J-12 getting some hype on ESPN.com

After a faceplant last week in Blacksburg, Miami quarterback Jacory Harris was profiled on ESPN.com earlier this week regarding what his Hurricanes need to do to bounce back this weekend against the Oklahoma Sooners. Check it!

Is Sam Bradford Miami-bound?

Will he or won't he? It's the million dollar question regarding Sam Bradford and the biggest game this weekend when No. 8 Oklahoma treks south to No. 17 Miami.

Bob Stoops remains coy in reference to Bradford, who suffered a "Grade 3" sprain in the season opener against BYU.

The initial report three weeks ago was a potential "Grade 2" sprain, which involves a tear of the acromioclavicular ligament and a sprain or partial tear of the coracoclavicular ligaments. Full motion of the shoulder and arm are said to return in 6 to 8 weeks.

With a "Grade 3" sprain, both acromioclavicular and coracoclavicular ligaments are torn. The injury is said to take up to three months to heal and even longer for shoulder strength to get back to normal. Opinions vary regarding surgery or no surgery regarding getting the shoulder back to normal, especially for athletes.

Sam Bradford left millions of dollars on the table returning to OU for his junior season. Had he bolted for the NFL, he'd be the starting quarterback for the Detroit Lions and this conversation would be moot.

Bradford trekked to Birmingham, AL this past weekend to meet with renowned surgeon Dr. James Andrew for what's being reported as clearance to play Saturday... but that seems rather far fetched. Stoops says he'll announce later this week the status of Bradford and stated the game plan won't change whether it's the Heisman winner or freshman Landry Jones behind center.

If attempting to build a case whether Bradford will or won't play, all bets point to Jones getting the nod on Saturday. Aside from Miami being an out of conference game and the Sooners needing to focus on Big XII play (Texas is on the docket in two weeks) - Bradford's NFL career is on the line, as well.

Rush back too soon and you could do long-term damage to Bradford's throwing shoulder - for what? An early season out of conference game? If OU is going to push for a return, look for it in two weeks against the Longhorns.

The Sooners may be a long shot for the national title game after that early loss to BYU, but the Big XII is still within reach and millions of BCS dollars are on the line. OU doesn't need to beat UM, but a win over UT is a must. You can roll the dice this week with a back up, but you can't do the same in Dallas mid-October.

We'll see what happens, but if I'm a betting man I'd put my money on Jones being 'the guy' against Miami this weekend.

Game Three : Virginia Tech 31, Miami 7

Let's get it out there in the open; Miami put the "U" in 'ugly' in a lopsided 31-7 loss at Virginia Tech. A one-sided thumping with a few redeeming moments where the Canes showed a pulse. Outside of that, a train wreck of epic proportions. 1-of-11 on third down efficiency. A mere 59 rushing yards. Every type of turnover possible; fumble, interception and blocked punt for score.

All that said, it's one game and it's as much in the rearview mirror as wins over Florida State and Georgia Tech. 2-1 with Oklahoma looming, Miami needs to bury this loss and focus on the next game.

Amazing how quickly everything changed. A preseason that began unranked, with predictions of an 0-4 start - Miami surprised out the gate and took down two ranked foes in the Noles and Yellow Jackets. From there, the media blitz began, with The U the ultimate feel-good story this fall.

Miami's "back". Jacory Harris is Heisman-worthy. The Canes and Gators are on track to meet in Pasadena for the title game.

That wasn't message board fodder or commentary from local beat writers. We're talking ESPN, Sports Illustrated and anyone else who hopped on the bandwagon and made the Canes 'the' early story in college football. The same media who had their reasons for picking Miami fourth in the ACC Coastal was now rattling off their reasons why the Canes could win it all.

If there's one good thing to come from this recent loss, the media spotlight will shift its focus. Back to business in Coral Gables. Address what went wrong, work to correct it and keep this new season on track. Randy Shannon is still in year three of what from day one looked to be a four or five-year rebuilding project - regardless of how the media or this fan base felt after two early season wins.

Until the depth is 'back', Miami will remain 'almost back'.

A humbling loss should force everyone - most notably fans, media and rivals - to take inventory regarding the Canes. There are bright spots regarding this current Miami bunch, but there simply isn't the depth and across-the-board talent that championship caliber teams possess.

That's not to say this couldn't be a Cinderella-type season if all the stars aligned, players stayed healthy and Miami got a few lucky bounces. It simply means you don't bank on making the BCS when you're so reliant on underclassmen and are one injury away from catastrophe. Until the depth returns, Shannon is reliant upon undeveloped freshman and sophomores.

As promising as Sean Spence looked last season, he wasn't truly built to endure the wear and tear of a full college football season. Same to be said for a Marcus Robinson last year or an Oliver Vernon early this season. Programs with more depth are afforded the luxury of bringing top-fight talent along much more slowly.

Early playing time is one thing. Being expected to shoulder the burden of a twelve-game season and pulling a program out of lethargy is another.

Miami was swallowed up in a pitfall game at Virginia Tech. It doesn't take away from the 2-0 start, nor does it foreshadow how the rest of this season will play out. Coaches and players refuse to blame the weather, taking the loss in stride and delivering their politically correct answers in the media room. It's commendable, but let's break some things down regarding a game where it simply wasn't the Canes' day:

- Inclement weather not suited to the aerial assault the Canes used in games one and two.

- An uncharacteristic Harris fumble on Miami's first drive, setting up Tech at the 11-yard line for a quick 7-0 lead.

- A Tech fumble on a punt return, bouncing back into the arms of of Hokie.

- A 48-yard Tyrod Taylor touchdown pass where Miami's Chavez Grant slipped and fell. The same Taylor who went 4-for-9 on the day and isn't necessarily known for his arm.

- A blocked Canes punt for a Hokies touchdown - the first given up by Miami since 2002.

And that was all before halftime.

Down 21-0, Miami drove 54 yards in 1:43 to open the third quarter. 21-7, Hokies. The Canes defense stiffened, forcing a three-and-out and setting up the offense at the UM 35-yard line. A balanced attack allowed Miami to move the ball 41 yards over eight plays, but two crucial drops from first-year tight end Jimmy Graham killed all momentum. (Back to that depth thing, the Canes had to turn to a former basketball star for tight end depth.)

Graham dropped a pass for a large gain on 1st and 10 and two plays later let a sure first down bounce off his fingers on a 3rd and 13. The weather thwarted out any shot at a 50-yard field goal and a 4th and 13 attempt fell four yards short, forcing the turnover on downs.

Miami's defense again hung tough, forcing Virginia Tech to settle for three on the ensuing drive -- the first true offensive points earned in two and a half quarters of play -- but the damage had been done and momentum was lost at 24-7.

To their credit, Bud Foster and his defense continued their aggressive play and owned the Miami ground game. Graig Cooper and Javarris James combined for 90 yards on 25 carries and never got it going against a team where a solid rushing attack is a must.

Virginia Tech came to play. No doubt about that. After losing their season opener to Alabama - arguably one of the nation's best squads - the Hokies beat up on a lesser Marshall bunch and survived a nailbitier with a decent Nebraska team. Sitting at 2-1, this was the type of game that could jumpstart a season that started on the wrong foot and the Hokies capitalized. Credit where credit is due.

Those wanting to blame the media hype for the loss, big heads in Coral Gables or crediting Tech for "wanting it more" - step back and quit with the armchair quarterbacking. Everyone on the field 'wanted' that game. One simply got their breaks, made some of their own and capitalized, while another ran into a buzzsaw and was unable to get out of their own way. It's sports, people. It happens to the best of them. Don't believe me? Look no further than the current state off college football this year.

Aside from No. 9 Miami getting worked by No. 11 Virginia Tech, two other top tens got dropped this past week; No. 4 Ole Miss to unranked South Carolina on Thursday night and No. 5 Penn State - falling at home to unranked Iowa. After one month of college football, ten teams ranked in the top ten have now lost. Eight fell to underdogs.

In other Sunshine State news, Florida State - fresh off their shellacking of then No. 7 BYU - came unglued at home against an unranked South Florida squad. Three time zones away No. 6 Cal gets their lunch handed to them 42-3 at Oregon; the same Ducks bunch who couldn't buy a first down at Boise State in their opener and without star running back/fist-wielding LaGarrette Blount.

Week one Then-No. 3 Oklahoma falls to then-No. 18 BYU in their season opener. A few weeks later then-No. 3 USC loses to unranked Washington. It's a trend for 2009; expect the unexpected and don't get too comfortable with those ever-changing rankings.

Just as Virginia Tech rallied around a loss and prepared accordingly for a showdown with a top ten Miami team, the Canes now are afforded an even bigger opportunity with game four on deck.

Miami welcomes No. 8 Oklahoma this coming Saturday. A prime time, 8pm ET kickoff - under the lights at Land Shark Stadium. How will the Canes respond? The media will be quick to pile on The U, ending a two-week long love affair and stroke-fest.

Shannon and staff can again play up the 'us against the world' card, which in the past has worked in the Canes favor. How that plays out against a successful Oklahoma squad, time will tell.

Put Virginia Tech in the rearview. That's a message for players, coaches, fans and media members. It's one game in a topsy-turvy season where several good teams have gotten tagged out the gate.

A lot of football remains. Take it one game at a time. Worry about Oklahoma before thinking ACC or BCS. The Canes have a week to get game-ready. Regain any early-season swagger and refocus.

Nine big games remain. Get back to winning ways and no one will remember a late September loss at Virginia Tech come December.

J12 getting some love on ESPN.com

Miami Hurricanes sophomore sensation Jacory Harris got some love on ESPN's College GameDay this morning. Check out the segment.

Miami v. Virginia Tech : The Preview

Another Miami and Virginia Tech match up is on the books, albeit much earlier in the season than we're all used to. When these two tussle, both squads usually have eight or nine games under their belt. Not this year. Two of the ACC's best will go toe-to-toe right out the gate.

