Just Win Baby

Trailing 14-0 in the first quarter of their game against Boston College your University of Miami football team could have hung their heads, folded their tents, packed their bags and headed back to South Florida with their damaged pride and an 0-1 record to start the season.

Instead this Miami team kept their heads up, kept the faith in head coach Al Golden and each other and managed to maintain their composure long enough to come roaring back and beat BC 41-32 to win their first game of the 2012 season.

It may not have been the most impressive, or dominating or convincing win in the history of the program but this team managed to do something that last year's team could not do in their final game of the season against the Golden Eagles: Just win baby! 

That is the theme that I have selected for the 2012 season: "Just Win Baby."

Many of the local media reps and almost all of the National talking heads have predicted a mediocre season for your Miami Hurricanes in 2012. Their predictions ranged from 4-8 to 8-4 with most falling somewhere into the 5-7 to 7-5 range. 

However what these "experts" failed to do was to talk to Duke Johnson, Malclom Lewis, Ereck Flowers, Eddie Johnson, Tyriq McCord, Deon Bush, Tracy Howard or any of the other fabulous freshman who have decided to make Miami back into a National powerhouse with their own hands. 

Let it be recorded that on the first day of September 2012 a star was born as The Duke became The King of Miami.  Freshman running back Duke Johnson in his first game as a Hurricane was everything he was supposed to be and more.  Johnson looked like Clinton Portis, Willis McGahee, and Frank Gore all rolled into one as he rushed for 135 yards and busted loose for two scores of 56 and 54 yards.

Sure I realize that it was just one game but oh what a game it was.  The elusive Johnson, who shared time with the hard-running Mike James (14 carries, 57 yards), almost certainly made more than a few UM fans say: "Lamar who?" Duke shaked, baked and snaked his way through the BC defense making them look like they were in slow motion.  Duke is no fluke.

UM rushed for 208 yards on the day in an evenly balanced performance courtesy of UM offensive coordinator Jedd Fisch (207 passing, 415 total).

New starting QB Stephen Morris got off to a rough start much as a result of his receivers dropping passes or tipping them into the waiting arms of BC defenders. Morris (and his receivers) eventually settled down and he went on to complete 28 of 45 passes for just over 200 yards and one TD and one INT on the day.

The UM defense started out playing as soft as whipped creme and early in the game coach D'Onofrio's group did its very best imitation of the infamous swiss cheese defense of recent years past. They started off playing a passive zone defense in which UM defenders sat around in space covering absolutely nothing more than air and their backsides. 

They later switched to a more aggressive press coverage defense with much better results. Another star in the making is UM LB Denzel Perryman who had seven tackles and returned one interception for a pick-six.  Sophomore DE Anthony Chickillo had a timely fumble recovery and CB Ladarius Gunter also got into the action with an fumble recovery (and return) of his own.

The special teams were indeed special the entire game. The UM kick and punt coverage teams were stellar and speedy WR Phillip Dorsett showed great potential as the #1 return man as he almost broke free for a score on one kick return that went for 37 yards.  The law firm of Wieclaw and Botts teamed up to handle their official duties in efficient fashion.

The bottom line is that Miami's win over BC in Chestnut Hill on Saturday was a road win in the ACC under tough circumstances and in a hostile environment by a young team playing their first game together.  Wrap it up, put a nice big orange and green bow on it, and I'll take it.

Just win baby!

Comments

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

The reporters were asking D'No all the wrong questions. I would HATE to be on defense this week. My guess is they have never had their butts chewed so hard. I just hope the guys got the point. D'No seemed embarassed in his interview. My guess is they bounce back for KST.

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

Posted by: Loco | September 04, 2012 at 03:56 PM

Thats the real problem with bumping the REs isnt it? The players dont know who is bumping who.

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

WTF happened 86?

[Pre83]

* Belichick on McCarthy: "Does a lot of things for them. He plays a decent amount in the deep part of the field in their 2-Tampa scheme as a middle linebacker, and where he's running deep with those vertical routes down the middle, things like that.

“But of course he's involved in the running game at the line of scrimmage, mixing it up inside, taking on centers and guards and fullbacks and all that. He's got a good set of skills. I think he's very instinctive and adept in pass coverage.

“Seems to have real good feel for route combinations, recognizing where the quarterback is trying to go with the ball, he anticipates well, get a good break on the balls, got his hands on a number of balls, interceptions. He ran one back for a touchdown against Arizona.

“He definitely on film looks like he's the leader of the defense in terms of signal callers and making adjustments and checks and that kind of thing. I see the other guys looking at him, I also see him kind of taking control of the situation. He's a guy that has really come on quickly and done a good job in all phases of the game. The running game, zone defense, man-to-man defense.

“He makes plays up inside against big people in the running game, middle of the line, and he gets to the sideline, get outside on the perimeter plays, and be a factor on those screen passes, wide routes outside. He can run well and gets outside and can make plays.

"He's a real good football player who's come on quickly and looks like he's a good middle linebacker."

[Pre83]

Props given to C-Mac by Josh McDaniels-Pats OC:

"I mean this is a group that has really good players at all levels of their defense and can apply pressure with their front four. Their linebackers get involved with the blitz game, I think Colin McCarthy has really kind of stood out to me and some of the things you see this guy do on film, he’s a really disruptive pass defender for a Mike linebacker."

