| Duke Johnson is ready for Labor Day (Photo Credit: Miami Herald) |
Written By: Nathan Skinner
Canes Rising Contributor
Offense
Quarterback--Both teams have quarterbacks who are complete unknowns. Brad Kaaya is starting his first game at the collegiate level, while Louisville signal caller Will Gardner has been a career backup. Both are talented players, but experience is lacking. Gardner has seen some garbage time action, but that isn't much. Edge: Even
Running Backs--Duke Johnson is the best offensive player participating in this game. That said, the other 'Canes who will see carries are very inexperienced. Gus Edwards and Joe Yearby are two talented players, but Edwards has struggled with his running style, while Yearby is a true freshman who is playing his first game. Louisville has two talented backs, Michael Dyer, and Dominique Brown. Dyer was a major contributor to Auburn's National Championship team, and Brown rushed for over 500 yards last year. This one is closer than what the numbers would indicate but Miami has the best back on the field, and that is the deciding factor. Edge: Miami
Wide Receiver/ Tight Ends--Louisville suffered a major blow when Devante Parker was injured during fall camp. He will not play on Labor Day, which forces Louisville to play without its best weapon. Eli Rogers and Michaelee Harris will look fill Rogers' shoes, but those shoes will be extremely tough to fill. Miami has a potential superstar in Stacy Coley, who really came on strong during his freshman season, wowing fans with his speed and athleticism. Miami also features Herb Waters, and Philip Dorsett. Louisville doesn't use the tight end much, but Florida transfer Gerald Christian should contribute. Miami has Clive Walford, an athletic tight end that averaged 14.5 yards per catch last year. This one isn't a contest, especially with Parker being unable to participate. Edge: Miami
Offensive Line--Louisville's line has been solid over the last couple of years, and it's expected to be even better this year. This offensive line is chock full of seniors, and adds a talented newcomer in UF transfer Ian Silberman. Miami lost some major contributors from last season including Seantrel Henderson, and Malcolm Bunche. Ereck Flowers and Shane McDermott return, but they are the only two bellwethers on the line. Fall camp saw a lot of shuffling alone the Hurricane O-Line, and fans shouldn't be shocked to see some issues arise from the lack of a cohesive unit. Edge: Louisville
Defense
Defensive Line--Louisville's line lost a significant amount of talent from last season. However, the 'Cards return a star in Lorenzo Maudlin. While losing talent, the U of L didn't lose talent. The projected starters have started 40 games combined, which illustrates their experience. Miami has a ton of names, but very little production from the position. Tyriq McCord, Al-Quadin Muhammad, and Trent Harris look to be the men on the edge, while Calvin Heurtelou and Olsen Pierre look to anchor the middle. The Miami D-Line has been a source of consternation amongst fans due to their lack of production. Until fans see significant progress, this unit will be viewed with skepticism. Edge: Louisville
Linebackers-- Denzel Perryman is the best of the Miami 'backers. He brings a lethal combination of speed and power, and is an All-ACC level talent. Perryman is joined by Jermaine Grace, Raphael Kirby, and Thurston Armbrister. These players are talented, but aren't on Perryman's level. Another issue with this unit is the lack of depth. Miami lost two contributors in Jawand Blue and Alex Figueroa over the off season, and coaches have been struggling to find players to replace them. Louisville has two talented players in James Burgess and Keith Brown. With the change to a 3-4, the 'Cards will be forced to play an additional linebacker. While Miami lacks depth, Louisville is adjusting to a new scheme. Edge: Even
Secondary-- Louisville returns 5 of their top 8, but lose the top 2. Louisville was deep last year in the secondary, and are still deep. That said, losing two NFL draft picks signals that there will be some dropoff. The Cardinal cornerbacks, Terell Floyd, and Charles Gaines are the best of the secondary, and will have a major impact this season. Miami lost some talent too, but the talent that is replacing them looks to be superior. Kacy Rodgers and A.J Highsmith were liabilities in coverage and run support. Deon Bush looks to be ready to take over, following a 2013 season marred by injury. Tracy Howard, Artie Burns, and Ladarius Gunter form an awesome group of corners. The 'Canes are young, fast, and deep. Louisville is experienced, but Miami has the raw talent edge. Advantage: Miami
Special Teams-- Louisville returns both their kicker and punter, Ryan Johnson has consistently improved during his career, averaging 41.2 yards per punt. John Wallace was a consistent kicker, connecting on 20 of 24 field goal attempts. Wallace's long was 43 yards, and he was 2 of 4 from 40 yards plus. Miami lost a talented punter in Pat O'Donnell, and has looked all fall for a replacement. Matt Goudis is similar to Wallace, a consistent kicker who doesn't possess a particularly strong leg. Edge: Louisville
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