ACC: Javarris James
MIAMI
2009 overall record: 9-4
2009 conference record: 5-3
Returning starters
Offense: 6, defense: 8, punter/kicker: 2
Top returners
QB Jacory Harris, T Orlando Franklin, WR Leonard Hankerson, WR LaRon Byrd, DE Allen Bailey, LB Sean Spence, LB Colin McCarthy, P/PK Matt Bosher, CB Brandon Harris, RB Graig Cooper (injured)
Key losses
OT Jason Fox, C A.J. Trump, TE Dedrick Epps, RB Javarris James, S Randy Phillips, CB Sam Shields, LB Darryl Sharpton, DT Joe Joseph
2009 statistical leaders (* returners)
Rushing: Cooper* (695 yards)
Passing: Harris* (3,352 yds)
Receiving: Hankerson* (801 yds)
Tackles: Sharpton (106)
Sacks: Bailey* (7)
Interceptions: Harris, Phillips, Micanor Regis* (2)
Spring answers
1. Depth at running back. The running backs had arguably the best spring of any position group and proved they’re still deep, despite the loss of James and not having Cooper, who is recovering from a torn ACL. Lamar Miller, a redshirt freshman, was tough to bring down in the open field, and had good speed. Storm Johnson, a true freshman who enrolled early, picked up the offense quickly and ran hard. Damien Berry showed the same form he had at the end of the season when he finished strong, and Mike James returned to running back from fullback.
2. Deeper at QB. What a difference a year can make. After both backup quarterbacks transferred a year ago, this position has the best depth it’s seen under coach Randy Shannon. A.J. Highsmith, Spencer Whipple and Stephen Morris all moved the ball this spring. Highsmith seemed to be the front-runner for the No. 2 job behind Jacory Harris, as he took most of the first-team reps with Harris out.
3. Defensive line shines. First-year defensive line coach Rick Petri’s group was one of the Canes’ bright spots this spring. The defensive ends go about three deep on each side. Adewale Ojomo, who missed all of last season with a broken jaw, is back, and the tackles were solid.
Fall questions
1. Wanted: tight ends. Miami only had two tight ends this spring, but the Canes will add four in the fall, including Chase Ford, a junior college transfer. Richard Gordon and Billy Sanders will finally get some competition. Gordon has the most experience and he’s a senior, but he only played in one game last year. He was granted an extra year of eligibility and should have a bigger role this season. Sanders, a redshirt freshman, was on the scout team.
2. Transition at center. Tyler Horn isn’t a rookie, but it's unclear how he'll adjust to his new role in taking over for A.J. Trump. Horn was the top option at center this spring with true freshman Shane McDermott, an early enrollee, behind him. Horn has been there for three years, and it’s his job to lose.
3. Stuck in the middle. Who will take over at middle linebacker? Miami is still working out its depth issue here. Kylan Robinson started to emerge there in the spring, and Shayon Green was another option. At the end of spring, Colin McCarthy was still at strong side and Sean Spence was at weak side, but Shannon could make some moves to get the best group of linebackers in there. That could mean McCarthy moves to the middle. In the past two years, Shannon liked to put an older player there (Glenn Cook, Darryl Sharpton), but McCarthy played the majority of the spring at his usual spot. The return of Spence and Jordan Futch from injuries should help Shannon figure out the right combination.
2009 overall record: 9-4
2009 conference record: 5-3
Returning starters
Offense: 6, defense: 8, punter/kicker: 2
Top returners
QB Jacory Harris, T Orlando Franklin, WR Leonard Hankerson, WR LaRon Byrd, DE Allen Bailey, LB Sean Spence, LB Colin McCarthy, P/PK Matt Bosher, CB Brandon Harris, RB Graig Cooper (injured)
Key losses
OT Jason Fox, C A.J. Trump, TE Dedrick Epps, RB Javarris James, S Randy Phillips, CB Sam Shields, LB Darryl Sharpton, DT Joe Joseph
2009 statistical leaders (* returners)
Rushing: Cooper* (695 yards)
Passing: Harris* (3,352 yds)
Receiving: Hankerson* (801 yds)
Tackles: Sharpton (106)
Sacks: Bailey* (7)
Interceptions: Harris, Phillips, Micanor Regis* (2)
Spring answers
1. Depth at running back. The running backs had arguably the best spring of any position group and proved they’re still deep, despite the loss of James and not having Cooper, who is recovering from a torn ACL. Lamar Miller, a redshirt freshman, was tough to bring down in the open field, and had good speed. Storm Johnson, a true freshman who enrolled early, picked up the offense quickly and ran hard. Damien Berry showed the same form he had at the end of the season when he finished strong, and Mike James returned to running back from fullback.
2. Deeper at QB. What a difference a year can make. After both backup quarterbacks transferred a year ago, this position has the best depth it’s seen under coach Randy Shannon. A.J. Highsmith, Spencer Whipple and Stephen Morris all moved the ball this spring. Highsmith seemed to be the front-runner for the No. 2 job behind Jacory Harris, as he took most of the first-team reps with Harris out.
3. Defensive line shines. First-year defensive line coach Rick Petri’s group was one of the Canes’ bright spots this spring. The defensive ends go about three deep on each side. Adewale Ojomo, who missed all of last season with a broken jaw, is back, and the tackles were solid.
Fall questions
1. Wanted: tight ends. Miami only had two tight ends this spring, but the Canes will add four in the fall, including Chase Ford, a junior college transfer. Richard Gordon and Billy Sanders will finally get some competition. Gordon has the most experience and he’s a senior, but he only played in one game last year. He was granted an extra year of eligibility and should have a bigger role this season. Sanders, a redshirt freshman, was on the scout team.
2. Transition at center. Tyler Horn isn’t a rookie, but it's unclear how he'll adjust to his new role in taking over for A.J. Trump. Horn was the top option at center this spring with true freshman Shane McDermott, an early enrollee, behind him. Horn has been there for three years, and it’s his job to lose.
3. Stuck in the middle. Who will take over at middle linebacker? Miami is still working out its depth issue here. Kylan Robinson started to emerge there in the spring, and Shayon Green was another option. At the end of spring, Colin McCarthy was still at strong side and Sean Spence was at weak side, but Shannon could make some moves to get the best group of linebackers in there. That could mean McCarthy moves to the middle. In the past two years, Shannon liked to put an older player there (Glenn Cook, Darryl Sharpton), but McCarthy played the majority of the spring at his usual spot. The return of Spence and Jordan Futch from injuries should help Shannon figure out the right combination.
It would be easy -- and accurate -- to name five ESPNU 150 players Florida State just signed as the newcomers to watch in the ACC this year, but let’s spread the wealth a little bit. There will be plenty of opportunities and position battles throughout the conference worth watching this spring and summer, but here are five players who should have a chance to make an immediate contribution:
FSU freshman linebacker Jeff Luc: The Seminoles need an upgrade on defense, and they didn’t bring an influx of talent in to sit and watch. Luc is a five-star player and the No. 1 overall rated inside linebacker by ESPN.com’s Scouts Inc. He’s the No. 11 overall player in the ESPNU 150 class. Anyone who is that good should be tough to keep off the field.
