Today, the University of Miami, held hostage under cruel and unusal conditions by the NCAA for the last two and a half years, is free at last.
Free at last, free at last, thank God almighty, "The U" is free at last!
And for Hurricane fans, freedom has never felt so good. Swagger is back!
Finally, after a long, drawn out, extremely messy and completely botched investigation by the NCAA, Miami Hurricane coaches, players and fans can celebrate a little freedom from severe penalties and sanctions that loomed overhead like a black cloud in Coral Gables for years.
By all accounts, UM got off lightly after enduring over two years of self imposed misery. Basically, the NCAA imposed a reduction of three scholarships over three years and three years of probation.
So now all that is left to ask is: "All that drama and nonsense, for this?"
UM head football coach Al Golden will soon get his five year extension at around $2.25 million a year.
UM head basketball coach Jim Larranaga already re-upped his contract after an ACC title last season, leaving UM baseball (2008) and UM basketball (2012-13) as the only major sports to have captured conference crowns.
After Golden gets his ACC title (and more?) this season, he will get his contract done this Summer. Then the NCAA can choke on it and the entire college football world will surrender in fear once again as the Miami Hurricanes rise to the top of college athletics and stay there for a long time.
Now all U have to do is just sit back and watch...
Stewart Mandel @slmandel 5m
Summary: Miami helped itself tremendously w/ 2-year bowl ban (and ACC title game). Somewhere Mike Garrett has "nothing but a lot of envy."
Posted by: SOUP | October 22, 2013 at 11:33 AM
Soup Yes I got The Eagle has landed line i guess it meant U got the tickets and parking pass in the mail finally am i correct?
Posted by: Terrance Sullivan | October 22, 2013 at 11:34 AM
Miami penalty in perspective: #Canes could elect to take it all at once and play at 76 for a year. FSU has just 77 on scholarship this year.
Posted by: SOUP | October 22, 2013 at 11:32 AM
YEA BUT ONE OF THEM WAS WINSTON
Posted by: canezilla | October 22, 2013 at 11:35 AM
You gotta just laugh at ESPN...
when the story first broke years ago we were the front page story. now that we are cleared and there BS negative stalk stops we don't get a front page story smdh.....
Posted by: UpNorthCane27 | October 22, 2013 at 11:40 AM
Johnson
Dye
Paul
Dillard
Lockhart
Finnie
Terry
Grimble
Posted by: UMike | October 22, 2013 at 11:12 AM
Junior Alexis
Jacoby Briscoe
Jontavious Carter
Vernon Davis
Josh Witt
Ricardo Williams
Posted by: CaneRock | October 22, 2013 at 11:48 AM
The scholly reducts are no big deal esp coming from an organization who would love to bury us with cruel and unusual punishment. To put in perspective we could take all 9 restrictions in one year and play with 76. That might seem low but this current fsu "juggernaut" only has 77 so I'm happy and lets move on. Remember u don't avoid shit because you're scared u avoid it bc it's dirty.
Posted by: jsy | October 22, 2013 at 11:51 AM
I bet Golden's first to phone calls are to Fisher and Muschamp:
"I know all about the negative recruiting U guys did against us in terms of the NCAA investigation, possible sanctions and all the "Death Penalty" talk. Now that this is over and we got off basically FREE, U better watch your back because now the cuffs and gloves are off and I am coming for both of U. Be afraid, be VERY afraid."
Posted by: SOUP | October 22, 2013 at 11:28 AM
LMAO!
Ring,ring,ring
Fisher: Hello
Golden: Hey JimBob, did you say your backup could step in for Winston, and the offense wouldn't miss a beat?
JF: YUP! That pretty much sums it up.
AG: Oh, OK, we'll see.
JF: "We'll see"? What do you mean by..."we'll see"?
AG: Oh nothin',nothin', IJS. <<<<<< AG proceeds to whistle.
Posted by: CaneRock | October 22, 2013 at 11:56 AM
Johnny Dixon says he'll announce November 30th.
