Draft Day Biographies of Miami Football Players

April 12, 2000

Ty Wise
C-6’3″-280-R-Sr
Pensacola, FL (B.T. Washington)

1999 (SENIOR): Named First Team All-BIG EAST…invited to play at theEast-West Shrine Game (Palo Alto, CA) and Florida Citrus All-Star GridironClassic (Orlando, FL)…a fifth-year senior and third-year starter, Wise wasa pre-season first-team All-BIG EAST selection by The Sporting News andSportsline/Lindy’s…rated nation’s seventh ranked center in the pre-seasonby The Sporting News…a two-time team captain…a true team leader onoffense…responsible for making crucial adjustment calls on the line ofscrimmage…started eight of nine games at guard in 1997 and hasn’t lookedback since…started every game over the past two seasons, missing just onesnap…has given up less than five sacks this season…has recorded over 20pancakes and 10 METRORAILS (blocking opponent for at least five seconds)through eleven games this season…has quickness and athleticism unique fora center…will be relied on this season for senior leadership runs a 4.93in the 40 and 4.36 in the shuttle…has the versatility to play guard…oneof the toughest and strongest men on squad…has great pulling and trappingability…great explosion off the line of scrimmage helps with runblocking…strong lower body helps with leverage in pass protection…has a28 inch vertical leap…bench presses 435 pounds and power cleans 350 poundsto rank No. 1 on the team in both categories…was named the team’s WeightLifter of the Year.

1998 (JUNIOR): Started every game at center…hard-nosed competitor who wasnamed the Hurricanes Weight Lifter of the Year…provided valuableleadership along a young offensive front…moved to center this season afterstarting seven games last year at left guard…switch to center hasattributed to increased production in ground attack as UM went fromaveraging 170.0 yards rushing a game last year to 202.9 in ’98…leader byexample who implemented an off-season conditioning program for his offensivelinemates that including pushing his Ford Ranger pickup truck the length ofthe practice field in a timed race…voted one of five team captains by histeammates.

1997 (SOPHOMORE): Played in nine games…made eight starts, including sevenat left guard and one at center…made first career start at left tackleagainst West Virginia…made first career start at center againstTemple…helped Miami record its third 1,000 yard rusher (Edgerrin James) inschool history…started all three games, two at left guard and one atcenter, when Miami set a school-record rushing for more than 300 yards inthree consecutive games (Boston College, Temple, Arkansas State)…startedon offensive line that helped Miami rack up 575 yards of total offenseagainst Boston College including a school-record 271 yards rushing byEdgerrin James.

1996 (FRESHMAN): Was the backup center to K.C. Jones…saw significantlyincreased playing time after redshirting his first season.1995 (REDSHIRT): Spent year working with scout team.

HIGH SCHOOL: B.T. Washington…SuperPrep Top 24…Big Six first-teamAll-Conference…first-team BlueChip Preseason All-American…first-teamAll-Northwest Florida…first-team Florida-Georgia All-Star gameparticipant…voted first-team All-State, All-District, and All-City hissenior year as an offensive lineman…three-year starter on the offensiveline as well as long snapper…team went 13-2 en route to statechampionship…squad snapped 29-game win streak of Coach Don Soldinger’sSouthridge H.S. team in state title game…also lettered three years inweightlifting and track…coached by Chet Bergalowski.

PERSONAL: Born 3/9/77…sports management major…full name is Ty AshleyWise…interests include fishing, mudding and training…from same highschool as Tampa Bay Buccaneer Derrick Brooks…son of Robert and MardellWise.

Nate Webster
LB…6-0…225…Jr
Miami, FL (Northwestern)

WEBSTER’S CAREER BESTS:

AS A JUNIOR: An Associated Press, Football News, and Sporting NewsSecond-Team All-American…two-time First-Team All-BIG EAST selection…asemi-finalist for the Bronco Nagurski Award given to the nation’s bestoverall defensive player…one of 15 semi-finalists for Football NewsNational Defensive Player of the Year…four-time BIG EAST Defensive Playerof the Week in 1999 for his performances against Penn State, Pittsburgh,Syracuse and Rutgers… led team in total (150) and solo (92) tackles…hada team-best 19 tackles for loss for a total of 70 yards…recorded threeinterceptions, four sacks, four pass break-ups, 10 quarterback hurries andfive forced fumbles on the season…is the sixth UM defender to recordconsecutive back-to-back 100-tackle seasons this decade…a very aggressiveplayer with high levels of emotion…possesses the physical tools and skillto become one of the top linebackers in the nation…a big hitter withplay-making ability…plays very well against the run or pass…tallied 18tackles, 12 solo, in UM’s 45-13 win over Syracuse…registered 2.5 sacks for-25 yards in UM’s 55-0 shutout win over Rutgers…led the Hurricanes with 15tackles (8 solo), including three tackles for loss, one sack and two forcedfumbles at Virginia Tech…named ESPN’s Player of the Game for performancevs. V. Tech… totaled 11 tackles (7 solo), one tackle for loss andintercepted two passes for 75 yards in UM’s 33-3 win at Pittsburgh…his twoINT’s at Pittsburgh was a first by a UM linebacker dating back to the 1979season and the first by a UM defender since the 1996season-opener…collected 13 tackles vs. West Virginia including sevensolo…had 12 stops against Boston College… collected 16 tackles vs.Florida State and an interception …vs. Penn State made a total of 20stops, 14 solo…managed a sack for a four-yard loss…in win over FAMUtallied four tackles, two solo…registered fourteen tackles in win overOhio State…pre-season third-team All-American by College SportsNews…named to pre-season All-BIG EAST first team by seven publications…named nation’s seventh best linebacker in pre-season by College FootballNews…was second in tackles last season with 134 tackles….named toAll-BIG EAST First Team as a sophomore.

1998 (SOPHOMORE): One of six Hurricanes to garner first-team All-BIG EASThonors…played in and started 10 games…did not play in UCLAcontest…combined with Dan Morgan to give the Hurricanes the top-twotacklers in the BIG EAST…second to Morgan in the conference, averaging13.4 tackles per game…ranked second on the team with 134 tackles, 75solo…ten tackles for loss was also second on the squad behind DerrickHam…posted double-figure tackle totals in nine of ten games…twicerecorded over 20 tackles in a game…registered 23 tackles, 12 solo,including two tackles for loss in 34-31 win at West Virginia…performancevs. WVU ranks as the all-time single-game highest tackle total by aHurricane since individual tackle totals started being kept in 1980,surpassing the 22 stops Ray Lewis tallied in 1994 vs. Washington…had 21tackles, 13 solo, and two tackles for loss in 38-12 win overCincinnati…registered three tackles for loss and a sack atTemple…tallied a career-best 13 solo tackles against Cincinnati andSyracuse…slowed over last three games of season after turf toe injury atTemple.

