Flashback: National Signing Day 2012

Three or four years from now, when it is all said and done, the University of Miami's 2012 recruiting class may go down in history as THE class that turned it all around for Miami and restored the Hurricanes to their rightful place among college football's elite programs.

In terms of quality, and the sheer quantity of players signed by UM on National Signing Day 2012, this class of high school recruits has the chance to rank among the best ever at Miami.

On paper and on potential this class of 33 players that now accounts for almost 40% of the entire 85 man roster at UM is the infusion of talent and toughness that Hurricanes head coach Al Golden said he needed to get things right in Coral Gables.

Now it will be up to Golden and his assistant coaches to coach up this new group of players at "The U" so that they can reach their maximum potential and return the Hurricanes to national prominence and championship glory.

With the cards stacked against them, UM head coach Al Golden and his assistant coaches managed to work their magic to land this tremendous class in spite of a mediocre 2011 season and potential NCAA sanctions looming over the program like a black cloud.

Miami fans I talked to at the NSD party on the UM Campus Wednesday night were wondering out loud: "If Golden can recruit like this under circumstances like this what can he do if and when the sanctions are gone and Miami starts winning again?"

Our first article about NSD 2012 will break down the recruiting class by the numbers:

• Number of players signed: 24 (not counting the 9 EEs)
• Number of defensive players on NSD: 14
• Number of offensive players on NSD: 10
• Number of players from Florida (NSD): 21
• Number of players from Southwest Florida: 6
• Number of players from Dade County: 5
• Number of players from Broward County: 5
• Number of players from Palm Beach County: 3
• Number of players from other States: 3 (GA, PA, LA)
• Number of defensive backs: 6
• Number of wide receivers: 5
• Number of defensive lineman: 4
• Number of NSD hits on Canespace: 14,773
• Number of NSD comments on Canespace: 590

We appreciate the hard work and effort that UM head coach Al Golden and his staff put into the recruiting process this year. We believe that by they have brought in one of the best classes in Miami Hurricane football history.

Can U only imagine what 2013 will bring?

Comments

[calGary Cane]

According to what Ice said on the interview this morning, it seems he didn't get the change of rules. To pharaphrase " a kid should be given up to NSD to make up his mind"... "Thomas is given that opportunity, why not DK".

[calGary Cane]

I recall "get on the train before it leaves the station" or something like that, the week before. That's the direction change. I think it's quite indicative of what transpired that night.

[Schweaty Balls]

From ESPN

According to Booker T. Washington head coach Tim Harris, the Hurricanes just couldn't wait for him. A new commitment, one that hasn't gone public, on the defensive side of the ball apparently has taken his place.

Ohio, you have anything on who this defensive guy is?

[calGary Cane]

http://miamiherald.typepad.com/umiami/2013/01/kirkland-um-is-out-of-the-picture.html#storylink=cpy#storylink=cpy

"Kirkland said his final four is now South Florida, Florida State, Ole Miss and Arkansas."

.... soooo, Kirkland did NOT commit when offered the chance.

[nb]

It has to be an academic issue with Kirkland. Ole Miss has extremely low entrance requirements. That is the only way anyone from Mississippi can attend a state university.

[Schweaty Balls]

Ole Miss = 9's and 10's everywhere. Hottest chicks anywhere! Go to an Ole Miss game and spend a Saturday afternoon in The Grove everyone on this blog will understand.

[UMike]

Schweaty, I agree with you 100%

[UMike]

Ole Miss only has 10 recruits. Of those 10 they have 1 5-star and 7 4-Stars. 5-Star WR Laquon Treadwell is the #1 WR in the Country and #5 player overall. He posted a picture on Twitter holding a large amount of 100 dollar bills either on his recruiting trip or shortly after. That would give them the #1 and #5 players in the country. They also got Lavon Hooks and if Tunsil signs they will have the #14 player in the country.

[Schweaty Balls]

UMike...Part of the problem too, something I hate with recruiting, is that everyone under the sun can run their mouth about anything they want whenever they want, truth or not, but the media and blogs just gobble it up. But the people we really need to hear from, in this case Golden to get his take, he is barred from saying anything by the NCAA.

[UMike]

It's long been assumed that the nation's No. 1 player, Loganville (Ga.) Grayson defensive end Robert Nkemdiche, will end up at Ole Miss. But the talented defender is sure making the Rebels fans sweat..

From what I understand his brother plays for Ole Miss (could be wrong)..but these other top players..come on..ole miss? lol

[Da U N Houston]

Yeah Ole Miss is on FIRE!!!!!!!