This time around it's the 2-0 Canes headed to Blacksburg to take on the 2-1 Hokies. Miami, flying high after an offensive outpouring against both Florida State and Georgia Tech and feeling even better overall after an improved defense showing week two. The Canes held the option-happy Jackets to 92 yards on the ground after giving up 472 yards in Atlanta last fall.

The Noles moved the ball well against the Canes week one and fell short. A week later a 512-yard and 54-point outburst at No. 7 BYU, lending some credibility to Miami's defense and the Florida State offense.

Jacory Harris has been all-world out the gate, torching Miami's first two opponents and proving he's one cool customer. Though it's early, Harris is proving he doesn't get too high or too low. Even keel and keeping it all in perspective, J12's demeanor is rubbing off on his teammates. Toss in tremendous playcalling by new offensive coordinator Mark Whipple and great blocking by the Canes' offensive line and Harris has virtually been flawless behind center.

The hype this week has been tremendous. Everybody is talking Miami. Are the Canes 'back'? How far can this team go? ESPN went so far as to hint at a Miami v. Florida national championship in Pasadena, should both teams stay on track.

While all the Cane-related media and press is a welcomed site, everyone needs to pump the brakes and come back down to earth a bit. That's not to say UM can't win out and reach the title game, but at 2-0 the only thing anyone should be talking about is Blacksburg and a feisty opponent in the Hokies. Next week, start thinking Oklahoma. From there, Florida A&M, Central Florida, Clemson and so on.

Simply put, don't talk Pasadena until you prove you can reach Tampa and win.

Randy Shannon has his hands full this week regarding expectations. This has been the first time on his watch that Miami cracked the top ten and is a national story. Can Shannon keep this team level-headed? Can he keep his Canes from believing the hype? Everyone is saying the right thing when the media sniffs around looking for quotes... but mentally is this team truly focused?

We'll find out on Saturday.

Don't let Virginia Tech's lackluster player and 2-1 record fool you. 106th in the country in passing offense? 107th in run defense? This is still a fundamentally sound program. Frank Beamer has his kids knowing that a win over smokin' hot Miami will put them right back on the map and in the driver's seat regarding the ACC Coastal division. Tech has the horses to hang.

Defensively Bud Foster has two weeks of Whipple Ball to break down. He knows his front seven needs to pressure Harris and rattle the young quarterback in a hostile environment. That said, "knowing" and "doing" are two completely different things.

Ball control is key on Saturday. With Miami's offense now a legitimate threat, teams need to keep the ball out of Harris' hands. The Hokies need a balanced attack, strong special teams and sound defense to rattle the potent Canes. Doable in theory, but can they realistically pull it off?

Miami's passing attack has reigned down on it's first two foes, but come Saturday it's all about the ground game. The Canes need to run the ball. A steady diet of Graig Cooper and Javarris James. Get physical with Virginia Tech. Move the chains. Get on the board early. Shut down that oft hostile Lane Stadium crowd.

The Hokies will rely on special teams and defense, attempting to grind it out and win a low-scoring slugfest. Offensively this is still a program with Tyrod Taylor behind center and Bryan Stinespring calling the plays. Tech has a capable back in Ryan Williams, so Miami will obviously look to slow the ground game, forcing Taylor to win it with his legs and arm.

This game has 'pitfall' written all over it... for past Miami teams. In 2009, these Canes appear to know what's up. Offensively it won't be the high-scoring affairs this offense saw the last two weeks, but the flip side is a Virginia Tech offense that has struggled to score points.

Toss in the inability to stop the run and a strong duo of Miami backs and the Canes seem to have enough to pull out another win, earning their way to 3-0 and putting a stranglehold on the ACC Coastal division. The ground attack is the difference-maker in what should be a hard-fought ball game.

Harris has been Miami's superstar these first few weeks, so it's a safe bet the Hokies' defense will be gunning for him. Whipple will take the pressure off his sophomore sensation and will ride Cooper and James to a Canes victory.


The Call: Miami 24, Virginia Tech 16

ESPN's Pat Forde votes Miami No. 1...

Crazy two extremes the media goes in regards to the University of Miami and this football program. No program gets kicked more when they're down, yet right now The U is the new flavor of the month in college football.

Truth be told, who is playing like the top flight team in the land?

Florida? Hardly. You can't bump your gums about how Tennessee is going to get rolled... only to deliver a lackluster performance, while complaining afterwards that your boys had the sniffles.

Southern Cal? Upended at Washington. Next.

Ohio State? Same ol', same ol'. Beat up the nobodies and fall to any quality opponent - home or away.

Texas? Too early to tell, but a dogfight with an unranked Texas Tech team didn't help their cause.

Alabama? Definitely up there after a win over Virginia Tech, but wins over Florida International and North Texas don't really mean much.

Ole Miss? Penn State? Cal? LSU? Undefeated, but also lacking quality wins... which brings you to Miami.

In today's Forde Yard Dash on ESPN.com, columnist Pat Forde ranked Miami No. 1 in his 'power rankings', sating:

"The Dash sent in the weekly ESPN.com power rankings with Miami ranked No. 1. This was not caused by drinking turpentine while filling out the Top 25, or by losing a bet with Melvin Bratton. It was caused by using results-based appraisals instead of being influenced by August guesswork or rigid adherence to a slot-voting mentality.

The Dash went with the Hurricanes because they've done the best work to date in this young season, beating two ranked opponents."

Of course some of Forde's counterparts didn't feel the same - Tim Griffin (Big XII Blogger), Chris Low (SEC Blogger) and Ivan Maisel (ESPN.com Senior Writer) all kept Florida at No. 1 and had Miami 11th, 9th and 11th, respectively.

Forde hits the nail on the head, reminding folks that ESPN.com power rankings are "truly for entertainment purposes only". A nice disclaimer, giving him a reason to get some site traffic with his over the top prediction.

Miami isn't the top-flight team in the country (...yet), but it's nice to see the Canes garner some early respect after taking n Florida State and Georgia Tech back-to-back weeks. Of course the proof will be in Virginia Tech and Oklahoma. Win those two and even Forde's counterparts have to come around.

Miami Hurricanes : Ranked No. 9 in AP Poll

Further proof why preseason polls need to be done away with. Critics, pundits and talking head know-it-alls give their opinions in summertime, most of which haven't done a lick of homework.

They might check a depth chart, read up on recruiting and guesstimate how they feel a team will do - but rarely do they truly have their thumb on the pulse. Especially with some under the radar teams. Instead, the pollsters stick with tradition as well as what's trendy.

Florida, Oklahoma, Texas, Southern Cal, Ohio State, etc. come in a top the preseason polls. Virginia Tech remains the cream of the ACC crop, based on last season and nothing more. Boise State continues to get the love as the Cinderella-type squad who keeps making noise... even though they run from fierce out of conference foes (and whoever they take on seems to have to travel to Blue Turf Stadium.)

Three weeks into the season everything has already been turned on its collective ear.

Weeks back ESPN writes that Florida should be given the SEC East trophy now, en route to their pending National Championship game appearance. Two cupcakes later (Charleston Southern and Troy), the Gators took on their first real foe - Tennessee - and had to grind out a 23-13 win, even though they were a four touchdown favorite.

No. 2 Texas was in dogfight with unranked Texas Tech this past weekend. No. 3 USC lost to unranked Washington; a squad until a week ago held the nation's longest losing streak.

A few weeks back preseason top ten Virginia Tech got worked by Alabama, while then-No. 3 Oklahoma was upset by No. 20 BYU, losing Heisman-winning quarterback Sam Bradford for an undisclosed amount of time.

Two weeks later, then-No. 7 BYU is throttled at home by Florida State - the same Seminoles bunch of the Hurricanes beat 38-34, behind the arm of Jacory Harris and his 386 passing yards... the same Harris now being mentioned in Heisman conversation after shredding Georgia Tech last Thursday.... the same Tech that rolled Miami for 472 rushing yards last fall, entered this season ranked No. 15 and was not only an ACC darkhorse, but thought to be a legit conference candidate.

Three weeks into the season and we need to pause to catch our breath.

The new polls were released on Sunday and it's sheer craziness. As a Miami fan, who'd have thought at 2-0 you'd see the Canes above Oklahoma, Southern Cal and Ohio State? Just like that, The U is back in the mix - having beat two formidable opponents and impressed their harshest critics.

For the second straight week, J12 earned ACC Offensive Back of the Week honors. Harris completed 20-of-25 passes for 270 yards and three touchdowns in a 33-17 win over Georgia Tech last Thursday night. It also marked the second straight week the sophomore did so in front of a nationally televised ESPN audience, which sparked any "Harris for Heisman" talk currently out there.

Many questioned Miami's "murderer's row" type schedule out the gate, but per Randy Shannon, the Canes took on the 'to be the best you have to beat the best' mentality and welcomed the challenge. The downside to losing out the gate would've sent this program into a tailspin, but as Shannon mentioned during summer - the upside if you win those games? You can't put a price on it.

Columnist Jemele Hill called Miami the hottest team in the country on ESPN's First Take Monday morning and analyst Kirk Herbstreit put the Canes at No. 5 in his power rankings Saturday night. Seems everywhere you look, everyone is back to talking about The U -- even in the wake of a huge Florida State win.

FSU rolls into Provo, Utah on Saturday and derail BYU's season with a 54-28 beat down -- yet the talk is still Miami. How good are the Canes if they beat a Noles bunch that owned the then No. 7 Cougars? Hell, how good are the Canes if they beat a Noles squad that thumped a Cougars squad that upset the Sooners week one?

A few too many degrees of separation there to use that logic for a Miami win against Oklahoma in two weeks, but you get the point. The U deserves to be mentioned in the same breath of any undefeated team at this point of the season. Especially with two convincing quality wins. (Yes, the win at FSU came down to one play... but 476 yards of total offense and a win in a hostile environment work in the Canes favor.)

Miami gets a nine-day layover between Georgia Tech and Virginia Tech. The Hokies are coming off a last-minute touchdown with their 16-15 win over Nebraska on Saturday. Par for the course it was solid defense and special teams coupled with an erratic offense - both of which will make for an exciting showdown in Blacksburg on Saturday.

