Blogger So Dear - Deacon Gameday: Wake Forest vs. MiamiThe Wake Forest Demon Deacon sports blog where Charlie Brown is still trying to kick that football...https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47639/blogger-fave.png2013-10-26T16:19:09-04:00http://www.bloggersodear.com/rss/stream/47926952013-10-26T16:19:09-04:002013-10-26T16:19:09-04:00Deacs fall at Miami, 24-21
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<img alt="Michael Campanaro" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/izGFr1p4cGlIJD4PDbqum-y6VwI=/605x309:3151x2006/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/21818021/20131026_lbm_bm1_054.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Michael Campanaro | Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Wake Forest comes close to upsetting the No. 7 'Canes, but can't overcome the power of Miami running back Duke Johnson.</p> <p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/159411/duke-johnson">Duke Johnson</a> scored the second of his 2 rushing touchdowns with 53 seconds remaining and the No. 7 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/miami-hurricanes">Miami Hurricanes</a> bested upset-minded Wake Forest 24-21 in Miami Gardens on Saturday. The Demon Deacons (4-4, 2-3 ACC) rushed out to a 14-3 lead in the second quarter on touchdowns from Josh Harris and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/76727/michael-campanaro">Michael Campanaro</a> and held a 14-10 lead at halftime, but couldn't slow the Hurricanes' rushing attack in the second half.</p>
<p>The two squads waged a defensive battle during the third quarter, as neither side could garner any points. Finally, the Hurricanes (7-0, 3-0 ACC) moved in front on a 4-yard Johnson touchdown run with 5:36 to play. Johnson was masterful all afternoon, gaining 168 yards on 30 carries to go along with his pair of touchdowns. Johnson answered any lingering questions about his health, using his stiff-arm all afternoon and leaving a pile of Deacons in his wake almost every play.</p>
<p>The Demon Deacons responded to Johnson's go-ahead carry with a 6-play, 75- yard scoring drive capped by a 44-yard touchdown reception by <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/159691/dominique-gibson">Dominique Gibson</a>, giving the Deacs a 21-17 lead with less than 5 minutes remaining. The Deacons' upset bid then ended abruptly after Johnson's second touchdown, when <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114779/tanner-price">Tanner Price</a> was intercepted by <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/159425/antonio-crawford">Antonio Crawford</a>.</p>
<p>Miami outgained the Deacs 391-361, gaining 200 yards on the ground. Price threw for 302 yards and two touchdowns on the day, marking the third straight Saturday of good play from the senior. Tyree Harris caught 6 balls for 95 yards, and Campanaro added another 88 in a losing effort.</p>
<p>Wake Forest next plays at Syracuse, while Miami travels to Tallahassee for a prime-time meeting with the No. 2 Florida State Seminoles. The Deacs now have 4 games remaining in which to gain bowl eligibility, with a visit from the Seminoles looming in 2 weeks.</p>
<p>Stay tuned to BSD for more updates, including postgame quotes.</p>
https://www.bloggersodear.com/2013/10/26/5032052/upset-bid-fizzles-as-deacs-fall-at-miami-24-21J.P. Mundy2013-10-26T12:04:16-04:002013-10-26T12:04:16-04:00Inside the 'Canes Locker Room
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<img alt="Al Golden" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/jrvs_YE6rsb7VtVrGwzeLnVTR28=/0x60:2885x1983/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/21807695/185161609.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Al Golden | Streeter Lecka</figcaption>
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<p>Blogger So Dear's Griffin Kurzius caught up with a current University of Miami football player and asked him a few questions about the state of the U and the upcoming game versus the Demon Deacons. </p> <p>At Blogger So Dear, we always provide a wide perspective of pre-game information, stats and opinions. We always share our thoughts and the views of the opposing blog. For a nice change, here's an interview with an opposing player.</p>
<p>A high school friend, John D'Uva is a sophomore walk-on at the University of Miami. The 5-10 wide receiver balances a rigid practice schedule with an academic concentration in actuarial science. He was nice enough to answer some questions and provide insight into the psyche of a Miami football player and about the upcoming match-up versus Wake Forest.</p>
<p>Here's a peek inside the Hurricanes locker room.</p>
<p>Griffin: What is the mindset in the locker room going into the WFU game after a hard-fought victory in Carolina with a game against No. 2 Florida State looming next week with major BCS implications?</p>
