Duper had Hankerson performing.  The videos showed one drill in particular that is focused on improving eye-hand coordination. 

The drill involves a Duper assistant kneeling next to a couple dozen baseballs and tossing two balls at the same time directly at Hankerson from about 10-15 feet away.  The tosses are constantly varied in height and direction (high/low and wide/inside) so that catches must be made in different locations by each hand on each throw. 

Thus, the eyes must focus on both of the balls at the same time to allow the hands to act independently to catch the balls during the drill.  The goal is to snatch the balls out of the air quickly and without dropping any.  This requires a quick reaction and very accurate and agile eye-hand coordination. 

Hankerson consistently performs the drill very well.  Duper, not so much.  During the video the assistant tosses several balls at Duper who stops him and say, "Whoa!  That's not easy.  You ever try that?"

What is undeniable is that the significant improvement in Hankerson's performance between 2008 and 2009 is solid evidence that proves without a doubt that coaching does matter.

In fact, one could argue that in the case of Leonard Hankerson it made all the difference in the world.

Comments

[Cat 5 Cane]

,

[SOUP]

NEW BLOG IS UP!

[SOUP]

"Six, Good report on the 7 on 7 in Tampa. Everything I hear about Kelvin Benjamin suggests he will be a stud. If grades aren't an issue, his choice has to be UM."

Uh-huh.

That is all.

[WindyCane1]

Six, Good report on the 7 on 7 in Tampa. Everything I hear about Kelvin Benjamin suggests he will be a stud. If grades aren't an issue, his choice has to be UM.

Speaking of 7 on 7, I was very impressed with Teddy Bridgewater on ESPNU in Oregon. He was clearly the best "football player" on the field, and he knows how to make things happen. He played WR and QB, and he willed the S. Fla. team to victory. As other S. Fla. players were cramping and getting injured, Teddy just played and led his team. UM's future is very bright with him at QB. I also heard TB is recruiting players to come with him to the U, just like Jacory did in 2008.

Recent recruits love the U, and they see the upward direction RS and Co. are taking the program

[Daddeh]

U

[SOUP]

SOUP, I thought you didn't know who Seantrel Henderson was. Good thing I gave you the 411 on him, eh?

Posted by: Ungar | July 11, 2010 at 07:07 PM

Saved me AGAIN! ;-)

[jgatsby1112]

Frank Gore just beat FSU...again!

[SOUP]

232

[JUST CANE]

richard grieco, you see right through me

[SlingBlade]

I love it when a plan comes together.

Posted by: Ungar | July 11, 2010 at 07:05 PM

im working on getting UD to sign for less to stay...i'll give you an update in a couple of days...so far he has been receptive to my coaxing..

[SlingBlade]

Are we first in announcing SH is coming to Miami after it has been made offical?? where is everyone, at the bar?

Posted by: raizecane | July 10, 2010 at 12:50 AM

It was posted on the blog at 3:13 PM yesterday by Al. We were FIRST!

Posted by: SOUP | July 10, 2010 at 10:13 AM

technically BG broke this back in february...on signing day...he just didnt say it would take this long...

[Six]

I don't know if Sebastian was out there today at the NFL 7-on-7 Tournament

The final game was between Jefferson High (representing the Bucs) and Glades Central High (representing the Dolphins)

What a surprise, of all 22 teams that are representing their NFL team from their state - the two teams that make it to the finals are from Florida

Glades absolutely stomped the Ohio team repping the Browns to get to the Championship Game .. 51-0

Jefferson beat the Minnesota team repping the Vikings to get to the Championship Game

In the championship game, Glades intercepted the ball in the endzone with 6 seconds left, to win the game 55-45 .... Quentin Williams from Jefferson was throwing it to Andre Davis, and it got picked. I think he just got flustered, with the time counting down on the clock to the end of the game and the ref behind him already on "3" of the 4 second count he yells out to the QB

Kelvin Benjamin from Glades - that kid is freakin BIG. He's 6'6, at least 230 lbs. He looked like a monster out there. Everything is big about that kid. Him, his hands, his strides, his vertical ... Jefferson had to stick Andre Davis on him during the 2nd half of the game to try and stop him

Those two kids fight for the ball - seriously fight for it. It was a battle between those two in the 2nd half

First play of the Championship Game when Glades had the ball. Kelvin comes walking to the line, right in front of me. He starts smiling at the kid from Jefferson that is covering him and says "bye bye" .. ball is hiked, Benjamin goes running down the field on a straight up go route - 40 yard ball in the air and he runs right under it, past everyone, TD

He made a huge jumping catch for a TD right before halftime

Whoever lands Kelvin is going to get a nice one - he could be scary once he gets into college with that body frame

Andre Davis made some real nice catches, one off of a tipped pass in the endzone, in stride - the kid has some paws on him. He brought in a few TDs during the 2 days and made some real nice catches

You can tell he absolutely hates to lose as well. At the end of the game, he looked like he was about to "Hulk Out" - he had that overwhelming pissed off look on his face

I talked to him after the game. I was wearing a green long sleeve Canes shirt. I just told him good game, he couldn't have done anything better than he already did. He out his hand out to shake my hand, said thank you thank you. I asked him what he thought about the Canes - he said that he's trying real hard to get down there

I don't know if that means something about his grades or what

Chris Moore from Jefferson was making plays as well, pretty nice catches and runs after the catch

That Glades team, just pure speed out there. Even when everyone knew that all their WRs were going to run go routes to end the half, and throw it up, they still scored - also though, helps that 6'6 Kelvin Benjamin was the recipient of the throw

If Jefferson can get their Defense to play a little above average - they'll go a long way, probably to the State Championship

[Six]

NO, Bridgewater and the Northwestern boys were not at the NFL 7-on-7 Competition at Jefferson High School

They were probably just getting back from Oregon yesterday or today

I posted Miami Northwestern winning the Elite Nike 7-on-7 Championship up in Oregon yesterday .... they beat a team from Texas in 3 OT

In the process, they destroyed Plant High from Tampa up there

[Six]

TexasCane - Couture wasn't even ready for that fight at all

I'm the host of the XFC radio show with the XFC President John Prisco and Rob Kahn (certified bad ass, black belt from Joyce Gracie, NY Golden Gloves Boxing Champ, trains special ops at SOCOM at MacDill AFB in Tampa) on the ESPN radio station here in Tampa

John Prisco, Rob Kahn and I all predicted that Couture would get stomped by Marianna for a couple of weeks

Marianna won a spot with the XFC during one of their open fighter try outs

She trains with guys, hangs with guys in the ring, takes their best shots and keeps on coming. She's got a ton of heart and more guts than most men I know

Couture belongs in one of those hokey celebrity boxing matches with Tanya Harding or someone. She's trying to live off of Randy's last name, when they're not even married anymore

[Ungar]

"It became official today shortly after 4 PM that offensive lineman Seantrel Henderson has gone rogue and has been granted his release from the Letter of Intent he signed to attend USC."

