Hurricanes' Defense Dominates Scrimmage
Aug. 20, 2005
CORAL GABLES, Fla. – Miami’s defense seemed to be everywhere in an intrasquad scrimmage Saturday morning at the Greentree Practice Fields. Whether it was a big hit by Jon Beason, an interception by Kelly Jennings or a sack by Bryan Pata, the Hurricanes defense made its presence known.
“The defense really stepped it up today and the offense didn’t,” head coach Larry Coker said.
Saturday’s practice marked Miami’s second controlled scrimmage of the preseason, which included plays from UM’s first, second and third strings in various situations. The stingy play of Miami’s defense was aided by the play of the offensive line.
“We had too many people in the backfield,” Coker said. “I don’t think we blocked people very well. Certainly that’s an area of concern when you’re turning people loose. We have to get that corrected.”
While the defensive line was busy in the trenches, tying up blockers, UM’s linebacker corps continued to shine and improve.
“The linebackers looked good today,” Coker said. “They’re getting a lot better. Jon Beason appeared to make a lot of plays. Willie Williams made a lot of plays running with the second string. They’re really starting to come on.”
The attacking defense took away many opportunities, but the offense still had its moments.
“We made a few plays,” Coker said. “We have good players. Kyle (Wright) did extremely well when he had an opportunity, but we didn’t have that many opportunities. We had some big runs and nice catch here and there, but not the consistency you need to be good on offense.”
Several UM players were held out of the scrimmage for various reasons, but nothing serious, Coker said. Offensive lineman Tyler McMeans (arm), running back Tyrone Moss (calf) and Sinorice Moss did not participate, but should all return soon, Coker said.
UM’s coaching staff will have plenty of time to evaluate film of the scrimmage before the Hurricanes’ next practice at 3:30 p.m. on Monday. With the start of classes on the horizon (next Wednesday), Miami will now regularly practice in the afternoon instead of the morning.