<p>J: I can tell you for certain that I haven't heard the name ‘FSU' in the locker room all week. We know that this Wake Forest team has talent and we've been focused on this (and only this) game since Sunday morning. With the ACC championship as one of our team goals for the year, it makes this in-conference game all the more important. While we are confident in our preparation, we do not expect WF to back down from the challenge of facing another Top 10 team this season.</p>
<p>G: What are the players' expectations of a Wake Forest team that struggled out of the gate but won two straight ACC games?</p>
<p>J: Two of the three games that WF has lost were very close and could have easily swung either way. Having handedly beaten both Maryland and NC State just this month, we know that their players and coaches are feeling the momentum. However, we haven't lost a game since early November of 2012 and are also feeling motivated by the momentum. As the Carolina game showed last week - we're a team that has a tough time coming to terms with a loss and we'll continue to fight until there are four ‘zeros' on the clock.</p>
<p>G: Last week, star RB Duke Johnson did not play against the Tar Heels. Reports say he has been practicing fully and should be ready against the Demon Deacons. How much of an impact do you expect him to have on the game?</p>
<p>J: Duke Johnson looks just as explosive, focused, and ready as I have ever seen him. When he plays in any game, he has an impact. He has been practicing fully and we expect him to play a major role in getting another win for us. On a side note, the world got a chance last week to see what Duke's counterpart, Dallas Crawford, can do when given the opportunity. He was certainly a game changer for us against Carolina and WF should expect to see #25 in the backfield again this Saturday.</p>
<p>G: What are the players' opinions on the recent NCAA rulings on Miami?</p>
<p>J: We're just happy to have that weight off of our shoulders. Our own individual opinions' of the sanctions vary to some degree - but in the end we're just excited that we have the opportunity to compete in a bowl game and hopefully the ACC championship, as well. I actually can't say that we've paid much attention to it in the first place, as Coach Golden always keeps us moving and there's rarely any time to spend on situations and circumstances that are out of our control. We understand the mistakes that were made in the past, and we look forward to showing how we've grown as a program as a result.</p>
<p>G: For the past few years, the Canes have suffered from poor attendance. Now back in the Top 10 and in the national spotlight, how have students and community re-embraced the team? What should the Demon Deacons expect in a historically hostile environment?</p>
<p>J: I can't say that I'm too familiar with the attitude toward the program in recent years as I am newer to the school, but I can say without hesitation that there is an unparalleled sense of school pride around campus that I haven't witnessed at any other college I've ever visited. I've never felt more a part of a family than I do here - whether it's hanging out with teammates in the locker room, or students around campus: it seems that everyone here respects and appreciates the work that us players put in everyday to represent our school on the field every weekend. This respect is evident in the overwhelming attendance they've shown at all of the home games this year and the Demon Deacons have a very loud... a very unique experience waiting for them at Sun Life Stadium this Saturday.</p>
<p>G: Is "The U" back?</p>
<p>J: Some of the media and the fans like to say so... But Coach Golden holds us to a higher standard. The "U" is about winning. It's about winning championships. With five national titles to speak of and a number of conference championships, you won't see us satisfied until we've got some rings on our hands.</p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; line-height: 12.75pt; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"> </p>
<p>Thanks for your responses, John. Best of luck this week and the rest of the season.</p>
https://www.bloggersodear.com/2013/10/26/5030798/wake-forest-football-inside-the-canes-locker-room-duke-johnsonGriffKurz2013-10-26T12:00:06-04:002013-10-26T12:00:06-04:00Game Thread: Wake Forest vs. Miami
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<img alt="Sebastian the Ibis" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/T_wc1hvewoNcJOVF4TZgxLsq7_c=/0x151:4000x2818/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/21807121/20120915_jrc_bm1_044.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Sebastian the Ibis | Robert Mayer-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
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<p>Here is the official game thread for Saturday's game between the Deacs and Hurricanes. Play nice!</p>
https://www.bloggersodear.com/2013/10/26/5031414/game-thread-wake-forest-vs-miamiJ.P. Mundy2013-10-25T12:39:39-04:002013-10-25T12:39:39-04:00Staff Picks: Wake Forest vs. Miami
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<figcaption>Joel Auerbach</figcaption>