Interesting timing to come out and pick an announcement date now that Canes sanctions are out.
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 22, 2013 at 11:57 AM
Free at last, free at last, AG commence with kicking ass on the recruiting front! Negative recruiting has come to an end!
Posted by: Canesteeler | October 22, 2013 at 11:58 AM
TSully...YES, U are correct sir!
Posted by: SOUP | October 22, 2013 at 12:00 PM
The University of Miami received the NCAA Committee on Infractions report this morning, concluding a more than three-year process that included an investigation conducted by the NCAA and an appearance by senior University officials before the Committee on Infractions in June.
The University cooperated fully with investigators and took responsibility for its actions by proactively self-imposing severe penalties, including an unprecedented two-year bowl ban in football, withholding the football program from competing in the ACC Championship Game in 2012, and instituting substantial recruiting restrictions.
The University accepts the findings and the additional penalties as detailed in the Committee on Infractions report and will not appeal. The University is grateful to the Committee for a fair and thorough hearing.
As a proud member of the NCAA, the University of Miami remains committed to its fellow institutions and to the core principles that we—the members of the association—have always believed in.
To read more about the NCAA Investigation of the University of Miami, visit www.miami.edu/ncaainvestigation
The following are statements from the Chair of the Board of Trustees Leonard Abess, President Donna E. Shalala, and Director of Athletics Blake James:
University of Miami Board of Trustees Chair Leonard Abess:
“The University of Miami moves forward today stronger and rededicated to the high ideals that have always sustained it. I am proud of our leadership and staff, who conducted themselves throughout this process with integrity, forthrightness, and in the spirit of full cooperation.”
President Donna E. Shalala:
“The Committee on Infractions report closes a challenging chapter in the history of the University of Miami.
“I am grateful to our coaches, staff and student-athletes for their dedication to the University and to intercollegiate athletics. I also want to thank Atlantic Coast Conference Commissioner John Swofford for his steadfast support.
“Finally, I want to apologize to the Hurricane family, as we have asked for your patience, faith and support during a difficult time. Thank you for standing with us.”
Director of Athletics Blake James:
“Our honest and committed efforts to address these allegations have made us stronger. We have already taken many proactive steps to ameliorate any concerns, and we will continue to improve in all areas. Now it is time we look ahead and work diligently to support our student-athletes.”
Posted by: SOUP | October 22, 2013 at 12:02 PM
Big. RT @John_Infante: Miami’s scholarship reductions are in *overall* counters, not initial counters. They can still enroll full classes.
Posted by: SOUP | October 22, 2013 at 11:19 AM
In a future blog it would be nice to explain this one...
Posted by: Montreal-Cane | October 22, 2013 at 11:28 AM
initial max = 25 : overall max = 85.
Can enroll 25 as long as overall max = 85 - 3.
Posted by: CalgaryCane | October 22, 2013 at 12:03 PM
I hope our Canes use this as motivation to dominate and destroy every team in our path. No matter who it is. Agile, mobile, and DAMN sure hostile. IT'S TIME FOR ALL OF THEM TO EVACUATE, BECAUSE THE HURRICANES ARE COMING.
Posted by: Jmj56Ace | October 22, 2013 at 12:05 PM
University of Miami Head Football Coach Al Golden:
“I want to sincerely thank our student-athletes and their families who, not only stood with the University of Miami during this unprecedented challenge, but subsequently volunteered for the mission. They shouldered the burden, exhibited class and exemplified perseverance for Hurricanes everywhere.
“Further, I would like to express heartfelt appreciation to our staff and families who did not subscribe to this challenge three years ago, yet courageously adopted it as their own. They have brought the utmost professionalism, resiliency and integrity to our program. More importantly, they continue to recruit and represent our world-class institution with class and dignity in unprecedented circumstance.
“Lastly, it is with gratitude and humility that I say thank you to our administration, U Family everywhere and the entire South Florida Community for their unyielding support of our young men and program over the last 28 months.”