Can Mark Whipple solve Bud Foster's defense? Will Harris continue with his superhero-like play? What will the Miami defense do to again shut down and contain Tyrod Taylor?

Even more important, how does Shannon keep these Canes level-headed? A No. 9 ranking this early in the season? Columnists stroking Miami's ego, telling this team they're something special? It'll take a yeoman's effort from Shannon and staff to pump the brakes on all that.

2-0 is a hell of a start, but it's just that - a start. There's a lot of football left to be played and these Canes need to weather the storm. Take care of business and down the stretch, close strong - something that wasn't the case last year.

More to come this week as Miami prepares for yet another trek to Blacksburg. Stay tuned!

Everybody's talking... except Georgia Tech

The Miami Hurricanes are 'back' - and that's not just me talking; it's the theme of the day. Miami Herald. Sun Sentinel. ESPN. Sports Illustrated. Sporting News. Bloggers. Talking heads. Everybody and their mother is geeked out on this new offense, a swarming defense and the fact that Randy Shannon seemingly has this team on track early on in year three.

As I type this, Tony Kornheiser opened ESPN's "Pardon The Interruption" with the question, "Is The U Back?" He went on to say, "I think college football is well served when Miami is good.... I like Miami. I want them to be good. It's good for college football."

Preach on, Brother Tony.

For those who missed some ink, dig on these links:

>>> ESPN/AP Recap: Click here
>>> Ivan Maisel's "Hurricane Warning": Click here
>>> Andy Staples "Hurricanes weathering early tests": Click here
>>> Susan Miller Degnan's "The Swagger Is Back": Click here
>>> Edwin Pope's "It's No Illusion...": Click here
>>> Greg Cote's "Hurricanes Defense Steps Up To The Challenge": Click here
>>> Manny Navarro's "Harris As Sharp As A Surgeon's Scalpel": Click here
>>> Linda Robertson's "UM's Fortunes Are In Receivers' Hands": Click here

Local and national, everyone is talking Miami today... except Georgia Tech. The Atlanta media... a big-mouthed fan base... inexplicably quiet today.

The AJC's Jeff Schultz took a shot at the Canes earlier this week ("Is Miami Taking Georgia Tech Lightly?"), implying that UM was looking past GT and that the win over FSU was being blown out of proportion. Columnist Chris Boggs took it a step further with his "Miami... Substance or Swagger?" piece - complete with his bogus top ten reasons Tech would roll the Canes.

Par for the course, neither journalist sacked up this morning and ate crow. Shultz admitted Miami was a "good" team, but never fully gave credit and seemed to be too hung up on the past instead of the present ("This was a good team Georgia Tech lost to. But to be so dominated by a school you had beaten in four straight meetings and pancaked last season for 472 yards rushing indicates something is seriously wrong.") Shultz even had some pregame jitters, attempting to lay some blame on back-to-back Thursday night games.

How about trying this one on for size - maybe the problem wasn't Georgia Tech's inability to block or run. Maybe this is simply proof that when Miami has the athletes, your hometown squad can't hang. Maybe this proves what UM fans have said the past few years - that Tech's wins over the Canes were somewhat hollow based on the state of the program. 19-19 the past few seasons, who WASN'T taking it to The U these past few years?

Just as LSU outtalented and outworked Georgia Tech in last year's bowl game, Miami now has the higher caliber athletes who aren't going to wilt against a gimmicky triple option.

As for Boggs, his in-game blogging was laughable. My favorite line, "Patrick Nix is no longer calling the offense in Miami". Very astute, Chris. Of course that's been the case for upwards of nine months now, but thanks for noticing.

Par for the course, the blame game... defensive line was gassed... GT "squandered" an offensive opportunity - no credit given to Miami's defense for making plays, until later in the live blog. Boggs finally admitted Tech was out-coached and out-athleted... but never owned up that his biased top ten list oozed with homerism and was completely off base.

A rather typical reaction from a program that's never really been there and one that started making its name during an era when Miami was down. As we saw last night, all is right in the world again. Just as it was decades back when the Canes were shredding Nebraska's option and Oklahoma's wishbone, gimmicky offenses don't work against a speedy, aggressive UM defenses.

Talent. Depth. Two solid coordinators. Year three in The Shannon Era. It's all starting to come together. Other ACC foes, beware - your run of beating up on a down Miami program has officially come to an end.

Miami v. Georgia Tech : The Highlights

Much respect to the uber talented Rusty98UM for sticking to tradition and piecing together another great highlight reel - in HD, no less. Dig it. Go Canes.

Game Two : Miami 33, Georgia Tech 17

Where you at, Georgia Tech? A lot of woofing this week, but it sure got quiet real quick.

A lot of preseason hype. A lot of puffed out chests. A lot of chatter about an unstoppable triple option.

Some in the media called the Yellow Jackets an ACC title contender. Tonight Miami called GT their whipping post.

The Atlanta media laughed at Jacory Harris and his claim that the Canes offense was unstoppable. In the end, J12 pulled off a 270-yard, three touchdown performance - 20-of-25 on the night, picking apart the Georgia Tech defense all night.

In the end, Harris was proven wrong on a technicality. The Canes offense can be stopped by one man; Randy Shannon.

With a 33-10 lead early in the fourth, faced with a 4th and goal from the four-yard line, Shannon trumped Mark Whipple with an offensive play call. Whipple wanted to go for six - Shannon played 'gracious host' and tried to let GT get out with some pride.

Matt Bosher missed the 26-yard field goal and a run-fueled drve later, Bosher missed a 31-yard attempt when the Canes kicked on a 4th and 3 from the 14.

The Canes left at least six on the field and if up to Whipple, this was a 50-10 beating. Miami showed mercy on Georgia Tech. The demon had been exorcised. A streak was broken and The U had all but secured a 2-0 start in ACC play. Style points didn't matter to a hard-ass head coach.

Truth be told, by the beginning of the fourth Shannon was probably already thinking Virginia Tech.

After two big wins, what's up, Nation?

Where you at Florida State and Georgia Tech? Anything to say for yourself sports media; most notably those who picked Miami either third or fourth in the Atlantic? Same to be said for the AP folk who didn't feel this team was worth of a top 25 vote.

Two weeks down, two ranked teams taken out. The Canes are on a roll, baby. How's that taste?

Bigger question - what's up Miami nation? All you big-mouthed Shannon haters, where you at now? You've run your mouth for the past few years, some going as far to wish for that 0-4 start so your beloved Tommy Tuberville could swoop in and take over with a full cupboard.

Don't bet on it. Shannon's way is working. As I've said time and time again, he's following the blueprint. Anyone that's spent the better part of two decades around this program knows the formula for success. Aside from recruiting, developing and hiring quality assistants, it starts with razing.

Knock it all down, cut bait, dump dead weight and then rebuild.

2007 was a wash. Larry Coker's team. Different mindset. A program chock full of players Shannon didn't recruit or set the tone for. Some players got the boot, while others were sent to the bench. Shannon-style players played and new talent was brought on board two months after Shannon's hiring.

Most effective out of that inaugural class, Graig Cooper. After a year at Milford Prep, the once-committed Coop was weighing his options. Shannon inked the Memphis product and a few seasons later, the junior tailback is setting the tone for this group of Canes. Hungry. Aggressive. Fired up. Ready to explode.

If Miami isn't yet "back", they're pretty damn close. The ship has been righted and the destination will be known by December.

Add 'ready to be noticed' to that list, as well. 2-0 entering Blacksburg, the national media is now paying attention. Miami is 'the story' thus far this college football season. Question marks surrounded the once-proud program after a 12-13 Shannon's first two season. It was statement time and the Canes answered.

This isn't your father's Canes team. The Orange Bowl is gone and it's time for Shannon to make his own history. A new wrinkle in U of M folklore, this marks the first time a UM player has taken the reigns in the post Decade of Dominance era.

Butch Davis was a former defensive coordinator who knew the Canes' culture before taking over as head coach - but Shannon lived and breathed is as a linebacker (coincidentally, under Davis). He spent his off seasons seeking counsel from former head coach Jimmy Johnson, guru Bill Parcells and So Cal's Pete Carroll, arguably one of the game's best.

It's never been a matter of "if" with Randy Shannon - only a matter of "when". Anyone who didn't buy that was either an outsider, or an impatient fan to stubborn to realize rebuilding takes time.

Georgia Tech was overmatched out the gate. After a lengthy drive ended in solid Miami defense and a Tech field goal, the Canes came alive. A ninety second drive resulted in a 40-yard LaRon Byrd touchdown. It was set up by a clutch 3rd-and-11 conversion to Leonard Hankerson, for a drive-changing 36 yards.

A 13-yard pass to Dedrick Epps and a 34-yard Bosher field goal sent Miami into the locker room with a 17-3 lead and there was no looking back. A six-play, 60-yard drive ended with a three-yard Javarris James touchdown. 24-3, Canes and that sound you heard was the Jackets' hearts being broken. Game over... with just under two quarters to play.

Tech found the endzone on a 60-yard drive midway through the third, but Miami responded with a nine-play, 52-yard drive of their own, ending with a 14-yard strike to tight end Jimmy Graham.

Cooper and James combined for 165 yards on the night. (So much for the Tech belief that the Canes couldn't run the ball.) Combined, Miami gained 184 yards on the ground and posted 270 through the air. A 454-yard performance for The U.

Thank the mind of Whipple and the arm of Harris for that. Miami has an offense again. Look out, nation.

2-0 and halfway through a schedule that was dubbed "Murderer's Row" during the preseason. Florida State and Georgia Tech have since been put out to pasture, while Virginia Tech and Oklahoma are still licking some wounds after early season losses.

A stretch of ball that looked like it'd be, well, a stretch? Seemingly very doable right now with two more big ones on deck. The Canes have ten days to prepare for the Hokies, while the Sooners will head to down a top-flight tight end and most likely a Heisman-winning quarterback. (Going on record as saying Sam Bradford doesn't start against Miami in two weeks. Shoulder injury has him out until meat of Big XII schedule and game-of-season against Texas mid-October.)