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<p>The Demon Deacons are on a two game ACC winning streak and will be taking their talents to South Beach on Saturday when they travel to take on the Miami Hurricanes. Find out what our writers think will transpire on the field.</p> <p>The staff is a collective 21-14 through 7 weeks with Samurai leading the way at 5-2 and all others at 4-3.</p>
<p><b>Bart (4-3):</b></p>
<p><span>While the Deacs have been playing a lot better lately, this game presents a daunting challenge for Wake. I think Wake could absolutely play a remarkable game and still end up losing by a couple of touchdowns. The line currently sits around 23.5 and it really is tough to say if Wake can cover that or not. I don't expect there to be too many people at this game despite Miami's best efforts and I think it may be a sloppy first half which obviously favors the Deacs. If we can avoid going down big early like we did against Clemson we might be able to hang around and keep things interesting. At the end of the day though I believe Miami is too much and Wake falls.</span></p>
<p>Prediction: Miami 34-17</p>
<p><b>Riley (4-3):</b></p>
<p><span>Last week was refreshing to see because we stuck with what worked against NC State and dominated a team with a fair amount of talent. This week there is a whole lot of talent with Duke Johnson and Stephen Morris.</span><span>I actually think we will keep it closer than most and play a competitive first half. I do think Miami will up its game in the 2nd half and take a 38-24 victory though.</span></p>
<p>Prediction: Miami 38-24</p>
<p><b>Samurai (5-2) :</b></p>
<p><span>I would like to think we can win, but frankly I'm going to pick against the Deacs for only the second time this season. If the team of the last couple games shows up, and the Miami that nearly lost to UNC shows up, it might get weird. That said, I'm thinking Miami wins 27-13.</span></p>
<p>Prediction: Miami 27-13</p>
<p><b>Rob (4-3):</b></p>
<p>The past two games have been very encouraging and certainly were sights for sore eyes for Demon Deacon fans, but Miami is a completely different animal. Their talent is just on a different level than ours and they are playing at home. I do expect the Deacs to be able to keep it close in the first half and they should hopefully be able to capitalize on Miami's recent turnover problems, but ultimately talent will prevail.</p>
<p>Prediction: Miami 31-17</p>
<p><b>J.P. Mundy (4-3):</b></p>
<p><span>Here's the thing- Miami has winning ugly down pat. Whether it was Florida or UNC, Miami gets into a struggle and thus far has found a way to walk out victorious. Next week is the next "Game of the Century" and I would imagine coach Al Golden has their attention. After a week where NCAA sanctions were levied with a whimper rather than the thud we once imagined, the 'Canes can turn their attention to more important matters.</span></p>
<p>Wake Forest is playing well, and I expect for them to play pretty well in Miami- just not well enough to get a 'W'.</p>
<p><br>Prediction: Miami 24-13</p>
<p> </p>
<p>That's what our staff thinks. What do U (terrible Miami pun) think?</p>
https://www.bloggersodear.com/2013/10/25/5028212/staff-picks-wake-forest-vs-miami-hurricanes-prediction-the-U-football-duke-johnsonRobert Reinhard2013-10-25T08:00:12-04:002013-10-25T08:00:12-04:00Preview: Miami Hurricanes (Part Two)
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<img alt="RB Duke Johnson breaks away against North Carolina" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/FiqokUJBoiqFAzE-Qe_2bAAmyqU=/3x0:3996x2662/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/21720801/20131022_bsd_sd2_623.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>RB Duke Johnson breaks away against North Carolina | Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>After previewing the Miami offense yesterday, Bart takes a look at his preseason assessment of Miami's defense, special teams, and coaching and gives insight on what to expect during Saturday's game from these units. </p> <p>I'll do this a little bit differently than yesterday and post my preview from the preseason and then reassess the Hurricanes based on what they've done so far. Spoiler: Miami's defense so far is quite superior to what most outlets (including us) expected it to be and has perhaps been the major reason for the Hurricanes' hot start.</p>
<p>From the offseason:</p>
<p>"<b style="color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;">Defense</b></p>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;">The 2013 Hurricane defense does not bring with it a large number of high expectations from the fan base. The defense was, in a word, putrid in 2012 and ranked last in the ACC in rush defense, pass defense, and total defense. There were only four teams last year in the entire nation who gave up more yards per game than the Canes. On top of all this, the team only returns four starters which may in itself be a blessing in disguise. Perhaps the player with the most previous exposure is linebacker <a style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #050708; font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/134098/denzel-perryman" class="sbn-auto-link">Denzel Perryman</a> who ranked second on the team in tackles a season ago with 64, including six tackles for a loss.