Battle Of Unbeatens In Tallahassee
Oct. 6, 2003
Complete Release in PDF Format
Download Free Acrobat Reader
(#2 AP/#2 ESPN/USA TODAY) MIAMI HURRICANES (5-0, 2-0 BIG EAST)
AT (#5 AP/#5 ESPN/USA TODAY) FLORIDA STATE SEMINOLES (5-0, 4-0 ACC)
When: Saturday, October 11, 2003, at 12:12 p.m. EDT.
Where: Doak Campbell Stadium (Natural Grass; 82,300) in Tallahassee.
TV: ABC will televise the game live with Brad Nessler (play-by-play) and Bob Griese (analysis) describing the action. Lynn Swann will report from the sidelines.
Fox Sports Net Florida (Tape Delay, Sunday, Oct. 12, 5 p.m. ET) telecasts all Hurricanes football games with Frank Forte (play-by-play) and Dave Heffernan (analysis) describing the action.
Sunshine Network (Tape Delay, Sunday, Oct. 12, 7 p.m. ET) The Florida State Seminoles television network replays each FSU game. Paul Kennedy (play-by-play) and Keith Jones (analysis) describe the action with Tom Block reporting from the sidelines.
Radio: The Hurricanes Radio Network (WQAM 560 AM) will carry the game live with Joe Zagacki (play-by-play) Don Bailey, Jr. (analysis), and Brian London (sideline reports) describing the action. Josh Darrow is the studio host.
En Espanol: Radio Unica (1210 AM) will broadcast the game in Spanish with Roly Martin (play-by-play) and Joe Martinez (analysis) describing the action.
Student Station WVUM (90.5 FM) will broadcast the game in with Jeremy Marks Peltz (play-by-play) and Jesse Agler (analysis) describing the action.
Websites: Miami (www.hurricanesports.com), Florida State (www.seminoles.com).
MIAMI-FLORIDA STATE SERIES HIGHLIGHTS
This Saturday’s game with Florida State marks the 47th meeting in the 53-year-old series that dates back to 1951. Miami leads the series 26-20, including an 11-6 mark in games at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee and a 15-14 advantage at the Orange Bowl.Miami has won three straight in the series: a 27-24 win in 2000 at the Orange Bowl, a 49-27 victory in Tallahassee in 2001 and last year’s 28-27 thriller at the Orange Bowl. There have been 10 combined win streaks in the series, seven by Miami and three by FSU. Prior to the last three meetings, FSU had won five straight over Miami (1995-99), which came following UM streaks of three (1990-92), four (1985-88) and two games (1980-81). The largest win streak in the series was FSU’s seven-game stretch from 1963-72. UM started the series with consecutive win streaks of five (1951-57) and three games (1959-62).Miami’s 49-27 win in 2001 at Tallahassee ended FSU’s NCAA-leading decade-long 37-game home win streak and 54-game home-unbeaten streak dating back to a 17-16 loss to Miami on Nov. 16, 1991.The 2002 Orange Bowl game was highlighted by Miami’s furious fourth quarter comeback from a 13-point deficit, when senior quarterback Ken Dorsey led the Hurricanes down the field twice in the final quarter to erase a 27-14 deficit for the eventual win, 28-27.A combined 108 players from the UM and FSU rosters come from the state of Florida, including 58 on UM and 50 on FSU.A combined 33 players from the Miami and Florida State rosters attended high school together. Six of the 11 mutual high schools are located in the Dade/Broward/Palm Beach area, while Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas and Tallassee Lincoln lead the way with five players from UM and FSU.
Series Record
Miami leads, 26-20
Record at the Orange Bowl: Miami leads, 15-14
Record at Tallahassee: Miami leads, 11-6
QUICK HITS FROM LAST SEASON’S 28-27 WIN OVER FSU
Miami trailed at the half to FSU, 17-14, marking the first time since the Washington game of Sept. 9, 2000, that Miami had trailed at the half. FSU led entering the fourth quarter, 27-14, marking the first time since that game at Washington that Miami had trailed entering the final stanza – a span of 28 games.UM quarterback Ken Dorsey became the first UM starting quarterback to notch three victories against Florida State.FSU’s lead at halftime marked the first time since the 1998 UM-FSU game that the Seminoles had led at the break. That 1998 contest ended with a 26-14 FSU victory.Miami quarterback Ken Dorsey matched his career high for passing yards in a game to that point with 362 yards through the air. That total matched Dorsey’s then-career high originally set in Miami’s win over Nebraska in the 2002 Rose Bowl that clinched Miami’s 2001 national championship.
MIAMI’S LAST VISIT TO TALLAHASSEE IN 2001
The Hurricanes went into Tallahassee determined to “Make History and Break History” – and they did just that, handing Florida State its first home loss in 10 seasons with a 49-27 rout to end a 37-game home win streak and 54-game home unbeaten streak. The victory was FSU’s worst home loss in 16 seasons and the most points scored by Miami over FSU in 50 years. The 22-point margin of victory was just the fifth time FSU has suffered a double-digit loss at home under Bobby Bowden.
It was also the first time FSU has allowed 41 or more points twice in a single season since 1983. Overall, nine of FSU’s 28 losses since 1987 have come to Miami. Quarterback Ken Dorsey threw three touchdowns and no interceptions in leading the offensive charge. Clinton Portis ran for 122 yards, while Andre Johnson accumulated 111 yards in the air, along with two touchdown receptions. Miami scored seven times against FSU, two of which came off a blocked punt and a Chris Rix fumble.
