 |
| Brad Kaaya(15)(Photo Credit: Miami Herald) |
Written By: Nathan Skinner
Canes Rising Contributor
We're at the halfway point of the 2014 season, and the 'Canes are struggling to stay in the ACC Coastal division race. Coming into this season, there were some major questions, and some major concerns about the program, and about Al Golden's leadership. Some of those questions have been answered, and some of those answers aren't good. However, there's been some bright spots for the 'Canes, including the unexpected emergence of quarterback Brad Kaaya.
Offense
Quarterback--When Brad Kaaya was named the starting quarterback, many fans had doubts that a true freshman could be successful. Kaaya has proven those doubters wrong, having an outstanding first half. Brad has gone from a player who looked over matched against Louisville to a player who shredded Nebraska in front of 87,000 rabid fans. Kaaya leads all the ACC in passing yards, and touchdown passes. While Kaaya continues to struggle with his decision making, he has shown more than enough to justify the staff's faith in him. There isn't a throw he can't make, and he has taken command of the offense. For the first time since Brock Berlin, the 'Canes have a difference maker at quarterback. Grade: B+
Running Backs--Duke Johnson won't win the Heisman this year, but he's been outstanding so far this season. Duke has run for 787 yards, averaging over 7 yards per carry with 6 touchdown jaunts. Duke has found a way to stay productive, even with defenses making him their top priority. He's improved in many areas, including pass protection. The one area that Duke continues to struggle is ball security, he had a crucial fumble during the Nebraska game, which was the turning point in that defeat. True freshman Joe Yearby has emerged as a nice complement to Duke, averaging 7.4 yards per carry. Gus Edwards has struggled with consistency, leading to him being a bit player. This unit not only contains Miami's best offensive player in Johnson, but an emerging star in Yearby. Grade: B
Wide Receivers--This position was supposed to be the strongest offensive position group, and it hasn't disappointed, even though individual players haven't lived up to their potential. Stacy Coley was expected to be a star, a potential All-American, that hasn't happened so far with him being a non-factor this year. Despite the struggles of Coley, this unit has been very good. Philip Dorsett has emerged as a big play threat, averaging over 34 yards per reception. Braxton Berrios has been a consistent player, and a favored target on 3rd down. Malcolm Lewis is fully healthy again, and he's been a consistent contributor. The one player who has been a pleasant surprise is Herb Waters. Grade: B
Tight Ends--For years, Miami ignored this position, but that's changed. Clive Walford is the leading receiver on this team, and rightfully so. Walford has come a long way from the error prone player he once was, and has become an outstanding outlet for Brad Kaaya. Walford's size and speed creates issues for opposing coaches, and James Coley has found a way to get him involved. With few opportunities to shine, Standish Dobard has been a solid blocker. Grade: B+
Offensive Line--It's been a slow, steady progression for the O-Line. Against Louisville, this unit looked lost, they looked like a unit that would be unable to do much of anything, but they have improved by leaps and bounds from that point. Players that were once seen as liabilities have become contributors, and players who were expected to be standouts have lived up to the hype. This unit has been ravaged by injuries, but Art Kehoe has found a way to keep this unit functional, and performing at an acceptable level. Depth will be a major issue in the 2nd half of the season, but fans should expect continued improvement. Grade: B
Posts