It does make you wonder why more success was not realized on the field while he and other recent Canes wore the Orange and Green.

Graham, C-Mac, Hankerson, Bosher, and you can go back to Calais Campbell (just got nice pay raise), Kenny Phillips, Beason - those few names off the top of my head never saw the U be the U, but are performing quite well in the NFL.

Hell, the vast majority of those that came out this past draft made the team (even if on the practice squad).

Just sayin'

[raizecane]

7A.M FOR BETHUNE COOKMAN? MMMM OJ/VODKA OR CRANBERRY/VODKA?

Posted by: canezilla | September 04, 2012 at 01:29 PM

************************************

Yes to all above....and then some

[Tsully76]

86 will Susan be able to come back on a week from now and give you and us her prediction for our season record. She said she needed 3 games before she could give her prediction. Btw like Hassan said why anyone would have an issue with Tom is beyond me he is a super cool dude. 86 see ya in 10 days. Go Canes

[DallasTX Cane]

U all remember the concern voiced on here after the spring game and preseason scrimmage about the D?

We may have the talent now, certainly more than the last several years. But, if a coach hasn't seen it come together on the field yet he isnt going to trust it magically will during the 1st game and on the road. IMO this team is at a "one thing at a time" stage right now. I do think the run D was solid (not spectacular but solid). If we have confidence in stopping the run up front, it should be easier to address and fix the problem defending the pass.

IMO this is a work in progress and it's off to a good start. I just want to see it get better each week. That, and I want to see our young talent actually develop for once. I'm sick of giving the NFL "projects". And I want us to be ranked by Oct. Beating fsu and VT would be good also. U know...I'll take an ACC title while I'm at it. Plus, an undefeated season and national champ! I guess thats it...thats all I want Al...back-to-back

[Loco]

Loco...other ideas or solutions?

Jam the TE every play off of the line with a big DE or LB and then cover them in space with a nickle CB?

Posted by: 86Cane | September 04, 2012 at 03:15 PM

Either cover 1 with the second safety covering the TE or keep a zone where players pay attention and communicate.. which was a major problem, not letting others know when somebody was coming across the field or players knowing where they had help and where they didn't

[Ohio_Cane]

Golden's full presser, McGee and D'No speak: http://ufootball.tumblr.com/

[Ohio_Cane]

Recruiting update: Canes have offered 2014 TE Bryce Dixon, St. Bonaventure (CA)

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Bryce-Dixon-143553

[Ohio_Cane]

I don't think our run defense is as solid as you guys seem to think.. I saw a lot of missed tackles (notably by the safeties)

Posted by: Loco | September 04, 2012 at 03:06 PM
--------------------------------------

I disagree. I did see some missed tackles, but to say the run d wasn't solid is wrong, IMO.

Their top rusher had 49 yards on 18 carries for a whopping 2.7 ypc with a long of 11 yards.

I'll take that any day of the week and twice on Saturday.

[86Cane]

Loco...other ideas or solutions?

Jam the TE every play off of the line with a big DE or LB and then cover them in space with a nickle CB?

[86Cane]

Hassan...thanks for that. This whole blogging hatred thing is way beyond my understanding. I understand people may disagree or get upset or angry or even really pissed off but to be so obsessive about some guy on a blog, ANY BLOG, is really nothing short of psychotic.

That is what is sad, and a little scary.

[Old Skool]

Well put Hassan

Dallas I sent Tom the pic of the Aggie Bookstore as well as another of an Aggie fan shading his eyes from the sun because he's got his baseball cap on backwards.

[Loco]

Wanna cover the TE? Take out a LB (pick one any one except Perryman) and insert Deon Bush. DONE!

Posted by: 86Cane | September 04, 2012 at 02:38 PM

You take out the LB and put in Bush then they keep on running. I don't think our run defense is as solid as you guys seem to think.. I saw a lot of missed tackles (notably by the safeties) and BC running backs hitting holes and gaining yards early on. That's no bueno

[86Cane]

ACC PLAYERS OF THE WEEK (Sept. 4)

Offensive Back: Andre Ellington (Sr., RB, Clemson)

Offensive Lineman: Dalton Freeman (Sr., C, Clemson)

Receiver: Conner Vernon (Sr., WR, Duke)

Defensive Lineman: Bjoern Werner (Jr., DE, Florida State)

Linebacker: Jack Tyler (Jr., LB, Virginia Tech)

Defensive Back: A.J. Marshall (Jr., CB, Wake Forest)

Specialist: Cody Journell (Jr., PK, Virginia Tech)

Rookie: Duke Johnson (Fr., RB, Miami)

[Hassan]

What is up with the Internet Tough guys between the couple pay sites the few papers and the couple Canes Blogs? I honestly do not get it, i spend years in wars zones watching men die and to come home and watch grown men fight online and threaten it is crazy to me. Life is short and precious. Watching the Canes is fun, it is cool if you think Williams should start and I like Morris, it is fine to me if you want to rant about our D I do not have to come cut your throat over it. I met Tom a couple of times shoot we even had our disagreements, the fact is he gave me a free ticket to a Canes game a free tail gate and he owns a blog that gives away t shirts and organizes things for fans like live chats. How in the world does anyone hate this guy unless you are a Gators fan is beyond me? If you do not like him fine go live your life and root for the Gators....