</div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"></div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;">The defensive line should fare a lot better this year with the return of <a style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #050708; font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/201463/anthony-chickillo" class="sbn-auto-link">Anthony Chickillo</a> and <a style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #050708; font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/87382/shayon-green" class="sbn-auto-link">Shayon Green</a> on the outside, and <a style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #050708; font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/134108/olsen-pierre" class="sbn-auto-link">Olsen Pierre</a> with <a style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #050708; font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/76382/curtis-porter" class="sbn-auto-link">Curtis Porter</a> on the inside. Green led the team in tackles last year with 67 and two tackles for loss, but did not record any sacks. More astonishingly, the Hurricanes only recorded 13 sacks total on the season and ranked 115th in the nation in sacks. For the defense to improve in the 2013 season, there will need to be an increase in pressure from the defensive front seven. The secondary returns virtually no starters, but a group of young players will look to rise to the task of replacing <a style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #050708; font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/76367/brandon-mcgee" class="sbn-auto-link">Brandon McGee</a> who was drafted in the fifth round of the Draft. Sophomores Rayshawn Jenkins and <a style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #050708; font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/159408/deon-bush" class="sbn-auto-link">Deon Bush</a> project to be starters at safety while sophomore <a style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #050708; font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/159425/antonio-crawford" class="sbn-auto-link">Antonio Crawford</a>, junior <a style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #050708; font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/159424/ladarius-gunter" class="sbn-auto-link">Ladarius Gunter</a> and sophomore <a style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #050708; font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/159409/tracy-howard" class="sbn-auto-link">Tracy Howard</a> look to contribute at corner.</div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"></div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;">Despite the widespread struggles of the 2012 defense, the Canes did force a large number of turnovers (22) including 11 fumble recoveries and 11 interceptions. If Miami is going to make a serious run at the ACC Championship this year, the defensive starters will need to stay healthy and young guys will have to step up to make a difference. The defensive line should get some pressure up front as most of the leading tacklers return, but the secondary may struggle to shut down strong aerial attacks unless they can quickly improve. The defense will continue to be a question all year for the 2013 team.</div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"></div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;"><b style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;">Special Teams</b></div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"></div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;">Duke Johnson will likely continue to return kicks as he did last year, amassing over 800 yards on the season. Johnson could possibly see some time at returning punts, but receiver Phillip Dorset, who returned 15 punts for 85 yards last year, may be the incumbent starter in that position. The kicking game will look to replace departed<a style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #050708; font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/36665/jake-wieclaw" class="sbn-auto-link">Jake Wieclaw</a> who went 19-25 on field goals last year, but went 0-4 from kicks over 40 yards. The task should fall to sophomore <a style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #050708; font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/134086/matt-goudis" class="sbn-auto-link">Matt Goudis</a> who appeared a couple of times last year for a punt and two kickoffs. Goudis should enter the year as the starter at kicker while <a style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #050708; font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/79630/pat-o-donnell" class="sbn-auto-link">Pat O'Donnell</a>, a senior who transferred in from Cincinnati, is likely to start at punter.