Tough Loss To Take

Former Miami Hurricanes defensive back JoJo Nicolas died Wednesday after suffering injuries from an early Tuesday morning car accident. 

"The entire University of Miami family mourns the loss of JoJo Nicolas who passed away earlier this evening," Miami AD Blake James said. "JoJo was a valued member of our community, our school and our football program, and his loss is devastating to everyone he touched.  On behalf of the University, I send our condolences and thoughts and prayers to JoJo's family, friends and teammates.  He will forever be a part of The U."

A four-year letterwinner for the Miami Hurricanes from 2007-11, he was the recipient of Miami's 2011 Melching Leadership Award at the team's banquet at the end of the season. As a senior in 2011, he recorded 66 tackles and two interceptions.

"The University of Miami community has suffered a deep loss, with the passing of JoJo Nicolas," head coach Al Golden said. "For all of us who were fortunate to know JoJo--to coach him, teach him, play alongside him or simply to befriend him--we will forever carry his memory with us.  Our prayers go out to his family and his loved ones, and he will always be a cherished member of our family."

Related articles

Ex-Miami DB Nicolas dies day after car crash

Former Miami Hurricanes player JoJo Nicolas dies following car crash

Former UM Player Dies From Car Crash Injuries

Nicolas Still Critical After Crash

Comments

[BEERicane]

RIP JoJo

[Ohio_Cane]

TokenCane on CIS:

Al Golden as a man

I was working in the JMH/UM hospital area today and came across a bunch of Canes coming to see JoJo today and I left fairly late and I looked to my left while sitting at the light at 12th ave and I see Al Golden walking around. I call him over since we know each other and his eyes were bloodshot red obviously from crying. We spoke about JoJo and he told me he just passed and that he needed to go get some fresh air and went for a walk. The emotion this man spoke with about JoJo and that every player is like a son to him was what a parent wants from a coach for their son.

We spoke for about 5 minutes and parted ways but I then thought about when Malcolm Lewis was injured and there is not a doubt in my mind that this man truly cares for each and everyone one of his players. Im happy to know this is the kind of man that is leading my team.

Posted by: Ohio_Cane | February 26, 2014 at 10:31 PM.

[SOUP]

RIP JoJo

[j.w.]

Just so sad. Way too young to lose you, Jo Jo. Rest in peace.

[Panamacitycane]

RIP. Very sad.

[Terrance Sullivan]

RIP JoJo!

[SJMPARMAN]

JoJo spilled his guts and soul trying to make Miami a winner. He never gave up a play as far as I could tell and he was the best player in the secondary for most of his senior year. I don't care how many stars rivals gave him as a recruit or whether he even made honorable mention ACC or whatever.

The man played ball, he played hard and he gave us all he had on the field. He was, and is one of us, and whatever the reason for the crash, senseless, careless, or just the twist of fate, the way a human dies is not what makes that person, it is the way they behaved while living that is all that matters. As a Canes fan, and solely on that basis, my life is better with my memory of JoJo's accomplishments on the field.

So bless you JoJo, I am sure you made your parents and family proud, you made the U and its fans proud, and now you rest in peace. We thank you and express our deepest condolences to your family for the loss.

[Montreal-Cane]

Posted by: Ohio_Cane | February 26, 2014 at 11:00 PM

Thanks for your post. Al Golden always said great things about JoJo.

RIP # 29

[CaneRock]

He was, and is one of us, and whatever the reason for the crash, senseless, careless, or just the twist of fate, the way a human dies is not what makes that person, it is the way they behaved while living that is all that matters.

Posted by: SJMPARMAN | February 26, 2014 at 11:30 PM

AMEN!

[Hassan]

R.I.P JoJo

Please everyone be safe on the roads.

[DallasTX Cane]

Sad news. Class act. RIP JoJo.

Nicely said SJMPARMAN.

