I love the message being sent. Miami recruit Lerentree McCray messed with the bull and got the horns. As of Monday, McCray is no longer being recruited by the University of Miami.
The talented four-star linebacking prospect out of Dunnellon (FL) High had his scholarship offer revoked when coaches lost faith in his commitment. Randy Shannon and staff seem to have no issue with recruits going on visits and checking out other programs, as long as their commitment is a strong one.
McCray seemed to be wavering and wasn’t telling coaches what they wanted to hear, so he’s gonzo. For the first time in a long time, the Canes staff is playing offense instead of defense.
Deonte Thompson burned Miami last year. Before that, guys like Preston Parker and Antone Smith bailed The U last minute. Same can be said for several quarterback prospects on the Canes’ radar.
In the past few years under Larry Coker, Miami lost Nick Fanuzzi, Daniel Stegall, Pat Devlin and Derek Shaw over the span of three seasons. In all cases, these quarterback prospects committed early and bailed in the final hour, leaving the Canes in a big time lurch.
The new Miami staff has flipped the script and the message has been sent. Either you’re with The U or you’re against it. If you’re committed, enjoy your other visits but stay committed. Stay in touch. Remain on board. The minute you’re wavering, you’re no longer with the program and the Canes need to go another direction.
In the past few weeks, Miami closed on on linebacking prospects Brandon Marti, Zack Kane and John Calhoun. Marti and Kane are projected to play linebacker and Calhoun, most likely fullback. All three appear to be solid Miami commits and kids who aren’t wavering. All about The U and ready to jump on board.
Adding them to the mix with incoming linebackers Sean Spence, Antonio Harper, Marcus Robinson and Jordan Futch and it’s pretty obvious that Miami’s staff is prepared for an unexpected hiccups along the way.
McCray would’ve been a great addition to this class, but this program isn’t going to be strung along by a teenager feeling things out. You’re in or your out. The message has been made clear, not just to McCray but to any on the fence recruits.
You’re either with the University of Miami or you’re against it. You choose.