Posted by: SOUP | October 22, 2013 at 12:10 PM
University of Miami Head Football Coach Al Golden:
“I want to sincerely thank our student-athletes and their families who, not only stood with the University of Miami during this unprecedented challenge, but subsequently volunteered for the mission. They shouldered the burden, exhibited class and exemplified perseverance for Hurricanes everywhere.
“Further, I would like to express heartfelt appreciation to our staff and families who did not subscribe to this challenge three years ago, yet courageously adopted it as their own. They have brought the utmost professionalism, resiliency and integrity to our program. More importantly, they continue to recruit and represent our world-class institution with class and dignity in unprecedented circumstance.
“Lastly, it is with gratitude and humility that I say thank you to our administration, U Family everywhere and the entire South Florida Community for their unyielding support of our young men and program over the last 28 months.”
Posted by: 86Cane | October 22, 2013 at 12:11 PM
Pete Ariz and Tito:
Recruit Reactions to NCAA news
Will be posting them here throughout the day. Check OP for updates
Demetrius Jackson - "It's about time..."
Chad Thomas - "Not much to say, just happy that they'll be able to compete like the other colleges going to bowl games. The 3 scholarships won't hurt if everyone do their job and handle business in the program."
Nigel Bethel II- "It's good to be back on top" (From Tito Benach)
KC McDermott- "THE U IS BACK." (From Tito Benach)
Johhnie Dixon- "Great that nothing happened." (From Tito Benach)
2016 RB Mark Walton- "That's not bad that's great news for the Cane family, I love it."
Darrion Owens- "I'm excited to hear about the great news and can't wait for 'The U' to get back into the national championship again."
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 22, 2013 at 12:11 PM
Initial max = 25 : overall max = 85.
Can enroll 25 as long as overall max = 85 - 3.
Posted by: CalgaryCane | October 22, 2013 at 12:03 PM
There IT is right there.
Posted by: 86Cane | October 22, 2013 at 12:12 PM
University of Miami Head Basketball Coach Jim Larrañaga:
"I am a big believer that success is based on attitude. We continually remind our players that life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.
“We will continue to approach our work with a positive attitude as we march towards being the best we can be. I am grateful to our administration and counsel for leading us through this difficult journey and I want to thank everyone who loves this University and who has supported the young men who proudly wear the Miami uniform. We are excited about the upcoming season and we are all moving forward.”
Posted by: 86Cane | October 22, 2013 at 12:13 PM
So, let me get this straight...we are at @77 on scholarship now. We have @22 seniors. We can sign 25 max. If we play next year at 76 scholarship players, the sanctions are over for good...one year down 9 scholarships and that's it?
Posted by: Texascane | October 22, 2013 at 12:16 PM
Texas...as far as I understand it YES. Any combo of numbers over 3 years to get to 9 total.
Posted by: 86Cane | October 22, 2013 at 12:18 PM
We will have more than 25 in this class
Posted by: UMike | October 22, 2013 at 12:21 PM
Texas..are those 22 seniors all scholarship players?
Posted by: UMike | October 22, 2013 at 12:22 PM
We have 74 on scholarship right now.
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 22, 2013 at 12:23 PM
We will have more than 25 in this class
Posted by: UMike | October 22, 2013 at 12:21 PM
----------------------------------------
This.
At least 5 EE this year, I believe.
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 22, 2013 at 12:23 PM
Manny Navarro @Manny_Navarro 59s
Essentially we've counted 74 #UM players on scholarship right now. 19 seniors. 25 commitments. If #Canes go down to 82 ships, 2 spots left
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 22, 2013 at 12:24 PM
Donna Shalala to the NCAA - "Next time, bring kryptonite."