Punter Freddie Capshaw scored a touchdown after mishandling a snap and then raced around the corner to put Miami ahead 42-20. To start the game, Edward Reed blocked a Chance Gwaltney punt with Markese Fitzgerald picking the ball up and scoring from five yards out. After touchdown passes to Johnson and Jeremy Shockey, FSU narrowed the score, 21-13, by the half with two second quarter rushing touchdowns. Miami came out hot in the third scoring twice before the 10-minute mark. William Joseph had a sack on Rix, and stripped the ball away allowing Jonathan Vilma to race 36 yards for the score and a 35-13 lead.
MIAMI-FLORIDA STATE: A MADE FOR TV MATCH-UP
This Saturday’s televised meeting with Florida State will mark the 19th consecutive season and the 23rd time in 47 meetings that the UM/FSU clash will be shown on network television. The Hurricanes are making their 70th appearance on ABC since 1961 and hold a 47-22 record on that network. This marks the 14th time that ABC has televised the UM/FSU game with Miami holding a 7-6 lead in the previous ABC telecasts. All-time, Miami is 132-50 on network television and 105-37 in nationally televised games.
SUCCESS AGAINST THE SEMINOLES
Nine of Florida State’s last 28 losses, dating back to 1987, have been delivered by the Hurricanes. The nine wins are the most by any team in the nation versus Florida State over the last 16 seasons. Miami is one of only three schools to defeat the Seminoles more than once since 1987 (5 – Florida, 3 – N.C. State). In addition, FSU has had eight one-loss seasons since 1987 with five of the losses coming at the hands of the Hurricanes.
MIAMI AGAINST SUNSHINE STATE OPPONENTS
Miami is 1-0 vs. teams from the state of Florida in 2003 with a 38-33 win over Florida on Sept. 6. The Hurricanes have also won 20 of their last 28 games against Sunshine State opponents since the 1985 season. Miami is currently riding a seven-game win streak over state teams since the 2000 season.
MIAMI VS. THE ACC
Miami is 54-45-1 against teams currently in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Additionally, UM is 29-15-1 against ACC schools during their conference affiliation (1953 – present).
THE MIAMI-FSU SERIES SINCE 1983
Deceptive passing attack – In the last 20 games against FSU, Miami has passed for more yards 12 times. The team that has passed for more yards has lost seven of the last 14 meetings. Overall, the team that has passed for more yards has won 12 of 20 games. The teams have combined for nine 300-plus yards passing games since 1983 (Miami – 5, FSU – 4).
Penalties have led to wins – The team that has had the most penalties has won 13 of the 20 games, including 12 of the last 16. The team that has garnered the most penalty yards has won the last 12 meetings and 15 of 20 overall.
Miami has won the close games – The Hurricanes have won all six games decided by three points or less since 1983. Miami won last year when FSU missed a field goal as time expired. In 2000, Miami won, 27-24, when FSU missed a game-tying field goal attempt as time expired. Prior to 2000, UM picked up wins in 1992 (19-16) and 1991 (17-16) when FSU missed field goal attempts as time expired. In 1983, UM kicker Jeff Davis converted on a late field goal to propel past FSU, 17-16, and into the eventual National Championship game against Nebraska.
In the 12 games Miami’s won – UM outscored FSU 355-243 (29.6-20.3, UM +9.3).
In the 8 games FSU’s won – FSU outscored UM 269-91 (33.6-11.4, FSU +22.2).
STARTING QUARTERBACKS IN THE MIAMI-FSU SERIES
Miami quarterback Brock Berlin will be making his first start in the series this Saturday while FSU quarterback Chris Rix will be making his third start (only the second FSU signalcaller to do so). In the UM-FSU series, Miami quarterbacks are 17-14 in their first starts, 7-4 in their second start and 2-2 in the third start. FSU quarterbacks have gone 13-17 in first starts, 8-7 in second starts and 0-1 in third starts.
MIAMI/FSU SCORING MARGINS
Of the 46 meetings between these two teams, 13 have been decided by five or less points (UM leads, 10-3), eight have been decided by 6-10 points (UM leads, 5-3), and 25 have been decided by 11 or more points (FSU leads, 14-11).
MIAMI AND FLORIDA STATE RIVALRY PACKED WITH NFL TALENT
The Miami/Florida State game always stands out on the schedule due to its history of great games and great players. Over the last 20 years, the Miami/FSU series has supplied the NFL with 124 top-three round picks (second nationally only to Miami’s matchup with Tennessee). Since 1984, Miami has produced a national-leading 68 top-three round picks, while Florida State is third nationally with 56 top-three picks. The 124 combined UM/FSU players since 1984 consist of 59 first-round picks, 35 second-round picks and 30 third-round picks.
TEAMMATE TO RIVALS
A combined 33 players from the Miami and Florida State rosters attended high school together. Six of the 11 mutual high schools are located in the Dade/Broward/Palm Beach area, while Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas and Tallahassee Lincoln lead the way with five players from UM and FSU.