SOUP, I thought you didn't know who Seantrel Henderson was. Good thing I gave you the 411 on him, eh?

[Ungar]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3P-ujsmJaNg

video of Lebron James taking off his cleveland jersey for the last time....and putting on a HEAT jersey?

Posted by: SlingBlade | May 13, 2010 at 11:06 PM

Wade and LeBron are friends that enjoy playing together. They could take turns dominating games.

Sign LeBron for max money, you then get to re-sign Wade legally, and then other players seeking a ring will join for the minimum, like Mourning did for us. Then Howard chooses to opt out of his contract to get a ring with us, too. Riley comes out of "retirement" again to take the credit, and we all live happily ever after.

I can see the free agent recruiting in the offseason.

"Play with Wade and LeBron, or get beat by Wade and LeBron."

Posted by: Ungar | May 14, 2010 at 08:43 AM

Nice prediction SlingBlade, and now part two is coming to pass with Riley telling free agents that their ONLY chance for a ring is with Miami.

I love it when a plan comes together.

[SOUP]

Anyone know why so many people seem to dislike Kobe?? I don't get this at all. Is it just your normal jealousy because he's so good and has won so much??

Posted by: Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer | July 11, 2010 at 03:11 PM

Cav...if U don't get it there's no explaining it to you, trust me.

Now, enough friggin basketball already!

ARE U READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL? LOL

[RBLCane]

[]_[]!!!

[solarcane]

Soup, Ocala
I'll email you precise driving directions tomorrow night

skool
I'll call you tomorrow and we can talk over your best route down.

[Mr Troutman]

U

[solarcane]

Solar, I'm betting Jacory's not there because he's too busy at Greentree, haha

Capt O that makes sense, I think Jacory is all about leading by example, I'd ttink hes right here throwing to his own guys every day.

[4-Real]

Moneycane, what millions of people didnt see or hear was Shaq's comment about Kobe a week after Kobe was arrested. A local reporter asked shaq during practice if he believed Kobe was capable of committing a crime as serious as rape and shaq's response was 'yeah, he a man aint he? I dont put nuthin pass no man, but he'll get away wit it like he get away wit everything else'. THAT is why Kobe supposedly responded, 'maybe i should have paid her hush money like he (shaq) pay his women'. Shaq's little interview was qiuckly burried & deleted for the sake of making Kobe public enemy #1 because of his alleged rape of a white chick.

[moneycane]

Cav like I said it's JMO, and Kobe has become more of his own person after the incident, but it's just little nuances that Kobe has taken from Jordan. His walk, interviewing style, and all of Jordan's celebrations. I won't deny that it nit pick and a bit of hateration. And to have personal beef with another player is understandable, but to accuse said player of paying for sex when he is married is crossing the line IMO. Especially when you are married, and get caught up in legal troubles for your infidelity. It would be similar to Tiger Woods ratting our Phil Mickelson during his cheating scandal.

[360Cane]

I know this review is nothing to what BG1906 is putting out here shortly. He is Gametrailers.com version:

NCAA Football 11 Review

http://www.gametrailers.com/video/review-hd-ncaa-football/701573

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

Solar, I'm betting Jacory's not there because he's too busy at Greentree, haha

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

Cav you can be similar, but be your own person. To me LBJ has similarities in his game to Magic, but he isn't trying to be Magic. I don't care what happened in CO, it had nothing to do with Shaq so why was his name in Kobe's mouth. Kobe gets caught up so to take the attention off of him, he snitches on Shaq. Where they do that at?

Posted by: moneycane | July 11, 2010 at 04:38 PM

>>>>>

Maybe I've missed something? How much has Kobe bittne Jordan's swag? I don't follow the NBA much so fill me in.

The whole KObe-Shaq thing to is has been blown out of proportion. It sounds like a personal beef that just inevitably became public. Again, it seems like I've missed some things. haha

[solarcane]

2010 Manning quarterback camp a star-studded event

Stampedeblue_tiny by BigBlueShoe on Jul 11, 2010 4:10 PM EDT in Colts News Comment 1 comment
Eli Manning, left, and his brother, Peyton Manning talk with their father, Archie Manning during the Manning Passing Academy at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux La. on Friday, July 9, 2010. (AP Photo/Matt Stamey)

More photos » Matt Stamey - AP

At Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, LA, the Manning family held their 2010 Manning Passing Academy camp. The camp list of coaches and participants is a veritable who's-who in college and professional football. From PFT:

The list of this year's coach/participants is impressive. It includes Stanford's Andrew Luck, Florida State's Christian Ponder, Tennessee's Matt Simms, Houston's Case Keenum, Boise State's Kellen Moore, Texas A&M's Jerrod Johnson, LSU's Jordan Jefferson, Alabama's Greg McElroy, and T.J. Yates of North Carolina.

Ohio State's Terrelle Pryor, Washington's Jake Locker, and Jacory Harris of Miami (FL) were invited, but unable to attend. Ryan Mallett of Arkansas is still rehabbing an injury.

On hand for "coaching" only purposes are longtime Bengals quarterback Ken Anderson, ESPN analyst Jesse Palmer, Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, and Colts receiver Austin Collie, among others.

Peyton Manning, Eli Manning, Cooper Manning, and papa Archie Manning were all on-hand. There was also an "Air It Out" challenge over the weekend won by Texas Tech's Taylor Potts. Sam Bradford of Oklahoma (drafted #1 overall by the St. Louis Rams in this year's NFL Draft) won the contest last year.

[moneycane]

Cav you can be similar, but be your own person. To me LBJ has similarities in his game to Magic, but he isn't trying to be Magic. I don't care what happened in CO, it had nothing to do with Shaq so why was his name in Kobe's mouth. Kobe gets caught up so to take the attention off of him, he snitches on Shaq. Where they do that at?

[elliott]

Will the roster download be ready Tuesday for ps3. NCAA 2011

Highly unlikely that they will be out that soon. Look for xbox 360 users probably three to four days after the game is released. As for ps3 they wont be out until a week after the official game is released. U have to understand these people are reading from spreadsheets and converting information for every div 1a team. It takes time but be patient...By the way EA whats up with the stale commentary? I for one find it hard to believe that EA couldn't allocate the memory better to fix issues such as commentary and end zone crowds.

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

Money, to me that sounds like hateration. Yeah, he's trying to ape Jordan's swag but why not given the basic similarities and differences...height, weight, skills..

The whole Shaq beef sounded like a personal thing that had been brewing between them for some time. I don't think there's a right or wrong position in that one. They're both Bosses and neither wanted to be second fiddle. That happens with men unless they're friends beforehand.

That hotel girl in CO was just a young man who married WAY too soon, being a little excessive, not even a lot excessive. I thought it was somewhat natural to be honest.

[moneycane]

It's July 11th and we are still talking about the LeBron James situation and the NBA. A win win for all parties involved. ESPN and the NBA will ride this surge of interest until the NBA season starts. When was the last time the NBA had legs this late in the summer. I would be shocked if the Heat aren't playing the Cavs or the Lakers on Christmas Day.