While some idiots called for 0-4, those who whispered 4-0 or 3-1 look like full-fledged prophets. Take it one at a time? Sure. But don't count Miami out. If you're a fan, you have reason to be excited. This team has officially turned the corner.

Georgia Tech, thanks for coming out. It was a nice 4-0 run, but that triple option doesn't fly when a team has the talent, speed and depth to bring it. LSU proved that in last year's Peach Bowl and Miami showed that it's one step closer to being 'back' thanks to an overall influx of talent.

This was a revenge game and the Canes called for a Thursday night, nationally televised outing for this showdown. Miami was a team on a mission and kicked the ass off of Georgia Tech in front of the college football world. How'd that workout for everyone?

Virginia Tech, get ready. Miami brought the thunder a year ago and is coming to play with a full deck next Saturday.

One step closer. The future is now.

AJC's Chris Boggs' ten reasons GT downs Miami...

When did Georgia Tech get so feisty? Seriously? Sure, the Yellow Jackets had their occasional big time player or impressive win, but it was Georgia Tech. The split a title with somebody almost twenty years ago (Colorado, 1990) and have somewhat been a non-factor since, most recently winning the ACC over ten years ago.

Throw 'Johnson & Johnson' in the mix (first Calvin, now Paul) - not to mention four straight wins over three sub par Miami team - and Georgia Tech thinks they're hot mierda.

Good for them. You were a nobody and you had four successful years over a once-great program. You earned your bragging rights. That said, don't confuse those wins with would-be big wins over a good Canes team. Between 2006 and 2008, Miami posted three less-than-stellar seasons - 7-6, 5-7 and 7-6.

Doesn't really mean much that Georgia Tech beat Miami those three years as just about everybody owned the Canes then. UM was playing .500 ball, going 19-19 during that span. Yet for some reason, the Jackets wear those wins on their sleeve like they took down 2001-era Miami.

Crazy as it is, most of this newfound spunk comes from Tech fans - geeked out over the state of their program and Johnson's implementation of the 'triple option' attack. Techhies act as if this offense is kryptonite, even though GT lost four games last year - and was a Florida State fumble away from dropping five.

The Atlanta Journal Constitution's Chris Boggs chimed in today with a piece entitled, "Miami... Swagger of Substance?", which read like a heavy dose of hot air.

Comparing Jacory Harris and his confidence to the erratic Reggie Ball. Not giving the Canes offense credit, instead blaming Seminole defenders. Not giving the offensive line its due for giving Harris time, instead criticizing FSU defenders for 'not getting any pressure'.

J12 lit up the Noles defense for 386 passing yards - most in Quarterback U history. Not even the great Ken Dorsey took it to Florida State in this fashion with hit top-ranked Hurricanes in 2001.

Boggs quips that fans are too focused on the aerial assault and two touchdowns, ignoring Harris' two interceptions. News flash, Chris - when you complete 21-of-34 passes for 386 yards with three touchdowns - two coming in the fourth quarter - you're going to get a break for your two freshman mistakes. Only a rival fan plays the, "but he threw two picks" card.

In the article Boggs lists ten reasons why Georgia Tech wins/Miami loses, which came off rather one-sided. In an attempt to balance out the biased piece, allow this Cane to retort:


[1.] Miami doesn’t have near the athletes that Clemson had in Spiller and Ford.

Nice to see Boggs open with his most asinine assessment out the gate. Miami "doesn't have near the athletes" as Clemson's C.J. Spiller and Jacoby Ford? Brother, please. The Canes reeled in the top-ranked class in 2008 and arguably a top five class in 2009. It's flat-out moronic to imply Miami lacks athletes since Randy Shannon has been heading up the recruiting efforts.

A jacked up Graig Cooper and slimmed down Javarris James are in the same league as Spiller. As for Ford, I'll put any Cane wideout up against him - be it your bigger receiver like Aldarius Johnson/LaRon Byrd or a speedster like Travis Benjamin/Thearon Collier.

Boggs didn't just say Miami doesn't have the same athleticism as Clemson - he went as far as to say it's not even close.


[2.] Harris will have to keep his head on a swivel to avoid getting molested repeatedly by Derrick Morgan.

Agreed, Harris better get some protection from Morgan. That said, there are six other guys regarding the front seven. One man alone won't get the job done. Morgan will need help.

Miami's offensive line played a solid game at Florida State and protected Harris almost all evening. Mark Whipple's new playcalling has put the line in better position to do what it does best. With creative playcalling and crisp route running, Harris is getting the ball out of his hands and into the mitts of his first, second or third receiver in a matter of seconds.

If the Canes line plays as it did in Tallahassee ten days ago, Morgan and his crew better in the backfield quickly, because Harris doesn't need long to pick you apart.


[3.] Tech has better defensive backs than FSU does and the big plays won’t come as easily.

Boggs is quick to point the finger at Florida State's secondary while giving no credit to Miami playcalling or Whipple's offense. A few weeks ago the Noles were touting Patrick Robinson while defensive coordinator Mickey Andrews was calling this his fastest defense in FSU history. 386 passing yards later....

Whipple created mismatches and used creative playcalling to throw off the Florida State's defense. Graig Cooper's late touchdown came after a mismatch had a FSU linebacker going up against him, while Travis Benjamin's speed and Harris' accuracy accounted for the pass that set up Miami's game-winning score. Good defense on the play, the Canes were just a half step better than the Noles.

Side note, if Clemson's Kyle Parker could throw for 261 yards and three touchdowns, why is Harris being given no shot by Boggs to weather the storm? No offense, but who is Parker - a freshman - at this point of his career? Hell, if Jacksonville State's Marques Ivory could put up 193 yards and two touchdowns against Tech's secondary, what might J12 do?

Point being, who is really all that impressed with GT's secondary two games into the season? Seriously. Doesn't mean they can't have a big game, but Boggs is off with the assessment.


[4.] Miami doesn’t seem to be willing to run the ball or have the discipline to exploit the biggest weakness in the GT defense.

The Canes offense took what the Noles offense gave them last week. Simply put, the pass was there so Whipple exploited the weakness. If the game plan calls for some running tonight, you'll get a healthy dose of James/Cooper. Period.

How can you say Miami doesn't seem "willing" to run the ball or lacks discipline ONE freakin game into the season. Miami only ran for 90 yards because it passed for 386.


[5.] The Miami defense didn’t look tough enough or disciplined enough to handle Tech’s offensive pressure for four quarters.

Miami had some definitely lapses on defense. No argument there. Gave up some big plays here and there and allowed 404 total yards. The Canes better have tightened that up this past week or it'll be a long night.

As a Cane, a ounce of homerism from a Canes' perspective; five straight stops from the two-yard line which preserved the win. Stopped the option. Batted down several passes. Pressured the quarterback. Defensive line got penetration. That's something for defensive coordinator John Lovett to build off and it should give this defense a shot in the arm, knowing they can get their job done with the game on the line.


[6.] There is no number 6…

Was there even a 1-5... or 7-10, for that matter?


[7.] The Jackets weren’t “stopped” by Clemson…418 yards (301 on the ground) isn’t “stopped”.

Another case where Boggs refuses to give an opponent credit.

The Jackets WERE stopped by Clemson, chief. If you're going to harp on Harris' two BAD passes against Florida State, I'll harp on Nesbitt's two good ones - 24-yards and 39-yards - both setting up late fourth quarter field goals and a three-point win. Before that, Nesbitt was 1-of-11 on the night for 20 yards and two interceptions.

Roughly 2/3 of GT's rushing yards were in the first half and the majority of the passing yards came on two plays, by an otherwise horrendous showing by Nesbitt. The passing game was "stopped" all day long and the run wasn't as effective in the second half.


[8.] Jerrard Tarrant is a weapon that Miami will have to be concerned about. You can’t give Paul Johnson great field position on big kick returns and win the game.

Nothing to argue there. Miami gave up way too much special teams-wise against Florida State and needs to be wary of anybody on the return team who can make plays. That said, Terrant isn't doing anything as a punt returner that Miami's Cooper didn't do as a kick returner.

In two games Terrant had five returns for 172 yards - his long, being an 85-yarder. Cooper returned five kickoffs for 177 yards in one game - at Florida State - his long being a 63-yarder midway through the third quarter.


[9.] Tech will learn from the Clemson comeback and will maintain focus and intensity on the road, away from the friendly fans and confines of Bobby Dodd Stadium.

Nice theory, but pure speculation. Nothing factual about that statement. If Georgia Tech couldn't focus at home with a huge lead, how will they fare better in a hostile environment tonight? The Canes aren't known for packing the house, but on Thursday night LandShark Stadium will feel almost like the old Orange Bowl for a few hours.

Last year Miami took out Virginia Tech on the same nationally televised stage and the year prior, it was Texas A&M who got a Thursday night schooling. The Canes are 13-2 on Thursday night ESPN games - with those two losses coming on the road (Pitt, 1997 and Georgia Tech, 2008).

At home, the Canes roll and the environment is electric. Almost 47,000 in attendance for the Hokies game last year, which Miami went into 6-3. A different ball game at 1-0 after beating Florida State. Look for a bigger and rowdier crowd in a few hours.

A home opener, a night game and a week after a thrilling win over the Noles? Even the bandwagon portion of this fan base will turn out tonight and represent... and that's fact, not opinion.


[10.] The Tech defense made plays when they had to against Clemson…which is a better team than Miami.

... and Clemson is a better team because? 1-1 with a 37-14 win over Middle Tennessee State and a close loss to Georgia Tech? The Blue Raiders hung 300 yards on the Tigers - 207 through the air - and went toe-to-toe regarding time of possession. Miami gave up 404 to a Florida State team light years better than MTSU.

More hot air and bias from Boggs. The Tech defense made plays when it had to? I guess the 20 points and 240 yards in the second half were just for good measure. Trying to keep it interesting and what not.