1997 (FRESHMAN): Earned first varsity letter competing in sixcontests…totaled 17 tackles (11 solo) and forced one fumble…sufferedelbow injury vs. Arizona State that caused him to miss fourgames…registered career-high eight tackles (five solo) vs. ArkansasState…tallied six stops vs. Temple.

HIGH SCHOOL: Northwestern…Parade first-team All-American…second-team USAToday All-American…rated one of the top two linebackers in the nation bySuperPrep… rated No. 3 linebacker in the country by BlueChip Illustratedand member of Dream Team…Student Sports Southeast Player of theYear…garnered first-team All-State and All-Southeast honors…nameddistrict MVP…three time first-team All-Dade County selection…led team tostate 6A championship…totaled 187 tackles, including 34 for loss…alsohad 12 sacks, 53 quarterback pressures, 20 caused fumbles, and five fumblerecoveries…four-year starter who average 130 tackles perseason…registered 28 tackles (17 solo), two tackles for loss and causedthree fumbles in playoff win over Plantation…coached by Willie Goldsmith.

PERSONAL: Born 11/29/77…liberal arts major…full name is NathanielWebster Jr… enjoys playing baseball and wrestling…first cousin of NewOrleans Saint running back Troy Davis…son of Nathaniel and Linda Webster.

WEBSTER’S CAREER STATISTICS:

Daniel “Bubba” Franks
TE-6’6″-240-R-Jr
Big Spring, TX (Big Spring)

FRANKS’ CAREER BESTS:

1999 (JUNIOR): First-team All-American by The Sporting News and FootballNews…second-team All-American by the Associated Press…two-timefirst-team All-BIG EAST selection…fourth-year junior and three-yearstarter…recorded 45 receptions for 565 yards in 1999…has surpassedsingle-season career highs for receptions, yards and touchdowns…a topoffensive threat, Franks has started in 30 of 34 career games…Miami’scareer leader in touchdowns by a tight end with 12…has all of the physicalskills, with tremendous size, speed and strength…an excellent route runnerand pass receiver…also known for his tenacious blocking skills…hasregistered five or more catches on six occasions this season…recorded ateam-best 55 yards, including a fourth quarter touchdown at Pittsburgh, in a33-3 win…snagged five receptions for 74 yards vs. West Virginia…led theHurricanes with a season-high six catches for 78 yards, including agame-tying 26-yard fourth quarter touchdown, in UM’s come-from-behind win atBoston College…recorded five catches for 36 yards at Florida State…hadtwo receptions for 14 yards vs. Penn State…caught two passes for 19 yardsin the home opener against Florida A&M…snagged a team-best five catchesfor 52 yards in the Kickoff Classic win over Ohio State…prior to the 1999season, Sports Illustrated named Franks one of its Top 10 NFL prospects.

1998 (SOPHOMORE): First-team All-BIG EAST selection…started in 10 of 11games…pulled down 13 catches for 179 yards on the season…also has threetouchdown receptions…caught TD passes against East Tennessee State,Florida State and Temple…hauled in a season-best four passes for 69 yardsat Temple…touchdown grab vs. FSU came on a 4th and 1 at the Seminole9-yard line to tie the score at seven…reeled in a season-long 29-yardreception in season opener vs. ETSU…did not start at Cincinnati.

1997 (FRESHMAN): Named Sporting News first-team freshman All-American…alsogarnered second-team All-BIG EAST accolades…started at tight end for theHurricanes in eight games, including each of the final six contests…rankedsecond on the team with 19 receptions for 294 yards…led UM with fourtouchdown catches…recorded 110 yards on five receptions and one touchdownagainst Temple to become the first Miami tight end since Coleman Bell (8catches, 114 yards) in 1992 to register over 100 yards receiving…rumbled42 yards for a touchdown vs. Temple…one of two Hurricanes (Reggie Wayne)to go over 100 yards receiving in a game in 1997…caught a pair oftouchdown passes vs. Rutgers…grabbed his first career touchdown on a fakefield goal against Pittsburgh to even the score at 14-14 in the thirdquarter.

1996 (REDSHIRT): Spent season working as a member of the Hurricane scoutteam.

HIGH SCHOOL: Big Springs…named second-team All-State…Dallas Morning NewsTop 100 selection…also named to Fab 44 list…earned All-West Texashonors…unanimous All-District choice…caught 21 passes for 580 yards and10 touchdowns…also had two carries for 25 yards and was 2-for-2 passingfor 40 yards and two touchdowns…member of special teams return units,averaging 16 yards per punt and 19 yards per kick return…also playeddefensive end tallying 18 tackles, two sacks, two fumble recoveries and aninterception…developed under the guidance of head coach Dwight Butler.

PERSONAL: Born 1/6/78…sociology major…full name is Daniel LamontFranks…nicknamed “Bubba”…third family member to play Division I collegefootball as uncles Jarrod and Kenneth played at Baylor and Texas Tech,respectively..chose Miami over Texas Tech, Texas and Texas A&M…son ofJanice Banks.

FRANKS’ CAREER STATISTICS:

Michael Boireau
DE-6’5″-260-Sr
North Miami Beach (N. Miami Beach/NE Mississippi CC)

BOIREAU’S CAREER BESTS:

1999 (Senior): Invited to play at the Hula Bowl (Maui, HI), East-West ShrineGame (Palo Alto, CA) and Florida Citrus All-Star Gridiron Class (Orlando,FL)…started every game during his senior season… ranks sixth on the teamand first among defensive linemen with 62 total tackles (29 solo)…also hastotaled seven tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks for 18 yards, one pass break-up, ateam-best 30 quarterback hurries and recovered one fumble…had six tackles,including a season-high four solo, in the Kickoff Classic against OhioState…also totaled two tackles for loss and recovered one fumble againstthe Buckeyes…had a season-best eight tackles against Penn State…totaledsix tackles, including one for a loss and a half a sack at FloridaState…tied his season-best with eight tackles in UM’s comeback win atBoston College…also contributed one tackle for loss and one sack againstthe Eagles…contributed four tackles against West Virginia…had fivetackles and one pass break up at Pittsburgh…recorded five tackles and onesack at Virginia Tech…totaled seven tackles, one sack and two tackles forloss against Rutgers…had five tackles, including one for a loss, againstSyracuse…had four tackles in the regular season finale againstTemple…registered his third unassisted sack of the season againstRutgers…named a 1999 preseason second team All-BIG EAST pick by TheSporting News…enrolled at UM following two seasons playing football atNortheast Mississippi Junior College…quick off the line…has impressivelateral quickness…set a school record for defensive linemen this pastspring with a 296-pound clean lift…was the first junior college transferto start for Miami since Jeff Feagles handled punting chores in 1985.

