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| Quarterbacks Kevin Olsen(far left), Brad Kaaya(15), and Jake Heaps prepare for drills. (Photo Credit: Miami Herald) |
Written By: Nathan Skinner
Canes Rising Contributor
As the first week of Fall Camp comes to a close, some 'Canes have shined, while others have been been somewhat disappointing. While this is only the first week, it's still an important week, especially in regards to the Quarterback competition.
Offense
Jake Heaps looks to be the leader after week 1, with Brad Kaaya close behind. Kaaya has made some very impressive throws, especially on the first day of camp. Kaaya hit some impressive deep throws, and has flashed the talent that made him a highly touted recruit. Heaps has been consistent, but has struggled with eye discipline. Both have been praised by Al Golden, especially Heaps. Kaaya has struggled with managing the huddle, which is to be expected from a true freshman. Heaps and Kaaya have taken all of the first team reps so far, this is shaping up to be THE battle of camp. Malik Rosier and Kevin Olsen are far behind, with Rozier being a total non-factor.
Braxton Berrios has been a surprise. Coming off a knee injury, Berrios looks to be a guy who may be battling for playing time, he resembles former Duke star Conner Vernon. This position has shined during camp, with Malcolm Lewis being described as "turning the corner". Lewis, who has struggled to return to form following a gruesome ankle injury, is back to cutting at full speed, and has come up with some impressive catches during 7 on 7 drills. Philip Dorsett, another player coming off of injury, has looked good during drills. Stacy Coley continues to be a playmaker, taking a bubble screen to paydirt on day two. There's been solid performances across the board with the receivers, look for there to be a lot of changes to the depth chart as camp goes on.
Duke Johnson has gained weight and looks to be ready for action. His cuts this week are similar to the ones he made before his injury. Joe Yearby, who was held out due to illness early in the week is back, and looking sharp. He could use some work in catching passes, but it's week one, and he's recovering from illness. Trayone Gray has finally found his way to Coral Gables, and looks to be a factor. Gray, who is a multipurpose athlete, will get a chance in the offensive backfield, although he is projected to be a receiver, or defensive back.
K.C. McDermott is getting significant time with the first team, during his first fall camp. He has replaced Gadbois as the starting right tackle. Besides that bit of surprising news, nothing major has happened on the offensive line, which is great news. This week has been mostly about the skill positions.
Defense
For the first time in 5 years, Miami looks to have significant size and talent on the defensive front. Newcomers Heurtelou, Wyche, and Thomas have all looked good in drills. Heurtelou and Wyche look the part of talented defensive linemen, flashing their enormous potential. Wyche has been noted as struggling with conditioning. This should be worked out soon, but Wyche needs to be ready for the season. Both Wyche and Heurtelou bring immense size, and uncommon athleticism to the position. If this group can continue to improve, watch out.
The big defensive battle is who will play in the secondary. There just aren't enough spots, for the number of talented players. Corn Elder is making a massive push for playing time, the problem is beating out talented and proven players like Tracy Howard, and Artie Burns. We mentioned in the season preview that defensive back is the deepest position on defense, and it's proving to be exactly that. The nickel/dime packages this year should be very good, thanks to the amazing depth and athleticism present.
Walter Tucker, who figures to be the starting fullback, is seeing significant time at linebacker. The position, decimated by the dismissal of Blue and Figueroa, is sorely lacking depth. If Tucker can be a contributor to the position, it will be a huge help. We'll know more about this position next week, after the team participates in a full scrimmage.
The first week of camp has been about individual performances. The next week will be about the team, as the 'Canes get closer to Labor Day. The main position battles will be resolved in the next week, following the scrimmages. For the players who are battling to be at the top of the depth chart, this upcoming week will be THE week.
* A special thanks goes out to Manny Navarro of the Miami Herald. Manny's notes helped fill in some important gaps.
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