Miami (FL)

The U! The Miami Hurricanes have won five national championships since 1983. The program is essentially a factory for producing premium pro talent on a consistent basis. The ‘Canes play their home games at the Orange Bowl. The program has had an outlaw reputation due to some of the off the field transgressions of its players. Just last year, the team was involved in an on-field melee with Florida International. Tragically, one of their star players, Bryan Pata, was shot and killed during the season. Head coach Larry Coker was subsequently fired after losing six games. Coker won a national championship in his first season as head coach in 2001. Defensive coordinator Randy Shannon was hired as Coker’s replacement.

Randy Shannon’s first season as the top dog could be difficult thanks to a brutal schedule. In non-conference, the ‘Canes take a trip out to Norman to play the Oklahoma Sooners and then host another Big XII power in Texas A&M. In conference play, road games against Florida State, Virginia Tech, and Boston College will be a daunting challenge. New offensive coordinator Patrick Nix should bring a spark to the ‘Canes mediocre offense of a year ago. The ultimate success of the team will depend on the play at quarterback. If either Kyle Wright or Kirby Freeman can step up and lead, the "Canes certainly have the talent at the skill positions to compete with anyone. The defense should be strong behind the leadership and stellar play of defensive lineman Calais Campbell and safety Kenny Phillips. In the end, the schedule will probably be too much for Miami to overcome.

Sep 1 - vs. Marshall, 12:00 PM

Sep 8 - at Oklahoma, 12:00 PM

Sep 15 - vs. Florida Intl, 3:30 PM

Sep 20 - vs. Texas A&M, 7:30 PM

Sep 29 - vs. Duke, TBA

Oct 6 - at North Carolina, TBA

Oct 13 - vs. Georgia Tech, TBA

Oct 20 - at Florida State, TBA

Oct 27 - Open

Nov 3 - vs. NC State, TBA

Nov 10 - vs. Virginia, TBA

Nov 17 - at Virginia Tech, TBA

Nov 24 - at Boston College, TBA

In six seasons as defensive coordinator, Randy Shannon consistently put out a top ten defense. As a former Hurricane player (1985-88) of African-American descent, he has a unique ability to relate with his kids. Shannon will surely bring a new attitude and inject energy into the program. However, Shannon is under immediate pressure to produce positive results. It comes with the territory.

The loss of linebacker Jon Beason and safety Brandon Meriweather to the NFL are tough to overcome, but the ‘Canes are ready to reload. Defensive end Calais Campbell should bring relentless pressure on the quarterback and safety Kenny Phillips will be patrolling the secondary, waiting to pounce on his opponents. Sophomore running back Jarvaris James will look to build upon his success last season.