Wake Forest redshirt freshman quarterback Brendan Cross: The competition is open to replace Riley Skinner, and Cross should be considered a front-runner heading into spring ball. Cross finished his career at Chattahoochee High School in Georgia with 3,540 passing yards and 36 touchdown passes.
NC State freshman offensive tackle Robert Crisp: The Wolfpack are looking for some help up front, and Crisp will be given a chance to give some. He is a four-star, 300-pound tackle whose size will help him work his way in early. NC State lost three starters up front.
Miami redshirt freshman running back Lamar Miller: He didn’t play last year because of the talent in front of him, but with Javarris James graduated and Graig Cooper recovering from a knee injury, the chances are good that Miller will work his way into the rotation. He was a member of the ESPNU 150 and was ranked the No. 12 running back in his class by ESPN.com.
Boston College freshman quarterback Chase Rettig: The fact that he’s already on campus and will go through spring drills means that Dave Shinskie will have some competition. The California native is a four-star player and the No. 10 quarterback in his class, according to ESPN.com’s Scouts Inc.
FSU freshman linebacker Jeff Luc: The Seminoles need an upgrade on defense, and they didn’t bring an influx of talent in to sit and watch. Luc is a five-star player and the No. 1 overall rated inside linebacker by ESPN.com’s Scouts Inc. He’s the No. 11 overall player in the ESPNU 150 class. Anyone who is that good should be tough to keep off the field.
Wake Forest redshirt freshman quarterback Brendan Cross: The competition is open to replace Riley Skinner, and Cross should be considered a front-runner heading into spring ball. Cross finished his career at Chattahoochee High School in Georgia with 3,540 passing yards and 36 touchdown passes.
NC State freshman offensive tackle Robert Crisp: The Wolfpack are looking for some help up front, and Crisp will be given a chance to give some. He is a four-star, 300-pound tackle whose size will help him work his way in early. NC State lost three starters up front.
Miami redshirt freshman running back Lamar Miller: He didn’t play last year because of the talent in front of him, but with Javarris James graduated and Graig Cooper recovering from a knee injury, the chances are good that Miller will work his way into the rotation. He was a member of the ESPNU 150 and was ranked the No. 12 running back in his class by ESPN.com.
Boston College freshman quarterback Chase Rettig: The fact that he’s already on campus and will go through spring drills means that Dave Shinskie will have some competition. The California native is a four-star player and the No. 10 quarterback in his class, according to ESPN.com’s Scouts Inc.
There wasn’t quite the buzz around the Hurricanes’ No. 13 class that there has been in recent years -- unless, of course, you’re talking to coach Randy Shannon. Miami finally has some staff stability, save for the departure of former defensive line coach and recruiting coordinator Clint Hurtt. It's finally reached the point where the numbers and depth have improved, making it easier to target a wider variety of positions.
“I think most of the players you see across the country, they’re starting to see what Miami is about,” Shannon said. “Instead of this coach or that coach they’re going for the program. That’s the one thing I see from the young men that’s part of this university. They see the program. They see where we’ve been and where we’re going. They see the improvement every year, the family-type atmosphere with the players. Coming on a visit is not just lip service. They see the opportunity and that every year I’ve been here freshmen in some form or fashion play.”
What they don’t have? A lot of ESPNU 150 players. The Canes added three -- the fewest they've seen under Shannon -- and missed out on several top uncommitted players who went elsewhere on signing day. But that doesn’t mean this class isn’t loaded with future talent and speed, and most importantly, the Canes met several position needs.
“Our needs are getting our numbers right,” Shannon said. “On the offensive line, we had a depth situation that was going to be tough, and now we have a couple of guys on the team who in the long term can help us establish where we need to be instead of a quick fix. The more depth you have on your football team, the better your football team will be.
“It’s not like in my second year, where you have to go out and get eight receivers,” Shannon said. “Now we’re almost at the point where we can say we need two at this position, two at that position instead of trying to recruit 25 and 30 guys. Now it’s about 15 and you know your program is going in the right direction.”
That approach has made it easier not only to recruit, but to make it through an entire season. The staff went aggressively after tight ends and linebackers. It also added depth to the running back position where Javarris James graduated, Graig Cooper is coming off a knee injury and Damien Berry will be a senior. Four-star running backs Storm Johnson and Eduardo Clements should help there. As for who might see playing time first?
“Your best shot is to look at the seven guys who came in in January,” Shannon said. “They always play for some reason.”
“I think most of the players you see across the country, they’re starting to see what Miami is about,” Shannon said. “Instead of this coach or that coach they’re going for the program. That’s the one thing I see from the young men that’s part of this university. They see the program. They see where we’ve been and where we’re going. They see the improvement every year, the family-type atmosphere with the players. Coming on a visit is not just lip service. They see the opportunity and that every year I’ve been here freshmen in some form or fashion play.”
What they don’t have? A lot of ESPNU 150 players. The Canes added three -- the fewest they've seen under Shannon -- and missed out on several top uncommitted players who went elsewhere on signing day. But that doesn’t mean this class isn’t loaded with future talent and speed, and most importantly, the Canes met several position needs.
“Our needs are getting our numbers right,” Shannon said. “On the offensive line, we had a depth situation that was going to be tough, and now we have a couple of guys on the team who in the long term can help us establish where we need to be instead of a quick fix. The more depth you have on your football team, the better your football team will be.
“It’s not like in my second year, where you have to go out and get eight receivers,” Shannon said. “Now we’re almost at the point where we can say we need two at this position, two at that position instead of trying to recruit 25 and 30 guys. Now it’s about 15 and you know your program is going in the right direction.”
That approach has made it easier not only to recruit, but to make it through an entire season. The staff went aggressively after tight ends and linebackers. It also added depth to the running back position where Javarris James graduated, Graig Cooper is coming off a knee injury and Damien Berry will be a senior. Four-star running backs Storm Johnson and Eduardo Clements should help there. As for who might see playing time first?
“Your best shot is to look at the seven guys who came in in January,” Shannon said. “They always play for some reason.”
Final East-West Shrine Game rosters out
January, 14, 2010
1/14/10
9:00
AM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
The ACC will have 13 players among the 106 selected to play in the 85th annual East-West Shrine Game. The only problem with this game is that it's being held on the same field that provided the worst conditions of the bowl season -- the Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando. We'll assume they've cleaned it up.
It's a prestigious all-star game, as 90 percent of the players from last year's roster were either drafted or signed as free agents. It's sort of like a final audition for the NFL, as the game is directed by an NFL-affiliated coaching staff, NFL officials and rules.
The ACC players will be coached by Romeo Crennel, who spent four seasons as head coach of the Cleveland Browns and has won five Super Bowls as an assistant coach.
