Hurricanes Battle Through First Two-a-day Practices

Hurricanes Battle Through First Two-a-day Practices

Aug. 9, 2003

CORAL GABLES, Fla. (hurricanesports.com) – The University of Miami football team began its first of two-a-day practices on Saturday at the Greentree Practice Fields. The Hurricanes held an early morning workout at 8:30 a.m. and continued in the afternoon with a 3 p.m. session.

The afternoon practice, which lasted approximately two hours, gave UM the first opportunity this season for full-contact scrimmages. Head Coach Larry Coker commented on the team’s progress thus far.

“We took a step in the right direction, but I think we still have a long way to go,” Coach Coker said. “We have to work on our tempo and our game speed. Overall, we got a good look today and it will be interesting to see the practice video to see where we stand and which direction we need to go.”

Coach Coker was impressed by the play of the receiving corps during the scrimmage.

“Some of the guys made some big plays,” Coach Coker stated. “Darnell Jenkins really stood out and Kellen Winslow made a great catch. Devin Hester has looked good, also. I have been impressed with all of the young receivers.”

The defense’s ability to stop the running game also caught Coker’s eye.

“They did a nice job out there today,” Coach Coker said. “That is important for us. With the linebackers and our interior linemen we have, we should be able to do a good job stopping the run.”The Hurricanes will continue to practice on Sunday at 3:30 p.m. Practice will remain open to the public through Aug. 13.

For UM football ticket information, please call 1-800-GO-CANES. The Hurricanes are set to open the season on Aug. 28 against Louisiana Tech in Shreveport. La. UM then returns home to face the Florida Gators on Sept. 6.