Offense
Jacory Harris had a big first season under center for the Canes completing over 60% of his passes and throwing for 3,300 yards. Tons of credit must go out to first year OC Mark Whipple who implemented a pro style offense that really showcased Harris’ strong arm and playmaking ability. Harris will have one of the best WR corps in the ACC at his disposal as well as the Canes return Travis Benjamin, Leonard Hankerson, and Aldarius Johnson.
Harris had some horrendous INTs that cost Miami and he must cut down on these mistakes to put Hurricanes in position to win the ACC. Miami will be young at RB and on the offensive line so Harris must realize that he’s the leader of the offense in 2010.
Defense
I believe Miami will have one of the best defensives in America this season. The unit is loaded up from front with returning freshman All-American Marcus Fortson as well as stud defensive end Allen Bailey, who will rank high on the NFL radar for the April draft. The LB corps must replace Darryl Sharpton, but the trio of Sean Spence, Colin McCarthy, and Ramon Buchanan will match anyone in the ACC and should continue where the 09 unit left off.
One area where the defense has struggled since Randy Shannon took over is in the secondary. Miami has yet to finish in the top 50 nationally in the first threeyears of Shannon’s tenure, but I expect big improvement in 2010. Miami returns Ray-Ray Armstrong who many compare to the late great Sean Taylor. CB Brandon Harris is also back and should challenge for All-American honors. This should be a special defensive unit.
Overall
This is a big season for Randy Shannon. Since Shannon took over in 2007, he has improved Miami every season. However, the question remains whether Shannon can make Miami into “The U” of old. He has to produce this season, and I think he will. Despite a brutal non-conference schedule that has Miami traveling to Columbus to take on Ohio State in the 2nd week, three of their toughest conference games are at home against FSU, UNC, and Va Tech. The Canes are also the most talented team in the ACC. I expect a good season for Miami in 2010, and they will compete for the ACC title.
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