</div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"></div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;">Johnson will be one of the most electric playmakers in the country this year. He is a threat every single time he touches the ball and teams would be crazy to kick it to him. Playing the Canes is a perfect example of when it is acceptable to get a touchback and put the opposing offense at the 25. The downside when facing Miami of course, is Johnson will be getting plenty of touches at tailback as well.</div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"></div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;"><b style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;">Coaching</b></div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"></div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;">Al Golden is entering his third season at Miami and this looks to be the best of the bunch he has had so far. The 2012 team went 7-5 while technically "winning" the Coastal, but imposed a ban on themselves while NCAA investigations into the Shapiro scandal continue. Golden inherited a team marred by this scandal and will likely be at Coral Gables for the long haul as the team's recruiting has been steady despite the allegations. He previously coached at Temple and has a seven year overall record of 40-45. The Hurricanes return defensive coordinator Mark D'Onofrio who has been at Miami for both of the previous two years with Golden. As previously mentioned, the offense has new offensive coordinator James Coley overseeing the play calling.</div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"></div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;">Golden undoubtedly has a long leash with the administration and looks to have Miami back on the right tracks.</div>
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<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;"><b style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;">Conclusion</b></div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"></div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;">This game will be a difficult one for the Demon Deacons. As it is the eighth game of the season, it's hard to speculate exactly where Wake will be at this point, but the Deacs have really struggled on the road in recent years. While playing at Miami is not a tough task as far as fans, it is a long trip right before the next week's trip to Syracuse. This is a game which I would say most people have marked down as a loss on the schedule. While I would love nothing more than to go down to Florida and come back with a big win, it is difficult for me to imagine our defense coming up big and shutting down the Canes' potent offense. The one way I could see the game being close would be if Tanner, JRoc, and Camp put up a show and we matched the Canes touchdown for touchdown.</div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"></div>
<div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #292929; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; font-size: 16.363636016845703px; line-height: 21.81818199157715px;">This Canes offense will be one of the most impressive in the nation in 2013 and barring injury both Morris and Johnson are serious Heisman contenders. If Miami has a solid season, they could be looking at an 8-4, 9-3, or even a 10-2 record, but it depends heavily upon how much the defense has improved from last year. It has been ten years since Miami last won double digit games and with a bowl trip, this could easily be the year that this statistic is reversed. I think most preseason rankings are correct in placing the Hurricanes in the ACC Championship game as the winner of the Coastal Division."</div>
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<p>While we gave a lot of credit in the offseason to the Miami offense, which we covered yesterday, we were quite bearish on the Miami defense. The one thing I would point to is that we did say it could be a blessing in disguise that the defense doesn't bring back many players from the 2012 installment - and what a blessing it has been. Last year the Miami defense was in fact terrible, but this year the Hurricanes have absolutely brought it. Through six games Miami ranks 11th in scoring defense (17.2 ppg), 59th in rush defense, 14th in rush defense, 18th in total defense, and T11 in takeaways with 18. The team has already recorded five more sacks than they did over the entire 2012 season and is one of the top defensive units in the ACC.</p>
<p>Denzel Perryman again finds himself near the top of the team in tackles, but leads the team this year with 46 tackles, ten more than the second leading tackler Jimmy Gaines. The linebacking corps has really stepped up and put pressure in the backfield forcing opposing offenses to adapt or get stuffed. More times than not, the offense has failed to adapt to the quick and athletic Miami defense. This defense is going to be difficult to break down and as the game goes on Wake will have to make adjustments on offense to keep the Miami unit guessing.</p>