[moneycane]

Anyone know why so many people seem to dislike Kobe?? I don't get this at all. Is it just your normal jealousy because he's so good and has won so much??

Posted by: Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer | July 11, 2010 at 03:11 PM

This is just IMO. For one Kobe tried to hard to be Jordan. It's ok to idolize some one, but when you try to steal their entire swag it's too much. And the thing that took the cake for me was the Colorado hotel incident. I don't think he did anything illegal, but when he threw Shaq under the bus was the last straw. Can't remember the exact quote or why this came up, but some one asked Kobe about the incident and he responded "I should just pay for my women like Shaq does". That right there goes against the man code and to me shows that Kobe isn't a good person or a good teammate.

[solarcane]

Capt O thanks for the Cleveland comments.

I think people fall in three categories on James.

The Zakkee Camp

True Cleveland fans that feel betrayed and slapped in the face by a selfish turncoat.
Their anger will continue to grow right through next season

The canechic Camp

The general national fan base that think how he conducted himself was rude to Cleveland, but justify that he is doing what's best for himself, and can live with it.
Their interest will be how successful James is with his new team.

The Rest of the Population Camp

Don't watch basketball, never watched James play, have no opinion good or bad about the entire episode.
They will recognize James name more, but his past and future have no bearing on their lives.

[BEERicane]

I'm going to hate trying to get tickets or being scalped online by these bandwagon fans for a seat in the nose bleed section at 4 times the ticket value...

BUT - I'll enjoy watching that team dominate..

Posted by: CaneSawMassacre | July 11, 2010 at 01:18 PM

CSM,

to let you know about the tickets... They are completely sold out for ADVANCED ticket sales. However, a little known rule is that the NBA requires a certain amount of tickets (i think by percentage of seats) to be available on GAME DAY. so if you look for tickets ON GAME DAY and early on that day, you should be able to find them...

[360Cane]

Usually life goes on but I guess in Cleveland it doesn't. I suggest they should just move.

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

He really needed someone to tell him, "You need to make it quick, shed a tear and say how much it breaks your heart and how much you love Cleveland."

There was no good way out of this. But he could have made it a lot less painful and bad. Youth again..

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

Anyone know why so many people seem to dislike Kobe?? I don't get this at all. Is it just your normal jealousy because he's so good and has won so much??

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

cav - thanx for posting the cleveland viewpoints.
a few of them were . . . well, i felt them.

Posted by: autumn | July 11, 2010 at 02:44 PM

>>>>>

Autumn, I had no idea they were so attached and desperate/fearful/depressed all at the same time. And I never thought about all the heart-break losses in games, with players and even coaches, not to mention Modell literally taking the Browns out of the city.

I honestly don't think Lebron really understands all this. I think he's been in his own bubble for so long that he's been immune to it or at least never really identified with it.

Youth....

[autumn]

cav - thanx for posting the cleveland viewpoints.
a few of them were . . . well, i felt them.

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

regarding "sports journalists", i wonder what percentage of them have "good memories" . . . maybe six has a guess. i'd be surprised though if it's a high percentage. much of journalism seem to stem from an "entertain (or rant) now; there'll be new stories tomorrow" attitude.

Posted by: autumn | July 11, 2010 at 02:37 PM

>>>

You're spot on. I call it "convenience memory." Or perhaps self-serving is better.

It's all good bro'.

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

One more and I'm done. This one was too good to pass. You really have to feel for Cleveland. I had no idea....

>>>>>>>>

City: Minneapolis
Name: Greg S.
You just saw the sports death of a city. I can't see LeBron ever being hated as much as Modell, but his future will be similar. He'll have to move his entire family out of the state and never return. Cleveland fans never, EVER forget. It's been 15 years, and Modell still can't set foot in the state for fear of his life. But the anguish with LeBron is a little different -- he was supposed to be one of us. He was supposed to be the Chosen One. When the chips were down, he didn't show up, and at the first chance he had, he bolted and left us hung out to dry, like so many before him. That's the action I would expect from a politician -- not a monarch. Even a self-proclaimed one.

Everyone in Cleveland is now cursing LeBron's name, praying to whomever they all pray to that he gets his just desserts. But we know better. We're from Cleveland. The torture isn't complete until the most hated figures get to rub their championship rings in our face. The most vilified characters of our history all got to do it. Jordan got six. Belichick got three. Elway got two. Even Modell the antichrist got one. LeBron will get his, too. Maybe even more than Jordan. And we get to watch it for the next five years. Alas ... it's the Cleveland way.

[autumn]

And when was the last time I collected a check for writing about sports, or called myself a "sports journalist" or held a position of influence and inside information???

And even then, when I've been wrong I was the first to man up. So I'm not sure what exactly your point is...
Posted by: Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer | July 11, 2010 at 02:06 PM

cav - i had no point; had nothing to do right at that moment and wound up blowing some wind. happens sometimes even when i try to contain myself.

regarding "sports journalists", i wonder what percentage of them have "good memories" . . . maybe six has a guess. i'd be surprised though if it's a high percentage. much of journalism seem to stem from an "entertain (or rant) now; there'll be new stories tomorrow" attitude.

[Esteban]

Cav, could add "if Cleveland traded J.J. Hickson". They passed up on deals before the trade deadline cause they didn't want to include Hickson. They acted like he was a future star at PF when if he's a future Drew Gooden he'll be lucky.

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

Last ones....crazy....my people in Cleveland need some valium for real...

>>>>>>>

City: Cary, N.C. (originally from Akron)
Name: David
If you were watching LeBron's post announcement interview and saw his reaction to our fans burning his jersey, you saw the pain in his face for a second before regaining composure. People from Ohio have a strong connection to where we are from. He was no different. We love the Browns, Cavs and Indians, even when they're terrible. We love our athletes and treat them like gods. We can't explain how bad it hurts never to win. No other city feels this in EVERY sport, in such a variety of ways. The fumble, the drive, the shot, two World Series losses, losing the Finals, Ohio State losing two national titles, the Indians losing the ALCS to Boston, Cliff Lee and CC leaving us, and now LeBron leaves us. I don't know how to explain it. It's the worst feeling in the world and I have ZERO pro sports teams even with a winning chance in 2011. Just know that people in Cleveland rarely forgive or forget. Half a century of losing hardens people to the point of dumping beer on old women who are dumb enough to wear Steelers gear to Browns games, even to the point of hating our once beloved son LeBron. We can't cheer him, it would hurt to much. We burn his jersey not to hurt him, but for us. Destruction is great company to misery.

City: Coral Springs, Fla.
Name: Matt Williams
The way sports is headed is really worrying me. Everyone accepts this narcissic attitude to these prima-donna athletes without any regard to who it may hurt. And for what? More money? More fame? When does it end?