This year's game will be Jan. 23 (3 p.m. ET/ESPN2). The following players will represent the ACC on the East team:
LB Mike McLaughlin, Boston College
OG Thomas Austin, Clemson
CB Chris Chancellor, Clemson
OLB Kavell Conner, Clemson
OG Cord Howard, Georgia Tech
RB Javarris James, Miami
C A.J. Trump, Miami
DE Willie Young, NC State
DT Nate Collins, Virginia
FS Kam Chancellor, Virginia Tech
OG Sergio Render, Virginia Tech
CB Stephan Virgil, Virginia Tech
OG Chris DeGeare, Wake Forest
It's a prestigious all-star game, as 90 percent of the players from last year's roster were either drafted or signed as free agents. It's sort of like a final audition for the NFL, as the game is directed by an NFL-affiliated coaching staff, NFL officials and rules.
The ACC players will be coached by Romeo Crennel, who spent four seasons as head coach of the Cleveland Browns and has won five Super Bowls as an assistant coach.
This year's game will be Jan. 23 (3 p.m. ET/ESPN2). The following players will represent the ACC on the East team:
LB Mike McLaughlin, Boston College
OG Thomas Austin, Clemson
CB Chris Chancellor, Clemson
OLB Kavell Conner, Clemson
OG Cord Howard, Georgia Tech
RB Javarris James, Miami
C A.J. Trump, Miami
DE Willie Young, NC State
DT Nate Collins, Virginia
FS Kam Chancellor, Virginia Tech
OG Sergio Render, Virginia Tech
CB Stephan Virgil, Virginia Tech
OG Chris DeGeare, Wake Forest
ACC representatives at the NFL combine
January, 12, 2010
1/12/10
3:30
PM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
The Sporting News published a list of seniors invited to participate in the 2010 NFL scouting combine, Feb. 24 to March 2 at Indianapolis. Here are the ACC's representatives, but keep in mind it's not an official -- or final -- list.
Boston College: LB Mike McLaughlin, C Matt Tennant.
Clemson: OLB Kavell Conner, WR Jacoby Ford, DE Ricky Sapp, RB C.J. Spiller.
Duke: QB Thaddeus Lewis, Vince Oghobaase.
Florida State: CB Patrick Robinson, S Myron Rolle, OLB Dekoda Watson.
Maryland: CB Nolan Carroll.
Miami: TE Dedrick Epps, OT Jason Fox, TE Jimmy Graham, RB Javarris James, LB Darryl Sharpton.
North Carolina: OT Kyle Jolly, DT Cam Thomas.
NC State: C Ted Larsen, DE Willie Young.
Virginia: CB Chris Cook, FB Rashawn Jackson.
Virginia Tech: P Brent Bowden, S Kam Chancellor, CB Stephan Virgil, OT Ed Wang.
Wake Forest: OT Chris DeGeare, CB Brandon Ghee.
Boston College: LB Mike McLaughlin, C Matt Tennant.
Clemson: OLB Kavell Conner, WR Jacoby Ford, DE Ricky Sapp, RB C.J. Spiller.
Duke: QB Thaddeus Lewis, Vince Oghobaase.
Florida State: CB Patrick Robinson, S Myron Rolle, OLB Dekoda Watson.
Maryland: CB Nolan Carroll.
Miami: TE Dedrick Epps, OT Jason Fox, TE Jimmy Graham, RB Javarris James, LB Darryl Sharpton.
North Carolina: OT Kyle Jolly, DT Cam Thomas.
NC State: C Ted Larsen, DE Willie Young.
Virginia: CB Chris Cook, FB Rashawn Jackson.
Virginia Tech: P Brent Bowden, S Kam Chancellor, CB Stephan Virgil, OT Ed Wang.
Wake Forest: OT Chris DeGeare, CB Brandon Ghee.
Posted by ESPN.com's Heather Dinich
I think I actually have them all this week ...
BOSTON COLLEGE
Questionable
DE Alex Albright (ankle)
Doubtful
OT Rich Lapham (shoulder)
LB Mike McLaughlin (leg)
Out
WR Ifeanyi Momah (knee)
RB Rolandan Finch (illness)
CLEMSON
Out for Season
J.K. Jay, OT, back
Probable
Scotty Cooper, LB, Concussion
Doubtful
Michael Palmer, TE, Concussion
Out
Kantrell Brown, S, Concussion
DUKE
RB Re'quan Boyette (knee) -- Questionable
CB Lee Butler (leg) -- Doubtful
LB Abraham Kromah (leg) -- OUT
WR Tyree Watkins (leg) -- OUT
RB Kyle Griswould (leg) -- OUT FOR SEASON
S Anthony Young-Wiseman (knee) -- OUT FOR SEASON
FLORIDA STATE
Out for the season
44 LB Maurice Harris (neck)
81 TE Caz Piurowski (knee)
Out
28 CB Dionte Allen (thumb)
76 OT Garrett Faircloth (hip)
70 OT Antwane Greenlee (knee)
51 LB Aaron Gresham (knee)
97 DT Demonte McAllister (knee)
74 OT John Prior (knee)
72 DT Budd Thacker (knee)
11 LB Vince Williams (back)
Questionable
27 CB Xavier Rhodes (thumb)
21 CB Patrick Robinson (ankle)
Probable
9 WR Richard Goodman (groin)
26 RV Korey Mangum (shoulder)
94 DT Justin Mincey (knee)
36 LB Dekoda Watson (groin)
GEORGIA TECH
Out
Kevin Cone, r-Jr., WR (ankle)
Robert Hall, r-Jr., DE (knee)
Cooper Taylor, So., S (undisclosed)
Questionable
Julian Burnett, Fr., LB (knee)
Out For Season
Kyle Jackson, r-So., LB (foot)
MIAMI
Probable
OL Joel Figueroa – Upper Extremity
K Matt Bosher - Illness
Out
DB Ray-Ray Armstrong – Lower Extremity
FB Patrick Hill – Lower Extremity
RB Javarris James – Lower Extremity
DL Eric Moncur – Lower Extremity
DB JoJo Nicolas – Lower Extremity
LB Sean Spence – Lower Extremity
Surgery and Out for the Season
DL Dyron Dye – Lower Extremity
DL Marcus Forston – Lower Extremity
LB Jordan Futch – Lower Extremity
TE Richard Gordon – Upper Extremity
LB Shayon Green – Lower Extremity
DE Gavin Hardin – Upper Extremity
DB Ryan Hill – Upper Extremity
DE Adewale Ojomo – Jaw
NC STATE
OUT FOR SEASON
Mario Carter, TE - knee
Ryan Cheek, LB - hip
Denzelle Good, OL - shoulder
Nate Irving, LB - leg
Colby Jackson, FB - knee
Everett Proctor, QB – shoulder
Jeff Rieskamp, DE – sports hernia
Rashard Smith, CB - knee
Javon Walker, S – knee
James Washington, HB - knee
OUT
T.J. Graham, WR/RET – leg
Ray Michel, LB - ankle
Jesse Riley, DB - knee
Dwayne Maddox will start at middle linebacker in place of Michel; Clem Johnson, Jamelle Eugene and Donald Bowens will return punts/kicks.
VIRGINIA
Out
Aaron Clark (knee)
Matt Conrath (ankle)
Probable
Oday Aboushi (knee)
Landon Bradey (knee)
Darren Childs (leg)
Nate Collins (leg)
Cam Johnson (knee)
Corey Mosley (shoulder)
Brandon Woods (shoulder)
WAKE FOREST
Out for Season
WR Terence Davis (knee)
Questionable
DE Kyle Wilber
I think I actually have them all this week ...