<p>I said before the year that I thought the Hurricanes would win the Coastal and nothing has made me come off of this prediction. I said I thought the Canes could win 10 games with a bowl bid and I stand by this, but they might not even need the bowl to make it to double digits for the first time in a decade. With the NCAA investigation finally resolved and the punishment handed out, Miami can turn their focus 100% to football and look to add to their impressive undefeated start. This is going to be an absolute dog fight for the Deacs and will require a massive effort to come out of South Beach with a victory. Tune in on Saturday to see if the Deacs can get it done and make it three ACC wins in a row.</p>
https://www.bloggersodear.com/2013/10/25/5026238/preview-miami-hurricanes-part-twoBart Johnston2013-10-24T11:22:10-04:002013-10-24T11:22:10-04:00Q &A with Miami Hurricanes blog State of The U
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<figcaption>Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>State of the U blogger Cameron Underwood was kind enough to answer our questions about Miami's season so far this season, their recent NCAA sanctions, Al Golden, Duke Johnson, and the upcoming game against Wake Forest.</p> <p> </p>
<h5>Blogger So Dear: Quarterback <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114387/stephen-morris" class="sbn-auto-link">Stephen Morris</a> is coming off a 4 interception game against North Carolina. How big of a concern is this for you in the upcoming game against Wake Forest and for the remainder of the season?</h5>
<p><span> </span>Stephen Morris' propensity to turn the ball over is something that needs to be addressed and corrected ASAP. We have turned the ball over 12 times in the last 3 games after having only had 2 turnovers combined in our first 4 games. The turnover problems haven't been all Morris, but he's contributed to them plenty.</p>
<p><span> </span>For this week, I would say this is a big concern until proven otherwise. Morris has found a way to give the ball up, even when the offense has been working effectively and moving the ball. You guys used 3 turnovers to blow the game against Maryland open last week. Yes, I'm concerned. As for the future, this turnover issue is something worth watching. We simply will not be able to consistently win against good competition if this issue is not corrected.</p>
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<h5>Blogger So Dear: What are your thoughts on the recent punishment handed down by the NCAA?</h5>
<p><span> </span>My thoughts on the NCAA sanctions: Relieved that this is finally over. Many pundits and opposing fans have been saying "Miami got off light", but that's shortsighted. Coach Golden self imposed many sanctions, ranging from 3 post-season games (2 bowl games and the ACC Championship game), shortening evaluation periods, lowering the number of communications between our staff and prospective recruits, and lowering the number of players that were brought in for Official Visits, among others.</p>
<p><span> </span>When you add those self-imposed restrictions, plus the NCAA mandated scholarship reductions, and the nearly 3 years of uncertainty (and the accompanying negative recruiting), that really tells the story of the NCAA saga. And, now that's it's over, I think most Canes fans would tell you that they, like me, are relieved.</p>
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<h5>Blogger So Dear: Number 7 is the highest Miami has been ranked in the initial BCS rankings since 2004. With that in mind, talk about what Al Golden has meant to this program and where you see it going.</h5>
<p><span> </span>The importance Al Golden and his steady, confident, process-driven leadership of this program cannot be overstated. While he wasn't the flashy name most wanted to bring in to rebuild this program, he was unquestionably the right pick. He has stuck around when many thought he would and should have left for greener pastures. He is a perfect fit at Miami.</p>
<p><span> </span>Where will he take us is a harder question. Canes fans are quick to talk about being "back", but to me, that means competing for championships. At 6-0 this year, we're easily a year ahead of schedule on his rebuilding plan. I think that Golden will continue to guide Miami back to being a perennially top ranked team and, hopefully, compete for Championships (ACC and National) in the not-so-distant future.</p>
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<h5>Blogger So Dear: Is there any chance <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/159411/duke-johnson" class="sbn-auto-link">Duke Johnson</a> sees limited snaps this weekend with the hopes of giving him a break before next weekend's game against FSU?</h5>
<p>From all indications, Duke Johnson has been a full participant at practice this week. I don't foresee him having limited snaps at all. This is an ACC game against a team on a 2 game winning streak, who just blew out another league opponent by 24pts. Duke is the engine that makes our offense work. Add in his impact on special teams with his kick returns, and he affects games in many ways. We need Duke to be his normal, multi-dimensional, explosive self. And it seems as thought we'll have him playing that role this week.</p>