Do I think Miami wins? I do, 34-27. That said, my opinion is based on three strong recruiting classes and a step forward for the program in Randy Shannon's third year. There is more depth and talent at the skills position than the Canes have seen since they were BCS bound four straight times earlier this decade - and there's finally a quarterback behind center for the first time since Dorsey was chucked to the Fiesta Bowl turf in early 2003.

Combine that with Whipple's offense, more depth/playmakers on defense - as well as the return of upperclassmen defenders who missed last year's contest - and I've backed up my prediction of a Canes victory.

Would've been nice to see Chris Boggs do the same, instead of simply donning the cap of GT SuperFan.

Miami v. Georgia Tech : The Preview

I could go the Xs and Os route here, breaking down the triple option and discussing how Miami defense is ready for Georgia Tech. In doing so, the critics would come back at me with their facts - 472 yards given up on the ground last year, the Yellow Jackets consistently owning the Canes since 2005.

We'd go back and forth, puffing out our chests, debating our points, agreeing to disagree and continuing our countdown to kickoff. A waste of everyone's time.

Regarding this year's Miami/Georgia Tech match up, I'm not concerned with stats. Instead, I'm relying on sheer Canes know-how and a gut feeling. The winds of change are blowing. Streaks are eventually broken. Simply put, it's Miami's time to take care of business, getting this monkey off the program's back and winning another 'statement game' early in the season.

Year three of the Randy Shannon era and things are falling into place nicely. There was some false hope these past few years. The mindset that "we're still Miami" and based on that premise alone, the Canes should've "willed" themselves to more wins. Too much focus on a player's recruiting ranking as opposed to a realistic assessment regarding his lack of production the field a few years later.

Miami could've stolen one from Georgia Tech anytime between 2005-2007. Those weren't dominant wins. The Canes either couldn't get it going offensively, couldn't get the stop defensively or found a way to self-implode due to a lack of depth and heart.

In 2008, a full-on massacre. Miami couldn't stop the run and has spent the better part of this past year reliving that 41-23 shellacking. Anytime coaches felt players needed a wake up call, in went a copy of last season's annihilation - bringing everybody right back down to earth. Visibly upsetting and embarrassing players, forcing them to circle this year's match up on the calendar as soon as the ACC schedule was released.

Miami agreed to roll the dice with a season opening road game at Florida State, knowing big money was being offered and that it was a high-profile, prime time showdown. That said, the university had some stipulations and requests of the Labor Day series was to be renewed. Aside from wanting Virginia Tech in September instead of November, Miami also requested an early season showdown with Georgia Tech - on a Thursday night, no less. A prime time, national stage for a rematch which the Canes feel is a redemption game.

A recent Atlanta Journal Constitution pegged the Canes as taking Thursday night's match up "lightly", based on some standard coachspeak from Shannon. How any team takes lightly a foe that's dropped them four straight - it's inconceivable and it reads like nothing more than some pot stirring from a rival hometown rag.

Shannon is simply guarding against a letdown, not wanting his team to get too high after last week's thrilling comeback against the Noles. The same FSU bunch who proved unable to let go of the loss to UM, trailing not-so-mighty Jacksonville State, 9-7 with under a minute to play.

Where Florida State coaches failed to rejuvenate their kids after a gut wrenching loss, Shannon and staff want to make sure the Canes remain hungry, even-keel and level-headed regarding their thrilling win.

It's 2009 and it's Miami's time. Whether an ACC title is in the cards remains to be seen... but this will be a year of growth for the Canes and that first step forward is beating the Florida States, North Carolinas and Georgia Techs on their schedule. Teams that were a play or two better the past handful of years and able to close when Miami couldn't.

Aside from talent and depth returning, since last year's debacle Miami has since found a quarterback and an offensive coordinator. Jacory Harris had a career outing at Florida State. Not just a personal best, but J12 threw for more yards against the Noles than any other Canes quarterback in the storied series.

Aside from Harris' swagger, his arm, his decision-making and the talent surrounding him, the biggest addition to the Miami offense is veteran coordinator Mark Whipple. The new offensive schemes, the brilliant mind and the ability to create mismatches was flawless on Labor Day. The Canes not only found themselves a quarterback; they also found their offensive maestro. The run sets up the pass, the pass sets up the run and the playbook has barely even been dented. Tech will see some new-look offensive plays tomorrow night and Whipple will keep 'em guessing all night long.

Miami will move the chains on Thursday - both in the air and on the ground. Whipple will call the shots, Harris will execute and the Canes won't spend the night playing from behind. The defense will have fresh legs and the Jackets won't have the luxury of running the ball while sitting on a lead. Not this year.

True, this is all rooted in one man's opinion, but it's a gut feeling based on following this rebuilding project religiously the past few seasons. Miami has made strides and is ready to turn that corner. Not at a national contender level, but a 'ready to take down some conference rivals' level. The resurgence began in Tallahassee and continues Thursday night at Landshark Stadium.

The Canes are hungry, the program is due and No. 15th-ranked Georgia Tech is formidable foe.

It's Miami's time. That may just be an opinion, but sometimes a gut feeling is just as valid as a page full of numbers and stats.


The Call: Miami 34, Georgia Tech 27

allCanes headed to Landshark on Thursday...

Miami is headed to Landshark Stadium for its season opener on Thursday night - an ESPN nationally televised rematch against Georgia Tech - and allCanes will be there this week, as well as every other home game this year.

We're setting up in the 100 level concourse on the Miami side of the field (close to section 145) an although we're not allowed to sell gear, we'll have our allCanes Spin-The-Wheel set up for you win some Canes-themed prizes and we'll have free roster cards for all who stop by - complete with a discount coupon you can use in store or online.

Check out all the latest gear we'll have on display - starting with the new "The U Invented Swagger" tee and new "It's All About The U" tee - two new allCanes Originals.

Drop by, say 'hi' and root on The U this Thursday night!

Miami v. Florida State : The Highlights

Much respect to the uber talented Rusty98UM for sticking to tradition and piecing together another great highlight reel - in HD, no less. Dig it. Go Canes.

"The U Invented Swagger" : New allCanes Tee

You saw it showcased on ESPN during the Monday night Labor Day thriller in Tallahassee.

As Miami upended Florida State to the tune of 38-34, our girl Lauren Lococo was see sporting her homemade "The U Invented Swagger" tee.

A day later, phones were ringing off the hook and emails were pouring in, inquiring minds wanting to know where they could get this new tee.

allCanes went to the drawing board this week and the new "The U Invented Swagger" tee will be in stock the beginning of next week.

Pick yours up and sport it proud on Thursday night when Miami takes on Georgia Tech in another ESPN nationally televised thriller!

Former Canes venting on Facebook...

I mentioned a few weeks back that it was my intent to no longer pile on in this blog or maliciously rip past players and coaches. I will do my best to stick to my word.

In the case of social networking and former players venting or sharing their opinions, that's a different ballgame.

Saw the above screen capture on Facebook earlier and wanted to post here. File this one under "straight from the horse's mouth" as former Miami offensive lineman Reggie Youngblood had some choice words about the Canes offense on Monday night.

"So Mark Whipple couldn't be at UM while I was there... just my luck. :/"

Pretty much says it all, eh? Youngblood came to Miami a five-star prospect out of Texas and left undrafted. A similar fate to quarterback Kyle Wright - another can't miss prospect whose career was much maligned due to working with three different offense coordinators, none of which could hold a candle to Whipple.

Wright's post regarding Youngblood's Whipple thoughts: "S**t, you're telling me..."

Former Miami back up linebacker Eric Houston: "... Damn ... :("

Son of Randy and one-year offensive lineman Xavier Shannon: "I feel the same way."

Proof is in the pudding, people. I don't even need to trash Dan Werner, Rich Olson/Todd Berry or Patrick Nix... as former Canes are taking the Intraweb to do it for me.

Sorry you old schoolers missed out on the rising by a season. All of you deserved a better experience at The U and were done in by nothing more than bad timing.

Game One: Miami 38, Florida State 34

Another shootout. Another chapter of a storied rivalry. Another sea of new faces. Another Miami v. Florida State weekend in the books.

In the end, a 38-34 nailbiter that came down to the final play. Nothing was kicked wide (when it mattered, anyways). No one muffed a snap. A three touchdown lead wasn't spotted to anybody. Weather didn't interfere.

There also wasn't a Labor Day weekend hangover, which plagued this program years back when both teams had tighter defenses and sluggish offenses. Gone are the 16-10, 10-7 and 13-10. Add the three previous holiday scores together and the result is a 33-33 tie. The 2009 version of this rivalry topped that in a few hours on Monday night.

Par for the course, the critics are out. Most of the talk today surrounding The U has been positive, though a handful of folks prefer to point out the lack of perfection. Defensive play calling. Porous specials teams play, at times. Blowing through time outs. The few offensive play calls that didn't work.

It's game one. Get a grip.

For all the 0-4 pundits, the Canes won their opener. No. 18 Florida State - a six-point favorite - was upended by unranked Miami. The program took another step forward. This win currently serves as the turning point in The U's resurgence. It doesn't quite feel like Miami v. Florida State circa 2000, but after a half decade on the downturn, you learn the difference between a talent-heavy rivalry game and one where both teams are reeling.

Miami and Florida State are 'back'. Not 'national championship' caliber back, but ready-to-take-over-the-ACC back and a year from now, an "in the hunt" back. It's the first step and both these teams will get better as the year progresses. That said, the Canes feel a little bit closer.

In an evenly matched game, Miami seemed a few steps ahead in a few aspects of both respective rebuilding projects. Jacory Harris went toe-to-toe with Christian Ponder and in the end, bested him with a few more clutch plays -- Harris in his first year as a starter, making his third career start while Ponder is in year two, coming off a solid first season.

Harris is a superstar in the making and the Canes have their first real quarterback of the post-Ken Dorsey era. Sure, Brock Berlin held his own and won some big games - but he was never the next great at Quarterback U. Kyle Wright flamed out, as did Kirby Freeman and all the other non-signees who almost came to Miami the past few years.