BOSTON COLLEGE
Questionable
DE Alex Albright (ankle)
Doubtful
OT Rich Lapham (shoulder)
LB Mike McLaughlin (leg)
Out
WR Ifeanyi Momah (knee)
RB Rolandan Finch (illness)
CLEMSON
Out for Season
J.K. Jay, OT, back
Probable
Scotty Cooper, LB, Concussion
Doubtful
Michael Palmer, TE, Concussion
Out
Kantrell Brown, S, Concussion
DUKE
RB Re'quan Boyette (knee) -- Questionable
CB Lee Butler (leg) -- Doubtful
LB Abraham Kromah (leg) -- OUT
WR Tyree Watkins (leg) -- OUT
RB Kyle Griswould (leg) -- OUT FOR SEASON
S Anthony Young-Wiseman (knee) -- OUT FOR SEASON
FLORIDA STATE
Out for the season
44 LB Maurice Harris (neck)
81 TE Caz Piurowski (knee)
Out
28 CB Dionte Allen (thumb)
76 OT Garrett Faircloth (hip)
70 OT Antwane Greenlee (knee)
51 LB Aaron Gresham (knee)
97 DT Demonte McAllister (knee)
74 OT John Prior (knee)
72 DT Budd Thacker (knee)
11 LB Vince Williams (back)
Questionable
27 CB Xavier Rhodes (thumb)
21 CB Patrick Robinson (ankle)
Probable
9 WR Richard Goodman (groin)
26 RV Korey Mangum (shoulder)
94 DT Justin Mincey (knee)
36 LB Dekoda Watson (groin)
GEORGIA TECH
Out
Kevin Cone, r-Jr., WR (ankle)
Robert Hall, r-Jr., DE (knee)
Cooper Taylor, So., S (undisclosed)
Questionable
Julian Burnett, Fr., LB (knee)
Out For Season
Kyle Jackson, r-So., LB (foot)
MIAMI
Probable
OL Joel Figueroa – Upper Extremity
K Matt Bosher - Illness
Out
DB Ray-Ray Armstrong – Lower Extremity
FB Patrick Hill – Lower Extremity
RB Javarris James – Lower Extremity
DL Eric Moncur – Lower Extremity
DB JoJo Nicolas – Lower Extremity
LB Sean Spence – Lower Extremity
Surgery and Out for the Season
DL Dyron Dye – Lower Extremity
DL Marcus Forston – Lower Extremity
LB Jordan Futch – Lower Extremity
TE Richard Gordon – Upper Extremity
LB Shayon Green – Lower Extremity
DE Gavin Hardin – Upper Extremity
DB Ryan Hill – Upper Extremity
DE Adewale Ojomo – Jaw
NC STATE
OUT FOR SEASON
Mario Carter, TE - knee
Ryan Cheek, LB - hip
Denzelle Good, OL - shoulder
Nate Irving, LB - leg
Colby Jackson, FB - knee
Everett Proctor, QB – shoulder
Jeff Rieskamp, DE – sports hernia
Rashard Smith, CB - knee
Javon Walker, S – knee
James Washington, HB - knee
OUT
T.J. Graham, WR/RET – leg
Ray Michel, LB - ankle
Jesse Riley, DB - knee
Dwayne Maddox will start at middle linebacker in place of Michel; Clem Johnson, Jamelle Eugene and Donald Bowens will return punts/kicks.
VIRGINIA
Out
Aaron Clark (knee)
Matt Conrath (ankle)
Probable
Oday Aboushi (knee)
Landon Bradey (knee)
Darren Childs (leg)
Nate Collins (leg)
Cam Johnson (knee)
Corey Mosley (shoulder)
Brandon Woods (shoulder)
WAKE FOREST
Out for Season
WR Terence Davis (knee)
Questionable
DE Kyle Wilber
Posted by ESPN.com's Heather Dinich
If you don't see it, that means I didn't get it:
CLEMSON
Out
Kantrell Brown, DB, Concussion
Scotty Cooper, LB, Concussion
DUKE
RB Re'quan Boyette (knee) -- OUT
LB Abraham Kromah (leg) -- OUT
WR Tyree Watkins (leg) -- OUT
RB Kyle Griswould (leg) -- OUT FOR SEASON
S Anthony Young-Wiseman (knee) -- OUT FOR SEASON
GEORGIA TECH
Out
Kevin Cone, r-Jr., WR (ankle)
Robert Hall, r-Jr., DE (knee)
Doubtful
Julian Burnett, Fr., LB (knee)
Questionable
Anthony Egbuniwe, Jr., DE (illness)
Cooper Taylor, So., S (undisclosed)
Out For Season
Kyle Jackson, r-So., LB (foot)
MARYLAND
Out for season:
Tyler Bowen (foot)
Nolan Carroll (leg)
Out:
Kerry Boykins (upper body)
Gary Douglas (upper body)
Bennett Fulper (upper body)
Demetrius Hartsfield (hand)
Da’Rel Scott (wrist)
Lansford Watson (lower body)
Questionable:
Lamar Young (upper body)
MIAMI
Probable
RB Graig Cooper – Lower Extremity
OL Joel Figueroa – Lower Extremity
DL Josh Holmes – Lower Extremity
RB Javarris James – Lower Extremity
RB Mike James – Lower Extremity
WR Aldarius Johnson – Upper Extremity
DL Eric Moncur – Lower Extremity
DB JoJo Nicolas – Upper Extremity
DB Randy Phillips – Upper Extremity
Out
FB Patrick Hill – Lower Extremity
Surgery and Out for the Season
DL Dyron Dye – Lower Extremity
DL Marcus Forston – Lower Extremity
LB Jordan Futch – Lower Extremity
TE Richard Gordon – Upper Extremity
LB Shayon Green – Lower Extremity
DE Gavin Hardin – Upper Extremity
DB Ryan Hill – Upper Extremity
DE Adewale Ojomo – Jaw
VIRGINIA
Out
Matt Conrath (ankle)
Doubtful
none
Questionable
Oday Aboushi (knee)
Joe Torchia (shoulder)
Probable
Javaris Brown (ankle)
Cam Johnson (knee)
Corey Mosley (shoulder)
Mike Parker (knee)
LaRoy Reynolds (knee)
Jameel Sewell (ankle)
Brandon Woods (shoulder)
If you don't see it, that means I didn't get it:
CLEMSON
Out
Kantrell Brown, DB, Concussion
Scotty Cooper, LB, Concussion
DUKE
RB Re'quan Boyette (knee) -- OUT
LB Abraham Kromah (leg) -- OUT
WR Tyree Watkins (leg) -- OUT
RB Kyle Griswould (leg) -- OUT FOR SEASON
S Anthony Young-Wiseman (knee) -- OUT FOR SEASON
GEORGIA TECH
Out
Kevin Cone, r-Jr., WR (ankle)
Robert Hall, r-Jr., DE (knee)
Doubtful
Julian Burnett, Fr., LB (knee)
Questionable
Anthony Egbuniwe, Jr., DE (illness)
Cooper Taylor, So., S (undisclosed)
Out For Season
Kyle Jackson, r-So., LB (foot)
MARYLAND
Out for season:
Tyler Bowen (foot)
Nolan Carroll (leg)
Out:
Kerry Boykins (upper body)
Gary Douglas (upper body)
Bennett Fulper (upper body)
Demetrius Hartsfield (hand)
Da’Rel Scott (wrist)
Lansford Watson (lower body)
Questionable:
Lamar Young (upper body)
MIAMI
Probable
RB Graig Cooper – Lower Extremity
OL Joel Figueroa – Lower Extremity
DL Josh Holmes – Lower Extremity
RB Javarris James – Lower Extremity
RB Mike James – Lower Extremity
WR Aldarius Johnson – Upper Extremity
DL Eric Moncur – Lower Extremity
DB JoJo Nicolas – Upper Extremity
DB Randy Phillips – Upper Extremity
Out
FB Patrick Hill – Lower Extremity
Surgery and Out for the Season
DL Dyron Dye – Lower Extremity
DL Marcus Forston – Lower Extremity
LB Jordan Futch – Lower Extremity
TE Richard Gordon – Upper Extremity
LB Shayon Green – Lower Extremity
DE Gavin Hardin – Upper Extremity
DB Ryan Hill – Upper Extremity
DE Adewale Ojomo – Jaw
VIRGINIA
Out
Matt Conrath (ankle)
Doubtful
none
Questionable
Oday Aboushi (knee)
Joe Torchia (shoulder)
Probable
Javaris Brown (ankle)
Cam Johnson (knee)
Corey Mosley (shoulder)
Mike Parker (knee)
LaRoy Reynolds (knee)
Jameel Sewell (ankle)
Brandon Woods (shoulder)
Posted by ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich
You know the drill. Keep an eye on …
1. Interceptions in Blacksburg. Virginia Tech quarterback Tyrod Taylor showed significant progress in the passing game last weekend against Duke, and didn't throw any interceptions in the process, but the Eagles have picked off five passes this year. Both teams have a knack for interceptions. Virginia Tech, in fact, has registered more interceptions (182) since the start of the 2000 season than any program in the country. Oklahoma (174) is second, and BC (173) is third during that time span.
2. Miami running back Javarris James moving up the charts. He’s coming off a career-best 150 yards rushing against Oklahoma and needs just 13 yards to pass Frank Gore for seventh place all-time on Miami’s rushing list and 37 more yards to become just the seventh player in school history to amass 2,000 career rushing yards. With 19 more carries, James (456 career attempts) will pass his cousin Edgerrin (474) to move into sole possession of third place on the school’s all-time rushing attempts list.
3. Maryland’s offensive line. It will make a significant difference if left tackle Bruce Campbell is able to play against Wake Forest’s sturdy defensive line after injuring his MCL against Clemson last week. Campbell has missed practice time this week, but hasn’t been declared “out” for this game. Paul Pinegar has been taking the reps at left tackle, though.
4. Upset alerts. It’s an odd weekend in the ACC, where even the most heavily favored teams -- like, say, No. 5-ranked Virginia Tech -- could lose and it wouldn’t exactly be a shock. So far the home teams have had the advantages, and that works in Florida State’s favor against No. 22 Georgia Tech. Can NC State hold off a feisty Duke team, though, that just played four quarters of competitive football against the Hokies?
5. Another record-setting weekend for Skinner. Wake Forest quarterback Riley Skinner needs just 81 passing yards to become the school's all-time leader. Skinner has thrown for 1,004 yards over his past three games and has thrown at least one touchdown pass in six straight games, dating back to last season.
6. Virginia’s passing defense against Indiana quarterback Ben Chappell. He threw for 210 yards and two touchdowns against Ohio State last weekend, and the Hoosiers are averaging 233.2 passing yards per game. The Cavaliers pass defense, though, is No. 8 in the country, holding opponents to 156.5 yards per game.
7. Running quarterbacks who are starting to throw. Tyrod Taylor earned his first-ever 300-yard passing game last weekend at Duke, the first time a Hokie quarterback has met that mark since Sean Glennon in 2006. Georgia Tech quarterback Josh Nesbitt is coming off a career-high 266 passing yards against Mississippi State. Was it just a passing fancy, or can they keep it up?
8. NC State’s new secondary lineup. Tom O’Brien said this week he’s swapping potential for experience at both safety positions, as senior Clem Johnson will replace freshman Brandan Bishop, and senior Bobby Floyd will take over for redshirt freshman Earl Wolff. That’s a smart move against accomplished Duke passer Thaddeus Lewis.
9. Carolina’s quarterback of the future. UNC coach Butch Davis told the Raleigh News & Observer he hasn’t ruled out the possibility of playing true freshman Bryn Renner, who was expected to redshirt this season. Renner hasn’t taken a snap yet, but if he’s going to burn his redshirt, Georgia Southern would probably be a good time to do it.
10. Florida State’s will to win. If the Seminoles are going to turn this season around, now is the time. A win at home would stop a two-game losing skid and give them some positive momentum heading into the bye week. Georgia Tech will require their full attention and focus, though, and that’s something that might have been tough to gather amidst the controversy surrounding the program this week.
Posted by ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich
There’s no shortage of confidence from Miami running back Javarris James.
“I go in every game thinking it’s going to be a big one,” he said.
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| Gary Rothstein/Icon SMI | |
| Javarris James set the tone for the Canes in their win over Oklahoma on Saturday. |
In 2007, though, when Miami lost to Oklahoma, 51-13, nobody really had a good game for the Canes, including James, who had a momentum-changing fumble that Reggie Smith returned 61 yards for a touchdown. It was the third-longest fumble return in Sooners’ history.
On Saturday, in Miami’s 21-20 win over Oklahoma, James redeemed himself. His career-high 150 rushing yards were the most a Miami player ever racked up against Oklahoma, and the running game was key in the Canes’ upset of the No. 8-ranked Sooners.
“I come into this game, I knew it was going to be a big game for myself to show people what I’ve got,” James said. “I still feel like I’ve got it.”
After an unimpressive 2007 season and an injury in 2008, James proved on Saturday against one of the top programs in the country that he does indeed still have “it.” His 50-yard carry in the second quarter set up a touchdown by tight end Jimmy Graham and was James’ longest run since a 62-yard run against North Carolina in 2006. That year, James was a standout freshman who caught the nation’s attention as Miami’s leading rusher, but he’s only had five 100-yard games in his career -- including Saturday’s.
“Oh, man, Javarris gave us a big lift [Saturday],” quarterback Jacory Harris said. “We knew that we’d need to have that running game. When he came through and made some late runs during some clutch situations, it really showed us that we could feed off him.”
James missed four games last year with a high-ankle sprain, and Graig Cooper stole the show. Even with their combined talents, though, Miami’s running game has been one of its problems as the program has been under reconstruction. Last year, the Canes averaged just 129.2 rushing yards per game. They haven’t finished better than 65th in the country in rushing offense in the past five seasons. And in their loss to Virginia Tech this year, the Canes were held to just 59 yards rushing.