LBJ didn't even pretend to care about leaving Cleveland. He said true fans would understand. Does he even know what a true fan is? Does he know that true fans wake up reading/surfing the Internet about last night's game? Does he know true fans talk to others about what happened last night and what might happen in tonight's game? Does he realize that true fans cut out 4-5 hours a day to follow a team? Does it even bother him when he loses a game? Does he realize that true fans were following Cleveland long before he was born and will follow them long after he's retired?

I fear this is just the beginning. Sports as we know it ended tonight.

City: Bowling Green
Name: Rob Schuster
Like dangling an engagement ring in front of your longtime girlfriend, then getting on your knee at the bar and proposing to a girl you met last week. Completely destroyed.

City: Anywhere USA
Name: Name Withheld
This is the day he went from being a lovable superstar trying to reach his potential to enemy number one. I want the Knicks to bring back Charles Oakley and Xavier McDaniel on 10-day contracts to injure him. I want Kobe Bryant (yes, Kobe!) to destroy him so badly every time they play that he loses confidence, Rick Ankiel style. I want him to lose in the first round and then break his leg in the offseason, only to see Wade and Bosh win without him (and have him screw up the chemistry when he comes back). I want him to join the French World Cup soccer team. I want him to go into the stands and attack a child in a wheelchair. I want it to come out that he was point-shaving. I want Cleveland fans to throw urine water balloons at him. I want Castro to annex Miami. I want Florida income taxes to spike to 73%. I want the Bulls to beat the Heat by 50 points every time they play. And I want LeBron's father to come out of the woodwork and say "You've brought shame on me and our family." This has moved me from the NBA fence to a die-hard Premier League fan. Goodbye NBA!

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

Some objective views from outside of Ohio

>>>>>>

City: San Diego
Name: Aaron Weitzen
February 19, 2009: If Cleveland traded Wally Szczerbiak's $13 million expiring contract, they could have gotten a legitimate #2 for LeBron, probably would have won 1 or 2 rings, and there would be no Decision (sponsored by the University of Phoenix). Instead, they stand pat, confident of their record and chemistry, only to miss out on two championships and the rest of LeBron's care

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

Here's another good one. I had no idea how crazy and desperate Cleveland people are...

>>>>>

City: Canton, Ohio
Name: Derek G.
I just finished staining my deck ... at 10:30 p.m. I'm not really sure why I did this, but I was trying to take my mind off LeBron. The last time I felt like this was when my high school girlfriend dumped me; only this time I am Dan Gilbert/Cleveland and the girl is LeBron. LeBron wanted a free agent, we got him a free agent. LeBron drove 100 mph on I-71, or bombed in the playoffs, we forgave him immediately, and loved him nonetheless.

I never did find out why my girlfriend left me, it just seemed like she thought the grass was greener elsewhere. I hope Miami is greener, LeBron, because Cleveland is more dead now that when you arrived. It doesn't matter how many titles you may win, you have lost a chance to do for Cleveland fans what Miami fans will never truly appreciate.

[SOUP]

RCCF....12% 4EVER

Posted by: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000117339359 | July 11, 2010 at 02:09 PM

LMAO!!!

Tru dat

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

This was the best Lebron reaction I've read, probably because it comes from a Cleveland native.

>>>>>>

City: Cleveland
Name: Tom
The oldest thing on my DVR is Game 2 of the 2009 Eastern Conference finals. As it goes to commercial, there is a little boy with his hands on his head. That boy is every male under the age of 50, including me. We are used to the tough breaks. When LeBron hit that shot to win the game, my first thought was -- we have that guy now, our Elway, Jordan, Montana, Bird. Only there was more -- he was one of us. He knew the pain of Cleveland teams, whether he rooted for them or not. Thursday night, he dragged out our agony. On a special named "The Decision" he did that to us. To the people that lived through the The Shot, The Drive and The Fumble. None of our players would have done that to us. LeBron, get the hell out of our town.

[Sinistercane]

Will the roster download be ready Tuesday for ps3. NCAA 2011

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

one thing about lebron . . . the dude is only 25 years old . . . and from my point of view, 25 years young.

at this age, dealing with mega-milions, TONS of adulation & stress, too much advice from everyone, among other things. . . i don't know, but it seems like too much is made of a decision from such a young 'un . . .
and maybe some part of him thinks it might be more FUN to play basketball with teammates like wade & bosh who are both all-stars but also friends. maybe that's just as important as being "the boss".

or maybe he's a "flawed" character, who made a wrong decision; unlike the rest of us unflawed people.
but i'm glad to have him with the heat.
welcome le brawn.

Posted by: autumn | July 11, 2010 at 06:01 AM

>>>>>

Good points and although I still question his Boss-ness, esp. because of teh way he performed against Boston, I can understand him wanting to play in Miami with Bosh and Wade. It's like a mini dream team. How many times does that ever happen in sports?

OTOH, I really like the way they took their careers into their own hands and said EFFFF UUUUU to owners and agents and media.

And given his youth and fame, I think Lebron has handled all of exceptionally well.

[www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000117339359]

Este...I been sayn the same thing...12% is now 25% too...Huge Jump I believe...Welcome Quiet Bandwagoners...LoL..the 12% has been waiting on U..

RCCF....12% 4EVER

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

As for King James, it seems to me he becomes a hated figure if he leaves Cleveland, no matter the circumstances. And if you're gonna be hated, what better place to don the black hat than Miami? It was a no-brainer.

Posted by: Mephistopheles | July 11, 2010 at 12:39 PM

>>>>

Haha, very true.

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

Ahhh remembrance . . .
captain, considering your % of being right during your swashbuckling canes-blogs the last several years, how often do you spend time remembering your own words?

Not getting on your case; just struck me as a funny comment coming from you.
Posted by: autumn | July 11, 2010 at 05:46 AM

>>>>

And when was the last time I collected a check for writing about sports, or called myself a "sports journalist" or held a position of influence and inside information???

Yeah...lol

And even then, when I've been wrong I was the first to man up. So I'm not sure what exactly your point is...

[Esteban]

i might be the only person who tells people regularly "there is space available on the bandwagon...jump on". I've been telling people that about the football team and now about the Heat. Spent years telling people that for the Patriots too - even after getting teased for years about being a Patriot fan. I don't mind bandwagon people at all. Means your team is doing good.

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

Maybe your right... maybe it's not the coaches.

I'm just bothered when we're losing and I see our WRs, guys who can change a game in an instant, just chillin, sitting on their arse, bracing themselves over the "cold" weather, joking around and laughing up a storm. It just doesn't make sense to me.

I'd have to go back and look at game film but I just couldn't imagine Irvin, Lamar, Santana, Andre or Reggie having a nonchalant whatever attitude when The U is losing in a bowl game. At the very least, I'd prefer that the WRs remain standing and moving about if only to keep their heart rates up (which would actually keep them warmer).

