sports_m-footbl_spec-rel_092298

September 22, 1998

CORAL GABLES, FL — In preparation of Saturday’s nationally televisedcontest with 3rd ranked UCLA (2-0), the University of Miami Hurricanesheld a two-hour practice today in pads at Greentree Practice Field on theUM campus.

The Hurricanes (2-1, 0-1) look to rebound from a heartbreaking, 27-20,overtime loss to Virginia Tech in their BIG EAST opener last weekend.Miami hopes to improve upon its five turnover, 13 penalty performance againstthe Hokies.

“UCLA is one of the best teams in the country,” said coach Butch Davis.“We have to eliminate mistakes and negative plays. Our approach sincepreseason camp has been that this year consists of 11 one-game seasons.We have to put the Virginia Tech game behind us and move forward.”

Davis termed senior cornerback Nate Brooks (shoulder) and sophomorereceiver Aaron Moser (concussion) doubtful for Saturday. CornerbackLeonard Myers (ankle) went through the entire practice and will play, whilecornerback Markese Fitzgerald (leg contusion) participated in 75 percentof the drills and is also expected to play Saturday.

The Hurricanes entertain the UCLA Bruins at 12:00 in the Orange Bowlunder the cameras of CBS Sports.

As Hurricane Gorges moves through the Atlantic, University officialsare closely monitoring the storm. Contingency plans will be announcedshould the South-Florida region stand in the storm’s path.