[UpNorthCane27]

Ole Miss will secure there oline by getting Laremy Tunsil and Denver Kirkland...........$$$ speaks

[UMike]

OLE MISS IS DOING SOMETHING.HOW ARE THEY GETTING TOP NOTCH TALENT? ITS OLE MISS

Posted by: canezilla | February 01, 2013 at 11:17 AM

$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

[UMike]

Schweaty..I can understand that point. I just don't get why you make a "take it or leave it" offer to Kirkland when you are still pursuing other lesser players and NOT giving them the same ultimatum. I think Casagrande makes a great point, that Golden MUST know something, BUT,..if there was something to know (grades, character issues etc), why was it a "take it or leave it" deal rather than a "we are moving in another direction" deal? Than again, we have no real clue if he was even given an ultimatum at all.

[canezilla]

OLE MISS IS DOING SOMETHING.HOW ARE THEY GETTING TOP NOTCH TALENT? ITS OLE MISS

[Schweaty Balls]

UMike...I see your point but if Miami does this with a 2 or 3 star guy and one who is not local, what kind of message is that? Would anyone even care in the end? Probably not. The impact is not as great. Its like when coaches suspend players for a quarter of a game, ho hum, who cares, they still get to play. Suspend them for 2 games, now that says something. The tone set by Golden will have a major impact and get guys thinking twice before they pull a Kirkland.

[CaneRock]

Hmmmmmm...maybe this is the reason we pulled Denv...naaaaaah, never mind LOL:

Miami also has resumed speaking to Indiana-based Nate Wozniak, who also can play offensive tackle.

Read more here: http://miamiherald.typepad.com/sports-buzz/2013/02/um-recruiting-update-with-signing-day-looming-nfl-media-column.html#storylink=cpy

[thirstybuzzardcane]

Good read from Casagrande!!!!.....I agree with him 100%

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/um-hurricanes/miami-hurricanes-blog/sfl-the-reasons-behind-denver-kirkland-saga-arent-important-20130131,0,7649204.story

[UMike]

Rumor is Laremy Tunsil to Ole Miss

Posted by: Ohio_Cane | February 01, 2013 at 10:27 AM

Ole Miss is pending A LOT of $$$ this recruiting cycle..getting tons of top guys and I predict the top player from 2013 (whatever his name is) signs there also

[UMike]

Before I ask this question, I just want to say i trust Golden and his staff, and I have said that tons on this blog...BUT..for all the bloggers saying this is good, and we needed to make a point (not disagreeing with that)..etc...wouldn't it be better to make that point with someone else? lol..My question is this, why do you pull a scholarship from a top OL who also happens to be teammates with your TOP TARGET and plays for a local powerhouse that has supplied us talent for decades...versus someone like a 3-star FULLBACK from freakin Staten Island!!! lol I just dont get why it wasnt ok for Kirkland to wait, but we are still putting time and effort into Edwards and waiting.

[Ohio_Cane]

Rumor is Laremy Tunsil to Ole Miss

[UMike]

Co...I agree...how are you gonna sit there and say publicly Kirkland was going to UM, and then say they pulled his scholarship cause he said UM was only in his top 3. Which is it Harris????

[CoCane]

UMike,

You never know. Maybe they still do have a scholly for him. My son wants to play basketball for the "U" & I can't imagine having to see him feel the hurt that Kirkland is feeling right now. But I dont let my son take opportunities for granted. That being said. It wouldn't surprise me to see a mysterious scholly open up for him at the last minute. ;-) The point will still be made that you ain't playing recruiting games with the "U" no more. Get on or get missing. I'm hoping for a fairy tale ending.

For the record. I do think Harris fukked Kirkland. He should've guided him to man up. I think he's more pizzed with himself than the "U". He knows better...

[Sean Spence is a Beast!!!]

Here's hoping Golden forgives and forgets! Let's take both the BTW guys.

[UMike]

I think there still may be a chance Kirkland lands with Miami. Imagine Thomas tell Miami coaches they are a package deal? Sorry Edwards, Brooks and every other project guy..we need a spot lol

[Schweaty Balls]

CoCane...this stuff happens every year and it just blows my mind why these guys just need to do what they do. If he wanted to come to Miami that badly than commit, don't play the games. Now look where it got you.

And like I said, this tells me everything what I need to know about the NCAA and whats coming down. This event last night does not happen if the NCAA is going to crush us, just doesn't.