[WWIN]

LB,

You are right about personnel. Right now the 4 man rush isnt talented enough. Only Chickillo can beat 1 on 1 and isnt ready to beat a double team consistantly. That being said, its on D'No to create pressue. If you cant get it w/ 4 guys, you better bring 1 or 2 more and man up. Its better to bring pressure and force a throw than to let a QB sit back there have decisions. I think Miami's CBs are better than D'No will give them credit for. However the safety play is real iffy.

Posted by: The Dude | September 04, 2012 at 02:25 PM

Exactly, if you can't pressure wit 4 send 5 if you can't wit 5 send 6 and so on. Who's the blame for players not knowing the plays?? I'm a coach and I know which players know the plays and which ones that don't. As a coach how could you not know that??

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

UMike, exactly. Why not take a chance at forcing a QBs throw? Put your best saftey or CB over the top on 3rd and long. We dont need VT7 back there just because. Put Gunter or McGee or Howard back there and see if they can come up with a quickly forced through. Finnie was good in, McGee was good in man. Go at those QBs!

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

Good luck any team on our schedule this year push around Smith, Pierre Green and company. You can add Eddie Johnson to that group to. Those guys are strong. Pierre had a nice game by the way. he deflected 2 passes and was a factor inside against the run. Yeah, we can stop the inside run. Covering the TEs... yeah, lol, not so much. KST would be fools not to try to confuse us pre snap w/ their TEs.

[86Cane]

University of Miami freshman RB Duke Johnson was named the Atlantic Coast Conference Rookie of the Week, the league office announced Tuesday.

Johnson was one of two true freshmen (Ereck Flowers, T) to start in Miami’s 41-32 win at Boston College. The rookie totaled 135 rushing yards and two touchdowns on only seven carries, posting the most rushing yards by a UM true freshman since Javarris James in 2006 (148 against Houston).

He scored his career-first touchdown on a 54-yard scamper in the second quarter and added a 56-yard score in the third quarter. Johnson tallied a team-high 214 all-purpose yards (135 rush, 10 receiving, 69 kick return).

For the latest information on Miami Hurricanes Football, follow @HurricaneSports on Twitter and the official blog for Hurricanes Football, www.theufootball.com.

[86Cane]

Hopefully we don't get driven back this year by Kstate's line, and find a way to cover the TE for once

Posted by: Loco | September 04, 2012 at 02:34 PM

I hope our d-line can stuff them like they did BC (only 100 yards rushing).

Wanna cover the TE? Take out a LB (pick one any one except Perryman) and insert Deon Bush. DONE!

[86Cane]

UMike...I sent an email to the PBP regarding the comments over there on there blog. Here is their positive response.

FROM THE PALM BEACH POST:

This is an on-going problem. I'm constantly deleting abusive comments, only to see them pop back up seconds later. If it were up to me, I wouldn't allow any comments unless the posters were identified.

I will delete those comments but could I ask you to message our executive editor Tim Burke (tburke@pbpost.com) and our executive sports editor Dave Tepps (dtepps@pbpost.com) with your concerns?

Obviously, you are not the only one that's written to me about this kind of thing. It pokes a hole in my soul every time. I feel like people who would like to post intelligent comments don't do so because they are intimidated by all the mental midgets that are chronic abusive posters.

Again, I apologize.

Jorge

[Loco]

Finally got the typepad log in right on the 5th try haha, been a while

Hopefully we don't get driven back this year by Kstate's line, and find a way to cover the TE for once

[UMike]

The Dude..I agree..also..with the young talent, why not let them go man-to-man and use their speed and instinct, it cant be any worse than being out of place in a zone lol

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

LB,

You are right about personnel. Right now the 4 man rush isnt talented enough. Only Chickillo can beat 1 on 1 and isnt ready to beat a double team consistantly. That being said, its on D'No to create pressue. If you cant get it w/ 4 guys, you better bring 1 or 2 more and man up. Its better to bring pressure and force a throw than to let a QB sit back there have decisions. I think Miami's CBs are better than D'No will give them credit for. However the safety play is real iffy.

[86Cane]

To open a Typepad account:

1. Click on the TypePad link above the comment box on the blog.

2. Click on Register.

3. Follow the steps to register with TypePad.

4. Come back on the blog and click on the Typepad link and enter your email and password to post a comment.

[UMike]

We should have an MMA style event for bloggers who have problems lol

[86Cane]

IF ANYONE WANTS TO POST A COMMENT U MUST NOW SIGN IN WITH A TYPEPAD ACCOUNT.

THANK U!

THE MANAGEMENT

[UpNorthCane27]

WHeres my boy VACANE? just wanted to let those around the virginia area i will be going to UM vs VA in november were making the 10 hr drive to support our hurricanes!!!

[orange 'n green in the vein]

UMike, when Floriduh pukes all over themselves for more than a week in a row, much less a year and a week now, turd hatch-lings go insane with internet nerd rage. If you lived in a boring town in the middle of nowhere and one of your only six exciting days of the year turned out to be a cow pie with fly toppings, you might snap too, seven in a row would put you into full on meltdown. That's why you're being brought up by people who don't know you on blogs that aren't at this URL.

