The Randy Shannon coaching era begins at the University of Miami when the Hurricanes square off in their season opener the against Marshall Thundering Herd at high noon Saturday from the Orange Bowl. Sportsbook.com has the Miami Hurricanes a 18 point favorite over Marshall.
The Hurricanes will have a new look to them as all the names on the backs of Canes Jersey’s have been removed. Also new will be the Quarterback, as mobile Junior QB Kirby Freeman has replaced the disappointing Kyle Wright.
Marshall is trying to bring back respectability to a program that has been in steady decline. The Thundering Herd will be returning 14 starters from a squad that went 5-7 last year. The Herd look to build on their late season rally that saw them go 4-2 in their final six games. Two of Marshall’s best players DE Albert McClellan and TE Cody Slate are Florida natives coincidently.
Cody Slate is the best weapon on the offensive side of the ball with his knack for getting open. 2006 Conference-USA co-defensive player of the year McClellan will be looking for some retribution after being snubbed by Miami recruiters for a perceived lack of size.
The Canes defense looks to be violent once again this year with future NFL first-rounder DE Calais Cambell leading the way. The Canes D will be a stiff challenge for the Herd to overcome with their anemic passing attack. Marshall’s strength is in its running game so look for plenty of option runs and short passes.
