CORAL GABLES – D’Eriq King is the undisputed team leader for a reason at Miami.
In yesterday’s (Aug. 15) first scrimmage, the graduate senior quarterback was nothing short of spectacular with his execution, going 12-for-16 with 124 yards and two touchdowns.
Hurricanes head coach Manny Diaz lauded King’s performance.
“It was great to see D’Eriq King,” Diaz said. “I thought he was phenomenal running the offense, extended plays with his legs. Tough guy to defend.”
Diaz was also impressed with wide receiver Charleston Rambo (60 yards, TD).
“[Charleston] had a beautiful catch in the end zone,” Diaz said.
Other offensive standouts for Miami included the following: Jacolby George (seven catches, 127 yards, touchdown on slant), Romello Brinson (four catches, 73 yards), Mark Pope (three catches, 56 yards), and Breshard Smith (two catches, 30 yards).
Diaz saved perhaps the most exciting receiver on his team for last: Xavier Restrepo (Deerfield Beach alum).
“It wouldn’t be a scrimmage without Restrepo, making five catches,” Diaz said. “The guys does it every time we scrimmage.”
One defensive standout for Miami, according to Diaz, was striker Keontra Smith (four tackles, sack, PBU).
“I think he has stood out all camp”, Diaz said. “He made a big tackle where we had to change momentum and get the defense going again. Got everyone fired up on that sideline.”
Diaz was proud of how Zach McCloud (Santaluces alum) performed as well.
“Zach McCloud had a great sack late in the game on the long yardage situation,” Diaz said.
Diaz provided a recap on the scrimmage and how it went overall.
“There’s evidence on both sides of the ball that this can be an outstanding football team,” Diaz said. “But there’s also evidence on both sides of the ball that we’re not quite there yet.”
Diaz had more to say about yesterday’s action.
“Greatness comes from being consistently good,” Diaz said. “You will always have a tug of war at camp. One day, the defense hedges it, and the next day, the offense hedges it. Let’s take that next step and not just be satisfied with good…We think greatness is available.”
PHOTO CREDITS: Miami Athletics