Miami Carol City (4)
Sinorice Moss (UM), Glen Sharpe (UM), Willie Jones (FSU), Stanford Samuels (FSU)
Tallahassee Lincoln (5)
Greg Threat (UM), Craphonso Thorpe (FSU), Pat Watkins (FSU), Antonio Cromartie (FSU), Andrew Henry-Kennon (FSU)
Ft. Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas (5)
Mark Gent (UM), Tavares Gooden (UM), Chris Napoli (UM), Anthony Wollschlager (UM), Ryan Reynolds (FSU)
Lakeland (2)
Kyle Cobia (UM), Kasey Anderson (FSU)
Miami Senior (2)
Roscoe Parrish (UM), Allen Augustin (FSU)
Miami Palmetto (3)
Chris Myers (UM), Cornelius Collier (FSU), Travis Smith (FSU)
Miami Monsignor Pace (3)
Mo Sikes (UM), Joel Rodriguez (UM), D.J. Norris (FSU)
Miami Northwestern (3)
Jarrell Weaver (UM), Bravarous Bain (UM), Vernon Carey (UM), Clifton Dixon (FSU)
Live Oak Suwannee (2)
Kelly Jennings (UM), Kyler Hall (FSU)
Jacksonville Andrew Jackson (2)
Carl Walker (UM), Leon Washington (FSU)
New Orleans St. Augustine (2)
Akieem Jolla (UM), Paul Irons (FSU)
THE TEAM THAT SCORES FIRST
When Miami and Florida State play the team that has scored first has won the last 11 meetings and 16 of the last 17. The lone exception was 1992 when FSU scored first in a 19-16 Miami victory at the Orange Bowl.
HOLD ON TO YOUR HAT
If the Miami and Florida State final score is close, history has favored the Hurricanes. Since 1973, the Hurricanes are 9-0 against FSU in games decided by four points or less.
SHUTTING OUT THE SEMINOLES
Since Bobby Bowden took over the coaching reigns at Florida State 26 years ago only one team has managed to shutout the Seminoles. Miami has blanked the Tribe twice during the Bowden era. The Hurricanes shut out FSU, 47-0, in the Orange Bowl in Bowden’s inaugural season at Florida State (1976) and then blanked his pre-season No. 1-ranked Seminoles, 31-0, in the Orange Bowl to start the 1988 season.
PROMINENT UM/FSU PLAYERS DRAFTED SINCE 1987
2003: UM – Ken Dorsey, Jamaal Green, Andre Johnson, William Joseph, Jerome McDougle, Willis McGahee, Matt Walters, Andrew Williams; FSU – Anquan Boldin, Talman Gardner, Montrae Holland, Alonzo Jackson, Brett Williams, Todd Williams.
2002: UM – Bryant McKinnie, Jeremy Shockey, Phillip Buchanon, Edward Reed, Mike Rumph, Clinton Portis, Martin Bibla, Najeh Davenport, Joaquin Gonzalez; FSU – Javon Walker.
2001: UM – Damione Lewis, Dan Morgan, Santana Moss, Reggie Wayne, James Jackson; FSU – Jamal Reynolds, Derrick Gibson, Tommy Polley, Snoop Minnis, Travis Minor, Chris Weinke.
2000: UM – Bubba Franks, Nate Webster; FSU – Peter Warrick, Corey Simon, Sebastian Janikowski.
1999: UM – Edgerrin James, Nick Williams; FSU – Tony Bryant, Larry Smith, Dexter Jackson.
1998: UM – Duane Starks, Jammi German; FSU – Andre Wadsworth, Tra Thomas, Sam Cowart, Samari Rolle, E.G. Green, Kevin Long.
1997: UM – Yatil Green, Kenard Lang, Kenny Holmes, Tremain Mack, Twan Russell, Tony Gaiter, Carlos Jones; FSU – Peter Boulware, Walter Jones, Warrick Dunn, Reinard Wilson.
1996: UM – Ray Lewis, Derrick Harris; FSU – Danny Kannell, Orpheus Roye.
1995: UM – Warren Sapp, Pat Riley, Chris T. Jones; FSU – Derrick Alexander, Devin Bush, Derrick Brooks, Corey Fuller.
1994: UM – Donnell Bennett; FSU – William Floyd, Lonnie Johnson.
1993: UM – Ryan McNeil, Micheal Barrow, Darrin Smith, Kevin Williams, Lamar Thomas, Horace Copeland, Gino Torretta, Jessie Armstead; FSU – Marvin Jones, Carl Simpson, Dan Footman.
1992: UM – Leon Searcy, Darryl Williams, Craig Erickson; FSU – Terrell Buckley, Amp Lee, Casey Weldon, Edgar Bennett, Brad Johnson.
1991: UM – Russell Maryland, Randal Hill, Shane Curry, Wesley Carroll, Robert Bailey, Mike Sullivan; FSU – Reggie Johnson, Lawrence Dawsey, Dedrick Dodge.
1990: UM – Cortez Kennedy, Bernard Clark, Willis Peguese, Jimmie Jones, Greg Mark, Dale Dawkins; FSU – Dexter Carter, LeRoy Butler, Peter Tom Willis, Odell Haggins.
1989: UM – Bill Hawkins, Cleveland Gary, Bubba McDowell, Rod Carter, Randy Shannon; FSU – Deion Sanders, Sammie Smith, Marion Butts.
1988: UM – Bennie Blades, Michael Irvin, Dan Stubbs, Brett Perriman, Brian Blades, Darrell Fullington, Melvin Bratton, Warren Williams, Alfredo Roberts; FSU – Pat Carter, Paul McGowan, Martin Mayhew.
1987: UM – Vinny Testaverde, Alonzo Highsmith, Jerome Brown, Winston Moss; FSU – Gerald Nichols.