[herbieibis]

Terrible shame, just terrible. We all crack on players who we think are average players and sometimes we make crude remarks, myself being one, but I'll say this about Jo Jo, although he wasn't an all-star player, this dude played the way the yesteryear Canes players played, tough. To many of our former players are dying way to young.
R.I.P. JoJo.

[ucane]

Jo Jo is with Jesus today
he ate supper at His table
he partied like no party he's ever been to
he's playing on a perfect field...on a perfect team
against a perfect team
he has a new house and new friends
tho he left us feeling sad and alone
he is now perfect,too
our hope is that we will see him again
But he is with Jesus now
being took care of like no other
getting more then he could ask or think
and if U could be quiet and still...
for just a moment-
U might hear #29 shout,"ITS ALL ABOUT THE "U".
Peace Brother!
and may we all find PEACE in this tragedy,also

the"U"

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

RIP JoJo.

[Daddeh]

Rest in love Jojo,..God bless

[roachcane77]

Wow… Very sad... Way too young.

[YooperCane]

My prayers and condolences go out to his family, Jojo....you will be missed.

[coldcane]

R.I.P 29

[Go Canes]

@larryblustein: RECRUITING SOUTH FLORIDA: Class of 2015 receivers will be talented once again. http://t.co/mTXMn8umZ3 @FlaHSFootball @FLgridironpreps

[jgatsby1112]

Damn...RIP JoJo...prayers to his family.

[UMike]

I know I have bashed Golden for some things, but no one can deny how he feels about his players. He was by the families side the whole time, from the accident up to the press conference. I just hope the Lord guides the family through this tragic time.

[UMike]

Go Canes... not trying to start.. but did you purposely ignore me yesterday when I reached out to you?

[UMike]

Ariz...

In the past, South Florida was primarily known as a hub for skill position players. Over the past 4-5 years though, it has become a breeding ground for talented quarterbacks. American Heritage’s Torrance Gibson has received a bulk of the attention and deservedly so, but if you’re looking for the best pure passer down here, look no further than Flanagan’s Ryan “Sunshine” Stanley (6-2, 195).

Stanley had a breakout junior season, but is name has really exploded over the past month or so with an impressive run in the 7-on-7 circuit.

“I’m just happy my name is finally out there and I’m doing what I’ve been waiting to do. I just gotta stay humble and keep working hard,” said Stanley.

Although Stanley performs very well from the pocket, that is not the limit to what he can do on the field.

“I’m definitely more of a pocket passer, but if it’s like 3rd and 5 and no one is open then I can make a play. I ran a 4.7 or 4.6 out at the Nike Combine so I can definitely run.”

Surrounded with a good crop of receivers at Flanagan, Stanley has the reigns to spread the ball around and likes that flexibility.

“I like spread offenses where I can just sit back and throw the ball because it gives me a chance to show what I can do, but I just want to play at a program that gets the job done.”

On the recruiting front, Stanley’s stock is rising by the day.

“I’ve got an offer from FIU. I’m going to USF’s Junior Day this weekend and to Louisville’s on April 5th. Miami, FSU, Auburn, Cincinnati, Michigan State, and Iowa State are in contact with me too.”

Miami is a school of major interest for the local product.

“I am definitely interested. My freshman year was the first time they contacted me. Coach D’Onofrio came out my freshman year and talked to me and that’s when I first knew that I would be looking at them. I would definitely keep their offer in mind if they offer and I would love to be a Cane.”

Stanley’s top target at Flanagan is Miami 2015 commit Emonee Spence. The QB has high praise for his receiver.

“I’ve been growing up with him. Miami is getting a special kid. His mindset is crazy and he feels like nobody can stop him. He’s got all these offers and stuff, but he still goes out there and begs me to throw balls to him while he runs routes. He can go up and get the ball.”

Now onto the real story here, Stanley’s look. The gunslinger’s vibe and long hair has earned him the illustrious nickname “Sunshine”, as in the quarterback from “Remember the Titans”. Stanley embraces the situation.