1998 (JUNIOR): Junior college transfer who appeared in nine games…sharedtime with Quincy Hipps at left end…made starts against Cincinnati,Virginia Tech and Boston College…missed the Temple and Pittsburgh gamesdue to injury…five of his 21 tackles were solo stops…tied Derrick Hamfor team lead with 13 quarterback hurries…had three tackles for loss,including one sack…turned in a season-best six-tackle effort atCincinnati…also had a fumble recovery against the Bearcats…recordedfirst sack as a Hurricane at Syracuse…had a tackle for loss and forced afumble vs. Virginia Tech.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Northeast Missisippi Junior College…named to PrepStar’sTop 100 Junior College players list…nominated to Mississippi All-StarGame…named team’s Most Valuable Defensive Lineman…also was teamcaptain…totaled 109 tackles, 65 solo, 8.5 sacks, seven fumbles caused andfour fumbles recovered as a sophomore…coached by Warren Collins.

HIGH SCHOOL: North Miami Beach…tallied 70 tackles, 10 sacks and eighttackles for loss as a senior…second-team All-State…first-teamAll-District choice…coached by Gary Althiede.

PERSONAL: Born 7/24/78…business management major…full name is MichaelInnocent Bioureau…chose Miami over Florida and Houston…son of Luse Suly.

BOIREAU’S CAREER STATISTICS:

Richard Mercier
OL-6’3″-290-R-Sr
Montreal, Quebec (Vanier College)

1999 (SENIOR): First Team All-American by The Sporting News…Second TeamAll-American by the Associated Press, Bowl Championship Series Online, CBSSportsLine, and Football News…First Team All-BIG EAST…All-BIG EAST byFootball News…has been invited to the Senior Bowl (Mobile, AL), Hula Bowl(Maui, HI), East-West Shrine Game (Palo Alto, CA) and Florida CitrusAll-Star Gridiron Classic (Orlando, FL)…named number one offensive guardin the nation by The Sporting News in the publication’s pre-seasonannual…named #12 overall offensive lineman in the country by CollegeFootball News…pre-season first team All-American by five publications (TheSporting News, Preview Sports, Street & Smith, Football News, andSportsline/Lindy’s)…a tenacious run blocker who gives 100 percent efforton every play whether it be in practice or a game…has worked extremelyhard to improve flexibility and leverage…tremendous lower body strength…can squat 610 pounds…has quick feet andexcellent mobility…never gives up on a play and finishes withauthority…considered one of the best pulling guards in thenation…started 23 consecutive games before suffering a torn anteriorcruciate ligament in his left knee in the 1997 season opener…has startedin 35 games along UM’s offensive line during his career…Miami is 27-8 withMercier in the starting lineup and 4-7 without…on pace to tie theHurricanes’ all-time record for games started (48)…15th pick in the 1999CFL draft, selected by the BC Lions in the second round.

1998 (JUNIOR): A first-team All-BIG EAST selection…named to SportsIllustrated All-Bowl Team…returned from reconstructive knee surgery tostart every game at left guard after missing all of ?97fwork-horse thatplayed virtually every down due to lack of depth along the O-line…gradedout over 90 percent in every contest…his return to the lineup is theprimary reason the Hurricane offense went from averaging 30.6 points and395.1 yards total offense per game in 1997 to averaging 36.5 points and451.5 yards total offense per contest in ’98 voted one of five permanentteam captains by teammates.

1997 (REDSHIRT): Took a medical redshirt after suffering a torn anteriorcruciate ligament in his left knee in Miami’s season opening win atBaylor…was on the field for 51 plays before the injury and graded out at96 percent.

1996 (SOPHOMORE): Started every game in 1996 at left guard, switching overfrom right guard, where he started ten contests in 1995fkey element in passprotection that allowed Hurricane quarterbacks to throw for 3,176 yards and23 touchdowns…one of the leaders of the offensive line that helped Miamiimprove rushing offense from 141 yards per game in 1995 to 155 yards pergame in 1996.

1995 (FRESHMAN): Earned varsity letter starting in 10 of 11 contests atright guard…stepped in without any game experience for an injured RickyPerry at right guard and performed at a high level the entireseason…strong run blocking helped pave way for Danyell Ferguson’s 1,069yards…started classes at UM in January 1995…participated in springpractice as a defensive tackle the first two weeks and a second-team leftoffensive guard the last two.

HIGH SCHOOL: Vanier College…an All-League and two-time All-Provincialselection…rated one of Canada’s top ten tacklers…had eight quarterbacksacks in eight games from an inside position…ranked No. 2 in Canada byAll-Star Recruiting…selected to the 1993 Provincial Quebec All-Star Teamwhich won the Canada Cup…named captain of the 1994 Provincial All-StarTeam…chosen Athlete of the Week after bowl game with four sacks and 15tackles…solid academic student…a member of the Quebec Elite Mogul SkiTeam…ranked fifth nationally at the Canadian Junior Mogul SkiChampionships held at Banff, Alberta…coached by Mike Mauravitch.

PERSONAL: Born 5/13/75…a double major in accounting and finance…fullname is Richard Marc Mercier…other athletic interests include snow andwater skiing…son of Richard and Gwendolyn Mercier.

Mondriel Fulcher
FB-6’4″-250-R-Sr
Coffeyville, KS (Field Kindley)

FULCHER’S CAREER BESTS:

1999 (Senior): Played in all twelve of the Hurricanes games this yearstarting ten of them…the ‘Canes are 8-2 when Fulcher starts thisyear…caught 13 passes for 131 yards and one touchdown this season…alsorushed three times for 10 yards…caught a career high five passes for 53yards and a touchdown against Rutgers on Dec. 20…recorded a special teamstackle during the greatest comeback in Miami history at Boston College onOct. 23…made the switch to fullback from tight end prior to springpractice…tremendous athletic ability with great speed and soft hands…rana 4.56 in the 40 this past spring…completed the shuttle run in 4.20seconds, fastest among fullbacks…has worked hard in the weight room adding30 pounds since his arrival at UM…has the highest bench press (375 pounds)among all offensive backfield players.