[86Cane]

UMike...there is a lot of misdirection that goes on in the recruiting game that U do not either know about or understand. It makes for good blogging but in the long run and in the big picture does not do much anything else.

AT ALL.

[Sean Spence is a Beast!!!]

It's a given Randy Shannon will obviously need to recruit against us, but i doubt he is going to recruit negatively against us. Shannon, despite his record here as head coach and despite how he ended his career here, he will always have love for his alma mater and his hometown. Harris should have the same approach as both his sons are former canes.

[NY Trooper]

Golden and his assistants know what they are doing. Only they know how many scholarships are available. Only they know what recruits have given their 100% allegiance to the U. Given the lack of scholarships available, every one of them are precious. Load up the bus with those that want in now so we are not left holding an empty scholarship in the hand when one of these 18 year olds decide to go elsewhere at the last second. U IN OR ARE U OUT?

[86Cane]

OK, I do have one comment:

Dolt refers a person who isn't very smart. You might be called a dolt if you do something dumb, like stand outside your car complaining that you locked your keys inside — even though the window is wide open.

ICE HARRIS IS A DOLT.

[CaneRock]

I wonder if it is really academics (didnt Kirkland himself say that), and Harris is talking BS so Kirkland doesnt look bad.

Posted by: UMike | February 01, 2013 at 09:32 AM
------------------------------------------

This is the most likely scenario, and the one I believe. I'm not going to state that as fact, because I don't know for sure.

It seems, from what all the quotes read like, that this is the case.

Posted by: Ohio_Cane | February 01, 2013 at 09:33 AM

Manny_Navarro Again, Kirkland told Ice Harris he thought I was asking him why he wanted to go to #UM. Thus, he said academics.

Manny_Navarro For those of you confused by Kirkland's academic comments. Ice Harris said Kirkland misunderstood my question. #UM

[Sean Spence is a Beast!!!]

Harris has been pissed at the U since his buddy RS was fired. How many kids have we gotten from there in the past 2 years?

Posted by: TJL | February 01, 2013 at 08:17 AM

Man, have some pride bruh! Your sons attended UM, one played football and one ran track, c'mon man! This is some ishh! Seriously!

[Schweaty Balls]

Its a good opinion piece for sure. And he is right that teams like Alabama, Texas, Florida, etc. are not in this position. Sure they are waiting on a few guys, that happens every year, but they are not backed in to a corner like Miami is today with so many guys. Kirkland was a point that had to be made.

Yeah I can only imagine what Uncle Look is saying today, probably not for the kids to hear I am sure.

[CoCane]

Listening to the Tim Harris interview on WQAM. Kirkland is devastated. He was coming to the "U". He wouldn't be so hurt if he wasn't. But... If I was in his shoes. I would've silently committed & then announced on NSD. You don't play with your own dreams like that.

This was a message for the local players to get their ego in check. I bet next year's class will be mostly wrapped up before January.

[Sean Spence is a Beast!!!]

Also..how do you force the hand of a top LOCAL player from a MAJOR local power, but you are willing to wait for a 3-Star FB out of Staten Island??? I honestly do not care if we finish with all 5-Star guys, you DO NOT burn a local kid from a school we recruit every year in that way. We obviously have room for him if we have all these unrated kids and are waiting on a couple 3 star guys...jmo of course

Posted by: UMike | February 01, 2013 at 06:25 AM

Best post in regards to DK, this is what i've been trying to say. Thanks UMike!

[UMike]

Schweaty...that was a great article. Im so glad I unfollowed Uncle Luke on Twitter, I can only imagine how much Cane bashing he has been doing since last night lol

[Schweaty Balls]

Ohio I agree, OL is not a position of need at this point and if Keef is a silent and the scholly came down to an either/or, its a no brainer who you pick.

[Schweaty Balls]

Thanks for posting that Ferman opinion article UMike, which everyone needs to read to get a full understanding of whats going on. Its a great read and is spot on for where things stand.

[Ohio_Cane]

Ohio..would you pull Kirkland's offer to make room for an unrated DT project who does not have 4 years of eligibility? I wouldn't. I MIGHT for Keef...might lol

Posted by: UMike | February 01, 2013 at 09:30 AM
--------------------------------------

U know, I thought about that. Golden isn't stupid, no matter how some people want to paint him in this situation. My initial thoughts were "Wow, Keef just silent committed and we had to drop DK". I'm still kinda going back n forth on this one.

