 |
| Duke Johnson ran wild on UNC(Photo Credit: Fansided.com) |
Written By: Nathan Skinner
Canes Rising Contributor
It may be starting to come together for Al Golden and the 'Canes. Following a huge win over Virginia Tech, it was assumed that Miami would be lackadasical and sloppy in their next game. That wasn't the case, as The U crushed North Carolina 47-20, and it was another outstanding effort as the 'Canes dominated the game throughout.
The Good
Jim Kelly--It was nice to see a Hurricane legend come home, and openly support the program. Kelly, who is the most successful member of "Quarterback U" was the Grand Marshal of the Homecoming Parade and a honorary captain. If you haven't purchased a Kelly Tough shirt, or made a donation to the Hunter's Hope Foundation, do so.
Duke Johnson--Another day, another game, and another huge performance from the superstar running back. Duke rushed for 177 yards, averaging over 9 yards per carry. He became the 2nd leading rusher in Miami history, and is likely to break that record by the end of the season, provided he stays healthy. The next step for Duke is to have a big game against FSU, a team he has struggled against.
Clive Walford-- Clive is a next level tight end, and Brad Kaaya is doing an outstanding job of finding this outstanding athlete. Saturday was another solid performance for the senior, as Walford caught two touchdown passes, and had an impressive 42 yard reception. Walford also had a whale of a game as a blocker, setting the edge on multiple occasions. Clive has quietly become a complete player, and should be on everyone's radar.
Miami Defense/Al Golden--It's obvious that something has changed with this unit. The scheme hasn't changed, but the individual calls have, with an emphasis on aggressive blitzes. It's been rumored that Al Golden has taken over this unit. Golden may be formulating the game plans, he may be making play calls, or both, either way, it's paying dividends. UNC is a very good offensive football team that can score in bunches, but they looked plain ordinary on Saturday. The 'Heels didn't score an offensive touchdown until well after the game was decided. UNC only had 6 yards rushing Saturday, averaging .2 yards per attempt. That's not a typo, they averaged below one yard per attempt. This unit may have turned the corner, and if they have, watch out.
The Bad
Kickoff Coverage--The short kickoffs didn't help, but the lack of lane discipline was troubling. North Carolina had some returns available, but the 'Heels couldn't capitalize. This is something that needs to be corrected, because Florida State will turn those lapses into points. Miami has to be sharp on special teams, mistakes in this area are tough to overcome.
The Ugly
Miami Fans--At their best, Miami fans are a loyal, passionate bunch who adopted a decided underdog, and supported that underdog as it rose to the top. At their worst, Miami fans are pathetic attention whores who care more about their egos, than about the program they allegedly support. To fly a critical banner during Homecoming weekend, a weekend that saw the return of a Miami legend is embarrassing, and a PR nightmare for the University. It's understandable that we have fans who are frustrated with the progress of the team, but this is unacceptable. We're at the point in which it needs to be said. If you are willing to repeatedly embarrass the program, it's time for you to find a new program to support. Miami is the only major program that has fans who are willing to completely embarrass their program in a public manner like this. Most fanbases sit on their hands, and not support the program if the on field product stinks. Miami fans don't show up to the stadium even when times are good, so they resort to embarrassing the University when they want to make a point. Do they think that recruits aren't seeing this? Do they think that potential coaches aren't seeing this? It's shortsighted, and counterproductive.
Posts