RUSHING LEADS TO VICTORY VS. FLORIDA STATE
Since 1988, the team that rushes for more yards in the Miami and Florida State series has won the game 11 of 14 times. The three exceptions were: last year in Miami when FSU outrushed UM by a 296-115 margin and lost a 28-27 decision, in 2001 in UM’s 49-27 win in Tallahassee where FSU outgained UM 214-142 on the ground, but still lost. The first time was in 1992 when FSU narrowly out-gained Miami on the ground 67 to 65, but lost 19-16.
Larry Coker 9-1 As Head Coach Vs. Ranked Opponents
Since Larrry Coker took over as head coach, the Miami Hurricanes have won nine of 10 games played against ranked opponents. That includes a 6-0 record at home, a 2-0 mark at road sites, and a 1-1 mark at neutral sites.
UM STANDS TALL IN THE BIG EAST
In its 13th season of competition in the BIG EAST, Miami has forged a league-best 68-10 (.872) overall conference record. The Hurricanes’ eight BIG EAST titles are also a league-best, ahead of Syracuse (3), Virginia Tech (3) and West Virginia (1).
BIG EAST-RECORD WIN STREAK REACHES 26 AGAINST WEST VIRGINIA
With the win over West Virginia, Miami has won 26 consecutive BIG EAST games since a 55-0 defeat over Rutgers on Nov. 20, 1999. The current streak is ahead of the Virginia Tech’s 14-game string from 1998-2000. Additionally, UM has also won 29 of its last 30 BIG EAST games including a 1999 loss to Virginia Tech. Miami has also recorded conference win streaks of 12 games (1991-93), 10 games (1995-96) and seven games (1994).
During the Streak…
*Closest Road Game: 26-24 at Virginia Tech (Dec. 1, 2001)
*Closest Home Game: 22-20 over West Virginia (Oct. 2, 2002)
*Largest Home Victory Margin: 61 in a 61-0 over Rutgers (Sept. 8, 2001)
*Largest Road Victory Margin: 58 in a 64-6 win at Rutgers (Sept. 30, 2000)
COKER OFF TO RECORD START
Miami head football coach Larry Coker is 29-1 as a head coach entering the Florida State game. Coker set a modern NCAA record for victories by a first-year head coach in 2001 with 12 wins. Coker’s 24-1 two-year start ranked as one of the finest by a head coach in the history of college football in terms of winning percentage. In terms of victories through two seasons as a head coach, Coker’s 24 victories ranked third all-time, the most in 109 years.
MIAMI’S REGULAR SEASON WIN STREAK AT 37 GAMES
With the win over West Virginia, Miami set a new school record for consecutive victories in regular season games. Miami enters the Florida State game riding a 37-game win streak in regular-season play. The streak started on Sept. 23, 2000, with a 47-10 victory at West Virginia. Miami’s last regular season loss was a 34-29 setback at Washington (Sept. 9, 2000). Since then, the Hurricanes have won 39 of 40 games overall (including two bowl victories). Miami’s 34-game unbeaten streak overall ended with a loss to Ohio State in the Fiesta Bowl on Jan. 3, 2003. Miami is 39-2 since the start of the 2000 season, the nation’s best record during that stretch. Miami’s 48-6 record since 1999 also is the nation’s finest. The previous school mark of 36 straight regular season victories was achieved from 1985-88.
CURRENT ROAD WIN STREAK AT 17 GAMES
Miami has won a national-best 17 straight regular season games at opponents’ home sites since defeating West Virginia in Morgantown, 47-10, on Sept. 23, 2000. The current 17-game road win streak is the longest at UM since the Hurricanes won a school-record 20 straight road contests from Sept. 15, 1984, through Sept. 17, 1988.
ROAD WARRIORS
Since 1983, Miami has constructed the nation’s best record in road games (not including neutral sites). The Hurricanes’ road record in the 20 seasons beginning with 1983 is the best among all NCAA Division 1A football institutions. Miami has a record of 86-19-0 in road games at the opponent’s home. During that span, Miami has gone unbeaten in road games in nine seasons (1985, 1986, 1987, 1991, 1992, 1994, 1996, 2001 and 2002).
Miami’s record according to AP Rank
UM is 214-41-2 all-time in games while holding an AP national ranking. Since 1983, Miami is 149-21 as a top 10 team and 121-13 as a top five team. The Hurricanes are 42-6 as the nation’s No.1-ranked team. Miami has won 32 of its last 34 when ranked No. 1.
Miami vs. AP-ranked teams
Miami is 74-99-1 vs. AP-ranked teams since its first game against a ranked opponent against No. 18 Alabama in 1941, is 35-53 vs. AP top-10 teams since playing No. 6 Alabama in 1947, is 19-32 against AP top-5 teams since playing No. 3 Maryland in 1953, and is 9-7 against No. 1-ranked teams.
VS. RANKED/UNRANKED OPPONENTS SINCE 1990
Since 1990, Miami has registered a 35-23 mark against Associated Press ranked teams and a 96-6 record against unranked opponents.
THE 25-GAME ORANGE BOWL WIN STREAK
Miami extended its Orange Bowl win streak to 25 games with a 22-20 win over West Virginia. The streak dates back to a 28-20 win over West Virginia on Oct. 30, 1999.