Behind a much improved effort from the offensive line against Oklahoma, the door was open.
“Our success as an offense starts with the run,” said Miami coach Randy Shannon. “Coming in after halftime, I knew what we had to do to get going was to get the running game going. If we get good runs, it will open up the pass game, it will get the safeties coming up and we can get big plays. That’s our offense -- we make you stop the run. If you can’t stop the run, then we are going to just keep pounding and pounding.”
That’s exactly what James did. He said the offensive line “blocked their tails off,” and he still thinks he should’ve scored on that 50-yard run.
“That’s the only way we were going to win that game, keep getting first downs, keep running the ball. The offensive line, they did an excellent job. Everybody was talking about Oklahoma’s D-line, and they’ve got some great players, but I feel like our offensive line, they were ready for the challenge and they put up a big fight. They learned from their mistakes last week. They made it real easy for me and Coop and Mike [James].”
And they made it look easy.
Posted by ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich
MIAMI -- There were some outside the program who thought Miami might start the season 0-4. Considering the unforgiving schedule which many had memorized since it was released in February -- at Florida State, against Georgia Tech, at Virginia Tech and home against Oklahoma -- it wasn’t out of the realm of possibilities.
It was, however, out of the question for Miami.
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| AP Photo/Ben Margot | |
| Miami running back Javarris James came up big for the Hurricanes against Oklahoma. |
In fact, instead of celebrating their 21-20 win over No. 8 Oklahoma on Saturday night, the Canes were kicking themselves for not being 4-0.
“We’re pleased,” said Miami quarterback Jacory Harris, “but at the same time we wish we could have that one back.”
“That one” being last weekend’s loss to Virginia Tech, but even with that one blemish on their record, the Hurricanes have started the season a surprising 3-1, with wins over three ranked opponents including last year’s runner up for the national title. It was the kind of win that should push Miami back into the top 10 and separate the Canes from the rest of an average league. Saturday’s win over the Sooners was the biggest win under coach Randy Shannon, though the most emotion he would show in his postgame press conference was a smile and a few laughs.
For the usually stoic Shannon, though, that brief hint of happiness was the equivalent of a pep rally and parade all rolled into one.
Miami got what it needed from everyone tonight. Javarris James had 15 carries for a career-high 150 yards -- the most rushing yards ever by a Hurricane against the Sooners. Harris completed passes to a season-high 11 different players. The tight ends, running backs and receivers were all involved. The offensive line paved the way and played better than it did last week against Virginia Tech, this time against a better defense. Miami’s defense recorded a season-high three sacks, and linebacker Sean Spence had a game and career-high 10 tackles.
“It shows the type of talent, the type of coaching staff and what this program is all about,” said offensive tackle Jason Fox. “You don’t want to look backwards, but man we wish we could have that V-Tech game back. As you all saw tonight, that wasn’t us up there. When we want to play, we can play. Now we’ve got the first four games over with, now we just have to take it one game at a time.”
Based on the postgame conversation in the locker room, Miami fans shouldn’t have to worry about the Canes’ egos swelling the size of Land Shark Stadium.
Miami is changing the channel on the Hurricanes’ hype.
As Shannon walked out of the locker room last night, the last thing he heard was Harris telling the team the only thing they’re allowed to watch is SpongeBob.
Miami recently had new TVs installed in its locker room, and the majority of the time, ESPN is on. No more. Shannon said Harris declared only SpongeBob will tell the Canes how good they are.
“Sometimes (it’s) too much,” Harris said. “You don’t want to walk into the locker room and hear ‘Oh, the swagger is back at the University of Miami.’ You’re gonna stop and watch it. So now we’re just going to change the channel, watch 48 hours, some SpongeBob, things of that nature.”
If Miami stays grounded and consistent, their toughest games will remain behind them. There are no opponents remaining on the schedule the caliber of Oklahoma or Virginia Tech (which almost lost to Duke on Saturday). Though the strength of schedule makes it feel like Miami already played a full season, Shannon said it’s too early to declare “Miami is back.”
“We are going in the direction we need to be headed,” said Shannon, who is in his third season. “Our athletic department and trainers give us the full support on where we need to be, but we are not where we want to be. You know, this is not the 13th or 14th game of the season, so that’s why you can’t say Miami is back. After the 14th game of the season, then you make the decision on where we are and where we need to be.”
A 3-1 start shows the Canes are the closest they’ve been in a long time.
“We’re not done,” Spence said. “We’re far from done.”
Posted by ESPN.com's Heather Dinich
MIAMI -- A few quick halftime observations:
Turning point: Jacory Harris' first interception. On his second pass attempt of the game, Harris threw an interception to Dominique Franks, who returned it 12 yards to the Sooners' 16-yard line. Oklahoma scored on the ensuing possession, and so far, that score has been the difference in the game. It gave Oklahoma the momentum early, and it wasn't the start Harris needed after a poor performance against Virginia Tech.
Stat of the half: Prior to tonight, the longest run against Oklahoma had been 15 yards. Miami running back Javarris James changed that with runs of 17 yards and 50 yards. Considering how the Hurricanes are struggling to throw the ball, they need to be able to run it, and James has proven it's possible. If they continue to do that, it should open some things up for Harris, but his offensive line has to give him time to make the throws.
Best player in the half: Franks. His interception set the tone for the game, and Oklahoma's defense has been the most impressive, as both offenses are struggling.
Posted by ESPN.com's Heather Dinich
MIAMI -- A few quick lineup notes for you for positions that were in question:
DEFENSE
LE -- Marcus Robinson
LT -- Joe Joseph
RT -- Josh Holmes
RE -- Andrew Smith
SLB -- Jordan Futch
RCB -- Sam Shields
SS -- Jared Campbell
FS -- Vaughn Telemaque
OFFENSE
Joel Figueroa will start over Harland Gunn at right guard.
Fullback Patrick Hill is out, so it's up to Graig Cooper and Javarris James.
MIAMI -- A few quick lineup notes for you for positions that were in question:
DEFENSE
LE -- Marcus Robinson
LT -- Joe Joseph
RT -- Josh Holmes
RE -- Andrew Smith
SLB -- Jordan Futch
RCB -- Sam Shields
SS -- Jared Campbell
FS -- Vaughn Telemaque
OFFENSE
Joel Figueroa will start over Harland Gunn at right guard.
Fullback Patrick Hill is out, so it's up to Graig Cooper and Javarris James.
Hokies' defense ready to tackle next challenge
September, 23, 2009
9/23/09
10:30
AM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
Posted by ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich
Virginia Tech will be facing its second ranked opponent in as many weeks on Saturday, and defensive coordinator Bud Foster said Miami’s offense has more overall speed than Alabama and Nebraska.
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| Lee Coleman/Icon SMI | |
| Bud Foster's defense has finished nationally in the top seven in total defense each of the last five years. |
What Foster doesn’t necessarily know is what to expect on Saturday from offensive coordinator Mark Whipple’s playbook.
“That’s the hard part right now,” said Foster. “We’ve seen just two games, and he’s been out of the college game now for going on probably four years. It’s hard. You might go back and try to track down some old Massachusetts film, but all we can go on is what we’ve seen the first two games. There’s a consistency there in the first two games. I don’t foresee him to come out and change his whole offense for our game. That sends a different message to your kids.