Like I said last night, I still take it as good news that we're dropping a very good OL to make room for someone else.

If it were me, I'd drop DK for Keef silent commit in less than a second.

[Schweaty Balls]

UMike

I hear you dude, thats what makes blogs fun, the other side of things and peoples opinion.

I think its more than that. I just think the kid was playing some games and really, a message needed to be sent. Clearly, there is something more to this whole thing that we are not hearing. I think no one was holding anyone hostage and Miami has their class done and wrapped up. The only guy I think is questionable is Thomas but really, I think he is in and this just reinforces the point Golden is done F'ing around.

[Sean Spence is a Beast!!!]

Also, SSIB, you're crazy if u think we're not getting Coley and Grace.

Posted by: Ohio_Cane | February 01, 2013 at 12:44 AM

Ohio, i maybe, but you know as well as i do, the whole deal bout DK isn't a good thing momentarily.

It may just about ruined our 2013 recruiting class. Gut feel is saying we only get 3 players max from all the recruits we're targeting but i respect your input and that's why i come to the space to get info so here's hoping i'm just being paranoid.

[UMike]

Booker T. Washington offensive lineman Denver Kirkland was recruited by the University of Miami for almost a year. That meant he had 300-plus opportunities to wake up in the morning, decide he wanted to be a Hurricane and call Coach Al Golden and tell him that he wanted to join The U.

Deep down, apparently that is what he really wanted to do. But either because he was guided to do differently, or got caught up in all of the attention that swirls around recruiting long before this thick, thick fog hits, Kirkland opted to play the recruiting game.

That meant former Canes defensive back coach Wesley McGriff flying into town to woo him to Mississippi. It meant Jimbo Fisher coming in to pitch Florida State. It meant former Miami Head Coach Randy Shannon coming into his home representing Arkansas. And on and on and on.

Through all this time, Miami assistant Micheal Barrow persistently did his job. Barrow must have had 100 phone conversations with Kirkland. Kirkland had an open invite to head out to Miami on unofficial visits whenever he desired. Coach Al Golden was always available to talk to him. This went on for almost a year. Kirkland had an offer from Miami to attend Miami.

This week, that offer disappeared when Miami decided to move on and apparently give that scholarship to a young man from another school who valued it more, that was ready to commit to being a Hurricane. Kirkland was informed he no longer had a committable offer and was wished the best of luck in attending one of the other schools.

Great read..

http://miami.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1467010

[Ohio_Cane]

I wonder if it is really academics (didnt Kirkland himself say that), and Harris is talking BS so Kirkland doesnt look bad.

Posted by: UMike | February 01, 2013 at 09:32 AM
------------------------------------------

This is the most likely scenario, and the one I believe. I'm not going to state that as fact, because I don't know for sure.

It seems, from what all the quotes read like, that this is the case.

[Schweaty Balls]

And I know Ferman is clueless half the time on his information, but his opinion article this morning was dead on. This was a point Golden had to make and Kirkland and being an OL, not necessarily a poistion of need mind you, was the sacrifical lamb for this point to be made.

[Ohio_Cane]

To paraphrase what Golden told a HS kid (not a recruit, just a student where he was visiting some future recruits and getting them to come to Junior Day):

"Anything less than a national championship in 2014 is unacceptable, and a failure."

[UMike]

Schweaty..I am relaxed lol..just giving my opinions. Why is it ok for others to "hold us hostage", but not Kirkland. I wonder if it is really academics (didnt Kirkland himself say that), and Harris is talking BS so Kirkland doesnt look bad.

[UMike]

I honestly think we got a silent commit and that it's most likely Terrell Brooks. Possibly Keef, but that's unlikely.

Posted by: Ohio_Cane | February 01, 2013 at 09:27 AM

Ohio..would you pull Kirkland's offer to make room for an unrated DT project who does not have 4 years of eligibility? I wouldn't. I MIGHT for Keef...might lol

[Schweaty Balls]

I agree with Ohio 100% on this. Everyone, including UMike, need to relax. This is a shot acorss the bow and a warning sign to every player and HS coach that Miami is not messing around any more and is not going to let some 18 year old punk hold the school hostage.

And one other point I would like to make, this move by Golden and staff tells me EVERYTHING I need to know about the NCAA sanctions and whats going to happen and where we are going to be next year.

[Ohio_Cane]

I honestly think we got a silent commit and that it's most likely Terrell Brooks. Possibly Keef, but that's unlikely.