1998 (JUNIOR): Emerged as a receiving threat over last half ofseason…appeared in every game, including starts against Cincinnati, Templeand UCLA…had his most prolific season with 17 catches for 289yards…totaled 237 receiving yards on 11 receptions over last sixgames…averaged 21.5 yards per catch over that span…scored on a 29-yardreception against UCLA to pull the Hurricanes to within 45-42 of UCLA withsix minutes left in the contest…had two catches for 45 yards and one TD inthe game…hauled in a career-best 60-yarder against Boston College tosustain a UM touchdown drive…set up a TD with a then career-best 36-yardcatch and run at West Virginia…had a carry for no gain vs. Rutgers.

1997 (SOPHOMORE): Saw playing time in every game making one start(Temple)…totaled five receptions for 87 yards…averaged 17.4 yards percatch to rank third on team and tops among tight ends…Hurricanes were 4-0in games in which Fulcher caught at least one pass…caught one pass for 23yards in Miami’s season opening win over Baylor…pulled in two passes for aseason-high 36 yards against Boston College…made only start of the seasonagainst Temple and recorded one catch for 12 yards…made one reception for16 yards against Rutgers.

1996 (FRESHMAN): Saw playing time in every game…totaled 12 receptions for149 yards and two touchdowns…totaled 53 receiving yards vs. BostonCollege…pulled down a 24-yarder vs. Virginia Tech…recovered a fumble andran it in for a score marking his first career touchdown vs. TheCitadel…made first career start in Carquest Bowl game vs. Virginia.

1995 (REDSHIRT): Spent year with scout team as a wide receiver.

HIGH SCHOOL: Field Kindley…three-time All-Conferenceperformer…second-team All-State selection his junior year atquarterback…led team in both passing and rushing for three years…wasselected to play in the Shrine Bowl…three year team MVP…suffered brokenleg midway through senior season…passed for 1,000 yards and 12 touchdownsbefore being sidelined…also rushed for 188 yards and 11touchdowns…four-year starter…returned four kickoffs for touchdown duringhis career…four-year letterman in basketball…garnered All-State honors at forward as a junior…also lettered intrack…finished seventh in state in triple jump with jump of 43feet…recorded a personal best 6’6″ high jump and 23’2″ long jump…honorroll student…played football for Kent Newby.

PERSONAL: Born 10/15/76…criminology major…full name is Mondriel DeCarlosA. Fulcher…hobbies include weightlifting and basketball…son of Will andJanice Fulcher.

FULCHER’S CAREER STATISTICS:

Michael Smith
LB-6’3″-240-R-Sr
Riviera Beach, FL (Suncoast)

SMITH’S CAREER BEST:

1999 (SENIOR): Miami’s opening day starter at strong-sidelinebacker…registered nine tackles vs. Ohio State in the KickoffClassic…starter in all 11 games in both 1997 and 1998…athletic playerwith all the tools desired in a linebacker…combines size and strength withoutstanding speed and quickness…runs a 4.50 in the 40, has a 33.5 inchvertical leap and recorded a time of 4.23 in the shuttle…ranks tops amongHurricane linebackers with a 405 pound bench press and can power clean 264pounds…a big hitter respected for his toughness…speed allows him toexcel in pass coverage and cover the entire field…has the versatility toplay weakside linebacker.

1998 (JUNIOR): Started 11 games at weakside linebacker…tallied 29 solostops en route to a 68-tackle year…recorded four tackles for loss,including three sacks…posted a career-best 17 tackles in upset win ofUCLA…registered 11 tackles in victories over Rutgers and Temple…twicetied his personal-best of six solo stops (Temple, UCLA)…had a pair ofsacks at Rutgers…also had a sack against Florida State…broke-up a passin Boston College game…credited with tackle for loss at Temple…did notplay in season-opener against East Tennessee State.

1997 (SOPHOMORE): Named a Butkus Award candidate at beginning ofseason…appeared in all 11 games with 10 starts…ranked fifth on the teamand second among linebackers with 69 tackles (37 solo)…led the squad withtwo fumble recoveries…tallied two pass break-ups and one sack…posted ateam-high 16 tackles at Pittsburgh and recovered a fourth quarter fumble toset-up potential game-winning drive…recorded eight stops (five solo) atVirginia Tech…had eight tackles (two for losses), a sack and broke-up apass vs. Arkansas State.

1996 (FRESHMAN): Earned his first varsity letter having played in sevengames as a backup to Tony Coley at strongside linebacker…contributed onspecial teams…recorded a solo tackle in first career bowl appearance vs.Virginia at Carquest Bowl…totaled 10 tackles (six solo).

1995 (Redshirt): Spent the season as a member of the UM scout team.

HIGH SCHOOL: Suncoast…Palm Beach Post and BlueChip IllustratedAll-American…Ft. Lauderdale Sun Sentinel and SuperPrep first-teamAll-American…17th ranked linebacker in southeast region byBlueChip…named the Defensive Player of the Year…selected to play in theFlorida-Georgia All-Star game…named to the All-Conference and All-PalmBeach County teams…voted team MVP and two-time captain…led squad intackles with 129…also had four interceptions, eight sacks, 12 tackles forlosses, and 18 caused fumbles…lettered three years in basketball with anaverage of 20 points per game…lettered two years in track…coached by AlSutton.

PERSONAL: Born 10/29/77…sociology major…full name is Michael DeonteSmith…interests include weight lifting, jogging, reading and spending timewith his family…son of Michael and Cynthia Smith.

SMITH’S CAREER STATISTICS:

Matt Sweeney
DT-6’3″-275-R-Sr
Lafayette, NJ (High Point)

SWEENEY’S CAREER BESTS:

1999 (SENIOR): Invited to play at the Florida Citrus All-Star GridironClassic (Orlando, FL)…fifth-year senior and a two-year starter, rankseighth on the team and third among defensive linemen with 57 total tacklesthrough 11 games…also has six tackles for loss, two pass break ups, onefumble recovered and 1.5 sacks on the year…ranks third on the team with 19quarterback hurries… opened the season with an eight-tackle performance (5solo) against Ohio State in the Kickoff Classic…totaled nine tacklesagainst Penn State, including two tackles for loss and half asack…recorded a career-high 11 tackles, including a personal-best eighttackle assists, at Florida State…recorded a pass break up at BostonCollege along with three tackles…had five tackles against WestVirginia…had three tackles and recovered a fumble atPittsburgh…contributed five tackles, including one for a loss, at VirginiaTech…had two tackles, including a sack, against Rutgers…totaled sixtackles, including one for a loss, against Syracuse…ended the regularseason with three tackles, two for a loss and 1.5 sacks against Temple…hasthe athleticism and size to effectively drop into short pass coverage, rushthe quarterback or stop the run…plays at a high level ofaggression…showed speed with a 4.91 time in the 40-yard dash.