Calm. Cool. Collected. Poised. Harris is a gamer and will eventually become a big name in college football. Give it time. His demeanor on the field and on camera. The faith his teammates have in him. Harris is a born leader and he'll lead this program back over the next few seasons.

Quarterback is half the story - the other, new offensive coordinator Mark Whipple. Incredible to see a true offensive mind calling plays Monday night. New formations. Imagination. Whipple kept Mickey Andrews on his toes and the Canes dialed up the right plays when the game was on the line.

I can't tell you what's more exciting - a coordinator like Whipple who called the 40-yard pass to Travis Benjamin on the game-winning drive, or the fact Miami finally has a quarterback with the arm to make that throw.

The running game is still a work in progress and the defense gave up too many plays, similar to last year. Difference in this one, the fact that the Miami offense moved the ball and scored points. With last year's O the Canes drop a 41-20 contest. This time around, tit for tat. The Canes answered.

Down 23-17 entering the final quarter, Miami outscored Florida State 21-11 to close it out. For all the grief the Canes defense took, it gave up three points in the fourth - the Noles lone touchdown coming on an interception return. 88 total yards surrendered down the stretch - thirty coming on a Ponder designed run. Miami's stiffened up late, right down to the final plays.

Anyone calling Miami 'lucky' to escape with a win, check yourself. Five straight stops from inside the five-yard line. A phantom pass interference call giving Florida State new life from the two-yard line. Pass break ups. Solid defense. Strong coverage. Heart.

The U lost its mojo just over six years ago when Ohio State kept them out of the endzone with a solid goal line stand. This time around, it was Miami who held their ground, denied their opponent and might've just turned the corner. The Canes buckled down where in recent years they would've simply buckled.

The outing was far from flawless, but it proved effective. Miami found a quarterback and an offensive coordinator. Wide receivers and running backs look primed to break out an any given moment. Even the much maligned offensive line has stepped up their level of play, making a huge difference in Tallahassee.

Defensively, the late game clamp down... the fact it was game one... the lack of depth at defensive line and in the secondary due to injury.. the desire to keep a dual-threat quarterback at bay... as well as the fact Miami's offense held their own in a shootout -- now's not the time to complain. Revel in the win.

The Canes have ten days to get on lock down regarding Georgia Tech's triple option. One game at a time. Dial it in. Step up. It'll be a Thursday night in South Florida. A nationally televised home stand. Get healthy and get ready.

Randy Shannon and his Canes took a huge step forward on Monday night. A quarter of this daunting schedule is in the books - and the next three foes look a little more mortal after week one. Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech and Oklahoma - 1-2 combined - are now barely ranked ahead of the No. 20 Hurricanes.

From a psyche standpoint, a few more early wins just got a bit more tangible.

Miami v. Florida State : The Shirt!

Shameless promotion, but we know there's a certain portion of this blog that is all about a game-score tee. Click here to check out the new Miami Hurricanes tee from Ruppshirts.

Game recap coming Tuesday. - allCanesBlog.com

Miami v. Florida State... Labor Day Preview

Miami and Florida State time, again. The 54th meeting between these Sunshine State foes, the Canes leading the series 30-23.

UM owned the early part of the decade, posting six straight wins. FSU rallied back the past few years, winning three of the last four - two Labor Day snoozers and last year's barn burner. As for what's in store this year, it's anybody's guess.

Miami and Florida State are oft a mirror image of each other. Two decades ago, both programs atop their game and atop the college football world. The Noles then owned the late 90s while the Canes were back in top the early 00s. Since then, both have been treading water - hanging around the middle with an occasional average or sub par season. The Decade of Dominance is on hiatus for both, though someone is primed to take a step forward on Monday night.

The Noles grabbed a No. 18 preseason ranking, while the Canes are wallowing in 'other receiving votes' category.

FSU went 9-4 and UM went 7-6 in 2008. Had Miami pulled out last year's back and forth affair, both teams would've had matching 8-5 seasons. The Canes recruited better the past two seasons and return more talent at the skills positions. The Noles are paper thin at wideout, have to replace a starting tailback and have a ton of holes on defense - yet they're the ones in the top 20 and are picked to win the ACC.

Another phantom preseason ranking thanks to The Bowden Effect? Sure sounds like it. How else can you explain a fifteen spot swing in the polls when both teams are evenly matched at so many positons?

QUARTERBACK: Christian Ponder can play the 'experience card' on Jacory Harris. One full year at starter and had some solid games - most notably against Miami - 303 total yards (159 passing, 144 rushing). Harris had nine total attempts against Florida State last season and was a non-factor.

What Ponder holds over Harris experience-wise, Harris has the advantage regarding surrounding talent - wideouts, running backs and offensive coordinator. Jimbo Fisher will have the Noles ready, but Mark Whipple is unknown in this rivalry; Florida State simply can't plan for that the Canes will throw at them Monday night. Mickey Andrews will eventually adjust, but if Whipple and Harris execute, things could get interesting quickly.

RUNNING BACK: Jermaine Thomas will replace Antone Smith and is a solid back... but he doesn't get the nod over a Javarris James and Graig Cooper due for Miami. Not early in the season when both are healthy.

James shed weight and gained speed this off season while Cooper added weight to his small frame and won't have to shoulder the load he did in '08. Fresh legs early in the season and should either falter, freshmen Mike James and Lamar Miller are on deck - as are Lee Chambers and Damien Berry. Depth has returned at running back for The U.

Miami has a distinct edge at running back and if the Canes run the ball well Monday night, you have to like their overall chances in Tallahassee.

WIDE RECEIVER: Florida State lost Greg Carr and Preston Parker. Miami returns a slew of sophomores coming off of strong freshmen seasons. LaRon Byrd. Aldarius Johnson. Travis Benjamin. The Canes also expect junior Leonard Hankerson to finally show what he can do. Same to be said for redshirt freshmen Tommy Streeter and Kendal Thompkins.

Bert Reed and Rod Owens return for the Noles. Owens and Richard Goodman are slated to start. Capable receivers, but not as deep or with as much variety as the Canes. Miami has the Andre Johnson-esque bigger receiver and the small, shifty Santana Moss-like wide out as well. Harris has a lot as his disposal and the different style receivers give Whipple a slew of weapons and packages.

OFFENSIVE LINE: No contest here, with Florida State holding a distinct edge. A young, solid line while Miami fields a mismatched crew - a few veterans, including Jason Fox, Matt Pipho and AJ Trump... a first-time starter in sophomore Harland Gunn, freshmen pushing for playing time - Ben Jones and Brandon Washington. The fiery Orlando Franklin.

Miami's line remains an enigma, but that could change quickly based on The Whipple Factor. How much of the lines suspect play could be blamed on Patrick Nix and some predictable formations. With a little innovation, Whipple's calls can play to this line's strength.

The Noles still get the edge, but don't be surprised of Miami's line played relatively well on Monday night.

TIGHT END: Caz Piurowski had eight receptions last year. Miami's Dedrick Epps reeled in 22 - more than Piurowski has in his three-year career. If healthy, Epps not only gets the nod - but so do the Canes for simply incorporating the tight end into their offense. The Noles have neglected this for years, though fans are quietly claiming that Fisher will change that this year.

DEFENSIVE LINE: Miami has the edge, or at least had it prior to some recent injuries to the line - Eric Moncur (hernia) and Adwale Ojomo (broken jaw). Still, some solid talent returns. Allen Bailey. Marcus Forston. Marcus Robinson. John Holmes. Joe Joseph. The Canes will also see newbies Oliver Vernon, Andrew Smith and Dyron Dye worked into the mix, picking up for the injured linemen.

LINEBACKER: Both Miami and Florida State have some potential and depth. The Canes' Sean Spence is your biggest name linebacker in the game and the Noles return Dakoda Watson, but neither squad is fielding a trio of superstars as they have years past.

SECONDARY: Florida State has more depth and experience, most notably Patrick Robinson. Miami has more youth and potential. The Canes took a hit with Ryan Hill and Vaughn Telemaque sidelined. That said, senior Randy Phillips is back, JoJo Nicolas earned the start and Chavez Grant will hold down the cornerback spot with Brandon Harris and Demarcus VanDyke.

SPECIAL TEAMS: Miami's Matt Bosher can kick, Benjamin can return and Florida State doesn't have field goal specialist Graham Gano kicking anymore. Should be interesting.

All that thrown out there, this is Miami and Florida State. Stats go out the window when these two teams play. Expect the unexpected. Grit and determination will outweigh what you'd think would be logic. You can throw it all out the window when these two meet.

At day's end, this is an evenly matched game and as a Miami enthusiast I believe the difference is Whipple's offense. J-12 has the weapons and finally has a coordinator who can supply him with the know-how. The Canes should move the ball and defensively Miami knows the need to stop the run, after last year's onslaught.

The Call: Miami 24, Florida State 17

Week One College Football Thoughts...

>>> LaGarrette Blount's "punch heard around the college football world" set the tone for what feels like it'll be a strange season. For those who missed it - which is only possible if you don't have ESPN - Blount went 'thug life' on Boise State defensive end Byron Hout after the Ducks fell to the Broncos, cold-cocking big boy right in the jaw.

Kudos to Oregon for acting quickly and suspending Blount for the season, inevitably ending the collegiate career of the JUCO transfer in his senior season. Still, that shouldn't give the program a free pass. The Ducks and head coach Chip Kelly deserve some heat. This happened to their program and on their watch - game one for a new coach filling the big shoes of Mike Bellotti.

If the University of Miami was chastised for the FIU brawl - something that took place in the heat of battle, not after the game - then the University of Oregon needs to take some grief for one of their student athletes going postal on an opponent and fan base. The year long suspension was bold, but it doesn't erase what happened.


>>> Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford is down for the count. The verdict, a sprained AC joint with more to come. The Heisman winner's injury coupled with the temporary loss of tight end Jermaine Gresham (knee) doesn't bode well for the Sooners... nor does the shoddy offensive line play, a unit in rebuild mode with only one returning starter.

