Robert Mayer-US PRESSWIRE
The University of Miami Hurricanes have always been rockstars in the College Football Recruiting world. Well, at least since Howard Schnellenberger took over in 1979.
It makes sense that they would be remarkable in recruiting; outstanding program prestige featuring multiple National Championships, a list of NFL stars a mile long, and they happen to be surrounded by some of the most talented prep programs in the country. I’m sure the fact that they’re a beach school with a bevy of beautiful women doesn’t hurt their chances of landing the next Ed Reed.
But the school has fallen on hard times.
The talent level hasn’t been up to their normal level ever since Butch Davis left (no, Larry Coker did nothing to improve their talent level). They have been staggering on and off the field ever since Coker lost the National Championship to a much less talented (but better coached) Ohio State team.
Of course, scandals don’t help matters. The damage that the wealthy superfan/nerd/gotta-be-involved Nevin Shapiro had on the program won’t fully be known until the NCAA finishes their investigation. The sanctions likely won’t be anything like the disembowelment of Penn State, but will be stiff in their own right.
Al Golden was brought on to change the course of a sinking program. He is well aware that recruiting is going to be the lifeblood to right what is currently wrong. And so far, he’s done a very good job on the trail. He knows he’s going to need to stock up on talent now while they have a full allotment of scholarships.
So let’s take a look at who they have committed so far, and what they need to focus on moving forward…
QB- Kevin Olsen (brother of Carolina Panthers TE Greg Olsen) is committed, and he’s a good one to have. Unless Christian Hackenberg changes his mind, Olsen will be the only signal caller brought in.
RB- Alex Collins and Ray Lewis III are on board. And in case you think Lewis is offered because of his illustrious father, chew on this; last year Lewis had 2,312 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns, averaging more than 13 yards per carry.
WR- None. This HAS to change as this is a major priority.
TE- The ‘Canes have a fantastic tight end class assembled. Travis Johnson, Standish Dobard and Jeremy Kerr are committed.
OT- Only Alex Gall is committed. Look for one to two more at the minimum.
OG- None. Not a major priority, but one to two for depth would help Golden sleep at night.
C- None. This doesn’t figure to change as they haven’t even offered a center.
DE- None. Not a pressing need, but having depth will never hurt a team.
DT- Only Keith Bryant is on board, and while he’s very talented, this is a huge need position. Golden would love to add 3- 4 more.
OLB- None. The ‘Canes would absolutely love to get hometown boy Matthew Thomas, one of the best in the country.
MLB- None. Not a huge need, but UM will look to add one.
CB-Artie Burns is the lone man on board. He’s a stud, folks.
S- Jamal Carter is committed, and he’ll probably be the only safety they bring on.
ATH- Angelo Jean-Louis is a fantastic athlete who could help the ‘Canes in a number of ways. Could play wide receiver, running back, corner, and also help on special teams.