1998 (JUNIOR): Started every game at left defensive tackle…posted careernumbers in virtually every defensive category…credited with 45tackles…led UM defensive linemen with 21 solo tackles…eight tackles forloss was also tops among D-linemen while four sacks was second best…alsohad four quarterback pressures…tied his career-high with seven tackles atRutgers…registered sacks against Pittsburgh, Boston College, Rutgers andEast Tennessee State…recovered a fumble at Temple…blocked a field goalattempt at Cincinnati…made first collegiate interception in Micron PC Bowlwin over North Carolina State…returned pick-off 12 yards.

1997 (SOPHOMORE): Appeared in all 11 games on the season…started four ofthe last five games at right end…finished fourth among defensive linemenwith 41 total tackles…his 25 assisted tackles was third-most amongdefensive linemen…had the fifth-highest total for solo stops (16) alongthe line…also turned in one tackle for loss, one sack, a pass break up andsix quarterback hurries…recorded his first solo tackle as a Hurricane atPittsburgh…collected four tackles in first career start againstTemple…followed up a week later with five tackles against Arkansas State,including first career tackle for loss…set a career-high with seventackles, including three solo, at Virginia Tech…seven tackles against theHokies was second among defensive linemen…matched effort a week later withanother seven-tackle performance against Rutgers…for the third straightweek, turned in seven tackles, including his first career sack, in theseason-finale against Syracuse…tallied a career-high with four solo stopsagainst the Orangemen.

1996 (FRESHMAN): Earned first varsity letter…appeared in eight games alongthe defensive line…totaled seven tackles for the year, including aseason-high four at Temple…recovered a fumble in UM’s home-finale againstBoston College.

1995 (REDSHIRT): Spent first year at Miami with majority of 1995 recruitingclass members on the scout teams.

HIGH SCHOOL: High Point Regional…member of the All-League, All-Area andAll-West New Jersey teams…high school’s all-time leadingreceiver…three-year letterwinner…all-around athlete who played tightend, defensive end, long snapper and kicker…over career at tight endcaught 52 passes for 791 yards and five touchdowns…at defensive end had 87solo tackles, 43 assists, nine sacks and six caused fumbles…career bestsinclude 125 yards and two touchdowns against Newton High School and 12tackles, two sacks, one caused fumble and one fumble recovery againstKittatinny…starter for the basketball team since freshman year…averaged15 points and 12 rebounds per game…three-time All-League team and two-timeMVP…All-Area West Jersey…starting pitcher for baseball team freshmanyear…coached by Rich Higgins.

PERSONAL: Born 5/24/77…criminology major…full name is Matthew RyanSweeney…hobbies include fishing, skiing and hiking…son of George andPatricia Sweeney.

SWEENEY’S CAREER STATISTICS:

Eric Schnupp
OL-6’5″-280-R-Sr
Miami, FL (American)

1999 (SENIOR): Played in eleven of the Hurricanes twelve games this seasonas a back-up to Martin Bibla at right guard and Ty Wise at center…playedthe entire second half at Boston College during the greatest comeback inMiami history on Oct. 23…hard worker both on the field and in theclassroom…will be counted on this season for senior leadership…made amiraculous recovery last year from off season reconstructive knee surgery torepair an injured right anterior cruciate ligament…needed just 18 weeks ofrehabilitation before returning to play in five of the last six games…agood run blocker who finishes well…very quick for his size running a 4.90in the 40 and recording a time of 4.44 in the shuttle…has made greatstrides in the weight room adding strength while improving flexibility…isan excellent student with a strong work ethic…gives 100 percent effort onevery play…changed number from 55 to 56 prior to his junior season.

1998 (JUNIOR): Returned from off-season reconstructive knee surgery toappear in five of the last six games…provided back-up to Ty Wise atcenter…returned to the lineup for the Boston College game just 18 weeksafter surgery to repair the anterior and medial cruciate ligaments as wellas cartilage in his right knee, a procedure that normally requires a nine to12 month rehabilitation…participated in 12 plays vs. the Eagles…also sawaction against Temple, Pittsburgh, Syracuse and North Carolina State.

1997 (SOPHOMORE): Played in seven games…saw first action of the season inMiami’s opener against Baylor…took part in 19 plays and graded out at 89percent including a perfect 100 percent in nine pass plays…took part in acareer-high 56 plays against West Virginia…played in all three games asMiami set a school-record rushing for more than 300 yards in threeconsecutive contests (Boston College, Temple, Arkansas State)…member ofoffensive line that led way for Edgerrin James to become only the third1,000-yard rusher in school-history.

1996 (Freshman): Playing time was limited behind veteran offensivelinemates.

1995 (REDSHIRT): Spent year on scout team.

HIGH SCHOOL: American…first-team All-State, All-Dade and All-Tri-Countyselection on the offensive line as a senior…team captain…was also team’slong snapper…an honor student who made the All-County and All-Academicteams…National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame 1995 ScholarAthlete…three-year starter for team that captured district title in highlycompetitive Dade County…participated on basketball and trackteams…coached by Charles Yanda.

PERSONAL: Born 3/24/77…biology major…full name is Eric PeterSchnupp…interests include lifting weights and playing basketball…son ofLeo “Sonny” and Margie Schnupp.

Nick Ward
CB-5’10”-190-R-Sr
Dallas, TX (Seagoville)

WARD’S CAREER BESTS:

1999 (SENIOR): Has seen action in 35 games as a Hurricane since 1995,including nine starts…also a dependable punt-returner…outstandingathlete with great speed and leaping ability…will look to blend hisveteran leadership into a young corps of UM defenders…improved strengthwas a result of his dedication to the offseason training program…one of 10players on the UM roster from the state of Texas.

1998 (JUNIOR): Experienced defensive back who played in every game…madethree starts, two at left corner and one at right corner…led the BIG EASTaveraging 10.2 yards a punt return…had 13 returns for 133 yards…posted23 tackles on the year, including 20 solo stops…recorded a career-bestfive solos tackles against UCLA…blocked a punt in win overTemple…registered pass break-ups vs. Pittsburgh and Rutgers…had a tacklefor loss at Cincinnati.