“I’ve been growing my hair out since like 7th grade and now I’ve earned the nickname Sunshine (laughs). That’s my little trademark because people will just say ‘Sunshine’ and know it’s me with the long, blonde hair. I really don’t have a problem with it.”

What is Stanley focused on now during the offseason?

“I’m doing footwork and stuff like that at this place called Elevate. With 7-on-7 football there’s no D-Line or O-Line so I’m just working on getting my reads right without pressure and all that. I’ve been watching film from my all the way back to my freshman year just picking up on the little things.”

Stanley's junior highlights - http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1429723/...389?autoplay=1

http://www.canesinsight.com/content/2316-2015-QB-Ryan-Sunshine-Stanley-taking-off

[UMike]

From.. Dan E. Dangerously @ CIS

Tonight, the family of former Miami Hurricanes safety JoJo Nicolas announced that at 5:00pm he passed away from injuries he sustained in a car accident yesterday morning. The brief statement his family gave at 8:00pm was given by his brother, Abner Davis. He was surrounded by his family and Al Golden as the statement was made to the media. Joseph 'JoJo' Nicolas was just 24 years old.

I'm just a fan. I never knew JoJo Nicolas. All I ever knew of him was the guy who wore orange and green every Saturday. So in a sad time like this, it's hard for me to find the right words when discussing a young man who was just recently taken from us. I know he was so much more than a football player, but that's all I know so bear with me. I can't help but think back to his times as a Miami Hurricane.

The first time I ever heard of JoJo Nicolas was in the fall of 2006 on the Grassy premium boards. At the time people were discussing who our targets at safety would be. After securing a verbal commitment from Damien Berry, JoJo was looked at as the guy to complement him as a strong safety. JoJo was a standout 2-way player for Homestead high school, playing safety and wide receiver for the Broncos.

During his senior year there, Miami was going through a terrible season. It included such things as a brawl, a murdered player, blowouts, and a fired coach. The turmoil caused JoJo to commit to Rutgers in December, but then he flipped to Miami on signing day to be a part of Randy Shannon's first class in 2007. After redshirting in 2007, he spent most of his first 2 years playing on special teams. Then in 2010 he started ten games at safety for a defense that ranked 5th in passing yards allowed (158.2). JoJo wasn't the biggest playmaker to come through Coral Gables, but he did contribute as an upperclassmen and became a leader as a senior.

He was also probably the easiest Hurricane player to ever root for, especially when it came to light that his son was born 4 months prematurely in the summer of 2011. Joseph Jr. was born on July 17, 2011 and weighed just 1 pound 4 ounces. He died a month later on August 19, 2011. JoJo had all that personal stuff going on in his life during fall camp of his senior year, and it all happened 3 days after the Shapiro nonsense was just starting to come to light. Any normal person would've been broken and shut things down. It would've been completely understandable too. Instead JoJo decided he would step up and he became a vocal team leader on a team that was desperately in need one.

After a disappointing opener against Maryland where Miami was without several starters, JoJo was said to have made a speech to the team about putting the loss behind them and moving forward to the Ohio State game. That's exactly what the team did. The Hurricanes jumped out to a quick 14-0 lead against Ohio State in the 1st quarter. The Buckeyes couldn't do anything on offense as Braxton Miller was a true freshman and the other guy at quarterback was a dumpster fire. Late in the 1st quarter Ohio State finally put a drive together and crossed the 50 yard line with Miller under center. Later on Miller dropped back to pass, Sean Spence was able to tip it, and JoJo was there to pick off the errant deflection.

The play was another in a series of nut punches to Ohio State in a game that was never really in doubt. The game gave Miami its first win under Al Golden.

A few weeks later Miami was preparing for their game against Georgia Tech. It was on the heels of Miami's first ever win in Chapel Hill since joining the ACC. JoJo was coming off of a career game where he recorded 10 tackles (career high). When playing an option team like the Yellow Jackets it's helpful to get out to a big lead early and force them to pass more. So when Miami went 3 and out to start the game UM's defense needed to get off the field. On Georgia Tech's first offensive play from scrimmage their QB air-mailed a pass right to JoJo.