“But I can see them continuing to build on their playbook they have already at Miami. We’re going to see another wrinkle added to a running play or in the passing game. That’s something we have to be prepared for. Obviously we haven’t seen his whole playbook, but hopefully we’ve built enough foundation ourselves that we can adjust and adapt to things they may throw at us.”
Miami currently leads the ACC in pass efficiency, passing offense and total offense. In wins against two ranked ACC opponents -- Florida State and Georgia Tech -- Miami quarterback Jacory Harris has worked his way into the Heisman conversations. It’s a high-flying offense that will challenge a Virginia Tech defense that ranks 77th in the nation in total defense and is tied for 107th in rushing defense. Those aren’t the numbers the Hokies are used to, as Virginia Tech has finished nationally in the top seven in total defense in each of the last five years. What Virginia Tech’s defense is used to, though, is winning football games even when the offense comes up short.
“On defense here we’re expected to play at a high level every time, no matter what happens on offense or special teams,” linebacker Jake Johnson said. “We have to hold up our end of the deal every play, 100 percent, every down. We’re expected to play like that every single snap, every single game.”
The difference this year is that they’ve been giving up too many big plays -- distances like 31, 39, 61, 60 and 48 yards. Nebraska’s Roy Helu Jr. became the third running back this season to rush for over 100 yards on the Hokies. Virginia Tech hasn’t allowed that to happen since 2002. There’s a good possibility it can happen again this weekend, as Miami running back Graig Cooper is averaging 62 yards per game, and he’s got plenty of help from Javarris James. They’re just a fraction, though, of the Canes’ options.
“They’ve created a lot of big plays against people in these first couple of ball games, and that’s kind of been our nemesis here, and luckily we’ve won a couple of them,” Foster said. “That’s one thing that really concerns me going into this game, is because of their speed, because of their ability to protect and what they do, they can create big plays.”
Last week the Hokies were plagued by missed tackles and missed assignments -- things they review as a defense every Monday morning. Johnson said the key to defending the Canes is to limit those errors.
“We have so much potential right now to be a great defense,” Johnson said. “… As long as we bring our A-game and don’t have any mental errors or things like that, we’ll be fine.”
Miami's offensive options seemingly endless
September, 23, 2009
9/23/09
9:02
AM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
Posted by ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich
When Miami coach Randy Shannon took over the program three seasons ago, there were only about three or four scholarship receivers on the roster -- far below the usual eight to 10 most schools carry. So this offseason, when receivers coach Aubrey Hill faced the popular question, ‘You’ve got so many receivers, wouldn’t you rather just have one guy?’ his response was logical:
“I said, ‘If you’re at Christmas, would you rather have one toy, or as many toys as you can?”
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| AP Photo/J. Pat Carter, File | |
| Miami offensive coordinator Mark Whipple has plenty of options. |
Now, after building depth with recruiting classes that included some of the elite talent in the country, and players who could contribute immediately, the Hurricanes’ toy box overfloweth.
Twelve different players have caught at least one pass for the No. 9-ranked Hurricanes heading into Saturday’s showdown at No. 11 Virginia Tech. And six of them have at least five catches. Seven different players have scored touchdowns in wins over two ranked ACC opponents. Three different receivers have run a reverse. Miami returns nine of its top 10 leaders in all-purpose yards from 2008. Running backs Graig Cooper and Javarris James have helped the Canes to a 7-2 record when they combine for at least 25 carries. And, of course, they’ve finally got a quarterback to lead them all in Jacory Harris.
“This Miami team we’re getting ready to play,” said Virginia Tech coach Frank Beamer, “Wow.”
Receivers Travis Benjamin, Thearon Collier, Davon Johnson and Kendal Thompkins bring straight speed, quickness, elusiveness and big-play capabilities. Leonard Hankerson and Aldarius Johnson are talented possession players with great hands who move the chains. LaRon Byrd and Tommy Streeter can stretch the field deep with their speed and height. Cooper is elusive, while James is the power back, and Lee Chambers and Mike James provide dependable depth at the position. Tight ends Jimmy Graham and Dedrick Epps have both given the offense a boost, while the offensive line makes it all possible.
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| Steve Mitchell/US Presswire | |
| Graig Cooper has averaged 5.2 yards per carry so far. |
Miami’s versatility is not only in its athletes, but also in its playbook. The addition of offensive coordinator Mark Whipple, coupled with the wide array of abilities, size and speed on the roster, has made Miami’s offense the total package and extremely difficult to defend.
“He’s just so creative, bringing so many different offenses and making it Miami’s offense,” Hill said. “He’s been one of the most creative offensive coordinators I’ve been around and knowing how to set-up plays, run and pass. That’s been really good for the whole coaching staff and also the players because they’re really, really excited to come into the meeting room to see what the mad scientist is creating next.”
In fact, some of the Canes have gotten into it so much some have tried to write their own plays on the board.
“Some have had consideration,” Hill said with a chuckle, “and some haven’t.”
Almost all of the players, though, have had their moments in the spotlight.
“We spread the wealth around to each guy,” Shannon said. “They know that they have to run their routes and everything full speed because they don’t ever know when Jacory is going to throw the football to them. That’s the difference in this team.
“The best thing about it is the competition in practice. You don’t have to worry about a guy getting too extreme as far as thinking he’s the guy who makes the offense run, or he’s the guy who makes the defense run. We’ve got depth at those positions to say, ‘You know what? You don’t want to work hard? OK, fine. We love you, and you’re part of this program, but we’re going to go with somebody else.’ That’s a big help.”
And it’s a nightmare for opposing defenses -- even ones as renowned as Virginia Tech's.
“I’ve got a lot of respect for them,” said Virginia Tech defensive coordinator Bud Foster. “They’re just right now, really a complete football team.”