It's in these situations where I suggested that Aubrey could perhaps do a better job at keeping his unit more focused and ready. But maybe it's not an Aubrey issue; maybe it's a player issue, specifically, a personality and maturity issue. Whatever it is, I hope it gets addressed next year, either by the coaching staff or by the players themselves.

It's not a big deal though. Our WR corps is one of the best, if not THEE best, in the nation, and Aubrey Hill is one of the best coaches.

GO CANES!!!!!!!
Posted by: CanesFanStuckInCali | July 10, 2010 at 09:39 PM

>>>>>

You're absolutely right about the attitude during losses or when we're losing. You have to hate it. I'm still not sure who really hates it and who just dislikes it.

But the classic Canes, from '84 forward, learned what to do from older Canes. They were taught by the older players as much or more than they were taught by the coaches.

That sort of self-policing and player discipline is what is coming back but it hasn't been here since 2002 on offense and 2003 on defense.

So these underclassmen were still learning what it takes on the fly. And even Hill doesn't really know what it takes because he never won a NC. However, he was clutch and was always making plays and was a team captain on those Spurrier teams, so you know he knows about discipline, focus and execution. .

Having said that, I still remember that Orange Bowl game and those WRs, the Ruthless Posse, and how they would pound the ground if they didn't catch the ball, even in blowouts.

I haven't seen a Hurricane WR do that since then. So to me, THAT'S what's still missing. Our guys, Byrd in particular, are way too nonchalant about dropped passes if you ask me, to have that U on the side of their helmet.

But again, they're young with no player guidance, so the jury's still out.

[4-Real]

SOUP, gotta get wit cha bout the gt tickets.

[CaneSawMassacre]

Is there a name for it? So I can look it up?

IS teams South Florida Express with Teddy going to be there?

[SOUP]

SOUP - Is it at USF??

Posted by: CaneSawMassacre | July 11, 2010 at 01:11 PM

No, Jefferson HS near Westshore Mall I think.

[CaneSawMassacre]

I love my Miami Heat but this whole thign is kind of bitter sweet..

because the Miami bandwagon fans have come out in force.... And I'm going to hate having to explain to other sports fans that I've been a Miami Heat fan since the Timmy/Zo days..

I'm going to hate trying to get tickets or being scalped online by these bandwagon fans for a seat in the nose bleed section at 4 times the ticket value...

BUT - I'll enjoy watching that team dominate..

[CaneSawMassacre]

SOUP - Is it at USF??

[Zakkee]

Sikes return vs. UF. Notice how fast Sean Taylor was to catch Sikes from behind, pull back to block someone, then manage to catch back up to chest bump him on the sidelines...wow...talent!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqUxYjuxFxk&feature=related

Vilma's hits in the 2001 NC game (they were like the cherries on top of a perfect sundae).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8aSGYIlVPw

Dorsey screen to McGahee. Perfectly set up by Brad Nessler, who lost it during the play.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORG-hvUHOrg&NR=1

Hester's return vs. UF still gives me goosebumps. I was there and the OB literally shook. Nessler set that one up perfectly as well.

Low moments...many. Kirby Freeman's one completion game (wasn't it only 1? 1 for 13??) I don't know, but it was embarrassing. Peach Bowl vs. LSU also hurt bad because I had talked so much trash the whole day and my family wanted to see what these Hurricanes I always raved about could do. They actually watched until halftime, laughed me out of the TV room (they changed the channel) and banished me into a bedroom television (by myself), a decision I didn't fight, it was merciful. I was utterly embarrassed. Then we got knocked out during the post-game brawl..ouch!

No hard feelings BEERIcane, we're cool.

Good posts, windy, Cat5, and Soup (you know how I feel about coaching...I'm with you on that topic) I'll compromise to 60 (talent)-40 (coaching). Coaches are partly responsible for stoaking players desire to be great (its part of their job description and something they promise parents of recruits that they'll do...bring the best out of their kids), but ultimately, they can't force it.

[www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000117339359]

Way 2 Think Pink Mr. Olsen

Miami Boy Doin Good Things in the CHI...
http://www.chicagobreakingsports.com/2010/07/urlacher-forte-at-olsens-kickball-tournament.html

[Mephistopheles]

Cav,

For me, the worst losses must be those that cost NC's.
1-2002-OSU (Theft)
2-1988-ND (Theft)
3-1986-PSU (Biggest upset in sports' history)
4-1985-Tenn (Ouch)
5-1992-Bama (Ouch squared)
* 5a-1986-LSU (I know you meant football, but I was absolutely crushed by this one)

As for King James, it seems to me he becomes a hated figure if he leaves Cleveland, no matter the circumstances. And if you're gonna be hated, what better place to don the black hat than Miami? It was a no-brainer.

[SOUP]

Hey CSM. U going to the 7-on-7 over in Tampa today with Six and Sebastian57?

[JUST CANE]

guys?

[Hurri']

Although I was already a done deal, another moment of electricity was the first TD of the 01-02' Rose Bowl.

Dorsey to Johnson.........

Keith Jackson's commentary was gold.

"Touchdown Hurricanes. Andre Johnson was all alone!"

[CaneSawMassacre]

The main thing about coaching is to know the right buttons to press and the right way to get your players to believe in your goal and to ensure that they get are putting forth maximum effort to achieve winning AS A TEAM!!

They have to get the ME first mentality out of all players and have the players willing to sacrifice for the betterment of the team.

20% of coaching is x's and o's the rest is leadership and mentality.

[CaneSawMassacre]

Hey everybody...

[CaneSniper]

The one play that sealed me as a Miami Hurricane fan for life was Vinny Testaverde vs. the Bosworth Sooners. I'd love to have a clip of it, but Vinny gets hit in the backfield and bounces off it, scrambles around for about 30 seconds, then threw a perfect completion. I remember thinking that these guys were unstoppable. Having an obnoxious Notre Dame fan in my squadron also helped.

[CaneSniper]

This line from the SI article after the Klingler beat down is classic...

"Particularly overmatched against the Hurricanes were Houston's callow offensive linemen, who yielded five sacks and, with all their desperate clutching and grabbing, generally resembled ninth-graders at an unchaperoned mixer."

[SOUP]

Amost 90% (89.2)of Hurricane fans think that Miami should finish 10-2 or better in 2010.

That is the highest % of any year we have done this poll ove the last three years.

Hear that coach? No pressure. LOL

[SOUP]

Total Votes: 101

23.8%

12-0 BCS Champs and #1 Ranking
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

5.9%

9-3 ACC Championship Game and Top 15
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

32.7%

10-2 ACC Champs and Top 10
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

32.7%

11-1 ACC Champs and Top 5
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

5.0%

8-4 Another lost season and Top 25

[SOUP]

One could also argue that I am fulfilling the role of an opportunistic Contrarian, which I happen to do from time to time. You just happened to provide me with the said opportunity. No hard feelings on my end, I just tend to do these sorts of things to stir up the pot from time to time. Go Canes!

Posted by: BEERicane | July 11, 2010 at 08:36 AM

And I like that!