Anyone notice the not so eerie parallels between how GT's defense puked up a sure road win last night and the '11 UM squad doing the same? Al Groh -> Al Golden -> D'No. Urk.

[UpNorthCane27]

I really wish these trolls taht come onto the site and were exposed for who they are. I really would like to know whether its old bloggers that left mad or what cus this is ridiculous!!!

[86Cane]

Keep it up...the SADDEST part of it all is that I posted the comment at 12:42 and U responded by 1:25.

So let me get this straight: U hate me and this blog so much that U are on here ALL day long in time to respond to my every comment within just a few minutes?

Now THAT is SAD.

[UMike]

Someone used the id/username "UMikes Sidewalk Collapse" over at the PBP..I have no idea why or what that even refers to lol..idk how my name got into that mess lol

[UMike]

Man..this stuff has got way out of hand lol..cant all bloggers just get along lol

[86Cane]

Keep it up...I just printed out your comment from the blog. I will have it with me at the game along the IP address and the email name you used that we can trace to your phone or computer. When I arrive at the Stadium I will go straight to your tailgate with law enforcement and have U arrested.

U are aware that making threats of violence or physical harm over the Internet is a crime correct?

[86Cane]

Keep it up...I never go anywhere but here, that is a fake poster causing all that turmoil at the other sites.

I'll be at the tailgate with law enforcement to see U get arrested. That will be an interesting experience for U I am sure.

[UMike]

So sad what blogging has come to.

[canezilla]

1. Our tailgates are better than ever and we are parking in the new GREEN lot (extra hour) lot on the SE corner of the stadium

7A.M FOR BETHUNE COOKMAN? MMMM OJ/VODKA OR CRANBERRY/VODKA?

[Ohio_Cane]

Posted by: KeepItUp | September 04, 2012 at 01:25 PM
------------------------------------------

Says the guy who posts under an alias? LOL

[KeepItUp]

Tom, so I see you're attacking people that use to blog here.

Not only here, but youre going on the PBP and the MH also. Everyone knows its you.

You are totally classless, why bring that up? I'll tell you what big boy, come to the tailgate in a couple of weeks and talk your stuff face to face. Be a man

[86Cane]

DTX...Good point: It could be the D-back coach, the D-Line coach, the D-Coordinator or a combination of all three?

Technique is on the position coach.

Scheme is on the coordinator.

Consistency is on ALL of the above.

[DallasTX Cane]

Posted by: Jiggafras | September 04, 2012 at 12:48 PM

Yeah, its not been good. I don't strongly disagree with U. I'm just willing to hold off for another few games before passing judgement. Plus, switching coordinators in the middle of a season doesn't happen often and won't in this case. Maybe it's the d-backs position coach or maybe as the young players gain experience, it'll get better. Either way, its got to get better - hopefully soon.

[DallasTX Cane]

http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/blog/eye-on-college-football/20047925

Posted by: 86Cane | September 04, 2012 at 12:30 PM

No one's ever said that common sense comes with a degree from TxA&M. Now, as to the plywood put up inside the windows...A&M is known for it's engineering programs; I bet those were the best built and put together hurricane shutters ever imagined...they kept all the broken glass out!

[IraqiCane]

How did Tracy Howard do? I haven't been able to watch a replay yet.

GO CANES!!!

[Ohio_Cane]

Golden on Joe Rose this morning: http://wqam.com/dj/joe-rose

[Ohio_Cane]

Golden says Malcolm Lewis is mature and disciplined. Is he polished as a route runner? "He's getting there."

Golden: "Seantrel is 335 now."

Golden excited to hear that many of his players from last year made NFL rosters. "Hopefully we'll get a couple more get picked up."

[Ohio_Cane]

Manny - Defensive coordinator Mark D'Onofrio said team ran 60 percent zone; 40 percent man-to-man. Said 3 biggest breakdowns were not in zone

Golden is excited about starting season with a win and seeing the team fight back from adversity.

Golden: "It was good to see us fight back. Clearly a lot of things we have to fix.''

Golden now at presser: We played 58 Hurricanes in the game, a great number. ..Davon Johnson came up big

Golden on K-State "Excellent football team. Tough environment. Well coached. They don't beat themselves."

Golden: We have a Herculean challenge this week. Big-time quarterback; as good as there is w Arthur Brown at MLB

Golden on Eddie Johnson "I see more consistency in his approach, his routine. I think it showed up on game day."

Golden likes Eddie Johnson's effort. Made a mistake but didn't quit and finished the play that ultimately ended in a BC fumble

Golden wants to see Ben Jones, Jermaine Johnson, Jeremy Lewis and Seantrel Henderson join the OL rotation.

Golden on Ereck Flowers "I don't know if he will ever be vocal but he is showing leadership qualities with the way he is playing."

Golden thinks Dyron Dye had a good off-season & summer. Very aggressive in short yardage and goal line. "Been working hard"

Golden "I can't imagine there is a better running quarterback in the country than Collin Klein."

Golden "You need to have a defense that is flexible and account for all the different styles that we're getting."

Golden: "We gave up too many explosive plays & quite honestly that’s what allowed them to make it sticky at end''

Golden on Deon Bush "He's talented. He's fast. He studies the game. We've got to get him to be a little more vocal."