[UMike]

Ohio..I do think the coaches know what their doing, BUT, they are not beyond making mistakes. NOT saying they did, and Co, you might be right, Golden may have other silents and what not. I just hate that kids and coaches can just blast college coaches and say whatever they want knowing they cant respond.

[360Cane]

To me, as an ex-player and ex-recruit, I can tell you players are not phased by this. If anything, they're saying, "oh damn." Something's going on at the U for them to pull a scholly from a local 4* that wasn't committed. We pulled a scholly offer from a player that wasn't committed. Think about it. It's not like the kids bags were packed and he was ready to enroll.

And being that we got Coley from FSU, isn't this now a wash. We had a fence up now with this hire but because we pull a scholly from an UNcommitted player, the fence crumbles and we're back to being the Miami of now?!

We are going to get kids that want to be apart of this U. We will not play the hat game unless its a silent. This kid was never a silent and Ice is saying he told coaches that he was. Well, the kid told UM coaches no. So which is it in this story? Was he silent or not. Harris says yes, the kid says no. I'm going with the kid as its his decision not Ice's.

[Ohio_Cane]

This is the last thing I'm gonna say on Kirkland...

Do U guys ACTUALLY think Golden, Coley, and Cristobal don't know what they're doing? U think they're gonna burn bridges with a local school over 1 kid? No.

They were all involved in this. I don't know the specifics, but there's def something that made us go another way (Grades, wouldn't commit, gave ship to someone else, etc)

Everyone R E L A X

[360Cane]

UMike, the only message other players are getting is that they shouldn't play games in this business. Those hat dances are nothing but show. The coaches already know way before the hat dance just like the players.

Kids are going to go where they want to go unless the $$$ is just too good to pass up. And them they'll learn money ain't everything but it is to the ones that don't have much of it.

Players aren't NOT going to come visit or look at the U because they pulled an offer from one kid 90% of them don't even know.

[Ohio_Cane]

"Ice" Harris on WQAM this morning: http://wqam.com/interviews

[Tonycane]

That garbage doesn't happen here in Texas. M Brown has his kids commit in April. His work is essentially done. There is very little of the choose one of the three hats stuff put here that is so prevalent in the state of Florida.

Wish Some kids would show more loyalty and enthusiasm, instead of playing the game until the last moment.

[UMike]

I think believing it will have zero effect on other players is being naive. I trust our coaches, BUT, there is now a perception locally that Miami pulled a scholarship offer at the last minute to a top athlete. Whatever the reason, the perception is bad and Ice Harris has a lot of influence around that area.

Also, we always need OL, and I would much rather have a top local talent for 4 years, then unknown projects for 2-3 years. IMO of course

[CoCane]

UMike,

You're haven't mentioned the possibility that all are other targets could be silent commits & the staff already knows on signing day they're announcing the "U" as their school.

What if the big surprise defensive recruit & Kirkland were the only 2 players they weren't sure about & there was only 1 scholly left. So considering the BTW pipeline & local respect, Barrow goes to Kirkland 1st & says. "Wuz up? If you're really with us commit now". But Kirkland gave him that you're in my top 3 bullshyt. Then when the other unnamed recruit in the same situation commits. I believe this was a gut check to see which one of these 2 recruits seriously was about the "U". The unnamed recruit showed more loyalty & desire to be here. Kirkland played with it & got played. EPIC FAIL

Sucks don't it...

Jmo of course

[nemo2002]

Lots of kids like Kirkland want to play the hat game on NSD. Well Golden just sent them a message: TWO CAN PLAY THAT GAME. In this case the U took one of Kirkland's hats off the table! THAT'S FINE!

If the U was really his first choice he shouldn't have been playing games with Golden and his staff.
If Ice Harris cared about the kid so much, he should have told him up front to be a man and don't play games! Make a commitment and stick with it.

[360Cane]

Guys, guys, guys. This will not affect other players and future players what so ever. It's in black and white but you continue to spin it in your own sick little minds. Lol

The kid did not silent like he was suppose to. Golden asked him, even sent Barrow in to ask him again like a "are you sure, you're sure?" He said top 3 and at this point in the game, it's silent or it's no go.

And we do not build a team around stars. We build a team around position of need. OL is something we are not in need of.

Or we could be Chicken Littles yet again and simply accept the fact Miami of ole ain't coming back.

But with the way the NCAA is crumbling, and the way the bball team is playing, I would assume things are starting to get better for us, yes?

Ice is just being a big baby. He knows the rules and is simply letting some frustration out because HE screwed up.