Miami’s last home loss was to second-ranked Penn State, 27-23, on Sept. 18, 1999.During the 25-game streak, Miami has outscored its opponents 1,106 to 329 (44.2-13.1 per game – 31.1 UM margin of victory).In non-conference games during the streak, Miami has outscored 10 opponents 470 to 197 (47.0-19.7 per game – 27.3 UM margin of victory).Against the BIG EAST, Miami has outscored the league 658 to 162 (43.9-10.8 per game – 33.1 UM margin of victory) in 15 home contests.Against the eight ranked teams defeated at the Orange Bowl during the streak, Miami outscored the opposition 342-178 (42.8-22.3 per game – 20.5 UM margin of victory).During the streak, Miami’s lowest point total is 22 points in a 22-20 win over West Virginia on Oct. 2, 2003.Scoring has been high during the streak with the Hurricanes surpassing 30 points 20 times, 40 points 14 times, 50 points nine times and 60 points four times. The most points UM has scored during the streak is 65 points in a 65-7 win over No. 12 Washington on Nov. 24, 2001.The UM defense has posted five shutouts during the 25-game streak and had another seven games where the opponent scored seven or less points.The most points allowed by UM was 45 by Virginia Tech on Dec. 7, 2002. Opponents have achieved double-digit scoring 12 times during the 25-game streak.Prior to Pittsburgh’s first quarter touchdown on Nov. 21, 2002, the last touchdown recorded by a BIG EAST opponent at the Orange Bowl was in the first quarter vs. Boston College on Nov. 25, 2000 – 23 straight quarters over six league games.Over the last 17 home games since defeating Pittsburgh, 35-7, on Nov. 11, 2000, the Hurricanes have outscored home opponents 752 to 216 (44.2-12.7 per game – 31.5 UM margin of victory).Including the home loss to Penn State in 1999, Miami has won 29 of 30 home contests since a 26-14 loss to Florida State on Oct. 10, 1998.
HURRICANES AT NIGHT
In the modern era of University of Miami football, the Hurricanes have enjoyed success in night games accumulating a 82-17 (.828) record at night since 1980. Since 1990, Miami is 45-12 (.789) at night. Under head coach Larry Coker, the Hurricanes are 16-1 (.941) at night.
GREEN hurricanes
Miami has 17 starters with five or fewer career starts. DT Vince Wilfork and OT Eric Winston are the veterans of the group with five career starts each. Winston’s first career start was as a tight end in 2002. On the defensive side, seven Hurricanes have five or less career starts, including Baraka Atkins (4), Orien Harris (4), Javon Nanton (2), Darrell McClover (3), Thomas Carroll (2) and Leon Williams (1). Offensively, 10 different Hurricanes qualify including starting quarterback Brock Berlin (4), starting tailback Frank Gore (4) and starting split end Ryan Moore (4). Along with Winston, four offensive linemen have started four or less games, including Joel Rodriguez (4), Rashad Butler (2) and Alex Pou (1). Junior college transfer Kevin Everett has started two games this year in a double-tight formation and fullback Kyle Cobia made his first career start against East Carolina. Of the 17 players, 11 are either freshmen or sophomores and 15 made their first career start this season.
5 GRADUATES ON THE FIELD – 8 TO GRADUATE IN DECEMBER
Twenty-one members of the 2003 Hurricanes have either graduated or are on track to receive diplomas by the end of the 2004 spring semester. Thirteen members of the team will have earned their degrees by the end of the fall semester while five have already achieved their bachelor’s degrees and are playing this fall.
Five UM football players who already have graduated are playing for UM this season: defensive end Larry Anderson (criminology), flanker Kevin Beard (liberal arts), offensive guard Joe McGrath (business management), center Joel Rodriguez (newspaper journalism), and safety Mo Sikes (criminology/African-american studies). All five received their bachelor’s degrees in May, 2003.
Eight more student-athletes are on track to graduate in December – offensive guard Vernon Carey (liberal arts), kicker Mark Gent (marketing), long snapper Chris Harvey (history), safety Tim Kelly (liberal arts), offensive guard (Chris Myers (history), running back Jarrett Payton (liberal arts), and offensive guard Jim Sikora (civil engineering).
Nine others are on track to graduate in May, 2004: receiver Jason Geathers (liberal arts), fullback Talib Humphrey (history), offensive tackle Carlos Joseph (liberal arts), cornerback Alfonso Marshall (criminology), linebacker Darrell McClover (business management), defensive tackle Santonio Thomas (criminology), linebacker Jonathan Vilma (finance), linebacker Carl Walker (liberal arts), and linebacker D.J. Williams (liberal arts).
This continues Miami’s tradition of achieving a high graduation rate among its football student-athletes. Miami has received recognition by the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) as one of an elite group of schools to exceed a 70 percent graduation rate among its football student-athletes in eight of the past 11 years.
The Hurricanes’ have exceeded the national graduation rate for AFCA member schools for 15 consecutive years. From 1992-97, Miami was one of only eight schools in the nation to graduate at least 70 percent of its football student-athletes and that trend continues to the present day.
Thirteen of 18 Miami football student-athletes who entered UM in 1996 have graduated, a rate of 72.2 percent – exceeding the national average of 2001 (59 percent). Since the AFCA began its national survey of graduation rates for football playing institutions, Miami has graduated 71.29 percent of its football student-athletes – far above the national average.
Additionally, Matt Walters (now of the New York Jets) and Jonathan Vilma were named to the 2002 Verizon Academic All-America First Team.
