sports_m-footbl_spec-rel_100698

October 6, 1998

CORAL GABLES, FL—The University of Miami Hurricanes held a gruelingtwo-plus hour workout today in preparation for Saturday’s annual contestwith intra-state rival Florida State. The Hurricanes split time betweentheir regular practice site, Greentree Practice Field, and the baseballhome of UM, Mark Light Stadium. Practicing in full pads, the sessionwas spent working in position groups and the kicking game before breakinginto team drills.

Coach Butch Davis lauded his players intensity and focus today as theyprepare for the 8th ranked Seminoles. “I was pleased with what Isaw out here today. These players know the challenge in front ofthem. FSU has had our number the last three seasons and we need tobe ready to play on Saturday.”

One of the keys this Saturday for UM if it is to be successful againstFlorida State is the play along the offensive line. Davis changedthe starting personnel along the offensive front last week prior to facingRutgers by moving Damond Neely from left tackle to right guard, and insertingRobert Hall at left tackle. Neely, who started the first three gamesat left tackle, replaces redshirt freshman Martin Bibla.

“With (Ty) Wise in the middle and Richard Mercier on the left and Damond(Neely) now on the right, this line has really improved starting from themiddle,” added Davis. “With the addition of Robert (Hall) we nowstart a senior, three juniors and a redshirt freshman (Joaquin Gonzalez)along the offensive line. I really like the athleticism and chemistryof this group.”

Saturday’s game will be televised live by CBS at 3:30 p.m. Atape delay broadcast will air on SportsChannel at 11:30 p.m.

Tickets for Saturday’s FSU tilt at the Orange Bowl are available atthe UM ticket office and all TicketMaster locations, or can be orderedby phone at 1-800-GO-CANES.

INJURY REPORT: There were no new injuries reported.