[UMike]

And im NOT saying we have damaged any relationships, I just hope Golden is able to smooth this over with local coaches and parents.

[86Cane]

NO COMMENT.

[UMike]

Terrance...I understand that, but we cant burn a pipeline to a place like BTW, it will also effect other local schools which are our life blood, especially if we hope to get back on top.

[Terrance Sullivan]

Last time I checked there are plenty of players in Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach so I am not gonna be butt hurt over a couple of players or one school. Geez. Go Canes.

[UMike]

CaneRock..I hear ya...Im saying he could have told Barrow he would commit, stayed a silent commit, and him and BTW, and Dade County etc etc would have still got their BOON! lol..And I do think telling a coach a week before NSD your only in my top 3 is in fact holding them hostage. This is a crucial time of the year, last in home visits etc, we cant be left wondering...BUT..on the other side of that, we are currently left wondering about almost all our targets and their offers arent being pulled. Maybe it was in fact academics...what else would the coaches and Kirkland be "working on"

[CaneRock]

Thats is all fine and may be correct, BUT, that has nothing to do with Kirkland telling Barrow UM is only in his top 3. If he committed to Barrow silently, he and the school would still have their big day.

Posted by: UMike | February 01, 2013 at 08:20 AM

UMike, what I'm saying is, is that HSs in Dade County RECRUIT! So this NSD exposure, is a BOON! for these HSs. So yeah, maybe Harris was trying to play it from that angle.
And further more, who's to say that Kirkland didn't give the other schools that "Top 3" crap also...holding them hostage...stringing them along.
And maybe, just maaaaaybe, somebody on UM's staff was looking out for their best interests also.

[TJL]

:But not all coaches take the issue of decommitments personally. Former Georgia recruiting coordinator Rodney Garner told ESPN how little a commitment really means. In the end, a verbal commitment is nothing more than words coming out of a recruit's mouth, he said.

"Now, really, a commitment means nothing, it means absolutely nothing," said Garner, who is now the assistant head coach and defensive line coach at Auburn. "We can say what we want to -- 'We have X number of players committed.' But how many of them are actually committed? 'I am committed, but I am taking all five of my visits.' Is that really committed?

"Committed means, 'Hey, I like you and I am going to look around and if I don't find anything better, then, yeah, I am going to stay with you.'"

[UMike]

I just hope Golden is able to patch things up, or at least work over the parents so they know the TRUTH, because not only do we need Thomas, we want at LEAST 2-3 players from BTW next year.

[CaneRock]

I may be wrong, but notice in Manny's story that Harris and Barrow never met. Which makes me wonder, if it's the BTW crew that Barrow had that confrontation with in Orlando last year.

[UMike]

the schools, "advisors" and other parties surrounding these kids love the NSD hype as much as these kids if not more. It's very possible that Kirkland WANTED to firmly commit to Miami, but was being pressured to hold off until NSD.

Posted by: RBLCane | February 01, 2013 at 01:50 AM

That MAY be true.
Reason being, with the school zones being as "liberal" as they are in Dade County, NSD is great exposure for these schools with top prospects.

Posted by: CaneRock | February 01, 2013 at 08:17 AM

Thats is all fine and may be correct, BUT, that has nothing to do with Kirkland telling Barrow UM is only in his top 3. If he committed to Barrow silently, he and the school would still have their big day.

[CaneRock]

the schools, "advisors" and other parties surrounding these kids love the NSD hype as much as these kids if not more. It's very possible that Kirkland WANTED to firmly commit to Miami, but was being pressured to hold off until NSD.

Posted by: RBLCane | February 01, 2013 at 01:50 AM

That MAY be true.
Reason being, with the school zones being as "liberal" as they are in Dade County, NSD is great exposure for these schools with top prospects.

[TJL]

Harris has been pissed at the U since his buddy RS was fired. How many kids have we gotten from there in the past 2 years?

[semperfi_cane]

Kirkland could have confirmed his pledge to Miami when asked by Barrow. Instead he said you're in the top three. You don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand that means NO. Golden did exactly what he had to do. Recruits now know he does not play games.

Posted by: The Wizard | February01, 2013 at 07:17 AM

Well said.

[UMike]

Kirkland could have confirmed his pledge to Miami when asked by Barrow. Instead he said you're in the top three. You don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand that means NO. Golden did exactly what he had to do. Recruits now know he does not play games.