A STATED GOAL: LEAD THE NATION IN RECORDING TURNOVERS
Since 1998, the Hurricanes defense has recorded takeaways at a record pace. It peaked in 2001, when the defense netted 45 turnovers (an NCAA high) along with the +2.36 per game average as Miami’s 27 pass interceptions led the nation, while the 18 fumbles recovered tied for second nationally. Through more than a third of the 2003 season, Miami is already more than halfway to equalling its 2002 total and on pace to match its numbers from the 2000 season.
HIGH TURNOVER MARGIN IS A PRIORITY
The Hurricanes have garnered a plus-1 turnover margin through five games this season. This season Miami continues a trend of opportunism that has become a tradition in recent years. Last season was an aberration as Miami ranked 67th nationally in turnover margin with an average margin of minus-.08 turnovers per game. This trend is unusual. In the three previous seasons, Miami’s turnover rate rose drastically as did Miami’s victory total. The 45 turnovers caused in 2001 was a national best and a school record.
MIAMI LEADS THE NATION IN TD’S BY RETURN SINCE 1999
The Hurricanes have scored a total of seven touchdowns this season via returns, matching their total from last season. Two via a fumble return, two on a punt return, two via interception returns and once on a kickoff return. Since 1999, Miami has scored more touchdowns on various returns (punts, kickoffs, fumbles or interceptions) than any team in the nation.
A TRADITION OF NON-OFFENSIVE SCORING
Miami has scored seven touchdowns this season via non-offensive means (special teams or defense) and one safety. The Hurricanes have scored at least one non-offensive touchdown in four of their five games this season, scoring 44 points through non-offensive means in 2003. In 2002, the Hurricanes had six non-offensive scores. For the second straight season in 2001, Miami led the nation in non-offensive scoring with 11 touchdowns and one safety. The 11 scores and one safety gave UM 68 points. The Hurricanes led the nation in 2000 with 13 touchdowns and 89 points coming from defense and special teams.
IF MIAMI SCORES FIRST
When Miami scores first it is nearly a lock to win. Beginning with the 1983 season, the Hurricanes have gone 167-14 when scoring first. Against Boston College, Miami followed its habit of jumping to an early lead when Roscoe Parrish set a school record with a 92-yard punt return for a score with 13:11 remaining in the first period (1:49 into the game). Miami has followed suit in four of five games this season.
Miami’s quick starts in 2003:
at Louisiana Tech: UM led, 7-0, at 12:25 of the first period.vs. Florida: UM led, 7-0, at 14:47 of the first period.vs. East Carolina: UM led, 7-0, at 11:23 of the first period.at Boston College: UM led, 7-0, at 13:33 of the first period.
THE HURRICANES WHEN SCORING 30 OR 31 POINTS
Miami has won 114 consecutive games when scoring 30 or more points since a 31-30 loss at Notre Dame in 1988.
Miami has won 135 consecutive games when scoring 31 or more points since falling 39-37 to UCLA in the 1985 Fiesta Bowl.Excluding bowl games, Miami has won 146 consecutive regular season games when scoring 31 or more since a 34-31 loss to Mississippi State in 1980.
4TH QUARTER DOMINANCE
Over the last 18 seasons, Miami has been almost unbeatable when leading after three quarters. Since 1985, Miami has won 165 of 167 regular season games in which it entered the fourth quarter with a lead. The two losses in this span occurred at East Carolina (1999) and West Virginia (1997). Prior to those two losses, UM’s last loss when leading after three quarters was in 1984 against Maryland (42-40), after leading 34-21 heading into the fourth quarter.
Berlin spreadS THE WEALTH
Miami quarterback Brock Berlin has used the weapons at his disposal effectively through the first five games of the season, connecting with 12 different receivers. Berlin has found tight end Kellen Winslow 25 times this season, while connecting with wide receiver Ryan Moore 19 times and Kevin Beard 15 times. Roscoe Parrish has caught 11 passes. Against West Virginia, Berlin’s school-record 37 completions went to nine different receivers and were distributed to four receivers, one running back, two fullbacks and two tight ends. On the season, Berlin has completed passes to six different wide receivers, two running backs, two fullbacks and two tight ends.
GORE SETS UM RUSHING MARK
Sophomore tailback Frank Gore made Miami football history against East Carolina. The Coral Gables native rushed for 134 yards against the Pirates to make him the first running back in UM history to eclipse century mark in the Hurricanes’ first three games of a season. Gore has eclipsed the 100-yard barrier in three of Miami’s four games this season. No back in Miami history had started a season with a trifecta of 100-yard rushing efforts. Gore rushed for 118 yards in the season opener against Louisiana Tech and followed up with a 124-yard effort against Florida. Before Gore, only one back in Miami history (Dyral McMillan in 1996) started a season with consecutive 100-yard rushing performances (119 at Memphis; 156 vs. The Citadel).
OFFENSE IS producing on third downS
Miami has converted 48 percent (32 of 66) of its third-down plays through the first four games of the 2003 season. The Hurricanes were an impressive 12 of 16 (75 percent) with a touchdown on third down at Louisiana Tech in the season opener. But UM struggled against Florida, going just 4 of 11 (36.4 percent) on third down. The Canes were 5 of 10 against East Carolina and 6-of-14 at Boston College. Miami has been effective on third and long (six yards or more) this season, converting on 13-of-27 (48.1 percent) attempts for 240 yards and a touchdown, which equates to 8.9 yards per attempt on third and long. The Canes have also been efficient on third and short (two yards or less), converting 8 of 12 (66.7 percent) on the season. Miami is perfect on to fourth down tries this season, going 2 for 2 against Florida.