1997 (SOPHOMORE): Appeared in 10 games, making three starts…had 26 tackles(13 solo), one pass break-up, one forced fumble and one fumblerecovery…recorded career-high six tackles vs. Arizona State…returned afumble 85 yards for a touchdown against the Sun Devils in the fourth quarterto pull the Hurricanes within four at 16-12…registered five tackles atPittsburgh…tallied three solo stops vs. West Virginia.

1996 (REDSHIRT): Saw action in two games before being sidelined most of theseason with a nagging left calf injury…totaled three tackles at Memphis inthe season opener.

1995 (FRESHMAN): Only true freshman to see action in all 11 games, makingthree starts…recorded 16 tackles, nine of which were unassisted…came offthe bench vs. Florida A&M to make a season-high four tackles (onesolo)…made first career start at Florida State and notched four stops,including a season-high three unassisted tackles…had two tackles thefollowing week vs. Rutgers and returned a second-quarter Tremain Mack puntblock 26 yards for a touchdown, giving Miami a 42-7 lead.

HIGH SCHOOL: Seagoville…played one season of varsity football deciding toconcentrate on track and basketball…All-State and All-District performerat receiver…caught 41 passes for 889 yards and 17 TDs…in second game ofseason vs. Thomas Jefferson caught four passes for 118 yards, three fortouchdowns, and returned a kickoff 95 yards for a TD in 36-20 victory…alsoserved as team’s placekicker…four-year letterman in both basketball andtrack…finished third in state regional in 200-meters…set school recordwith 20.8 in the 200…starting point guard, averaging 21 points and 10assists in earning All-City and All-District honors as senior…coached byCharles Cox in football.

PERSONAL: Born 3/28/77…liberal arts major…full name is Nicholas JamalWard…enjoys reading…son of Willie and Sheryl Ward.

WARD’S CAREER STATISTICS:

Andy Crosland
P/PK-6’3″-220-R-Sr
Dallas, TX (Highland Park)

CROSLAND’S CAREER BESTS:

1999 (Senior): Kicked game-winning field goal against Boston College withthree seconds left to cap the greatest comeback in Miami history…hashandled the punting and place kicking duties for the majority of the lastfour years…left-footed kicker who averages over 40 yards a punt…has nothad a punt blocked this year…first on the team in scoring with 82points…almost 25% of his punts have pinned the opponents at or inside the20 yard line…has converted 12-of-20 field goals and 46-of-48 PAT’s…rankssecond in UM history with 163 PAT’s, third in points scored (292), andfourth in field goals made (44)…has handled both the place kicking andpunting chores the past three seasons…became the first player since MikeBurke in 1972 to serve as the Hurricanes punter and place kicker.

1998 (JUNIOR): Averaged 40.3 yards a punt…punting average ranked fourth inthe BIG EAST…boomed a career-long 61-yard punt at Syracusef13 of 45 puntslanded inside the opponent’s 20-yard line…second on the team in scoringwith 72 points…converted 7-of-11 field goals and 51-of-55 PATs…setschool record with nine PATs against East Tennessee State…kicked aseason-long 41-yard field goal at Cincinnati…shared kick off duties with Todd Sievers…kicked off 15 times with fourtouchbacks.

1997 (SOPHOMORE): Served as both kicker and punter for theHurricanes…handled every UM field goal attempt and punt…connected on 11of 14 field goal attempts…also nailed 90 percent of extra points (28 of31)…finished third among BIG EAST kickers with a 78.6 (11 of 14) fieldgoal percentage…placed second on the team in scoring with 61 points…wasa perfect 7-of-7 on field goal attempts inside the 40-yard line…drilled a50-yard field goal against Arizona State to tie his career-high…kicked aseason-high three field goals against Rutgers, including a pair of40-yarders…averaged 39.6 yards on 46 punts…placed 11 punts insideopponents 20-yard line with just three touchbacks.

1996 (FRESHMAN): Earned his first varsity letter after spending entireseason as Miami’s starting field goal kicker and punter…named second-teamAll-BIG EAST…converted on 13-of-18 FG attempts…led team in scoringamassing 77 points…drilled a career-long 50-yard field goal vs. Pittsburghto capture the AT&T Long Distance Award…connected on all three of hisfield goal attempts in his first college game at Memphis…went 2 for 3 onfield goal attempts from 45 yards or longer…connected on his first sixcollegiate field goal attempts and on 10 of his first 11…attempted all 18of the team’s field goals…averaged 38.8 yards per punt…finished yearranked among the top 10 on the Hurricane single season chart for pointsafter touchdowns, field goals and points scored kicking.

1995 (Redshirt): Spent the season on the UM scout team.

HIGH SCHOOL: Highland Park…SuperPrep, BlueChip Illustrated, NationalBlueChip, and Dallas Morning News All-American…No. 1 ranked kicker in thenation by SuperPrep and National BlueChip…among the Dallas Morning NewsTop-100 national recruits…named to All-State, All-District and All-Areateams…USA Today second-team All-USA at kicker…unanimously selected tothe All-Conference team and was a member of the second team All-Metroplex(Dallas/Ft. Worth area) squad…made all 114 PATs in his career…as asenior made 5-of-7 field goals, including two over 50 yards…averaged 43yards per punt…coached by Don Richardson.

PERSONAL: Born 11/17/76…liberal arts major…full name is Anderson BurnsCrosland…hobbies include golf, basketball, fishing, hunting andtennis…from same high school as Bobby Layne and Doak Walker…son of Lukeand Kate Crosland.

CROSLAND’S CAREER STATISTICS:

Jeff Popovich
S-5’11”-190-Sr
Tucson, AZ (Sabino)

POPOVICH’S CAREER BESTS:

1999 (SENIOR): Played in all 12 of Miami’s games this season…registered 46tackles (24 solo), including three for a loss of 15 yards, and 1.5sacks…recorded one interception and led the Hurricane defense with threerecovered fumbles…ranked fifth among Miami defensive backs in tackles andwas tied for second in tackles for losses…three-time GTE District IIIAcademic All-American…1999 Burger King Division I-A College FootballScholar Athlete of the Year…valued member of the Hurricanes’ special teamsunit…serves as holder on place kicking unit…registered six sacks and twofumble recoveries in the Hurricanes’ 57-3 victory over FloridaA&M…averaged 7.0 tackles per game over the Hurricanes’ final three regularseason contests…recorded a season-high eight tackles in Miami’s 55-0victory over Rutgers…registered six tackles in Miami’s 45-13 win overSyracuse…made seven stops as the Hurricanes concluded the regular seasonwith a 55-0 win over Temple…has seen action in every game for theHurricanes (34) over the last three seasons…has spent the last two yearsplaying strong safety and serves as the team’s holder on place kickingunit…a key member of the nickel defense package…also sees action in UM’sdime defense package…three-time Big East All-Academic teammember…candidate for national Academic All-American honors…a formerwalk-on who earned a scholarship prior to the 1998 season…an all-aroundathlete who combines size and speed…broke a school-record for defensivebacks this past spring with a 39-inch vertical leap…recorded thethird-fastest 40-time on the defense at 4.47…the lone player on the UMroster from the state of Arizona.