The ensuing drive gave Miami a 7-0 lead. Both teams traded punts after that until the 2nd quarter, where some guy for Georgia Tech botched a punt. The return man fumbled the ball and Mike James kicked it towards the endzone. JoJo was there for the easy scoop and score.

That touchdown gave Miami a 14-0 lead and it was all the points they would need as they won 24-7. It was the only time Miami won back to back games that season.

These were my fondest memories of JoJo. Like I said earlier I never knew him, and I realize he was so much more than just a player. He was also a son, a brother, a father, and a friend to many people. My heart goes out to all those people who knew him a hell of a lot more (and better) than I did.

http://www.canesinsight.com/content/2315-R-I-P-JoJo-Nicolas

[Go Canes]

@Manny_Navarro: Nicolas' death evokes memories of other young #Canes gone too soon http://t.co/y8CM3sgtlY

[UMike]

Too many former Hurricanes have lost their lives at a young age: Sean Taylor, Shane Curry, Marlin Barnes and Bryan Pata (all murdered); Jerome Brown, Chris Campbell, Al Blades and Kevin Gibbs (car accidents); Robert Woodus (the 1996 ValuJet crash in the Everglades) and Stanley Shakespeare in a 2005 drowning, when a wave knocked him overboard as he returned to Jupiter Inlet from a fishing trip.

Read more here: http://miamiherald.typepad.com/sports-buzz/2014/02/heat-personnel-moves-and-rejected-trade-dolphins-marlins-canes-samson-voted-off.html#storylink=cpy

[Go Canes]

I didn't see anything UMike but either way no worries. It's all good.

[UMike]

Go Canes... I said that I appreciate the info you brought the day before and said my bad for the jabs I took at you

[Go Canes]

It's fine UMike. Same here.

[NativeCane]

Sad day, RIP Jo Jo Nicholas.

Thanks for the memorys (Ohio State) and many others!

God bless family, friends, and Cane Nation!!!

Dem Canes!!!

[trianglecane]

Rest in Peace JoJo

[raizecane]

Another life taken way too soon.....RIP JoJo.

This is why i tell my wife and kids I love them everyday. This is why i hug and kiss them every night. Becaude there is a always that chance where you can never do it again.

One of my favorite bands, Black Sabbath had a song where the lyrics said "live for today for tomorrow may never come". I try to go by that motto each and every day.....

[thirstybuzzardcane]

Rest in peace JoJo!!!.....You and your son are in a special place together!!!!

[canedolfan386]

With #26 and #29 up there. Fsu wrs look up in the sky and damn now I know I cant get in. Rip jo jo heavens defensive backfield just got stronger.

[canedolfan386]

Up

[Ohio_Cane]

@smillerdegnan: Front page of today's Miami Herald sports. pic.twitter.com/dBdO1QM38D

[LA3]

The death of any person leaves an empty space in the life of those around them...A space this is never filled. Thoughts and prayers to JoJo's family, friends, and all who knew him. May he rest in peace!

[30CINCO]

Miami Hurricanes Artie Burns and Phillip Dorsett: Fast in meters or yards

Read more here: http://www.miamiherald.com/2014/02/27/3961963/miami-hurricanes-artie-burns-and.html#storylink=cpy

[Ohio_Cane]

@anthony_moten95: My teacher told me to make a goal for this year first goal December 6 Miami Hurricanes will be in the ACC championship!

[Ohio_Cane]

Matt Porter ‏@mattyports 23s

#Canes spring football practice schedule dot jpeg, for your planning purposes. 12 public sessions on campus. pic.twitter.com/8lzjXM1TTk

[Go Canes]

@mattyports: #Canes spring football practice schedule dot jpeg, for your planning purposes. 12 public sessions on campus. http://t.co/8lzjXM1TTk

[SOUP]

THIS IS A GOOD EXAMPLE OF THE CANESPACE WAY:

I didn't see anything UMike but either way no worries. It's all good.