[SOUP]

The way the canes played with fire and swag in the OU is truly a thing of beauty and the only thing missing from this team week in and week out.

Posted by: BEERicane | July 11, 2010 at 10:05 AM

Don't ask the coaches to do that. That is the players responsibility.

Or the uniforms, or pregame music, or the cheerleaders, or the band maybe, I'm not sure?

[SOUP]

Damn SOUP you went all caps on me huh? All I'm saying is that Hank had the dropsies, and Hank took it upon himself to rectify that. His determination to get better had more to do with his improvement than him being "coached up". I never said coaching doesn't matter, I just think that talent and determination makes up 65% of the equation.

Posted by: moneycane | July 11, 2010 at 01:48 AM

You're right, my bad, it was wrong to go all CAPS on U like I did, I apologize.

65% talent / 35 % coaching

I can live with that!

[BEERicane]

Watching the OU replay. If these kids SHOW UP for each game and play each down with maximum effort and intensity everything will take care of itself. Coaching or not, if these guys can avoid becoming complacent they won't be stopped, but I guess that is where the coaching comes in -- to make sure these guys don't get complacent.

The way the canes played with fire and swag in the OU is truly a thing of beauty and the only thing missing from this team week in and week out.

[Cat 5 Cane]

Solar... Funny stuff, as I remember tipping over my canoe and my face of horror as everything is sinking to the bottom of the river!... OHHHH what a surprise!... Someone, save the beer!!!!!! What about the camera??? Screw the camera, it's history!... Save the beer!!!!
LMAO... now, but not so much then!

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Coaching doesn't matter?... We all agree on coaching matters but I think, the percentage very's greatly depending on the kid's NATURAL ABILITY and the POSITION he is playing. Especially in his 1st year out of high school. It could jump, as high as, maybe 50% and it decreases each year, as the kid picks up his responsibilities and adjusts to better technique.

The Position Coach... ahhh that's a another story... How good is the coach at finding the way to teach different quality level of players the same technique and translate that to being successful on the field?... 1st, 2nd and 3rd year, comes down to the Kid and his natural ability to grow and pick it up and how gifted the coach is at teaching the position... but nothing but nothing accounts more then the individual player, who has the desire to put in the extra effort that it takes to be great!

Truth, once said that it accounts for 20 percent... and for the super gifted player who is not only drafted, but makes it into the NFL... Maybe so.

The question is,... do we have the right position coaches to get this muthafukking Train to NC?

Later

[usagainsttheworkd]

bring back hubbard!

[WindyCane1]

Watching UM v. Okla. on ESPNU. Coaches have limited practices and they work on certain team drills and routes. As a freshmen and sophomore, Hank could really get open. When you watch Hank run his routes, you could see him open and he would flash to the spot and give his QB a target to throw to. Hank is clearly the best receiver at that(the best the Canes had is several years), and had elite talent to do so. The issue with Hank early in his career was that once he got open and the QB threw him the ball, he dropped balls. That is where the off-season training and after-practice work comes in. The Coaches and Duper recognized his problems, and worked on them.

Even in the NFL, where there are fewer limits on practice time and coach-player interaction, the best players put in the extra work and that is something Duper told me that he and Clayton did.

As for the other WRs, they may want to work on catching, but they may want to emphasize other aspects. For example, AJ II has great hands, but he could definitely work on his speed and route-running. I don't see AJII getting open the way Hank does, but if AJII puts his hands on the ball its his.

This would also apply to other positions. Aside from developing certain skills, they also need to work on strength and conditioning. The players under Shannon have also done that.

Players must have desire to get better, and their individual work on the offseason will distinguish them and determine their playing time and the success of the team.

[BEERicane]

BEericane, your posts aren't really the type I feel a dire need to respond to. I know the "devil's advocate" type and how to avoid them. The regulars no me on here, from even before this site was established. You could never question my "fandom" my friend.

I don't like domination in the sense that I enjoy not knowing whose going to win. I don't enjoy forgone conclusions, thats what I meant. I do love the underdog, an upset, watching a team overcome and rise up..I'm guilty of this. I enjoy adversity to a point. I wouldn't rejoice if Shannon & Hocutt scheduled Florida A&M caliber teams all season or when we beat them ala Tressel and OSU fans. Yes, I want the Canes to dominate, but I wouldn't want us to land the top 25 recruits off of Rivals Top 100 every recruiting class either. Between '03-'05 we got almost whomever we wanted and those guys did squat. I like us to hand pick our players from the nation and own South Florida. I enjoy parity in sports.

Posted by: Zakkee | July 10, 2010 at 09:21 PM

Looks like you responded.

Also, these posts are not playing the role of "devil's advocate." From your perspective (a self-appointed protagonist) I would be playing the role of an antagonist or maybe represent the conflict or challenge that needs to be bested by the aforementioned protagonist. One could also argue that I am fulfilling the role of an opportunistic Contrarian, which I happen to do from time to time. You just happened to provide me with the said opportunity. No hard feelings on my end, I just tend to do these sorts of things to stir up the pot from time to time. Go Canes!

[Old Skool]

No problem Solar. I will get there around 8:30 or 9:00 on Thursday night. I'd rather get there with a bit of daylight left. Driving unlit country roads looking for the opening to long driveways, I avoid if I can.

[autumn]

just read the herald . . . some good points made by le batard:
http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/07/11/1725091/lebron-james-loved-hated-misunderstood.html

[autumn]

one thing about lebron . . . the dude is only 25 years old . . . and from my point of view, 25 years young.

at this age, dealing with mega-milions, TONS of adulation & stress, too much advice from everyone, among other things. . . i don't know, but it seems like too much is made of a decision from such a young 'un . . .
and maybe some part of him thinks it might be more FUN to play basketball with teammates like wade & bosh who are both all-stars but also friends. maybe that's just as important as being "the boss".

or maybe he's a "flawed" character, who made a wrong decision; unlike the rest of us unflawed people.
but i'm glad to have him with the heat.
welcome le brawn.

[autumn]

"I wonder if he'll remember how stupid his own words sounded?? NEVER."
Posted by: Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer | July 10, 2010 at 09:07 PM

Ahhh remembrance . . .
captain, considering your % of being right during your swashbuckling canes-blogs the last several years, how often do you spend time remembering your own words?

Not getting on your case; just struck me as a funny comment coming from you.

[autumn]

very good blogging the last couple days.

moneycane: " I never said coaching doesn't matter, I just think that talent and determination makes up 65% of the equation."

just got to say, 35% is VERY lot, if you're saying that's how much difference coaching provides . . . that'll get you from fiu to the canes easily. or?

[RBLCane]

One more AMAZING play that I forgot: Hester's td return on a blocked FG against Florida!!!

at 0:41:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2etQQ4prL0U&feature=related

GO CANES!!!!!!!!1

[orange 'n green in the vein]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOsDrnWI9pc&feature=PlayList&p=1FAA82E7AA0C0772&playnext_from=PL&index=11

It's only the final play but you can hear the, "We're BACK," anyway when the ball lands!