HURRICANE QBs THIRD-DOWN PASSING
Miami quarterbacks have been extremely productive through the air on third down so far this season. Brock Berlin is completing 73.7 percent of his passes on third down, racking up 172 yards, 12 first downs and one touchdown. Crudup took over in the third quarter at Louisiana Tech and went 2-for-3 for 68 yards, including a 51-yard pass.
QUICK STRIKE HURRICANES
Miami’s quick-strike offense is running smoothly once again in 2003, having scored six touchdowns on drives of two minutes or less. Of the Hurricanes 14 offensive touchdown drives this season, nine have been in less than three minutes.
QUICK STRIKE OFFENSE
The average drive time on UM’s 14 offensive touchdowns in 2003 is 2:37. Overall, six of the 14 touchdowns were scored under two minutes of drive time. Additionally, two touchdowns have come in under a minute.
hurricanes continue big-play tradition
Miami’s offense is one that has proven over the years that it can strike quickly. Five games into the 2003 season the Hurricanes have recorded 79 plays of 10 or more yards, or 22% of its total offensive plays for the season. The Hurricanes have struck for 10 or more yards once every 4.3 plays from scrimmage. Hurricanes’ quarterback Brock Berlin is leading the way for the Canes with 54 big plays, while tailback Frank Gore is second with 19 big plays.
Miami coaching locations
Head coach Larry Coker leads a contingent of six UM coaches on the field during Saturday’s Miami/Florida State game. Joining Coker on the sidelines is offensive line coach Art Kehoe, running backs and special team coordinator Don Soldinger, defensive line coach Greg Mark, defensive backs coach Mark Stoops and quarterbacks coach Dan Werner. Offensive coordinator and tight ends coach Rob Chudzinski and defensive coordinator Randy Shannon man the upstairs coaching box. Linebackers coach Vernon Hargreaves and wide receiver coach Curtis Johnson also work from the coaches box.
Balanced offense key for Hurricanes’ success
One of the keys to the University of Miami’s success has been its balance offensively. Each of the last five seasons the Hurricanes have rushed for over 2,000 yards and passed for over 2,000 yards. Miami is the only school in the nation to surpass 2,000 yards both rushing and passing each season since 1998. Boston College and Iowa State have accomplished this feat for the past three season (2000-2001), while Minnesota has rushed and passed for 2,000 yards for four straight seasons.
BIG PLAYS HARD TO COME BY AGAINST HURRICANE ‘D’
As good as the Miami offense has been at producing big plays over the past five several years, the Hurricanes’ defense has been even better at limiting opponent offense’s big plays. During the Larry Coker era (2001-2003), a span of 30 games and 2,063 plays, the Miami defense has only allowed 15 plays to go for 40 yards or more, less than one percent of the opponent’s plays (0.727 percent). UM allowed five 40-plus yard plays in 2001, four in 2002 and has allowed five so far this season. By comparison, in 2002 Miami’s offense produced 24 plays of 40 yards or more (1.96 percent).
Brock Berlin, QB – Berlin, in his first year as the starting quarterback, is completing 62.1 percent of his passes for 1,236 yards through the Hurricanes first five games … he has completed 110-of-177 passes with six touchdowns and seven interceptions … the Shreveport, La., native is averaging 247.2 yards per game through the air with a 124.08 quarterback efficiency rating … he has spread the ball around to 12 different receivers this season, including six wide receivers, two running backs, two fullbacks and two tight ends … Berlin ranks second in the BIG EAST in yards per game (247.2) and sixth in pass efficiency (125.0) … set a school game record with 37 pass completions and 54 pass attempts against West Virginia for a career-high 352 yards … turned in a great performance against Florida, torching his former teammates for 278 of his 340 yards in the second half and leading UM back from a 23-point deficit for one of the greatest comebacks in UM history … from the 6:10 mark of the third quarter on, Berlin was 18-of-21 passing for 269 yards and two touchdowns while completing 12 consecutive passes during that stretch.
Vernon Carey, LG – Although he has battled a sprained ankle and moved from right tackle to left guard, Vernon Carey is one of the most important cogs that makes Miami’s offense run … Carey has started 17 games in his Miami career, blocking for NFL running backs Clinton Portis and Willis McGahee … now Carey is clearing the way for a stable of Miami running backs, including Jarrett Payton and Tyrone Moss … UM is averaging 150.6 yards per game on the ground.
Chris Myers, RG – Myers and Carey formed one of the most potent right sides in college football last season … with Carey moved to the left side this year, Myers continues to be Miami’s most consistent performer along the offensive front … has an excellent frame, work ethic and intelligence to go along with great technique and fundamentals.
Kellen Winslow, TE – Maybe the most dynamic player in college football … the 6 foot, 5 inch 252-pounder has a team-high 25 catches this season for 242 yards and a touchdown … the focal point of opposing defenses, Winslow has worked to become a complete player this season, making blocking a point of emphasis … he ranks third all time at UM in career receptions by a tight end with 84 and fifth in receiving yards by a tight end with 1,002 … Winslow turned in the best performance of the season aganist West Virginia with 10 catches for 104 yards.
Kevin Beard, WR – A fifth-year senior, Beard is the veteran of the wide receiving corps … he is third on the team in receptions with 15 and third on the team with 221 receiving yards … he has scored one touchdown and is averaging 44.2 yards per game … had his career-defining game came against Florida as he helped Miami overcome a 23-point deficit with a career-best seven catches for a career-high 164 yards and a touchdown …he also pulled in a career-long 62 yard catch … Beard also has a 14.7 yard per catch average.