Posted by: Go Canes | February 27, 2014 at 08:16 AM

Go Canes... I said that I appreciate the info you brought the day before and said my bad for the jabs I took at you

Posted by: UMike | February 27, 2014 at 08:21 AM

It's fine UMike. Same here.

Posted by: Go Canes | February 27, 2014 at 08:24 AM

MAKE A MENTAL NOTE OF THIS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

[Ohio_Cane]

^^^ I thought I was on the wrong site. LOL

[CGNC]

RIP Jo Jo. #Sad

[UGoCane]

JoJO's passing makes us stop and think how much we should appreciate these athletes that make us happy representing our Team..
the 'U'.

We should also be cognizant, that it is so easy for us to talk about "Family" and throw that word around with no rhyme or reason.
Here it becomes real....A young, vibrant 'Cane has passed, and we all mourn together...As "FAMILY"

We wish strength to those who loved him, and treasure the memories he gave us..
RIP JoJo.

[RCCF]

Rest in Love JoJo..

I also believe a special thank U is involved to the family of JoJo for lending their son to our lives for the purpose of football entertainment....

Special Thank U to Al Golden for being a Genuine Dude...It speaks Volumes for him to show up and be with that family as he is one of their own....Huge Volumes super loud Swooshes for U sir..

CaneOn Heads Up

RCCF12%

[30CINCO]

Miami weathers the storm of “negative recruiting”

http://recruiting.blog.ajc.com/2014/02/27/miami-weathers-the-storm-of-negative-recruiting/

[SinisterCane]

JoJo is in Heaven with Sean watchin' out for all CANEZ

[Ohio_Cane]

FIU beating Marlins 5-3 after 5. LOL

[Ohio_Cane]

Oh, and FIU is using wood bats.

[Ohio_Cane]

proCanes.com ‏@proCanes 2m

#Canesfam JoJo's Family needs HELP! Please donate 2 help w/ funeral expen & help his newborn son http://bit.ly/Mz4FWA #RIPJoJo

[CaneRock]

^^^^^^^^^^ I'll definitely donate. And even in tragedy, it's good to know JJN left behind a son...somebody to carry His name.

RIP.

[Go Canes]

@Safid_Deen: Plantation TE Ravian Pierce announces he's going to play college football at Mississippi St.

[KYcane]

JoJo is in Heaven with Sean watchin' out for all CANEZ

Posted by: SinisterCane | February 27, 2014 at 02:31 PM

With his previously departed infant son in his arms for eternity.

[Ohio_Cane]

FIU beating Marlins 5-3 after 5. LOL

Posted by: Ohio_Cane | February 27, 2014 at 02:36 PM
-----------------------------------

Marlins rally back to win 9-5

[Ohio_Cane]

Video: Spring begins at Miami http://es.pn/Mzlxwn

[Go Canes]

@mattyports: ICYMI, #Canes who will not participate in spring ball due to previous injuries: Duke Johnson, Joseph Yearby, Braxton Berrios, Corn Elder.

[Ohio_Cane]

Barry Jackson ‏@flasportsbuzz 1m

UM says it has moved Dallas Crawford to defensive back. Leaves Miami short-handed at RB this spring.

Oh boy... What's happening?

[Go Canes]

I wonder if he asked for the move Ohio.

[Ohio_Cane]

I wonder if he asked for the move Ohio.

Posted by: Go Canes | February 27, 2014 at 04:41 PM
----------------------------------

I don't know, but that leaves only Gus as RB for the Spring... WTF?

[Go Canes]

We'll get the story soon enough I guess. Sure is strange which is why I wonder if he asked.

He has to see three backs in front of him this year with Walton and who knows who else to follow.

Only thing I can think of.