[moneycane]

And who knows why Hank hooked up with Duper (maybe you do know). It could have been the coaching staff telling Hank if you don't improve then you won't see the field.

[moneycane]

Damn SOUP you went all caps on me huh? All I'm saying is that Hank had the dropsies, and Hank took it upon himself to rectify that. His determination to get better had more to do with his improvement than him being "coached up". I never said coaching doesn't matter, I just think that talent and determination makes up 65% of the equation. Was Barry Sanders that good because of coaching, or was it because of his natural talent and hard work.

[RBLCane]

DURING THE SECOND HEYDAY!
During the new heyday, #1 would be "The Drive" against FSWho. I can't find it online, but below is a link to highlights of the game. The Dan Morgan INT in that game was also awesome as ish since FSU was threatening at that point and because I was in the stands right behind it.

This was by far my favorite Canes game of all time. It was my brother's birthday, I had just turned 18 the month before, it was hot, we were painted in Orange and Green, we hadn't beaten FSU in forever, we had just ended probation, nuff said:
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=miami+fsu+2000&aq=f

Also during that second heyday and my favorites were the VT blowout in 2000 (revenge for what Vick did to us in 1999 and also because we hadn't beaten VT in forever) and the absolute arse-whoopings we put on Syracuse and Washington in 2001. (and yes, I was there for all of these!)

Oh yeah, Ed Reed's "Gimme the ball" against BC = one of my favorite Canes moments of all time: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02fppIV9pik

DURING OUR 2000s DECLINE:
During our decline (which began at the Fiesta Bowl IMO), my favorite Canes plays/moments were the Winslow TD catch in the Fiesta Bowl ( http://www.mmbolding.com/bowls/Fiesta033.jpg ), his catch against FSU on 4th and 13 ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bi-NRheb7lE&feature=PlayList&p=71EB8A5E979928E2&playnext_from=PL&playnext=1&index=35 ), and the his blocks on TWO Vols and post=game "I'm a Effin' Soldier" comment ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I82BPA5QAaQ )

Also from that era, all of Sean Taylor's harrassment of FSWho ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1jVdCN2PSw ).

I'll also never forget the excitement I felt when Hester took it to the house to open the game against the Gaytors ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TscSztwURKE&NR=1 ) and also his ridiculous punt return against Dook in 2005 ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bF6S0-A2UHg ).

And during that era, one of the best moments was the hope I felt when Miami took it to VT in Blacksburg in 2005! I remember how we manhandled Marcus Vick during that game! It was so awesome! Unfortunately, there's no youtube vid for this game, so here's a recap: http://hurricanesports.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/recaps/110505aaa.html

This has been fun. I'll post my favorite moments from our rise / the Randy Shannon and Jacory Harris era tomorrow.

GO CANES!!!

[RBLCane]

Reminiscing on our worst games is way too painful. I'd need for the Canes to actually lose one to put me in that post-loss depressive state and right now I don't even wanna think about what that's like.

So in terms of my best/favorite Canes plays and moments:

FROM MY CHILDHOOD:
Lamar Thomas's catch in the 1992 Orange Bowl against Nebraska was CLASSIC! I was in the stands for this catch, was already a Canes fan, but this just made me a Canes FREEK!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rin_wP6K43w

Also from my childhood, Barrow's hit against FSWho was amazing! I was there for this one too!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rin_wP6K43w

DURING THE DARK YEARS:
During the dark years, I would have to say the win against #1-ranked UCLA at the OB, especially Edgerrin James' performance (299 yards), was the best thing I remember from that era. Unfortunately I can't find a youtube link to that game so I'll post an article ( http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/college/news/1998/12/05/ucla_miami/ ).

[RBLCane]

Testing?

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

Solar, here's the SI story on the game. haha

College Football's starship Enterprise wheezed to a halt in the Orange Bowl last Thursday night. Houston's high-powered run-and-shoot offense, designed to go where no offense has gone before, encountered an impregnable force field—a Miami defense with superior athletes at every position. The Cougars' eight first-half possessions ended thus: punt, punt, punt, punt, punt, field goal, safety, halftime. By then the score was 30-3, and the game, which ended at 40-10, was over.

Someday, predicts Houston coach John Jenkins, one of his quarterbacks will throw for 1,000 yards in a game. Someday, he says, the Cougars will score 100 points. Heck, someday Houston may even beat a Top 10 team. However, until Jenkins can close the talent gap between his title pretenders and title contenders like Miami, the Cougars will have to settle for gutting the SMUs, Eastern Washingtons and Louisiana Techs of the world.

You could say that Houston's ballyhooed Multiple Adjusting Passing Offense had gotten Miami's attention. Starting last spring Hurricane coach Dennis Erickson and his defensive staff began consulting with NFL coaches familiar with the run-and-shoot. For the first time in Erickson's three-year tenure at Miami, a nickel defense—in which an extra defensive back enters the game and a linebacker comes out—was installed.

Miami defensive coordinator Sonny Lubick was stunned after watching the video of Houston's season-opening 73-3 win over Louisiana Tech, in which Cougar quarterback David Klingler threw nine touchdowns. So Lubick came up with a plan: Take away Klingler's first two options—"make him look for three and four, and by that time maybe we'll have somebody in his face."

It worked to a tee. Particularly overmatched against the Hurricanes were Houston's callow offensive linemen, who yielded five sacks and, with all their desperate clutching and grabbing, generally resembled ninth-graders at an unchaperoned mixer. Afterward Klingler put his team's primary shortcoming succinctly: "This game still comes down to personnel. A bunch of Cub Scouts aren't going to beat the 49ers just because they line up in the run-and-shoot."

"Kling-who?" said Miami wide receiver Lamar Thomas, who had six catches for 138 yards and two touchdowns. "I heard so much about Houston's offense this week, I forgot we even had an offense."

Hurricane quarterback Gino Torretta appreciated the publicity vacuum. "They thought they were going to stomp us," he said. "I wanted to go into the game as underrated as possible." That has not been a problem for Torretta at Miami. After reporting last week that the fourth-year junior was from Pinola, Calif., the Associated Press corrected itself, saying the quarterback actually hailed from Pinhole. Still not right. Torretta is from Pinole. Moments before the Houston game, the Orange Bowl's public-address announcer introduced him as Geoff Torretta; Geoff, Gino's older brother, was a career backup at Miami behind Vinny Testaverde.

In the spring of '89, Gino, too, had seemed destined to play out his remaining seasons doing mop-up duty; high school All-America quarterback Bryan Fortay had just signed with the Hurricanes. Fortay's father, Peter, is said to have demanded—and received—a letter from Miami promising that Fortay would be the only quarterback the team recruited that year. But Fortay could not unseat Torretta last spring or this fall. Shortly after being told by Erickson that Torretta had won the job, Fortay transferred to Rutgers.