1998 (JUNIOR): Former walk-on placed on scholarship prior to start ofseason…played in every game…ranked fourth among defensive backs with 36tackles…credited with one tackle for loss and a pass break-up in win overCincinnati…turned in a season-high nine tackle performance vs. VirginiaTech…scored on a 25-yard run off a fake field goal vs. Pittsburgh…namedBIG EAST Special Teams Player of the Week for his effort against thePanthers…sustained a UM scoring drive against Cincinnati with a 12-yardrun off a fake field goal attempt on 4th and 9 from the Bearcat 29-yardline.

1997 (SOPHOMORE): Made switch from wide receiver to defensive back duringpreseason…finished sixth on the team with 66 tackles (28 solo)…forcedone fumble and had one fumble recovery…played in all 11 games, making fivestarts…recorded eight tackles and returned a fourth quarter fumble 72yards for a touchdown in first career start at Baylor…finished the seasonstrong, registering 33 tackles over final three games…tallied season-high14 tackles at Virginia Tech…had six solo stops vs. Rutgers…recorded 10tackles in season finale vs. Syracuse…averaged nine tackles per game as astarter…valuable member of special teams…served as holder on kickattempts…completed a 15-yard touchdown pass to Daniel Franks off a fakefield goal at Pittsburgh to tie the score at 14 in the third quarter…alsohandled kick-off return duties…returned nine kicks for 160 yards (17.8 per return)…named to the GTEUniversity Division Academic All-District Team…selected to the BIG EASTAll-Academic Team…garnered NASDAQ Scholar-Athlete of the Game, HondaScholar-Athlete of the Game and National Tire & Battery Student of the Gamehonors following the Arizona State, Pittsburgh and Temple contests,respectively.

1996 (FRESHMAN): Appeared in 11 games…established himself as a force onspecial teams…saw backup duty at wide receiver…also as holder on kickattempts…totaled six tackles (five solo) on special teams kick coverageunits…registered a career-high three tackles vs. The Citadel…tallied onereception for eight yards vs. Pittsburgh.

HIGH SCHOOL: Sabino…selected as first-team All-Conference quarterback bythe Arizona Daily Star…named to second-team All-Southern Arizona squad byArizona Daily Star and Tucson Citizen…compiled 540 yards passing witheight touchdowns and 490 yards rushing with five rushing touchdowns despiteplaying only five games as a senior due to a broken leg…completed 65 of110 passes for 1,010 yards and 13 TD’s as a junior…registered 84 tackles(32 solo), four interceptions and two fumble recoveries at defensive backduring junior campaign.

PERSONAL: Born 10/26/77…bio-medical engineering major…full name isJeffrey David Popovich…excellent track athlete who owns high schoolrecords in the pole vault and as a member of the 4×100-meter relayteam…enjoys reading, weightlifting and traveling in his spare time…sonof Michael and Alexis Popovich.

POPOVICH’S CAREER STATISTICS:

Pat Del Vecchio
LS-6’2″-240-Sr
Miami, FL (Westminster Christian)

1999 (Senior): Played in all twelve of the Hurricanes games thisseason…handles the ‘Canes snapping chores on field goals, extra points,and punts…former walk-on who was granted a scholarship prior to lastseason…supplies needed depth and experience for Miami’s special teamsunit…highly intelligent with a great attitude and work ethic…has workedhard in the weight room adding nearly 20 pounds…outstanding student…oneof nine Hurricanes to make the BIG EAST All-Academic team last season aftermaintaining a cumulative GPA of over 3.0…has made the BIG EASTAll-Academic team each of the last two seasons…handles the Hurricanes’snapping chores for punting and place kicking.

1998 (JUNIOR): Saw action in every game…registered four tackles, all onspecial teams…had two tackles against Pittsburgh…also recorded solotackles vs. Temple and Syracuse…team honoree at Micron PC Bowl AcademicExcellence Awards Luncheon…chemistry major with a grade point average over3.5…named to the BIG EAST Football All-Academic Team for the secondstraight year.

1997 (SOPHOMORE): Played and started in Miami’s first four games as the longsnapper in field goal situations before an injury to his left anklesidelined him for the remainder of the season.

1996 (FRESHMAN): Earned first varsity letter…one of the biggest surprisesof the season…came on to replace Denny Fortney as the field goal unit longsnapper…handled snapping duties over final six games.

HIGH SCHOOL: Westminster Christian…second-team All-State and first-teamAll-Conference selection at center as a senior…Miami Herald first-teamAll-Dade pick…also played linebacker, defensive end and was team’s longsnapper…led Westminster Christian to District, Regional and Sectionaltitles his senior year…earned second-team All-Conference and All-Dadehonors his junior campaign…coached by Paul Warner.

PERSONAL: Born 11/29/78…chemistry major…full name is Patrick Francis DelVecchio…interests include fishing and diving…was a pitcher on his highschool baseball team for three years…attended same high school as SeattleMariner shortstop Alex Rodriguez…son of Pat Del Vecchio, Sr. and DebraBurke.

Robert Hall
OL-6’3″-280-R-Sr
Houston, TX (North Shore)

1999 (SENIOR): Played in ten of the twelve Hurricanes games this year at theleft tackle position on the offensive line…started games against OhioState, Florida A&M, and Penn State…switched to the offensive line duringsophomore season after opening the season on the defensive line…startedhis UM career as a tight end…is a very good athlete with good size andspeed…worked hard in the weight room having gained 25 pounds of musclesince his arrival at Miami.

1998 (JUNIOR): Started each of the last eight games for the Hurricanes atleft tackle…did not play in the first three contests…his addition to theoffensive line stabilized the unit as the same five players started in sevenof the last eight games.

1997 (SOPHOMORE): Played in seven games…saw action in five games atdefensive tackle before being moved to the offensive line prior to theBoston College contest…recorded seven tackles on the year including foursolo stops…made first appearance on the offensive line againstRutgers…also saw action on the offensive line against Syracuse.