[Ohio_Cane]

Go, I mean I get the move with Crawford being a DB coming out of HS. But with Yearby AND Duke missing Spring, it's... odd. To say the least.

[Ohio_Cane]

Chip Brierre ‏@chipbrierre 2m

The #Canes RBs officially listed at that pos. and ready for Spring camp are Gus Edwards, Walter Tucker, and De'Andre Johnson

Well, there U go.

[Go Canes]

@PeterAriz: Crawford also brings a “recklessness” to a defense that has sorely lacked that attitude. Good sign that they trust in Yearby’s recovery

[Go Canes]

@PeterAriz: I am a big fan of the Crawford move. Played safety out of HS and is an instinctual football player. This forces Edwards to step up as well

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

Lol @ PeterAriz. A "recklessness" that will, in a short time be considered freelancing and will get him called out by the "Defensive" staff. Good luck Crawford, you're gonna need it on Mark's side of the ball.

[Go Canes]

@mattyports: Miami spring football preview: breaking down key position battles for #Canes, who hit the field at 9 a.m. Saturday. http://t.co/s7pf5XpKbo

[CaneRock]

DC to DB?...IIRC, the staff pulled this same move with Clements, only to move Him back to RB...who knows. And maybe they think that Tucker will settle in at RB or FB...Tucker may actually be a legit prospect...big,fast kid. We'll see.

[CaneRock]

Barry Jackson:

Al Golden is not talking to the media until Saturday, and UM didn’t give a reason for moving Crawford, who averaged 4.2 yards per carry last season. But it strongly suggests Miami expects Edwards and Yearby to get nearly all of the carries behind Johnson in 2014. Tucker likely will play fullback.

Read more here: http://miamiherald.typepad.com/sports-buzz/2014/02/examining-um-spring-subplots-including-notable-position-switch-hickey-addresses-issues-heat.html#storylink=cpy

[Canesteeler]

It is tragic anytime a parent hast to bury their child. RIP Jo Jo.

[Ohio_Cane]

@GoldenAl: God gained a gr8 teammate last nite. 1 that achieved ultimate in athletics.He honored & maximized gifts bestowed him. http://t.co/c6L4eQ3ssl

[Montreal-Cane]

Al Golden ‏@GoldenAl · 50m
God gained a gr8 teammate last nite. 1 that achieved ultimate in athletics.He honored & maximized gifts bestowed him.

http://youtu.be/j2Dv0clU14k

[Montreal-Cane]

Ohio almost at the same time...Very touching tribute to # 29.

And to all the haters please stop bashing Al Golden at least until the new season. Stop playing your broken record...Many of us are sick of it.

[Terrance Sullivan]

Well said Montreal-Cane.

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

CanesAllAccess posted a nice tribute to JoJo on Youtube.

God forbid people should have to read a conflicting opinion here. I think the back and forth is a healthy thing for the blog so long as it isn't taken too far. No one is forcing anyone to participate in any given conversation.

[Terrance Sullivan]

True no one is forcing anyone to participate in any given discussion but some will beat a certain topic to death. But of course some will act like that never happens. Yea right.

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

Yeah, some topics do get beat to death. But last year had a really unsatisfying end, and its a long time until kickoff. People are gonna debate something... so long as it doesn't get personal or bash a kid on the team or recruit, then game on in my opinion. There are hundreds and thousands of comments here weekly. So much more to talk about than what to tell people not to talk about. That's my 2.

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

Anyone heard from Willie Will?

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

How about CoCane?

[SOUP]

Canes who will not participate in spring ball due to previous injuries: Duke Johnson, Joseph Yearby, Braxton Berrios, Corn Elder.

Posted by: Go Canes | February 27, 2014 at 04:19 PM

That is a LOT of talent on the sideline. Maybe more than some teams have in total? LOL

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

The good news Duke and Joe don't go into the Fall injured. We really need a healthy Duke to be a good offense. I'm kinda worried Gus will get too many carries.