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<h5>Blogger So Dear: Miami lost second leading receiver <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/134105/phillip-dorsett" class="sbn-auto-link">Phillip Dorsett</a> to an MCL injury during the North Carolina game. How do the Hurricanes adjust after his injury?</h5>
<p><span> </span>Losing Dorsett definitely hurts. He was our fastest player, and his ability to stretch the field vertically has been his calling card since he got to campus. The defense couldn't relax on him, because his 4.3 speed makes him a threat to score on every play.</p>
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<p><span> </span>The other receivers will need to step up in his absence. Primary among them being #6 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/159444/herb-waters" class="sbn-auto-link">Herb Waters</a>, #3 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/201419/stacy-coley" class="sbn-auto-link">Stacy Coley</a>, and #9 Malcolm Lewis. Waters is the most polished of those players, with Coley being the most physically talented, and Lewis having the best hands. Lewis is starting to gain confidence in his ankle, which he injured in the GT game last year. Another player who will see playing time is #80 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/134104/rashawn-scott" class="sbn-auto-link">Rashawn Scott</a>, who is returning from a broken collarbone suffered early in the season. Those players will need to collectively try to replace what Dorsett brought to the offense.</p>
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<h5>Blogger So Dear: Finally, with FSU looming next week, do you believe this Wake Forest game as a potential "trap game"? What's your prediction on how this game plays out and the final score?</h5>
<p>Before the season, I pointed to this game as a trap game. Between the <span class="aBn"><span class="aQJ">Thursday</span></span> Night game at UNC and before the big game at FSU, this could have been overlooked. However, after nearly seeing our undefeated season end last week, our focus is squarely on this game, and cleaning up some errors and issues. Yes, we all know we play at Florida State next week. But, that game doesn't have the immense national draw and impact if we lose this week.<br>I think Miami will come out hyped up on adrenaline, and play fast and strong. I think there will be some mistakes and timing out of sync with players trying to fill slightly different roles than they're used to. I look for the defense to continue their very strong play, and create a couple turnovers.</p>
<h4><b>Score prediction: Miami 37 Wake Forest 17</b></h4>
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<p>Again, our thanks to <a target="_blank" href="http://www.stateoftheu.com/">State of The U</a> for taking time to answer our questions. You can follow them on Twitter <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/TheStateOfTheU">here</a>.</p>
https://www.bloggersodear.com/2013/10/24/5024094/q-a-state-of-the-u-miami-hurricanes-football-duke-johnson-al-golden-phillip-dorsett-stephen-morrisRobert Reinhard2013-10-24T08:00:11-04:002013-10-24T08:00:11-04:00Gameweek: Miami Hurricanes
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<img alt="Stephen Morris settles back into the pocket against North Carolina" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Gx6pSwXpocf8sF7bcaQYFThi6BY=/3x0:3993x2660/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/21685037/20131022_bsd_sd2_658.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Stephen Morris settles back into the pocket against North Carolina | Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Deacs seek their third win in a row when they travel south to Florida to take on the red hot Miami Hurricanes who are undefeated and ranked 7th in the country. </p> <p>Wake Forest is set to play Miami for the first time since the 2009 season and enters the game with a 4-3 (2-2) record while the Hurricanes come in ranked 7th in the nation and 6-0 (2-0). This will mark the fifth time that the two teams have squared off as members of the ACC and Miami currently boasts a 4-0 record against the Deacs in these four conference games. Miami also leads the all-time series history with a 7-3 record against Wake while Wake has not defeated the Hurricanes since 1944. Furthermore Wake has not defeated a team ranked in the top 10 since 1946 when they beat fourth-ranked Tennessee by a 19-6 score (also on the road).