NCAA College Football 2010 Season Preview: Miami Hurricanes
After three dismal seasons, the Miami Hurricanes, favorite among college football odds, had a good 2009 season that ended with them in the top 25 and saw them win nine games for the first time since 2005. Coach Randy Shannon has his alma matter back among college football’s elite, and with a proven leader in quarterback Jacory Harris and a solid defense, Miami could improve upon last year’s success.
The Hurricanes return six starters to an offense that was at times erratic, combining for eight turnovers in losses to North Carolina and Clemson. Harris, a junior, has proven to be a great player under new offensive coordinator Mark Whipple’s offensive system. He threw for a conference-high 3,352 yards and 24 touchdowns in 2009. He did throw for 17 interceptions, however, and needs to make better decisions with the football when under pressure.
Miami has a solid defense going into the season, especially on the line and in the secondary. Senior defensive end Allen Bailey had seven sacks last year and will be joined on the D-line by DE Marcus Robinson (four sacks). Despite intercepting just two passes last year, Brandon Harris proved to be a shutdown corner with 15 passes broken up last season.
Miami’s linebackers represent their biggest weakness on defense. Inside linebacker Darryl Sharpton was drafted to the NFL last spring and he will be difficult to replace. It is possible that the Hurricanes will move Colin McCarthy from outside to inside linebacker.
Miami had a great start to 2009, going 3-1 while playing against the likes of Florida State, Georgia Tech, Oklahoma and Virginia Tech. They will have another tough opening set of games, including a road game at Big Ten powerhouse Ohio State.
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