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

Sorry SOUP ;)

I'll behave now.

[canezilla]

Lol @ PeterAriz. A "recklessness" that will, in a short time be considered freelancing and will get him called out by the "Defensive" staff. Good luck Crawford, you're gonna need it on Mark's side of the ball.

Posted by: The Dude | February 27, 2014 at 06:15 PM
SAD BUT TRUE

[UMike]

I give Golden credit where it is due, but I also call him out on things he needs to be called out on. Nothing wrong with that. Now D'No on the other hand.... lol

[UMike]

I guess it really doesnt matter who plays RB in the Spring, but I thought we had depth issues at RB, so for that reason the move is surprising. From all I have read he will most likely play safety, but I thought we had good talent at Safety and 2 studs coming in in Hester and Gayot. Ariz said Crawford was excited about the switch, so we will see.

[UMike]

Tito...

2016 Vero Beach (Fla.) defensive end Patrick Bethel may have had a good sophomore season, but he isn’t settling for anything.

“The way I feel is that there’s always room for improvement. In the eyes of some people I may have had a good season. I always want to get better and be able to dominate until the last play.”

Bethel has been working with his father by lifting weights and also running with him.

“I’m doing a little bit of everything. I’ve got my father he really helps me a lot, he’s stepped in as a mentor and my coach. I’ve been doing some footwork, some strength training, some speed training. I’m just trying to get bigger, faster and stronger.”

Bethel’s father is a familiar face for Miami Hurricane fans as he played for Miami from 1988 to 1990.

While the 6’3 230 pound prospect says his father’s history at Miami won’t play a big role, he does admit his father is playing a huge role for him in the recruiting process.

“He doesn’t really talk to me specifically about Miami, the most important thing for him is getting an education, so whenever we talk about schools he wants me to get an education. But for him having played at Miami and the Pro’s for a period of time it really helps to know what it takes to get there.”

Miami is one of the schools who has been showing interest in Bethel along with a number of other schools.

“Because I’m a sophomore I can’t really talk to many, but from what I know I’m getting looks from Miami, Northwestern, UCF, Louisville. I always want to work and get recognized by everybody.”

The Vero Beach product isn’t very familiar with Miami, but did get a chance to watch them earlier this past season against Virginia.

“I went to one of their games and I really did enjoy that atmosphere and some of the other recruits that were there. I haven’t really gotten a chance to see them at this point, but I did like it.”

http://www.canesinsight.com/content/2318-2016-DE-Bethel-Focusing-on-Football

[UMike]

Nash...

After a breakout year at John I Leonard high school, 2015 wide receiver Tavares Martin has garnered the attention of many top college programs.

However, Martin recently transferred to Dwyer high school after his offensive coordinator resigned at John I. Leonard.

"I was talking to college coaches while evaluating my decision and they were just giving me good input about how I just need to be developing as a player so that I can compete on the college level," said Martin.

"After sitting down with everyone at Dwyer, me and my daddy came to the decision that I was going to go there. Pretty much based on because they put tons of players in college every year," said Martin.

Martin, who stands in at six-foot-one 165-pounds, currently holds offers from top schools like Miami, West Virginia, Ohio State, UCF, North Carolina and Florida State among others.

Martin picked up his offer from Miami while he was visiting for the Florida game last season.

"I was real happy you know, because if you get an offer from Miami it's pretty huge and it definitely means a lot," said Martin.

Miami was one of the first schools to show interest in Martin and he appreciates that. So what were some other things that stuck out about Miami for Martin?

"They're good you know. They my hometown team so you got to like them since they in my backyard," said Martin. "They had one of the best teams when I was a kid growing up, and they're still considered one of the top teams today."

Miami head coach Al Golden and receivers coach Brennan Carroll are the coaches Martin talks to most.

"We just talk about how I fit into the system and how they really like me as a person and a player. We get to talk about the school and basic stuff like how the campus looks and all that," said Martin.