There are no guarantees in this game and you better have the football gods on your side if you're going to make a run. When this morning started, OU was penciled into the title game by some. By nightfall, upset by No. 20 BYU and their title dreams derailed.

For the Florida fans already booking their airfare to Pasadena... Texas fans who swear it's Colt McCoy's year, chill. There's a lot of ball left to be played this season. Anything can happen.

Miami fans, takes notice as well. Those calling for x-amount of wins needed for Randy Shannon to 'save' his job, that's bogus. See where 2009 goes. Pray these kids stay healthy and take this season game-by-game. Employ some logic. Don't make it about emotion and knee-jerk reactions.


>>> I've received some predictions from friends and fans this week regarding Miami and Florida State on Monday night - all high scoring, all predicting a blowout. We'll see.

Look at the scores we're seeing early on. South Carolina 7, NC State 3... Boise State 19, Oregon 8... BYU 14, Oklahoma 13. The only real blowouts are coming where there are mismatches. Two quality teams - conference foes, big time rivals and both with solid defenses - aren't going to blow it up game one.

I read today that Miami coaches are quietly confident that the Canes can offensively exploit the Noles' defensive holes. I'd love nothing more, but I'll believe it when I see it. At day's end, this is Miami and Florida State. A hard-fought match up with a lot of pride on both sides of the ball. While I'm board and believe the Canes will win, I can't picture a blowout and high scoring affair. If I were a betting man, I'd take Miami +6 and the under. We'll see, though.


>>> For any critics ripping on the ACC, turn your focus to the Big Ten - a conference comparable to the Big East, these days. No. 6 Ohio State needs a mini miracle to knock off Navy - at home? Indiana 19, Eastern Kentucky 13? Illinois on the wrong side of a 37-9 beat down to Missouri? Wisconsin in a 28-20 battle with Northern Illinois?

Yeah, Penn State took down Akron, 31-7. Michigan State whooped Montana State, 44-2. Even Michigan got back to winning ways with a 31-7 beat down of Western Michigan... but let's be honest, the conference is a slow, pasty joke.

Even with true freshmen Matt Barkley starting for Southern Cal next week, who in their right mind would put money on Ohio State - at home - in that one?


>>> ... and as easy as it is to rip the Big Ten, the ACC is proving even worse (though expectations weren't as high and No. 6 didn't almost lose to a service academy.)

On Thursday night NC State didn't show up against South Carolina. Today, Wake Forest falls to Baylor. Virginia loses to William & Mary. Duke got beat by Richmond. Virginia Tech hung tough, but was eventually out-muscled by Alabama.

The lone conference win; Clemson beat mighty Middle Tennessee and come Monday, the only two teams that can truly turn around this lackluster conference. Miami was brought on board to challenge Florida State annually for ACC supremacy. Since joining the ACC, the rivalry has been a watered down version of what it once was.

Will that change on Labor Day? Probably not. But it could set the stage for a potential ACC title match up in December if both teams have jelled. The conference is wide open and talent-wise, no one has more muscle than the Canes and Noles.

Let's hope for a hard-hitting game that earns the ACC an ounce of respect week one.


>>> Virginia Tech held their own against Alabama, but Tyrod Taylor still isn't setting the world on fire at quarterback. For all the recent success the Hokies have had, their offense remains elementary and they're again relying on special teams and defense to carry them. Mindboggling how this team is ranked No. 7 and some in the media were pegging them as a title game dark horse.

If Mark Whipple is all he's cracked up to be as a coordinator and play caller, Miami should be able to hang with anybody on their schedule. Especially with the holes Florida State has on defense, the lack of points Virginia Tech will put up offensively and an injury-plagued Oklahoma bunch whose season just went in the tank.


>>> Kudos to LSU for making the cross country trek to Washington for their season opener. Too bad the rest of the SEC is full of sissies who rarely leave home and instead choose to schedule the likes of Charleston Southern, Troy and Florida International out of conference - and all at The Swamp.

Same to be said for Georgia, heading to Oklahoma State for this year's season opener - which they lost - and a trip to Arizona State last year.


>>> Speaking of dummy Gators, laughing at all the Florida fans who took the Florida -73 today. I hope you gambled away your trailer park rent checks. (I kid... sort of.)

Speed kills? So does greed. You don't ever take a 73-point spread. That's a horrible bet. Too bad Urban Meyer couldn't tack on another late score like he did last year when Florida covered against Miami.

Miami Hurricanes Football 2009 : Inch By Inch

The clip has been on YouTube for a while, but it doesn't get old. Not with a season opener days away.

Al Pacino's "inch by inch" speech from "Any Given Sunday" as coach Tony D'Amato married with images of the Canes? It's enough to get the coldest fish hyped up. Check it out.

Is it Labor Day yet?

Five Questions : A Cane and a Nole have at it

I received a request from Florida State enthusiast Rich Halten regarding a Q&A on Monday's game. Rich is involved with ChantRant.com and GarnetAndGreat.com. Below, five questions between a Cane and a Nole. Dig it.



Based on all you've heard, and given the talent on UM's offense, how do you expect Mark Whipple to attack FSU?

When Randy Shannon brought Mark Whipple on board, I dove in headfirst and read everything I could about the veteran OC. If there's one thing I learned... expect the unexpected. Whipple has a strong offensive mind, a riverboat gambler-type mindset and is arguably the brightest offensive mind Miami has had on board since Dennis Erickson or Gary Stevens were calling plays.

The Canes finally have a stable of wideouts and depth at running back. I believe Whipple will use a balanced attack - but has the wherewithal to know when to do what. Stretch the field. Create mismatches. Keep the defense guessing. Basically everything Rich Olson didn't do with his conservative game plan as the new offensive coordinator in the last Labor Day season opener.

Mickey Andrews is obviously no slouch, but in this case he doesn't know what Whipple will bring out the gate with Miami. That plays to the Canes favor. Offensive line is the x-factor. Miami has the bodies - some upperclassmen with talent and some younger kids ready to break out. For all the OL struggles these past few years, how much was talent versus scheme?

How much did Patrick Nix's play calling hinder the line's grown? How will they respond to Whipple's play calling? Will quicker developing plays make a difference? Will new schemes put the line in a better overall position?

We'll see come Monday.


How will having a true freshman back-up at QB affect Miami's play selection and what Jacory Harris does?

I think that's something that remains in the back of your mind, but you can't over think that - playing out a worst-case scenario. If you go down that road, you play scared.

Look back at the Ken Dorsey era. Who were his back ups? Ethenic Sands in 2000? Derrick Crudup in 2001 and 2002? Walk-on Troy Prasek as third string?

When have the Canes had a stable of quarterbacks? Furthermore, whether it's A.J. Highsmith or had it been Taylor Cook / Cannon Smith, safe to say that IF Harris were to go down, Miami is in a pinch regardless. The 2009 Canes will go as far as Harris takes them.

No back up is - or would've been - capable of carrying this team, besides Robert Marve. None of these guys had any real game experience besides Harris or Marve.


With a new D-coordinator, will the Canes defense be more consistent and able to limit big plays?

I don't think it's as much about coordinator (John Lovett) as much as it's about talent and depth.

Miami started the season with the ability to stifle the run. The Canes also held the Gators to a 9-3 ball game until early in the fourth quarter in game two last year. Bill Young's schemes were working when the personnel was there. Once injuries took their toll, Miami was a different team.

Eric Moncur, Colin McCarthy and Randy Phillips all went down early in 2008 and all three return as seniors this year. Their leadership was missed last season, as was their experience and depth. Moncur is out for Monday's game, but McCarthy and Phillips return and will makes their presence felt.

Equally as important, the fact that last year's true freshmen are back as seasoned sophomores. Kids like Sean Spence went from high school ball to early enrollment to spring ball to a full freshman season, with no down time. Spence is up from 193 pounds to 211 pounds. Rested, ready and a year wiser.

Whether it's Spence... Marcus Forston... Marcus Robinson... the freshmen sensations of 2008 are going to go 'next level' as sophomores. Add all that up, combine it with Lovett's experience, ACC know-how and focus on fundamentals and you'll see a much-improved Miami defense in 2009.

Whether that improvement shows game one or takes some time to jell, remains to be seen.


Rain could be a factor again this year. If there's a constant downpour, which team will have the advantage?

Tough call. I'd probably give Florida State a slight edge.

Rain will slow down Miami's passing game, essentially canceling out the advantage at wideout. I like the Canes stable of running backs better, but the Noles have the more mobile quarterback in Christian Ponder. Florida State also has the better offensive line, which will play into the ground game.

Rain is part of the game and is manageable. Simply hoping we don't see a 2003-like torrential downpour. That made for an ugly game. (Sean Taylor 22, Florida State 14).

Rain or shine, I think Javarris James and Graig Cooper are going to turn some heads on Monday. James has shed weight and has gotten his freshman-like speed back. He's also fully healthy for the first time in years, while Cooper has added weight and will be fresh, after having to carry the majority of the load in 2008 - something a back like him isn't built to do. A healthy James will allow Cooper to be used sporadically and in the role he was intended.


The broken jaw incident (defensive end Adewale Ojomo hit by a fellow player in the locker room) begs the question of possible negative chemistry on the team. True?

Disagree. Miami is the cleanest in-state program and Randy Shannon has run a tight ship since day one. This is absolutely an isolated incident and the fist-throwing walk-on was booted the morning after.

Since getting on board, Shannon has been removing dead weight and bad seeds from the program. Players suspended for missing study hall in Coral Gables while troublemakers in Gainesville and Tallahassee are still playing on Saturday for far worse offenses.

Shannon has spent the last 2+ years building team chemistry and changing the culture at The U. The Ojomo incident was definitely a black eye, but too much is being made of it.

If we were talking about two starters, two team leaders, two captains... had it been Marve/Harris throwing blows last year; different story. This is a walk on who got into with Ojomo - a stand up kid based on a great Miami Herald article on him last year. An unfortunate incident that thankfully happened weeks back and won't prove to be a distraction with a new season on the horizon.