Ryan Moore, WR – A redshirt freshman, Moore has stepped up early in 2003 and become a go-to-guy when Miami needs a first down … he has caught two touchdown passes in his 19 receptions for the year … Moore has 236 yards receiving on the season for 47.2 yards per game … he is averaging 12.4 yards per catch … hauled in a career-high seven catches for 81 yards against West Virginia.
Roscoe Parrish, WR/PR – Parrish is one of the Hurricanes’ most explosive players … a threat to score every time he touches the ball … Parrish has found the endzone twice this season, on a 50-yard touchdown pass against East Carolina and a school-record 92-yard punt return at Boston College … he has 11 catches for 184 yards for a 36.8 per game average … Parrish is averaging 16.1 yards on punt returns which is tied for the BIG EAST lead and 10th nationally.
Hurricanes To Watch On Defense…
Vince Wilfork, DT – A dominating presence inside, Wilfork has started all five UM games at defensive tackle this season … has four tackles for a loss for 17 yards … is tied for the team lead in sacks with four for minus-21 yards … has recorded 20 total tackles, including nine solo stops.
Baraka Atkins, DE – Atkins is a redshirt freshman that has stepped in at defensive end this season and produced big plays for the Hurricanes immediately … he leads the team with four quarterback sacks for minus-24 yards … also leads the team in tackles for loss with 4.5 for 27 yards … tied for sixth on the team with 20 total tackles, including nine solo stops and 11 assists … leads the team with eight quarterback hurries and two forced fumbles.
Jonathan Vilma, MLB – Senior leader of the Hurricanes’ defense, Jonathan Vilma has started 27 career games at UM … tied for the team lead in tackles with 35 total stops from his middle linebacker position … has recorded 20 solo tackles and 15 assists … has four tackles for loss (-11 yards).
D.J. Williams, WLB – The Hurricanes’ weakside linebacker, Williams has more career starts than any other Miami player with 29 … the hard-hitting senior is having his best and most consistent season of his career for the Hurricanes … third on the team in tackles with 31 … has 15 solo stops and 16 assists … scored a touchdown on a 78-yard fumble return at Louisiana Tech … Williams has 3.5 tackles for loss (-13 yards), including one sack for a loss of six yards.
Sean Taylor, FS – A physical specimen at free safety, the 6-foot-3, 230-pound Taylor has been a disruptive force for the Hurricanes in the secondary … he is tied for the team in tackles with 35, including 22 solo stops and 13 assisted tackles … has three tackles for loss for minus-7 yards … leads the team in interceptions with four … returned an interception 67 yards for a touchdown in UM’s 33-14 win at Boston College … has broken up a team-high four passes this season.
Antrel Rolle, CB – Rolle has proven to be a shut-down corner on the left side of the secondary … eighth in tackles on the team with 19 stops … has recorded 16 solo tackles and 3 assists … has one interception, which he returned 30 yards for a touchdown against Louisiana Tech … has also recorded one sack for minus-six yards this season … has also forced one fumble.
Mo Sikes, SS – A senior leader in the Miami secondary, Sikes has 16 career starts for the Hurricanes, but will miss the FSU game with a sprained knee … Sikes is fifth in the team in tackles with 24 … he has 16 solo stops and 8 assists through five games this season … has one tackle for loss and one pass breakup … recorded a highlight reel hit against Florida to stop the Gators on third down as the Hurricanes battled back for the win after being behind by 23 points in the third quarter.
Hurricanes To Watch On Special Teams…
Jon Peattie, PK – Peattie, a redshirt freshman, has stepped in for the departed Todd Seivers as the Hurricanes’ placekicker and performed well … has made 10-of-11 field goals (90.9 percent) with a long of 43 yards … is a perfect 18 of 18 on PATs … he is 4 for 4 in the 20-29 yard range, 5 for 5 from 30-to-39 yards and 1 for 2 for beyond 40 yards made a school-record five field goals to lead UM to a 22-20 win over West Virginia … made the game-winning field goal against UWV, a 23-yard attempt with 11 seconds remaining… leads the BIG EAST in field goals per game at 2.00 and accuracy at 90.9 percent.
Brian Monroe, P – Monroe, a true freshman, is handling the punting duties for the Hurricanes … is averaging 36.7 yards per punt with a long of 47 yards … on his 18 punts this season, Monroe has pinned the opponent inside the 20-yard line four times and forced five fair catches.
PASSING TOUCHDOWN CONNECTIONS
Current Miami quarterback Brock Berlin has connected with redshirt freshman wide receiver Ryan Moore with two scoring strikes through the first three games of the duos’ career at Miami. Below is a look at some of the Hurricanes’ great quarterback/receiver combinations finds numerous touchdown connections. Andre Johnson caught 21 touchdown passes from Ken Dorsey, which is the UM school record. Dorsey also found Reggie Wayne in the endzone 13 times and Jeremy Shockey 12 times. Vinny Testaverde and Michael Irvin hooked up 18 times for touchdowns, while Gino Torretta and Lamar Thomas combined for 16 scoring strikes. Bernie Kosar and Eddie Brown connected for 14 scoring tosses.
MIAMI REMAINS NO. 1 IN THE NFL DRAFT
During the last 20 years, National Football League teams have turned to the University of Miami more than any other college or university when it comes to premium picks in the annual draft.
