Hurricanes Continue Preparations
April 5, 2000
CORAL GABLES, FL – The University of Miami football team continued spring practice, with a two hour practice in helmets and shoulder pads, at the Greentree Practice Facility on the UM campus.
Following pre-practice warm-ups, the team broke off into the offense and defense and worked on their formations and plays. After the offensive and defensive workouts, the team worked on blitz and coverage packages. The practice ended with an 11-on-11 scrimmage.
“Today was good,” said head coach Butch Davis. “It’s amazing what attitude and spirit does for a practice when one side of the ball sees improvement. The offense came back today and had another good practice and they don’t feel like they’re the team that’s getting slapped around all the time. They did better.”
Coach Davis then addressed the emergence of Robert Williams at the tight-end spot, with the departure of Daniel Franks.
“I’m really pleased with Robert, as he’s gained confidence and gotten stronger he’s really learning. His blocking has been impressive. He will be a big key to our offense next year.”
Davis also discussed the running back situation for this Saturday’s scrimmage.
“Hopefully, James (Jackson) will give us 20-25 plays and Clinton Portis and Jarrett Payton can each give us another 20-25 plays. That will get us through the scrimmage without having to dip down to using Will McPartland as our emergency tailback. Using Najeh (Davenport) is tempting, but we would all be devastated if he took a bad shot out there. He’ll will look good in his uniform, but he won’t get much work.”
The Hurricanes will resume practice on Friday, April 7 at 3:00 p.m. at the Greentree Practice Facility on the Coral Gables Campus.
Spring Practice will conclude with CanesFest and the annual Spring Game at the Orange Bowl on Saturday, April 8. This year’s CanesFest will feature the unveiling of the Hurricanes new uniforms, logos and designs for the 2000 season. Events for CanesFest will include season-ticket select-a-seat, “Ask the Coach” session, Fun Zone interactive area and an autograph session following the game with Hurricane players and coaches.
For ticket information for the upcoming 2000 college football season, please contact the Hurricane Ticket Box Office at 1-800-GO CANES or (305) 284-CANES in Dade County.
