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| It's been a great career for Denzel Perryman(52)(Photo Credit: Miami Herald) |
Written By: Nathan Skinner
Canes Rising Contributor
What was once seen as a program turning the corner is now a program that is mired in doubt and uncertainty. Al Golden has been given a vote of confidence by Blake James, but it's obvious that Golden and his staff may be on the hot seat entering 2015. This team needs to finish this season strongly, and a win over Pitt would be a solid start to making the most of what has been a disappointing season.
Keys to Victory
1. Find Something To Play For--It doesn't matter what the reason is, the 'Canes have to find motivation. Last week, the 'Canes mailed it in, and it showed. This season has been disappointing, one can say that the team has underachieved. That said, this team can't afford to quit on the season, this team needs positive momentum.
2. Set The Tone Early--Last week, the 'Canes looked disinterested from the opening kickoff. Miami needs to be all in from the first whistle. That means making tackles, flying around, and creating havoc. It will be on Mark D'Onofrio to take chances with his play selection, and set an aggressive tone. James Coley will have to do the same, now's a good time to run some well timed gadget plays, while calling a game that centers around physical domination. Get aggressive, show that Miami is a program that fights, that overcomes adversity.
3. Duke Johnson--Duke should be showcased this week, and Miami should look to set the tone with the run. It's been the same gameplan all season, but it has been effective all season. James Coley has to find a way to get Duke involved in the passing game as well. A player this talented shouldn't be shut down by his own offensive coordinator. Pitt doesn't have the defensive personnel or the scheme to stop Duke.
4. Stop James Conner & Tyler Boyd--Pitt's passing game centers around Tyler Boyd, the other receivers are mediocre at best. Boyd shouldn't go anywhere without double coverage, Miami should see to it that Boyd isn't a factor. James Conner is a very talented back, and he has to be neutralized as well. Limit how often he is in space, and make sure tackles. Conner is a back that gets stronger as the game wears on, so it's on the Miami defensive staff to make sure that players are fresh. Some of the staff may be fighting for their jobs, it may behoove them to make a good final impression.
5. Protect Brad Kaaya--Last week, the 'Canes couldn't protect the young quarterback. This week, the 'Canes face a Pitt team that doesn't rush the passer well. Kaaya should have a clean pocket all night, and he should be able to make throws without worrying about taking big hits. If that can happen, Miami should be able to manufacture explosive plays, especially if Pitt has to sell out for the run.
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