RB Duke Johnson named ACC Rookie of the Week after rushing for 135 yards and 2 TDs on 7 carries in win vs #Boston #College

Golden on Perryman moving to MLB "If he's in the middle, he has a chance to run to both sidelines. He's smart. He prepares."

Ereck Flowers graded out at 94 percent. Asked if Seantrel Henderson could move to another position, Golden said "we'll see"

Golden says last year's K-State game stuck with the team all year.

Golden on Klein "We kind of knew about him going into last year. Clearly, we know who he is now."

[Old Skool]

Interesting

http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/blog/eye-on-college-football/20047925

I don't know if I would be bragging about academics if I were Texas A&M or even a school in Texas period. Among other things, this is the school that boarded up their bookstore for a hurricane by putting the boards on the inside of the windows.

[Jiggafras]

Posted by: DallasTX Cane | September 04, 2012 at 12:25 PM

I never really care about the conference thing, but they have different teams win the NT because they don't accept mediocrity. LSU went one year where their defense was just horrible, next season dude was gone and Chavis went in. 13 games is a pretty good cross section to judge especially considering he has had 2 offseason to get the players upto scratch to what he is trying to do. We have had QBs completed 95 percent against us....average QBs. Golden...i love the guy but its not flying for him to be saying how much confidence he has in D'no. At the same time, they said no excuse but the excuse is, put it all on the players. I admit their were busts in coverage but is Randy still coaching us? Bust is on the coaching 2, something is not right with that defense.

[86Cane]

And SOUP, you were right, Morris DOES look like Craig Erickson.

Posted by: CaneRock | September 04, 2012 at 12:40 PM

I tried to tell U so!

His throwing motion and the arm strength and the way he stands in the pocket is eerily similar to Erickson.

[86Cane]

86 - U ought to add a video section so we can watch sexual innuendos all day long. That should boost the hit count significantly.

Posted by: DallasTX Cane | September 04, 2012 at 12:27 PM

I had considered that at one time but the problem was we kept running out of jello shots. LOL

[CaneRock]

I think Botts may have made the play of the game recovering that botched snap and kicking it into the end zone.

And kudos to those "BIG Uglies" for a great all around game.

And SOUP, you were right, Morris DOES look like Craig Erickson.

[Hassan]

polls out, not one vote for Miami, we do not deserve it giving up that much yards on D. lets beat KS and BCC and then lets talk votes. meanwhile if we play a lil D we might be a pretty decent team.

[Ohio_Cane]

Quotes incoming!!

[86Cane]

Hilarious:

http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/blog/eye-on-college-football/20047925

[Hassan]

http://wqam.com/interviews

golden on this am

[DallasTX Cane]

3. We talk about UM sports all day long instead of reading about sexual innuendos.

86 - U ought to add a video section so we can watch sexual innuendos all day long. That should boost the hit count significantly.

[DallasTX Cane]

Posted by: Jiggafras | September 04, 2012 at 11:36 AM

Hiring new coordinators every year doesn't help. D'No may have to go, but giving the guy one season plus one game isn't realistic. Its not like he and AG stepped into Coker's situation.

There are a lot of reasons why the SEC is better than everyone else. Passion and $$$ top the list tho. The ACC will never compete with the SEC in football, top to bottom. A couple of ACC teams - CANES & fsu - can make comebacks and compete with the SEC best. But don't hold your breath waiting for the ACC to become a "football conference".

[86Cane]

The old coach vs player discussion, I see nothing has changed

Posted by: Loco | September 04, 2012 at 11:55 AM

Loco...good to see U around, but that's not true! A lot has changed around here.

1. Our tailgates are better than ever and we are parking in the new GREEN lot (extra hour) lot on the SE corner of the stadium.

2. We have completely new Canespace shirts for 2012 that are black or white not orange or green.

3. There are a LOT of new and intelligent bloggers on here that talk about UM sports all day long (thank God!) instead of posting comments about sexual innuendos.

But other than that, yeah, things are about the same. LOL

[DallasTX Cane]

Big picture: BIG W for a young team that lost a lot of production; on the road vs a conference rival.

I love that we got down and came back. That showed heart and composure. I loved our fitness especially in Q4 where we've wilted the past, oh 6-7 years. I loved Duke. I loved that our D kept coming back and never gave up even after giving up A TON of yards. Can U say GOAL LINE D?!?

Yes, there are things I did not love. And yes, if most if not all aren't corrected, it might still end up a so-so season. However, I don't see any reason after only 1 game to NOT trust the coaching staff (and players) to continue to develop and get better. IMO the opposite will happen - this WILL be a better team, a better defense, as the season progresses.

Can we beat KU on their place? I don't know if we can. Young players are typically inconsistent; so a good or great game can easily be followed up with a poor showing. However, I believe they'll build on the success they had and work on the mistakes and play a better game this Sat than last. That may not be enough to win, but will keep it close.

I'm going to keep the faith...last minute FG wins it. 38-35 CANES

[Loco]

The old coach vs player discussion, I see nothing has changed

[Jiggafras]

In 13 games since D'no became Miami DC, teams have completed 68% of their passes. That is simply atrocious. Golden wont jump on is friend. That is the difference between the SEC and everyone else. Mediocrity is blamed on the players in other places, the SEC hire new coaches till they get it right.