Posted by: TonyCane | October 22, 2013 at 12:25 PM
Ariz: Brad Kaaya - "I'm Happy it's all over. ..Stressing over what might be is over... but i'm very excited Miami gets to play in bowl games because they look ready this year"
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 22, 2013 at 12:25 PM
ALL Canes fans this morning: http://medias.omgif.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Double-dream-hands.gif
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 22, 2013 at 12:28 PM
Manny Navarro @Manny_Navarro 59s
Essentially we've counted 74 #UM players on scholarship right now. 19 seniors. 25 commitments. If #Canes go down to 82 ships, 2 spots left
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 22, 2013 at 12:24 PM
I might be wrong, but I think we have more that 2 spots left with EE's and of course we will lose 1 or 2 players.
Posted by: UMike | October 22, 2013 at 12:36 PM
Barry Jackson @flasportsbuzz 52s
Blake James said UM self-imposed some scholarships but didn't tell NCAA.Will tell them now and see if NCAA will lower total of 9. But UM won't appeal, regardless. And James says UM can cut the 9 any way it wants over next 3. Doesn't have to be 3 a year,he said.
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 22, 2013 at 12:39 PM
For those wondering...I think we lose some of our current commits (and pick up others), but if you're counting the 25 current commits we will lose a couple imo.. The kids that have the best chance of de-commiting imo are...
Christopher Herndon
Darrell Langham
Terry McCray
Of course I think we will still pick up another 2-5 commits
Posted by: UMike | October 22, 2013 at 12:51 PM
UMike, I actually think Langham and McCray are pretty solid.
Herndon I agree with.
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 22, 2013 at 12:53 PM
Joe Garcia @JGJr9 7s
If UM handles this right. That scholarship reduction will essentially come from roster attrition and not bother recruiting 1 bit.
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 22, 2013 at 12:54 PM
Good news for former players:
Barry Jackson @flasportsbuzz 1m
Though the NCAA forced USC to disassociate itself from Reggie Bush, UM was not asked to do likewise with any players and won't,B.James said.
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 22, 2013 at 12:55 PM
Ohio..maybe, but compared to the others those 2 have the best chance of leaving lol
Posted by: UMike | October 22, 2013 at 12:56 PM
Time served, mostly!
Time to move on!
got my tickets today sec 154. Lower end zone lets go canes!!
6-0 baby
Posted by: Surfercane | October 22, 2013 at 12:56 PM
Surfer...come find me at E5 before or after the game for a Canespace shirt.
Posted by: 86Cane | October 22, 2013 at 01:01 PM
It's all about the U.
Posted by: nemo2002 | October 22, 2013 at 01:01 PM
For all of us who love this University and are passionate about our student-athletes and our teams, the past few years have been difficult. Yet today, we can be proud of how our Hurricane family, led by President Shalala, handled the challenges, acted with integrity and, simply, always did what we believed was the right thing to do.
Today is about looking ahead and moving forward but not starting over. Hurricane Athletics experienced one the most successful years in our history in 2012-2013, because of our exceptional student-athletes, tremendous coaches and your support. Fifteen of our eighteen sports teams participated in NCAA postseason play including our men’s basketball team, who were ACC regular-season and tournament champions; our women’s tennis team, ACC champions; and our storied baseball program, which competed in its 41st consecutive NCAA Tournament. As important, Miami continues to be among the nation’s leaders with a 93% Graduation Success Rate and received recognition for the academic achievements of many of our student-athletes.
Two of our crowning achievements in 2013 were made possible by the tremendous support we continue to receive from Canes supporters. We opened the state-of-the-art Theodore G. Schwartz and Todd G. Schwartz Center for Athletic Excellence, built through a $15 million campaign coordinated by the Hurricane Club. In addition, thanks to its award-winning #BuildingChampions campaign, the Hurricane Club now has a record-high of over 6,800 active members, an increase of nearly 2,000 in two years.
On behalf of the more than 400 student-athletes, 200 staff members and coaches and the thousands of alumni and friends throughout the world, thank you for standing with the U!
I stand with the U always! Now it’s time to move Full Speed Ahead.
Go Canes!