Martin is definitely one of the most underrated playmakers in the state for the 2015 class. How does he describe his play on the field?

"I'm definitely physical. I'm the type of receiver that can spread the field. I can make my presence felt vertically. I don't have a whole lot of size but I make the best of the size I do have," said Martin.

Here are his highlights: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/o/134686...ights/14104373

http://www.canesinsight.com/content/2317-Dwyer-WR-Tavares-Martin-is-impressing

To bad this kid transferred to Dwyer, wont be coming here

[UMike]

From Tito...

Small Peek into 2016

Miami's D-line class in 2014 was great, but looking a little farther into the future if the 'Canes can play their cards correctly they can land two more 4/5 star caliber defensive ends in 2016.

First, I must give credit where it's due. Credit to Blackvern for spotting Shavar Manuel from Tampa Blake (Fla.). Manuel is almost Jadaveon Clowney size as he's already 6'3 240 pounds as a sophomore. Granted, most would say he is a future DT, but his tape shows you other wise.

Highlights: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/o/324008...ghts/112681375

he already holds a Miami offer and named the 'Canes and Florida as 2 schools standing out to him.

The other defensive end is Patrick Bethel from Vero Beach high school. Bethel is another great end prospect who shows great technique and never gives up on the play. The Canes are one of his main offers right now and he's highly interested.

Highlights: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/o/300548...ghts/104198379

I know this is probably way to early to be talking about, but I figured it something to keep an eye on.

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

Jordan Cronkite is a beast. He's better than Jordan Scarlett.

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

Tim Irvin is a little beast.

[Dude on a Pale Horse]

My new espresso machine was supposed to be here today. Now UPS is saying its delayed due to bad weather in SLC. This angers me.

[CaneRock]

Now see, this is the crap some of us wonder about on here, WHY we gotta be "haters"? NOBODY said a word about Al Golden. I commend Golden for paying His respects to the Nicholas family, but this tragedy is NOT! about no damn Al Golden!

[CaneRock]

From all I have read he will most likely play safety, but I thought we had good talent at Safety and 2 studs coming in in Hester and Gayot.

Posted by: UMike | February 28, 2014 at 06:18 AM

I actually agree with D'Onofrio about Jenkins, RJ needs to be more consistent back there. Can't have any more games like the Duke game, if He wants to hold that starting spot.

[UMike]

Did Arizona really just try to pass a law that would allow business to discriminate against gay people? Geez, what is this 1960... Glad it got shot down. I understand if you dont like someones preference, but you should NEVER have the right to discriminate.

[UMike]

CR...Im not saying Jenkins is a lock, but we have talent there and no depth at RB... just seems odd I guess. With Yearby looking like he will get 2nd strong carries, maybe Crawford asked for it. I like Crawford, hopefully he has an impact on the D

[Go Canes]

@ChrisFreet: We will be delivering some good news to the email boxes of Hurricane Club members and Season Ticket holders around 9 am. #Renewed

[UMike]

According to Rivals, 4-Star DB Hunter Dale grew up wanting to play DB for Miami. Has Miami offer..

http://rivals.yahoo.com/miami/football/recruiting/player-Hunter-Dale-142908

[CaneRock]

UMike, IMO, that bill didn't get pulled because it was socially divisive, it got pulled as a business move...NAMELY!, the NFL threatening to pull next years SB. And there were other big corporation threatening not to do business in Arizona.

But AFAIC,Arizona should've BEEN! boycotted, especially with that racist,xenophobic,self hatin' bastard in Maricopa County (Joe Arpaio)...that clown is the modern day version of Bull Connor.

PHUCK! Arizona!

[UMike]

So Tebow is out recruiting for Meyer and OSU huh? lol.. Wonder how Florida fans feel about that haha

[UMike]

I just cant believe the bill got started and made it that far. That is just crazy in todays society. Didnt they try to pass (or did?) some crazy immigration law too?