Negative chemistry is how rivals might try to spin it, but that's definitely not the case here. There's a ton of chemistry on this team - especially with the Miami Northwestern kids and other locals who have formed a strong bond over the years.

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We saw an early season 41-39 shootout between Miami and Florida State last year. This time around, another Labor Day game - which has generally produced a low-scoring finish. How do you see the 2009 version of this rivalry playing out?

I think we're going to see a Whoa-Nelly barn burner -- unless the weather spoils the fun (oddly, the rain didn't seem to slow things down in '08). Should be a lot like last year: full of more plot twists than a Hitchcock movie.

My take is that both offenses are ahead of opposing defenses. And both D's have their injury problems.

Not only are the offenses healthy and primed for a national TV showcase, players have had months to get fired up, while coaches have the spent the summer scheming.

And that brings up the X-factor. Both offenses will have the element of surprise. Especially Mark Whipple's, as the Canes O.C. will confound FSU's D and give Mickey Andrews chest pains. Meanwhile, Jimbo Fisher has expanded the playbook to incorporate new wrinkles, encouraged by the progress of a QB, who has honed his passing and leadership skills.


There's talk of rain for Monday night's game. Should there be inclement weather, which team has the advantage and why?

I'd love to be able to say FSU will due to a strong OL and a stable of running backs. But you could also make the same case for Miami. The more realistic answer is whichever teams gets the lucky bounce of the ball. For example, in last year's downpour game, FSU fumbled four times and lost two of them. Miami never coughed it up. Somehow the Noles still won, despite those momentum-killing flubs.


Christian Ponder rushed for 144 yards last year and Antone Smith put up 92 and a career-high four touchdowns. After surrendering 289 rushing yards in last year's loss, Miami says they'll be ready for the run this year. Ponder returns, Smith is gone and the Canes' front seven looks to be stronger. Simply put, will Florida State run on Miami this or will the Canes stifle the run?

FSU will run on the Canes -- IF they're able to throw it, as well. Everything I read from Coral Gables says the Canes are convinced the Noles strength is the run and that Jimbo will try to replicate last year's big performance on the ground. It's pretty apparent Miami will key on the run game and dare Ponder to beat them with his arm. As mentioned, Ponder has spent the year improving everything about his passing skills, from staying in the pocket to looking off the safety to his delivery.

On the receiving end, contrary to what you might've been hearing, FSU does have guys who can catch and run with the ball. Sure, the top three receivers have moved on. But two guys who were factors last year against UM are back (Bert Reed and Tawian Easterling) plus some talented WRs who'll get their chance to shine, and even a newcomer or two.

Jimbo Fisher says FSU must be able to run. But that may be just an attempt to play into Miami's stop-the-run-first emphasis. The truth is a balanced attack is and always has been Jimbo's mantra.

Bottom line: I think he'll use play action to show run, then roll out the mobile Ponder to hit short to mid-range passes. At least in the first half. And that tactic, Nole fans hope, will eventually open up the ground game.


Who are the playmakers that will make a difference on Monday - both offensively and defensively?

On offense, Ponder is, of course, the make-it or break-it guy. Beyond that watch for RBs Jermaine Thomas and the debut of Tavares Pressley (JUCO transfer who missed all of last year with a pre-season injury). Canes fans know WR Bert Reed, but they may very well get to know sophomore Jarmon Fortson, a big, fast receiver in the mold of Anquan Boldin.

On defense, Markus White should be this year's sackmeister. Chances are the breakout guy on the DL will be Jacobbi McDaniel, a true freshman who's been tearing it up in practice. The star of the secondary is CB Patrick Robinson, one of Mel Kiper's Top 25 picks for the 2010 NFL draft. But keep an eye out for #5 Greg Reid, a true freshman CB (and five star recruit) who'll be in nickel coverage and probably see some kick return duty.


This year's game isn't sold out. Florida State is ranked #18 and Miami rolls in unranked. Hardly the top five - or top two - match up fans have seen in the past. If you're a casual college football fan, why should you tune in Monday night if you have no allegiance to either team?

Because certain college analysts call it the game that set the bar for intense rivalries. Plus, it's Monday Night Football on a holiday weekend with no other games to tempt channel flipping. And for any college fan 30 years old or more, damn -- it's FSU - Miami. The teams that pretty much owned the game for two decades.

Miami Hurricanes : Preview 2009 : We Ready?

Miami Hurricanes Football 2009. Another season on the horizon. A 24-17 Emerald Bowl loss to Cal is so eight months ago. As is the reality of depending on almost two dozen freshman to carry a program in repair.

It's year three of the Randy Shannon era. A combined record of 12-13 under the long-time Cane assistant and former linebacker. Recruiting has been top-flight, though the game day result has left much to be desired. Miami had a few gritty wins last season - Wake Forest, Virginia and Virginia - a three-game stretch were the Canes showed growth and promise.

Unfortunately that win-streak was followed up with three straight losses - Georgia Tech, NC State and Cal.

A lack of depth the culprit, injuries taking their toll and Miami still a few recruiting classes away from being able to reload and compete for a full season.

Year three is when a first-time coach with a game plan should see a difference. Year one, a disaster. Cleaning up the other guy's mess, dealing with headcase-type players - holdovers from the old regime and the type of players that brought the program down.

Year two, some housecleaning and a foundation-laying recruiting class. A few steps forward, but you're only going so far. Dependent on too many true freshman. Not enough depth to absorb injuries. The inability to close and learning the process of winning.

Year three, another strong class and a stable of battle-tested sophomores ready to make a difference. The program's "veterans" - freshmen and sophomores when Shannon took over - have become leaders. They buy into the culture and they're making sure the newbies are being brought up the right way.

Miami's challenge remains the schedule. Absolutely brutal. Days back ESPN ranked is the hardest schedule in the nation. A double-edged sword for a program in repair.

Hit the ground running - taking down No. 18, No. 15, No. 7 and No. 3 in a matter of weeks - and you're back in the game. Hands down the hottest team in the nation, with a rather tame eight-game stretch to close out the year.

That said, if you faceplant right out the gate, look out. It will get ugly and ugly fast. Schedule aside, 1-3 or 0-4 is still ugly to look at and bitter to swallow. The critics will be in full force. Doubt will creep into the minds of players. The wheels could fall off quickly and Shannon will be in for the fight of his career - trying to save his team and his job every Saturday in fall.

Ric Flair said it best; to be the man, you've got to beat the man. Miami has been a non-factor since a November 2005 loss to Georgia Tech - 20-21 since falling from that No. 3 perch. (The fact Miami was behind No. 1 USC and No. 2 Texas, almost impossible to fathom a few short years later.)

The Canes need to take a leap forward. A statement game is necessary and Miami has two shots out the gate with Florida State and Georgia Tech - two nationally televised, prime time ESPN throwdowns.

Sitting here in early September, no one has a clue where this season is going to go. Who gets hurt? Who steps up? Look at last year - do games go your way (Virginia or Virginia Tech) or do a few unlucky bounces cause defeat to be snatched from the jaws of victory (North Carolina or Florida State)?

The first four will tell the tale of 2009. Florida State, Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech and Oklahoma. A "murderer's row" of college football.

0-4, a disaster. 1-3, ugly. 2-2, acceptable - barring the effort is there. 3-1, amazing. 4-0, incredible.

Personally, I see 2-2... but won't cut out 3-0. A win at Florida State is doable and starts the season on the right foot. A ten-day layoff allows extra time to prep for Georgia Tech and a crafty triple option. Nine days to get ready for a road trip to Blacksburg and a Darren Evans-less Virginia Tech squad. From there, Oklahoma at Landshark - the outcome dependent upon how the first three play out.

The remaining eight games, all winnable - Florida A&M, UCF, Clemson, Wake Forest, Virginia, North Carolina, Duke and South Florida. Some new blood (in regards to the past few years) and all lesser teams, in comparison to the opening third of the season.

8-4 or 9-3 should be this team's bare minimum. An acceptable step forward, should everything go right - starting with Jacory Harris avoiding the injury bug. A legit run at an ACC title game berth is within reach. The conference is truly wide open, though in no way should Miami be a favorite. Under the radar, the Canes will have to earn every win, steadily rising on a weekly basis.

As previously mentioned, Harris is this team's lifeblood. Quarterback U has been quarterback-less the better part of this decade. Kyle Wright never panned out, nor did Kirby Freeman. Almost-Canes slated to get on board pulled out last minute, be it Pat Devlin, Derek Shaw, Daniel Stegall or Nick Fanuzzi.

Brock Berlin was cursed with the job of following Mr. 38-2, Ken Dorsey -- crucified for letting Miami "slip" to an 11-2 and 9-3 during his two-year run. For all the grief Berlin took, he truly was the Canes' last solid quarterback, scary as that may seem to some.

Harris needs to channel his best Dorsey if The U is going to rise from the ashes. He lacks a capable back up, but if he stays healthy - the pieces are aligned for Miami to light up scoreboards all year long.

The mind of new offensive coordinator Mark Whipple. The stable of wideouts who could challenge anyone in the country (potential-wise). Depth at running back and an improved offensive line. Those critical of the line play, don't underestimate what Whipple's play calling will do for a line that seemed out of sync in Patrick Nix's predictable offense.

Half the battle is scoring; half is stopping the other guy. Depth and injuries had Miami's defense in a lurch last year, but don't underestimate the impact a lack of offense had. Elementary playcalling. Three and outs instead of moving the chains. Momentum killers at every turn, forcing a tired and beat down defense back onto the field prematurely.

A better offense equates in better defense. It sets the tone as it's a different ball game playing with a lead as opposed to being forced to stop the bleeding.

Monday night a new journey begins; against a familiar foe, but with a new-look crop of Canes. How ready is this squad? Is this the year lip service turns into proven results? Could it all be a simple as a little more depth and a sharp offensive mind? Miami unraveled over the span of a few years. Three years into an expected four or five year rebuilding project, just how close is The U to being back?

Find out on Labor Day in Trailerhassee.