Posted by: 86Cane | October 22, 2013 at 01:02 PM
Well that is good news. Zilla - I remember hearing it first too and it was ALL OVER the news. Heck it was on the front page of USA Today.
Somewhere in the depths of federal prison is a midget Ponzi schemer with nothing left to live for. Life is good
Posted by: CGNC | October 22, 2013 at 01:03 PM
Finally. The nightmare is over, Shapiro is crying and Charles Robinson's attempt at journalistic immortality is an utter failure. Credit to the admin, I didn't agree with the 2 year ban but they knew what they were doing and I'm glad they did. The $EC method (head stuck in the sand, pretending nothing was amiss even when a coach is caught playing players) seems to work only for them. :) But now we move on.
And Soup- do I get a shirt for being first last night? :)
Posted by: j.w. | October 22, 2013 at 01:07 PM
Where is Yahoo's apology...Mark May...Lou old goat Holtz asking the death penalty...
Canes for life!
Posted by: Montreal-Cane | October 22, 2013 at 01:10 PM
Ohio...2 spots left not counting EE, that would count back to last yr, right?
Posted by: Texcane | October 22, 2013 at 01:14 PM
Ohio...2 spots left not counting EE, that would count back to last yr, right?
Posted by: Texcane | October 22, 2013 at 01:14 PM
--------------------------------------
Yes. That's just Manny Navarro's take. I don't know how exact these #'s are.
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 22, 2013 at 01:16 PM
Local players on the Rivals250 watch list for 2015
Devonaire Clarington
TE - Miami
4-Star
Tyrek Cole
CB - Miramar
4-Star
Jordan Cronkrite
ATH - Palmetto Bay
4-Star
Jovon Durante
ATH - Miami
4-Star
Torrance Gibson
QB - Plantation
4-Star
Tim Irvin
RB/WR - Palmetto Bay
4-Star
Derwin James
ATH - Haines City
4-Star
Jaquan Johnson
ATH - Miami
4-Star
Tavares Martin
WR - Greenacres
4-Star
Kendrell McFadden
DB - Hollywood
4-Star
Tarvarus McFadden
DB - Plantation
4-Star
Jacques Patrick
RB - Orlando
4-Star
Devante Peete
WR - Fort Lauderdale
4-Star
Da'Vante Phillips
WR - Miami
4-Star
Jordan Scarlett
RB - Fort Lauderdale
4- Star
http://rivals.yahoo.com/footballrecruiting/football/recruiting/rankings/rank-3370/2015
Posted by: UMike | October 22, 2013 at 01:20 PM
Guys are going to leave the program after the season also, happens every year.
Posted by: UMike | October 22, 2013 at 01:21 PM
Cause no Miami is going to shut down recruiting since we got 25 commits lol..we will have 27-30 in this class imo
Posted by: UMike | October 22, 2013 at 01:22 PM
Let me tell U something, if what I'm seeing/reading/hearing is correct, and UM actually did self-impose some scholarships and didn't tell the NCAA, this is BRILLIANT.
Let me frame it like this: Self-impose scholly's. Don't tell NCAA and let them make a decision on reductions only knowing about the bowl bans, etc. After they make a decision, UM comes out and says "Oh, hey guys, U want us to reduce by 9 over 3 years? Well, we already sanctioned ourselves 'XX amount' last year. U mind reducing that 9 now?"
B R I L L I A N T
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 22, 2013 at 01:23 PM
Any guesses on any recruits that may will flip now that the opposing coaches biggest trump card against the u is gone. I really hope d cook does. I saw him here in jersey when they played and as much as I think yearby is the truth ala a faster Crawford but man cook is nasty too and he's already 200 lbs so he could easily become 210-215with u tough and be the perfect big back we need. Lane would be gravy but if I had to choose 1 I would take cook
Posted by: jsy | October 22, 2013 at 01:23 PM
LOL from State of the U:
http://cdn3.sbnation.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/21574335/205999239.0_standard_709.0.gif
Posted by: CGNC | October 22, 2013 at 01:26 PM