[CaneRock]

Miami vs BC:

1st Half:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCBGaN32RUM

2nd Half:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8kJ9Qsg0QA&feature=channel&list=UL

[LB]

"1. Tru dat.

2. That's YOUR opinion. The defense was not sharp or consistent and too played soft at first and looked lost at times. D'No gets heat that is WELL deserved. That's MY opinion.

3. Looks like we ALL agree on that one.

4. It was rather tasty indeed!"
--------
3/4 ain't bad, CEO.

"The Miami defense struggled though, giving up an alarming 508 yards to Boston College."

Ouch. Seeing that number refreshes things a bit.

However, using some perspective... D'Onofrio's defense usually bounces back well after a bad week. In 2011, after giving up 24 points against the Ninja Turtle rejects... the Buckeyes were held to 6. 24 to North Carolina, then 7 to Georgia Tech. 28 to Virginia, 14 to Duke. 23 to FSU, 3 to South Florida.

In 2010, 24 to Villanova, 10 to pass happy Central Michigan. 27 to Bowling Green, 0 to Buffalo and Akron.

In 2009, 31 to Penn State, 13 to Buffalo. 32 to Miami (OH), 17 to Akron.

These may seem like "chosen statistics," but given the better personnel on the 2012 Canes team and the average of "bounce-back defensive points," it makes me feel better.

Still, I have to give it to you. 32 points and 508 yards are alarming (it says 537 on ESPN). However, 32 points could have EASILY been over 40... and I'm thankful for it.

- BC was 6/14 on 3rd down.
- They averaged 2.8 yards per rush.
- They lost two fumbles and had one interception.
- They failed to make their only 4th down conversion.
- BC was held to three field goals that should have been touchdowns.

D'Onofrio should get a lot of hell. The refrain of "too much time" even made my wife turn around and tell me to calm down as the defensive line got no pressure.

But it could have been much, much worse.

Perhaps I'm just on a high. We won, baby!

[86Cane]

ACC HI-LITES:

http://video.theacc.com/1821802980001/Best-of-the-Weekend/videos/

[86Cane]

BC, GT (to VT) and NCST (to Tennessee) lost.

All other 9 ACC teams won.

[86Cane]

LB...read the paragraph above.

That's from the ACC and ALL U need to know!

[86Cane]

MIAMI-FLORIDA: Freshman tailback Duke Johnson paced the Miami rushing attack with 135 yards, scoring on long TD runs of 54 yards and 56 yards, leading Miami-Florida to a 41-32 win over Boston College in Chestnut Hill. The Hurricanes, which got 208 yards on the ground in the game, nearly matched that with 207 yards passing, as quarterback Stephen Morris completed 28-of-45 passes, with one TD and one INT. Al Golden's squad dug itself in a early 14-0 deficit, but battled back to earn the win thanks to an offense that racked up over 400 yards. The Miami defense struggled though, giving up an alarming 508 yards to Boston College. Still, after earning Freshman All-American honors in 2011, LB Denzel Perryman started 2012 in impressive fashion, returning an INT 41 yards for a TD in the first quarter. The Hurricanes were fortunate to get the win at Boston College but will need to shore things up defensively this week, as they take on nationally-ranked Kansas State in Manhattan this weekend.

[86Cane]

BOSTON COLLEGE: Any questions surrounding quarterback Chase Rettig's ability to bring Boston College's offense up to par in the ACC were answered in this past weekend's season-opener against Miami-Florida. Although the outcome was not ideal, a 41-32 loss to the Hurricanes, the silver lining was the play of Rettig, who completed 32-of-51 passes, for 441 yards and two touchdowns. Junior WR Alex Amidon benefited the most from Rettig's performance, hauling in a career-high 10 balls, for 149 yards. The offense as a whole churned out 508 total yards. The team did however, give up 41 points to the 'Canes, the most BC has given up in a game since allowing 44 to NC State on Oct. 9, 2010. The Eagles will attempt to get their first win of the 2012 season this weekend, when they play host to FCS foe Maine.

[UpNorthCane27]

Sour Face robert marve isnt getting the start vs notre dame loll... this guy is one fo those "hes still in college" type of players, you ask yourself a decade later.

[86Cane]

1. Calm down. It's week one, and we won a conference game on the road vs. a traditional rival. Enjoy it!

2. D'Onofrio is getting hell, and a lot of it is not deserved. We did not have the personnel to pressure BC's QB. I didn't see him uncomfortable at all.

3. If we come out of Manhattan with a win, this team is going to explode.

4. I surely enjoyed my Chestnut Chicken.

Posted by: LB | September 04, 2012 at 08:55 AM

1. Tru dat.

2. That's YOUR opinion. The defense was not sharp or consistent and too played soft at first and looked lost at times. D'No gets heat that is WELL deserved. That's MY opinion.

3. Looks like we ALL agree on that one.

4. It was rather tasty indeed!

[86Cane]

"Thomas Finnie is absolutely the most deserving member of the secondary to start. By far, he is the most technically sound player back there. I really like him in game situations. As the pass rush was nonexistent, he had to cover virtually all day."

Yeah, well there's that and the fact that his Dad reads Canespace. I'm jus sayin...

[LB]

http://espn.go.com/blog/acc

Heather Dinich just posted the ACC power rankings. Don't read them unless you want to ruin your high from beating BC, and don't read any further unless you want to be spoiled.

------

We're 9th. Behind Wake (W, Liberty, 20-17) and Virginia (W, 43-19). What a bunch of crap, and this coming from someone who rated Randy Shannon's teams higher at the beginning and end of the season.

[LB]

I'm the most anti-FSU fan in the world, but I hate to hear this about anyone.

http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/8334825/florida-state-seminoles-de-brandon-jenkins-foot-done-season

[LB]

"Shout out to Malcolm lewis he put the moves on that fool for the TD"

Lewis caught all 4 passes. You can't ask for more. Dude deserves to start, and he'll only get better.

Duke Johnson is a humble person. I love that.

"Papa Cane - The 2012 Miami Hurricanes team will struggle, but unlike last year, they will not quit down 14-0. Golden's philosophy in action. His kids"

You could make the argument that was the case last year, too. They never lost a game by more than 8. I still agree that this year's team is far superior. The running back corps is a much more diverse unit, and the more game experience Morris gets in Fisch's system... the better off we become.

"We won the game, and I'd like to enjoy it tonight if you'll let me."- Al Golden

[Ohio_Cane]

Papa Cane - The 2012 Miami Hurricanes team will struggle, but unlike last year, they will not quit down 14-0. Golden's philosophy in action. His kids.

[Da U N Houston]

I just like the fact that none of these guys are really getting "hyped" up, recall c/o 08......let's sit back and enjoy the game/season....the ups and downs.

And I really like Jedd's mentality....put pressure on the Def. and make them find a way to stop what we are doing not the other way (Find a way to beat the Defense)

[UpNorthCane27]

Deon Bush looked physically impressive in person, kid can run and flat out hit... Flowers was not mentioned at all which for a linemen means good news he was a beast on that line.

All in all the freshmen looked the part and they played the part.

Shout out to Malcolm lewis he put the moves on that fool for the TD

[LB]

Hi all,

I've been off the boards for a long weekend. I glanced at the new depth chart, and here are a few things that jumped out at me.

The offensive line is going to be phenomenal this year, and it only gets better now that Henderson becomes a backup this week (send some love to Susan).

Stephen Morris's patience was impressive, given the dropped passes and a blameless pick.

Malcolm Lewis looked smooth. Now he's starting. We'll need him.

Dyron Dye is starting? Dude's come a long way.

The running back corps is outstanding. As offenses key in on Duke, Mike James will absolutely wear out defenses. Look a little closer at James. Those outside runs would have been losses last year for #5. He's faster and hits those holes with a vengeance. We haven't even tasted Hagens yet.

That defensive line needs an exorcism. But it'll happen. Not sweating yet.

As the game wore on, Buchanan played a lot better. Perryman was a monster. Armbrister looked lost at times. Eddie Johnson needs some time.

Thomas Finnie is absolutely the most deserving member of the secondary to start. By far, he is the most technically sound player back there. I really like him in game situations. As the pass rush was nonexistent, he had to cover virtually all day.

Deon Bush looked ready to hit somebody. Once he calms down and adjusts to the speed of the game, I truly pity opposing QB's.

The whole team better buy Botts and Wieclaw some dinner at minimum. They deserve so much credit and are receiving virtually none. Both could have blown the game, and both were beyond amazing.

--------------
Message to all:

Calm down. It's week one, and we won a conference game on the road vs. a traditional rival. Enjoy it! This is a resilient team who came back multiple times.

Morris made one questionable decision, and it was an incompletion to Dorsett which kept the defense guessing. He was very good.

D'Onofrio is getting hell, and a lot of it is not deserved. We did not have the personnel to pressure BC's QB. I didn't see him uncomfortable at all. Blitz the linebackers, give up a big gain. Hold the linebackers, giving up a 6-7 yard out on the sides.

It's personnel, not coaching. As Mike James was declared the face of UM football (and previous tape dictated such), BC keyed on him. It didn't matter. We had Duke and Clements. BC keyed on Chickillo, and the lack of pressure speaks for itself. You really think someone else isn't going to step up? The coaches are fine. Relax.

If we come out of Manhattan with a win, this team is going to explode.

I surely enjoyed my Chestnut Chicken.

[Ohio_Cane]

If it hasn't been mentioned here, Ereck Flowers graded out at 94% vs BC. That's why he's starting

[86Cane]

On the road, the Canes need to cut down on the mistakes and turnovers, and they will leave Manhattan with a 2-0 record and a lot of momentum and confidence for a young team. A 2-0 start could really launch these Canes like a missle into a successful season.

Posted by: BigWIndyCane-Forecast1 | September 03, 2012 at 11:50 PM

What he said.

[86Cane]

If we somehow beat KSU we should be 4 and 0
and it will extremly piss me off if we go 2 and 2..the is O-NO Fried excuse.

Posted by: jerry | September 04, 2012 at 01:07 AM

Jerry...that's a BIG if, but I agree with U. It seems a LOT (winning, cofidence, momentum) hinges on the KSU game. Win that one and things are sitting pretty. Lose it and well back to square one.

[86Cane]

Hurricane Hotline is a weekly two-hour show hosted by Joe Zagacki and Don Bailey Jr. and airs Tuesday or Wednesday nights from 7-9 p.m. during the season at The Grove Spot (3324 Virginia Street, Coconut Grove). Hurricane Hotline features interviews with UM head coach Al Golden, players, coaches and other Miami personnel as well as other featured guests. Fans are encouraged to listen on 560 WQAM or view the show in-person at The Grove Spot.