<br><br>It is evident that the Demon Deacons have struggled with the Hurricanes in the past and there is no reason to believe that the 2013 version of the Hurricanes is going to be an easy task to handle either. Many media outlets selected Miami as the pre-season favorite in the Costal Division and they did not disappoint. While the division features several solid teams, including Virginia Tech, North Carolina, and Georgia Tech, the return of senior quarterback Stephen Morris coupled with the deep receiving corps and the continued emergence of running back Duke Johnson in the backfield placed the Hurricanes in solid contention for the division crown. Miami has exceeded expectations so far while some of the Coastal Division foes have been underwhelming so far. <br><br>Third year head coach Al Golden entered the season with a 13-11 record with the school, but has improved his record to 19-11 with the hot start to 2013. The Hurricanes were forced to find a new offensive coordinator to replace Jedd Fisch who was hired by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Golden ultimately chose James Coley, who had previously served as the assistant offensive coordinator under Jimbo Fisher at Florida State. Coley inherited a stacked offense which was immediately expected to produce points for a Miami team that had struggled at times over the past couple years to stop the opposing team's offense. The defense, which struggled mightily in the 2012 season, returned only four starters but has had vast improvement for a side which ranked in the bottom 20 teams in the nation in both rushing and passing defense. The defense has allowed the 11th fewest points per game in the country at 17.2 points per.<br><br>The article today takes the preseason preview and adds thoughts to the team so far on the offensive front. Tomorrow will touch on the defense and special teams.<br><br>Offense<br><br>Starting with perhaps the most explosive portion of the Miami attack, running back Duke Johnson entered the 2013 campaign looking to build upon a freshman season that was one for the history books. Johnson ran for 135 yards on just seven carries against Boston College in the season opener, but still struggled to find starting time despite impressive games against Bethune-Cookman and Georgia Tech. Ultimately though Johnson continued to get the football in the backfield alongside Mike James and rushed for 947 yards on the season a freshman record for Miami. This rushing output included three 100 yard games out of the final four of the season and showed that Duke is the future of the backfield for the Hurricanes. So far in the 2013 season Johnson has run the ball for 655 yards and four touchdowns. <br><br>With Johnson at the starting running back position, senior quarterback Stephen Morris was looking to build on his own hot streak from the end of the 2012 season and lead the Hurricanes down the field on a consistent basis at the start of the year. Morris entered the season without an interception in his final four games, a stretch where the Canes went 3-1. So far in the 2013 season Morris has thrown for over 1200 yards with nine accompanying touchdowns, but he has also struggled at times throwing eight interceptions including four picks in the last outing against North Carolina.<br><br>Morris started the season with receivers Phillip Dorsett, Allen Hurns, and Rashawn Scott as expected targets, all players who have started in prior seasons for the Hurricanes, but Rashawn Scott went down with an arm injury in the opener and has missed the past six weeks. Dorsett was the leading receiver last year with 842 yards on 58 catches and four touchdowns, but so far in 2013 Hurns looks to be the go-to target with 26 catches, 481 yards, and four touchdowns. The Canes were hoping to have the assistance of incoming freshman Derrick Griffin, but he had to attend prep school first and still looks to enroll in Miami in the winter. Another incoming freshman, Stacy Coley, had been impressive in preseason scrimmages and built on that into a productive first year with 15 catches, 226 yards, and three touchdowns.<br><br>The skill guys have also been aided by the return of all five starters on the offensive line from last season, an ensemble which boasted a total of 91 starts in their careers entering the year. Senior Seantrel Henderson still projects to be an early round pick in the 2014 NFL Draft and is one of the top tackles in the country. When Henderson plays well on the right side he is able to mitigate the presence of nearly any defensive lineman in the country, but he has missed games this year due to suspension for a violation of team rules. When he is on the field he makes a major impact but keeping him on the field has been an issue over his tenure at the school. <br><br>With Coley's offense still somewhat similar to the sets used by Fisch last year, the Hurricanes' offense has only continued to improve as the season progresses. The Canes rank an impressive 28th in the nation in pass offense last year, and even more impressively has moved the football on the ground and ranks 22nd in rush offense. Back Duke Johnson is also expected to play after leaving last week's matchup with UNC. Overall the Hurricanes rank 16th in the nation in total offense and are going to be very difficult to stop. The Deacs will need to get penetration into the backfield and shut down Johnson and Morris to have any shot at all. Wake has been hot lately but the Canes will present the second biggest challenge of the year so far.<br><br>This was a very straightforward preview which I amended to adjust for this year's statistics. I'll have the defense and special teams out tomorrow.</p>
https://www.bloggersodear.com/2013/10/24/5022644/preview-miami-hurricanesBart Johnston