Posted by: The Wizard | February 01, 2013 at 07:17 AM

That MAY be true..but why can we wait for a 3-star FB and not Kirkland? lol...but I have to admit it sounds fishy. Harris is trying to say HE told UM coaches Kirkland was signing with UM, if that was true Kirkland would of told Barrow I will commit to Miami, but I want to have my moment on tv. So what Harris is saying and what Kirkland is saying is way different. Harris may just be trying to put a bad spin on it

[The Wizard]

Kirkland could have confirmed his pledge to Miami when asked by Barrow. Instead he said you're in the top three. You don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand that means NO. Golden did exactly what he had to do. Recruits now know he does not play games.

[UMike]

Also..from reading the above article, Kirkland's dad did say they were working on things...I think it might actually be academic and Harris is just going off. Cause the whole "over signing" linemen and giving a spot to a D-linmen seems like BS

[UMike]

I think Thomas is gone. if Kirkland, Thomas and Bryant all sign with FSU, I might need a vacation to a mental hospital lol

[UMike]

Peter Ariz...

The last 24 hours are an example of how quickly things can change in the recruiting world, especially with less than a week 'til signing day.

**The news that everybody wants to talk about tonight is the whole Denver Kirkland situation, which I believe to be tied to academics. I was told a few months back that there were underlying grades concerns that not many people knew about, which is why schools such as West Virginia, Ole Miss, and South Florida were still under heavy consideration from Kirkland. I was not expecting this to happen so close to signing day, which is why I had held confidence in him winding up at Miami. I thought the staff would have either informed him by now if they knew he wasn't going to qualify or if they waited this long, then it would be solved. As I posted a few nights ago, there was concern from his step-dad about something and that the coaches were "working on it", so my guess is that it was related to this as the timing would make sense.

**This is obviously not a good sign at all with Matthew Thomas, but it is not good for more reasons than what scratch the surface. Without going into detail, Miami has been worried over the last week about Thomas wanting out of town, and the "dropping" of Kirkland is likely related to Thomas' situation. That's not to say Miami is completely out of it with Thomas, as they are still in the thick of things, but it is not looking as optimistic as it was even earlier today. Remember, Miami and FSU both in-home with Thomas tonight.

**I continue to hear that Stacy Coley is leaning towards Miami, but I want to be cautious with this information just because Coley does not reveal much to those around him. Two different people have also told me he is a "Miami kid" as far as his attitude and the way he would fit in with Deon Bush, Duke Johnson, Tracy Howard, etc.

**Some good news on 2014 DT Khairi Clark: I'm told that Chaminade's new Head Coach, Marcelo Rodriguez, is very close to James Coley so this can only help in the Clark sweepstakes. Miami is already in the lead for Clark, who is considered one of the top prospects in the country for his position.

**Not that this is anything groundbreaking, but these next six days will show us a lot in terms of Al Golden and his staff as far as recruiters. The only recruit on the board I'm fairly certain will be a 'Cane right now is Jermaine Grace. I feel good on Coley and Collins based on conversations with those in the know, and I am now wary on Thomas and Bostwick. I'm not completely counting out Rashard Robinson or Keith Bryant as possibilities either. In short, welcome to the week before National Signing Day...

http://canesinsight.com/content.php?1355-Signing-Day-Buzz-6-Days-Away

[UMike]

Also..how do you force the hand of a top LOCAL player from a MAJOR local power, but you are willing to wait for a 3-Star FB out of Staten Island??? I honestly do not care if we finish with all 5-Star guys, you DO NOT burn a local kid from a school we recruit every year in that way. We obviously have room for him if we have all these unrated kids and are waiting on a couple 3 star guys...jmo of course

[DeployedDiehardCane]

CANEINSIDER ‏@CANEINSIDER
Miami prepared to file suit against NCAA – “Time served is enough” http://acc.xofan.com/Miami/miami-prepared-to-file-suit-against-ncaa-time-served-is-enough/ … via @XOFan_ACC
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Did the balls FINALLY drop? LET'S END THIS NOW!

[UMike]

A lot of what Harris and Kirkland's dad are saying don't make sense. First, why would anyone say they "over signed" players at any position when kids cant officially sign their LOI until Wednesday, meaning the spots are still open. Second, I highly doubt Barrow told him he was using his spot for a D lineman, I think Harris just threw out a position. I think it is obvious that Golden and is staff wanted to lock things us as much as they could so they know who they should and shouldnt push for. That being said, I do think IF we are waiting for others, we could have waiting for Kirkland, and I absolutely HATE the fact that this could jeopardize our relationship with local schools, especially since we are going to want a few BTW players next year. If Thomas doesn't commit to Miami, this will hurt us for a couple years. IMO, this is not worth it, no matter who we get in his spot.