1996 (FRESHMAN): Earned first varsity letter…moved from tight end todefensive line early in the season…spent most of year learning newposition…saw limited action in seven games and recorded three tackles, twosolo.

1995 (REDSHIRT): Spent year on scout team.

HIGH SCHOOL: North Shore…a crushing blocker rated one of the top threetight ends in the nation…All-Greater Houston team member…votedunanimously to the All-District #22 5A team…rated one of the top six tightends in the state of Texas by the Houston Chronicle…had nine catches for185 yards and one touchdown in his senior year…had a 45-yard TD receptionand recorded nine pancakes against Lamar Consolidated…team went 9-3 hissenior year and made playoffs for the first time in school history…memberof Texas All-Star team that competed in inaugural Shrine Texas-CaliforniaFootball Classic…member of school’s basketball team…All-Districtperformer at center his junior year…averaged 12.7 points and sevenrebounds per game…coached by Dave Aymond.

PERSONAL: Born 2/10/77…liberal arts major…full name is Robert LouisHall, Jr…hobbies include weightlifting and basketball…recruited byColorado, Arizona, and Texas A&M…son of Robert and Jennifer Hall.

Robert Sampson
OL-6’4″-305-R-Sr
Brandon, FL (Brandon)

1999 (SENIOR): Played in four of the Hurricanes twelve games this season asa back-up to Sporting News All-American Richard Mericer at left guard…sawaction against Pittsburgh, Virginia Tech, Rutgers, and Temple…has goodathletic ability with quick feet and long arms…excels in passblocking…works hard with the surrounding community…has worked with theInner-City Youth Center, Upward Bound Program and Boy scouts ofAmerica…has spoken to students at local schools on the importance ofacademics and teamwork.

1998 (JUNIOR): Valuable lineman who provided backup at the right and lefttackle spots along the offensive line…saw action in 10 games…did notplay against Virginia Tech…participated in a season-high 37 plays againstWest Virginia…came in to replace an injured Joaquin Gonzalez at righttackle vs. the Mountaineers.

1997 (SOPHOMORE): Played in all 11 games…made two starts at left guard andstarted the final seven games of the season at left tackle…started allthree games at left tackle when Miami set a school-record rushing for morethan 300 yards in three consecutive games (Boston College, Temple, ArkansasState)…member of the offensive line that helped Miami rack up 575 yards oftotal offense including a school-record 271 yards rushing by Edgerrin Jamesat Boston College.

1996 (FRESHMAN): Played in two games as a redshirt freshman…helped theHurricanes register 378 yards of total offense in a 30-7 season openingvictory against Memphis…played in Miami’s 33-0 win over Rutgers as theHurricanes racked up 393 yards of offense.

1995 (REDSHIRT): Spent year on the Hurricane scout team.

HIGH SCHOOL: Brandon…three-year letterman on the offensive line…namedAll-County, All-Conference, All-District, and third-team All-State as asenior…voted team’s Most Outstanding Lineman…team captain…selected toparticipate in the North-South All-Star Game…led team to 7-3 record andWestern Conference Championship his senior year…also lettered in trackcompeting in the shot put and discus…coached by Ron Flott.PERSONAL: Born 4/7/77…liberal arts major…full name is Robert LeeSampson…son of Mark and Cheryl Mayo.

Rod Mack
LB-6’1″-225-R-Sr
Miami, FL (Pace)

MACK’S CAREER BESTS:

1999 (SENIOR): Played in all twelve games for the Hurricanes, earning startsagainst East Carolina and Syracuse…recorded 30 tackles, 15 solo, on theyear…made a season high 8 stops against Penn State on Sept. 18…recordedthe first sack of his career for a loss of seven yards against Rutgers onNov. 20…has experience in the Miami defense and understands the game…hasplayed all three linebacker positions during his career…possessesexcellent instincts and is always around the ball…physical performer whoplays well against the run…one of the strongest linebackers on theHurricanes benching 365 pounds and power cleaning 264 pounds…runs a 4.66in the 40 and a 4.30 in the shuttle.

1998 (JUNIOR): Appeared in all 11 games as a back-up to Dan Morgan atweakside linebacker…started in place of Michael Smith at strongsidelinebacker against East Tennessee State…tallied 33 tackles for the season,including 18 solo stops…also had one tackle for loss, a fumble recoveryand a pass break-up…posted a season high eight tackles in the openeragainst East Tennessee State…recovered a third-quarter fumble againstFlorida State at the Miami 6-yardline to thwart a FSU scoring drive…had atackle for loss vs. Virginia Tech…broke up a pass at Cincinnati.

1997 (SOPHOMORE): Appeared in seven games at middle linebacker…startedfirst five games of the season before left knee injury sidelined him forfour games…finished tied for seventh on the team with 62 tackles (36solo)…had one tackle for loss (two yards) and one quarterbackpressure…recorded career-high 17 tackles (seven solo) vs. Syracuse infirst contest back from injury…in on a team-high 12 stops vs. WestVirginia…posted nine tackles vs. Baylor in season-opener…recovered afumble vs. Arizona State to thwart the Sun Devils opening drive at the UM17-yard line…made seven solo stops at Florida State.

1996 (FRESHMAN): Earned his first varsity letter competing in all 11 regularseason games…started at middle linebacker in the season opener at Memphis,his first career start…made second career start in regular season finaleat Syracuse…led all first-year UM defenders and was fourth leading tackleramong linebackers with 29 solo and 14 assists…thwarted a Memphis scoringdrive with a goal line interception…registered a season-best nine tacklesvs. the Tigers…recorded second career interception vs. The Citadel to markhis second interception in as many games.

1995 (REDSHIRT): Appeared in UM’s first two games and totaled eight tackles(four solo)…contributed seven tackles (three solo) in UM’s home-openeragainst Florida A&M.

HIGH SCHOOL: Monsignor Pace…an outstanding tackler who ranked as one ofthe top 50 players in the state of Florida by SuperPrep…two-timefirst-team All-Dade selection…first-team All-State honoree…team MostValuable Defensive Player…team captain…played both linebacker and tightend…caught 18 passes for 256 yards and two touchdowns…was the second leading tackler his senior year with 118 tackles, twointerceptions and three fumble recoveries…lettered three years in footballand one year in track…National Football Foundation and College Hall ofFame 1995 Scholar Athlete…coached by Casey Cavanaugh.

PERSONAL: Born 1/9/77…received undergraduate degree in business managementthis past spring…pursuing second degree in finance…full name is RoderickB. Mack…has been a Miami fan all his life…son of Cathy Coker-Mack.

MACK’S CAREER STATISTICS: