The sports world loves “next” comparisons. In the modern era, today’s players rarely get to stand on their own merit, often measured up by yesterday’s greats.
Hurricanes running back Duke Johnson and former Miami standout Edgerrin James are impossible to compare. Opposite running styles and completely different physiques and each unique in their own right.
Where they’ve proven alike—a desire to ignore the critics, think long-term, set trends and to eventually lead by example.
James and Johnson are players from different eras, but each made their way to Miami when “The U” wasn’t the popular choice. In both cases, traditional state powers had overshadowed the Hurricanes, the dark cloud of the NCAA hovered and UM had lost its national luster.
Still, neither was swayed by Miami’s lack of sizzle, bought into what perspective head coaches were selling and each wanted to be an integral part of the Hurricanes’ return to glory.
It takes a special player to ignore the criticism, negative recruiting and pulls in multiple directions. Both James and Johnson proved wise beyond their 18 years when setting their sights on Miami.
James arrived in Coral Gables by way of nearby Immokalee in fall of 1996. Butch Davis just wrapped up his first season at Miami, where severe NCAA punishment was recently handed down. The Hurricanes were stripped of 31 scholarships over a four-year span and earned a one-year postseason ban in 1995.
The highly touted running back was a Parade All-American, first-team All-State selection and district MVP. An elbow injury shortened James’ senior season to five games, yet he still ran for 1,252 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Despite having offers from Florida State, Florida and Penn State—all which were in much better shape at the time—James chose “The U” and proved to be the cornerstone of Miami’s 13-player class.
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