sports_m-footbl_spec-rel_081698
August 16, 1998
CORAL GABLES, FL – The University of Miami football team practiced fortwo-and-a-half hours this afternoon at the Greentree Practice Field inCoral Gables. The Hurricanes worked out in shells using the sessionto practice in position groups. The Canes concluded practice withteam, 11-on-11 and two-minute offense.
The play of the UM secondary, particularly that of strong safety AlBlades and free safety Edward Reed was the highlight of the day,earning the praise of head coach Butch Davis.
“I thought our secondary made some big plays today,” said Davis.“If we are going to be a successful football team, we need our defenseto create turnovers and the defensive backfield did that today. AlBlades has excellent football instincts. When he plays sound withinthe coverage, you can expect some big plays. And Edward Reed is aninstinctive football player. He’s a good tackler, very aggressive,and all over the ball when it is thrown.”
Davis also commented on the sound play of senior defensive end DerrickHam.
“Derrick had some high and flat points last year,” explained Davis.“But Derrick has shown a lot of maturity and has performed consistentlythus far and I think he is going to have a great year.”
No injuries were reported. Defensive tackle Chad Pegues did notparticipate in post-practice agility drills due to dehydration. Defensivetackle Clint Hurtt is expected to be cleared for practice in eight dayswhile recovering from right knee arthroscopic surgery. Offensivelineman Eric Schnupp is out indefinitely recovering from reconstructiveright knee surgery to repair a torn ACL. Matt Walters continues tobe held from practice to recover from a broken bone in his right foot.
Practice continues tomorrow at 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the GreentreeField.
Schedule of Upcoming Events
- August 18, First day in pads, 8:30 & 3:30, Greentree Practice Field,UM Campus.
- August 22, CanesFest 9:00 a.m., Orange Bowl Stadium, Miami.
- August 26, CanesFest-Broward, 6:00 p.m., Lockhart Stadium, Ft. Lauderdale.