Although sluggish afoot and with only a mediocre throwing arm, Torretta—with his consistency and savvy—impressed Erickson. Two of his four touchdown passes against Houston came on audibles. Thomas, Kevin Williams and the rest of Miami's splendid receiving corps were the beneficiaries of Torretta's poise and the Cougars' dice-rolling defense. Blitzing on nearly every down, Houston left its cornerbacks in man-to-man coverage. The result was an evening of mismatches. Said Thomas, "After a while we just started licking our lips."

For the second straight game—Miami beat Arkansas 31-3 in its opener—the Hurricanes were models of decorum. Gone are the taunting, triumphal dances of recent years. After Miami racked up 202 yards in penalties, many for unsportsmanlike conduct and personal fouls, in its 46-3 rout of Texas in last January's Cotton Bowl, the NCAA Football Rules Committee cracked down on such celebrations. It distributed to officials a video detailing forbidden behavior. "The first 11 examples were of our team," says defensive end Rusty Medearis. "That shocked us."

Not everyone got the message. Long past midnight Jenkins called a double timeout to enable Klingler to throw a window-dressing, seven-yard touchdown pass to Marcus Grant with three seconds to play. Apparently more concerned with his own pale glory than with his team's crushing defeat, Grant launched himself into a celebratory boogie that made Miami's touchdown antics seem positively subdued. Then, at game's end, the two teams came together at midfield and several Cougars tried to pick fights with Miami players. The Hurricanes only laughed. Said one, "Yo, man, the game's over. Read the scoreboard."

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

Cap;t O

the Klinger beat down was pure heaven

My favorite part of the whole game was right before the kickoff
Kevin Williams told the reporters
This ones going to be for all the La Techs and Arizona States of the world.

Klinger had passed for 716 yds against Arizona State.

Posted by: solarcane | July 11, 2010 at 12:43 AM

>>>>>

Hahaha, I didn't know Williams said that. CLASSIC.

[Nashvillecane]

Thnx cav...lol i get chills watchin that and listenin to Jackson talk bout it " Micheal Barrow has seperated him from his sences" lol..

[Captain Optimist aka Cavaleer]

Motivation + Techinque + Discipline + Talent = Success

THAT is coaching!

Posted by: SOUP | July 11, 2010 at 12:54 AM

>>>>

Exactly, although talent, hunger and focus would be my three. If you're not hungry you won't give it all in practice then give more in the off-season.

[SOUP]

It's in these situations where I suggested that Aubrey could perhaps do a better job at keeping his unit more focused and ready. But maybe it's not an Aubrey issue; maybe it's a player issue, specifically, a personality and maturity issue. Whatever it is, I hope it gets addressed next year, either by the coaching staff or by the players themselves.

Posted by: CanesFanStuckInCali | July 10, 2010 at 09:39 PM

If that is my group NO WAY that is happening.

EVER!

[SOUP]

Soup what good would the coaching do if Hank wasn't willing to put in the extra work. Hard work beats talent if that talent doesn't work hard.

Posted by: moneycane | July 10, 2010 at 06:51 PM

ARE U KIDDING ME???

U ARE GONNA ALLOW YOUR PLAYERS TO DECIDE HOW MUCH EFFORT THEY ARE GONNA PUT INTO BECOMING GREAT OR WINNING GAMES?

WITH U AS THEIR COACH? REALLY? REALLY???

Player: "OK coach, I'm gonna go 50% today because I am tired and lazy. I ain't gonna practice any extra because I'm all about the babes not about the ballin.

Money (As Coach): OK, I understand, I'm gonna play U anyway because if we don't win and U make me look bad I don't really care.

THAT IS A CLASSIC EXAMPLE OF A LOSERS ATTITUDE RIGHT THERE. U HAVE ME LOL!

IF HANK DOESN'T PUT IN THE EFFORT HE NEVER, NEVER, NEVER PLAYS FOR ME AS A COACH. END OF STORY PLAIN AND SIMPLE.

Sounds like COACHING to me.

Motivation + Techinque + Discipline + Talent = Success

THAT is coaching!

[solarcane]

Gatorade Highschool Players of the Year

what happened to them?

Part 1

1986: Jeff George (Purdue, Illinois)
George led the Illini to two bowl appearance and a second place finished in the Big Ten in 1989, before going No. 1 overall in the 1990 draft. After a contemptuous career in the NFL, George was essentially forced out of the league in 2001. Oddly, at 41, he was still contemplating a comeback last year while residing in Indianapolis. College Grade: B+

1987: Emmitt Smith (Florida)
Emmitt Smith earned SEC and National Freshman of the Year Honors during his first season in Gainesville. He was also named SEC Player of the Year and an All-American during his final season as a junior. I think we all know where he went from there. Today Smith is retired in Dallas. College Grade: A

1988: Curtis Bray (Pittsburgh)
Curtis Bray was a stud coming into Pittsburgh after becoming the first defensive player to win this award. He notched 170 career tackles with the Panthers, but probably could’ve done more damage had he not suffered a series of injuries in school. Today he’s the defensive ends coach for Iowa State. College Grade: C-

1989: Terry Kirby (Virginia)
Terry Kirby’s senior season was supposed to be his breakout year, but he separated his shoulder and missed three games instead. Despite the injury, he still ran for 1,130 yards (6.5 yards per carry) that season. After an 11-year NFL career, Kirby co-founded Touchdowns4Life Charter School and serves on its board of directors. He also hosts an annual celebrity charity golf event to help the school, held in South Florida. College Grade: B+

1990: Robert Smith (Ohio State)
Robert Smith didn’t mess around when it came to being a student-athlete. In between two 1,000-yard rushing seasons, he sat out a year because he claimed a coach told him to miss class. The time off didn’t hurt his draft stock too much (21st overall pick in the 1993 draft). He retired abruptly from the Minnesota Vikings in 2000, pursuing a career in medicine while serving as a college football analyst for ESPN. College Grade: A-

1991: Marquette Smith (Florida State, Central Florida)
After transferring from Florida State, Marquette Smith made himself right at home, rushing for 1,511 and 1,058 yards in 1994 and 1995. He’s the only Central Florida running back to gain 1,000-plus yard seasons back-to-back, and was inducted to the school’s Hall of Fame in 2005. Injuries in back-to-back preseasons cut his NFL career short. He is now an assistant at Trinity Prep high school outside Orlando. College Grade: B

1992: Chris Walsh (Miami, Minnesota)
Chris Walsh had major shoes to fill when he went to Miami. His brother, Steve Walsh, went 27-1 as a starter and won the 1987 national championship under Jimmy Johnson. Chris couldn’t live up to that name and transferred back home to Minnesota. He now works for a roofing company in Minneapolis. College Grade: F

[solarcane]

Cap;t O

the Klinger beat down was pure heaven

My favorite part of the whole game was right before the kickoff
Kevin Williams told the reporters
This ones going to be for all the La Techs and Arizona States of the world.

Klinger had passed for 716 yds against Arizona State.