Weekend rewinds: Scrimmage wrap-ups
August, 24, 2009
8/24/09
10:00
AM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
Posted by ESPN.com's Heather Dinich Here's a recap of the scrimmages that happened this weekend, with the help of the sports information directors, and the local newspapers that covered them: BOSTON COLLEGE As if things couldn't get worse for coach Frank Spaziani's quarterback situation in his first year, leading candidate Dave Shinskie was injured in Sunday's scrimmage. It might be a bruised rib. Here's how the rest of the team fared without him: All four quarterbacks played and redshirt freshman Justin Tuggle went 8-for-16 for 84 yards. Junior Codi Boek threw for 74 yards on a 6-for-12 day while freshmen Michael Marscovetra and Shinskie both had three completions. Junior Jordon McMichael and sophomore Colin Larmond Jr. both had three receptions for 18 and 33 yards, respectively. Sophomore Montel Harris was the leading rusher with 46 yards on 13 carries with a touchdown. Senior Steve Aponavicius went 2-for-4 in his field goal attempts, hitting from 42 yards both times. A 44-yard attempt went awry following a bad snap and his 37-yard try was blocked by sophomore Isaac Johnson. Redshirt freshman Alexander DiSanzo shined on defense with seven tackles, a forced a fumble and an interception. Senior Roderick Rollins and freshman Luke Kuechly both had a team-high nine tackles. DUKE Quarterbacks Thaddeus Lewis, Sean Renfree and Sean Schroeder combined to complete 25 of 39 passes for 240 yards. Renfree threw for a team-high 93 yards by hitting on 11 of 18 throws while Lewis was 7-of-12 for 86 yards. Freshman running back Desmond Scott led all receivers with six catches for 39 yards while rookie wideout Conner Vernon had three grabs for 42 yards. Redshirt sophomore running back Cameron Jones picked up a scrimmage-best 49 yards on just three rushing attempts. Defensively, sophomore safety Matt Daniels caused and recovered one fumble while redshirt sophomore cornerback Colin Jones registered one interception. Junior kicker Will Snyderwine booted a 27-yard field goal and successfully converted his lone PAT attempt. FLORIDA STATE Quarterback Christian Ponder had another good day, but with no interceptions, did the defense? Ponder wasn't thrilled with the results and said it might have been because guys were too eager to end their two-a-days. Jimbo Fisher said overall it was far too inconsistent. To read the Noles' entire practice report, click here. MARYLAND The Terps' scrimmage was a mixture of good and bad, and it was the latter that kept coach Ralph Friedgen going. There was one player, though, who made a name for himself in Friedgen's book -- redshirt freshman running back Gary Douglas. Douglas rushed 17 times for a scrimmage-high 122 yards, including four runs of 15 or more yards. He didn't score a touchdown but almost single-handedly led the offense down the field for a score on one drive, accounting for 72 of the 80 yards. Quarterback Chris Turner completed 13 of 20 passes for 113 yards. Backup Jamarr Robinson didn't fare quite as well as he had in previous scrimmages, hitting on just 5 of 14 passes for 59 yards, though he did direct two scoring drives. Mike Barbour looked sharp early, capping off two drives with field goals. The redshirt freshman, who had a leg up on the No. 1 place-kicker job, hit from 30 and 36 yards out. "Barbour started off pretty good, and then he missed his last three," Friedge
n said. "He kind of looked like he had solidified the job and then he opens it up again." Defensive back Eric Franklin, a true freshman, made a scrimmage-best eight tackles and picked off Turner on the sixth possession. MIAMI The Canes wrapped up their final two-a-day of fall camp on Sunday, and coach Randy Shannon said everything -- that's right, everything -- is still up for grabs. Jorge Milian of the Palm Beach Post had a couple of notes for you off Sunday's practice. Morning Practice Highlights -- (pads) Joe Joseph and Marcus Robinson each had a sack in 11-on-11 drills. Randy Phillips (INT, pass break-up) and DeMarcus Van Dyke (two pass break-ups) stood out in the secondary. Lee Chambers and Damien Berry each broke off a couple runs of 15+ yards. Javarris James caught several passes in both 11-on-11 and 7-on-7 sessions Afternoon Practice Highlights -- (shells) Sam Shields (red zone), Chavez Grant (7-on-7) and C.J. Holton (11-on-11) all recorded interceptions. Grant returned his for a touchdown while Holton caught his off a tipped pass. A.J. Highsmith connected with Tommy Streeter (11-on-11) and LaRon Byrd (7-on-7) for significant yardage. Damien Berry took a short pass in the flat from Taylor Cook for a long gain. Other highlights include a near interception by Randy Phillips, a pass break-up by Ramon Buchanan and a sack by Micanor Regis. Red zone touchdowns included Jacory Harris to Richard Gordon and Taylor Cook to Jimmy Graham. VIRGINIA TECH So ... add Ryan Williams to the list of VT running backs who are banged up. Williams sprained his ankle, and Josh Oglesby has "the worst infection" coach Billy Hite has ever seen on a foot. Also, the coaches want to redshirt Logan Thomas, and Kenny Lewis Jr.'s recovery has been delayed. Not a lot of happy news coming out of Blacksburg these days. To read Virginia Tech's entire scrimmage report, click here. Tyrod Taylor completed 8 of 11 passes for 78 yards. Xavier Boyce led all receivers with two catches for 47 yards. Freshman running back Tony Gregory rushed 18 times for 48 yards and two touchdowns. Williams rushed just five times for 22 yards before spraining his ankle and sitting out the rest of the scrimmage. He did score on a 4-yard run and he returned several punts. Matt Waldron was 4-for-4 on his field goal attempts. (31, 32, 43, 30) Defensive tackle Cordarrow Thompson led the defense with seven tackles, four for a loss, and one sack.
n said. "He kind of looked like he had solidified the job and then he opens it up again." Defensive back Eric Franklin, a true freshman, made a scrimmage-best eight tackles and picked off Turner on the sixth possession. MIAMI The Canes wrapped up their final two-a-day of fall camp on Sunday, and coach Randy Shannon said everything -- that's right, everything -- is still up for grabs. Jorge Milian of the Palm Beach Post had a couple of notes for you off Sunday's practice. Morning Practice Highlights -- (pads) Joe Joseph and Marcus Robinson each had a sack in 11-on-11 drills. Randy Phillips (INT, pass break-up) and DeMarcus Van Dyke (two pass break-ups) stood out in the secondary. Lee Chambers and Damien Berry each broke off a couple runs of 15+ yards. Javarris James caught several passes in both 11-on-11 and 7-on-7 sessions Afternoon Practice Highlights -- (shells) Sam Shields (red zone), Chavez Grant (7-on-7) and C.J. Holton (11-on-11) all recorded interceptions. Grant returned his for a touchdown while Holton caught his off a tipped pass. A.J. Highsmith connected with Tommy Streeter (11-on-11) and LaRon Byrd (7-on-7) for significant yardage. Damien Berry took a short pass in the flat from Taylor Cook for a long gain. Other highlights include a near interception by Randy Phillips, a pass break-up by Ramon Buchanan and a sack by Micanor Regis. Red zone touchdowns included Jacory Harris to Richard Gordon and Taylor Cook to Jimmy Graham. VIRGINIA TECH So ... add Ryan Williams to the list of VT running backs who are banged up. Williams sprained his ankle, and Josh Oglesby has "the worst infection" coach Billy Hite has ever seen on a foot. Also, the coaches want to redshirt Logan Thomas, and Kenny Lewis Jr.'s recovery has been delayed. Not a lot of happy news coming out of Blacksburg these days. To read Virginia Tech's entire scrimmage report, click here. Tyrod Taylor completed 8 of 11 passes for 78 yards. Xavier Boyce led all receivers with two catches for 47 yards. Freshman running back Tony Gregory rushed 18 times for 48 yards and two touchdowns. Williams rushed just five times for 22 yards before spraining his ankle and sitting out the rest of the scrimmage. He did score on a 4-yard run and he returned several punts. Matt Waldron was 4-for-4 on his field goal attempts. (31, 32, 43, 30) Defensive tackle Cordarrow Thompson led the defense with seven tackles, four for a loss, and one sack.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Heather Dinich
Dinich covered ACC and Big Ten football for five seasons before joining ESPN.com in November 2007. She's an Indiana grad but somehow her favorite day of the week is Saturday.
