Senioritis not an option at The U…

Randy Shannon promised to instill some old school Miami Football tactics into his coaching style and he’s doing just that. In a throwback to the Jimmy Johnson era, Shannon scrapped the depth chart months ago and stated that performance is what gets you on the field, not seniority.

Shannon stuck to his word when this week’s depth chart was released. Freshman corner DeMarcus Van Dyke will make his first start on Saturday. Back up John Rochford got the starting nod at center over senior Derrick Morse. Freshman Orlando Franklin unseated senior Andrew Bain at offensive tackle.

Sixth year senior Francesco Zampogna takes over kicking duties instead of the heralded Daren Daly even though the walk on didn’t even make the 2007 media guide.

Injuries and suspensions shook up the depth chart as well. Sam Shields is sidelines and Khalil Jones will assume his receiving duties. Tavares Gooden starts at middle linebacker over slightly nicked up Darryl Sharpton. Injuries also have Dwayne Hendricks starting over both Josh Holmes and Antonio Dixon.

Old school is new school again at The U. Shannon is taking a page out of Jimmy Johnson’s playbook in his promoting competition and repeating over and over that nobody’s job is safe. Whether it’s lethargic play or injury, players have to earn their jobs back. No more promises that your starting gig will be waiting for you when healthy again. You want to start again? Earn your way back to the top on the practice field.

Hunger can’t be fabricated. You have to want it more than the guy next to you. Hear those footsteps? That’s the #2 guy on the depth chart breathing down your neck for your starting job.

Just one more example of what’s been wrong at Miami. People want to know how 12-0 became 7-6 over five years? It was a slow erosion due to the wrong mindset.

Thankfully this new tactic by Shannon will have an immediate impact.

.:Canes305:.

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