Football Returns to Work
Aug. 23, 1999
CORAL GABLES, Fla. – The 12th ranked University of Miami football teamreturned to pre-season practice with a two-hour, 15-minute workout in fullpads on Monday afternoon at the Greentree Practice Facility. With theworkout, the Hurricanes continued preparation for their season openeragainst No. 9 Ohio State in the Kickoff Classic on Sunday, August 29th at2:30 p.m. at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ.
Miami, which started practice 90 minutes earlier than originallyscheduled, underwent a challenging practice that included 7-on-7 and11-on-11 scrimmaging. Following the practice, Head Coach Butch Davisthought the team looked crisp following a day off on Sunday.
“It was a good start to the week,” said Davis. “I thought the kids’focus today was good and I thought they were a little crisper and a littlesharper. It’s been my experience that in order to give yourself the bestchance to play well in that opening game you have to focus on how you playthe game. You have to protect the football, cut down the mental mistakesand do things as simplified as possible to give yourself a chance to win thegame.”
Davis stated that several true freshmen could see playing time vs.Ohio State at the Kickoff Classic.
“There have been some freshmen who have made some very bigcontributions. Maurice Sikes (defensive back) and the Weaver twins(linebackers Jermell and Jerrell), along with Clinton Portis and JarrettPayton (tailbacks) all have a chance to play this Saturday. Also, PhillipBuchanan (defensive back) is getting a real serious look.”Cornerback Delvin Brown (left ankle) missed practice and isquestionable for the Ohio State game. There were no other significantinjuries to report.
Miami will not practice tomorrow before returning to practice on Tuesday at2:00 p.m. at the Greentree Practice Facility. Practices are closed to thepublic.
MEDIA ADVISORY: The season’s first Coach’s Press Conference will be held on Tuesday, August24 at noon at the football meeting room in the Knight Sports Complex.Quarterback Kenny Kelly and other selected Hurricane players will also beavailable. Tuesday’s practice schedule may change due to weather. Call MiamiSports Info for the latest report.