[BigWindyCane1]

I saw Booker T. play earlier this year, and heard one of the coaches mention Kirkland's offer from Miami. The coaches and administration seem to covet the attention they received from top programs all over the country, including Alabama. As much as I like those Booker T. kids, I think Kirkland and his advisors misplayed this one. There are better offensive linemen who have already committed to the Canes.

I respect Barrow for telling him face-to-face that if you cannot commit, then we cannot keep your scholarship open. Coach Harris made a big mistake by seeking out Manny on twitter and saying what he said. If Kirkland really wanted to go to UM (and I am not sure if he did), then it was Kirkland's mistake and Coach Harris should have stayed out of it. Noone would have known publicly that his scholly was pulled. That is Kirkland's business, not Harris's. Instead, Coach Harris was thinking of himself and not his program, his players or the school.

I think this means that Golden feels that his class has filled up and he has some good players coming in. He felt he would spare Kirkland the embarrassment of choosing the UM hat and not having a scholarship left on NSD.

I don't know if pulling Kirkland's scholly means the Canes will get a bunch of 5 stars on NSD, but I do think they will get the players they want and the coaching staff at UM will be very satisfied with the 2013 class.

[RBLCane]

Having given this some more thought, I think it's like I said a few days ago: the schools, "advisors" and other parties surrounding these kids love the NSD hype as much as these kids if not more. It's very possible that Kirkland WANTED to firmly commit to Miami, but was being pressured to hold off until NSD. The immediacy with which Ice Harris seeked out Manny on Twitter to spill his guts could be interpreted as someone feeling guilty about misadvising one of his players and who was now looking for a way to point the blame towards UM. (That Manny ran with the story before seeking a more complete set of facts is disgustingly irresponsible journalism IMHO, if you even want to call it that, but I'll leave that rant for another day).

Then again, commitments before NSD are non-binding, so who cares if Kirkland would have given Barrow the reassurance he was requesting? There's more to this story than meets the eye. Something happened that hasn't been published between Golden's supposed meeting earlier today with Kirkland and Barrow's meeting with him in the evening. I don't think it has to do with academics and I don't think it has to do with Kirkland not verbally committing to Barrow (because, again, verbal commitments are non-binding!). Hopefully we'll find out soon but then again we may never know (especially if there are improprieties involved or solicited).

GO CANES!!!

[The Dude]

Posted by: orange 'n green in the vein | February 01, 2013 at 12:30 AM

BOOM!

[CANESBURG]

The truth is a year from now we will barely remember his name - let a lone why he wasn't apart of this class... I say - Get over it!

[Cofo]

Could this mean we swayed tunsil over the the caneside!!!!!

[Ohio_Cane]

Co, not much to say. Everyone completely over reacting on here. Well, most, not everyone. I said something on here a couple days ago about rumors and them being false or coming true and to not get too excited one way or the other until NSD.

This is NOT a surprise. Actually, it's good news. So, everyone take their daily dose of chill pills and realize Golden wouldn't just let a 4* player go for no reason.

Mark my words, NSD will be EPIC. One for the ages.

Also, SSIB, you're crazy if u think we're not getting Coley and Grace.

[Terrance Sullivan]

I don't blame Coach Golden and staff get guys that want to be at the U and let the wishy washy dudes go to other schools. Ain't nothing personal strictly bizness baby.

[Mcginns ale house]

Really what did we do wrong besides protecting ourselves from being left at the alter.The kid had a year to make up his mind.Maybe we took a silent thats equal or better than him,we were not happy with just being in his top three so we moved on.If thomas was coming,he still is this would not be such a big deal if it was for him.

[orange 'n green in the vein]

That thunder really tied the room together.

Sorry for stealing it from you Dude.

[Nomad]

Al wants this recruiting class locked and loaded by Sunday. DK had the offer, but wouldn’t commit to Barrow and the U was not willing to wait for DK’s decision until Wednesday. Who knows what the U knew, but they forced DK’s hand and Harris is now lashing out in response. DK just got his first adult lesson and Harris just realized Al is a chess grandmaster.

[CoCane]

Hmmm... Ohio, Hassan & Soup are pretty quiet considering the news. I wonder what they know...

[The Dude]

3.

[Habcane]

Come on man,,, 2nd

[ftmcane]

first?