[MassivCane]

I love hearing how we have these freshman coming in and taking spots away from these upperclassmen. It signifies what we once had and what Al is capable of bringing into our program. It feels like the old days again, yeah we have all said that before but I feel Al has the drive and ability to get us where we need to go! Beleive in the process and hold in tight. It's going to be fun to watch!

[usagainsttheworld]

To those of you who are saying that based on last night's game you feel good about our chances against VT and GT, two words---whoa nelly!

With those coaching staffs those kids will be a lot better by the time they get to us. Thank goodness we get GT relatively early in the season--before really get rolling. We VT late though.

Good news is that with our coaches we should be better too. Hoping that U Tough helps these youngins evade the freshman wall.

[Hassan]

VT beats GT, that is good we need our teams to be ranked, would not have helped to have the ranked team lose.

[Hassan]

Duke Johnson has the Dos Esqes guy now following him on twitter.

I heard Duke is faster then a Jimmy Johns delivery man

[The Dude]

So far from what I have seen, D'No wants to get pressure w/ 4 DEs. The Giants do this in the NFL. Here is the problem. Terry as I watch this tape, is not ready. Green and Cain are strong but are not athletic enough. Chickillo isnt ready to beat a double team yet and I think he should play his guys tighter and disrupt the timing of the WRs and QB. This may give the DEs more time to get there when he rushes 4. To get pressure with 4, I think you have to have some freak athletes, at least 1 guy who can beat a double team regularly.

[Hassan]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKM_ZeXMcEQ&feature=g-all-u

6:34 watch Bush stick the Ol #59

[Felipe]

lol The Dude that's good stuff.

[The Dude]

On BCs 3rd drive, they faced a 3rd and long. Again D'No came out w/ 4 DEs. Chickillo and Green both in their same spots on the inside and Terry and Cain flipped on the outside. BC didnt try any motion this time. They just lined up in a 4 wide set with 2 receivers on each side. The right side of the formation was the 1st read for Rettig. Off the snap Canes rush 4, again Terry is eaten up. The LT goes low on him and cleans him out. Cain is picked up by a RB and is a non-factor. Chickillo and Green are both double teamed. No one gets near Rettig. LB Tyrone Cornilius is covering 5 yards off the slot on the strongside and Finnie is covering 2 yards off the outside WR. Their help is SS Telemaque who is about 3.5 yards behind the 1st down line. Rettig's 1st read (seeing a theme here?) is the slot WR covered by LB Cornilius. Keep in mind, its 3rd and 6 and Cornilius is 5 yards off. Finnie's WR runs a slant taking Finnie inside and away from the sideline while Cornilius' guy is racing him to the sideline. The WR beats Cornilius to the throw by about 3 yards. Luckily, Rettig misses him. Had the ball been thrown well, this would have been another 1st down. Had it been an exceptional throw where the WR could hve caught it on the run it would have been a BIG play because Telemaque is taking an awful angle to the play. He is running straight at the QB when he should be running to the sideline w/ the throw. Its such a bad angle he actually runs into Finnie and leaves the backfield completely wide open. We got luck Rettig missed his throw. 3 and out.

[Hassan]

VT might start the whole year but play less snaps then Bush, that is my prediction, he gets the first play of the game for being here 4 years, after that is is free for all.

[BigWIndyCane-Forecast1]

This KSU game sets up nicely for the Canes, I don't see KSU simply lining up like they did last year and running down the throat of this year's Canes team. This Canes team is much improved and better conditioned across the board. KSU will try to mix it up on offense and take advantage of the inexperience of the Canes. On defense, they will certainly pay more attention to #8.

On the other hand, I think the Canes may finally have the talent to put up some big numbers on offense and the defense will get a lot better.

On the road, the Canes need to cut down on the mistakes and turnovers, and they will leave Manhattan with a 2-0 record and a lot of momentum and confidence for a young team. A 2-0 start could really launch these Canes like a missle into a successful season.

[The Dude]

I want to post some more stuff on the BC game and KStates game as the week goes on and then do the same for the following week, etc. But wife calls.

[Felipe]

Disagree, rogers had the most tackles Saturday. Bush needs to replace VT

Posted by: Willie Will in Nashville | September 03, 2012 at 11:36 PM

That was my prediction. By end of year, Telemaque is behind Bush.

[WWIN]

Deon Bush deserves to be a starter over Rodgers.

We'll see how VT does this week, he was constantly out of position against BC, this is the last straw for him. At this point, Golden should just try out the combo of Rashawn and Deon, both nasty hard hitters, that'll be fun to watch!

Posted by: Sean Spence is a Beast!!! | September 03, 2012 at 12:18 PM

Disagree, rogers had the most tackles Saturday. Bush needs to replace VT

[panamacitycane]

Who was it that tried to tell people you never know who the team will be win u face them? Fsu Brandon Jenkins out for the season
http://m.espn.go.com/ncf/story?storyId=8334825

[86Cane]

Be reasonable.....

Posted by: raizecane | September 03, 2012 at 11:15 PM

That's asking WAY too much.