ESPN recruiting analyst Corey Long took an informal poll recently, asking some of the nation’s top recruits their feelings on the University of Miami, Hurricanes football and the overall brand that is ‘The U’.
Nothing earth-shattering in the piece, but the general consensus (minus one biased, filthy Gator-to-be) was that UM is a beloved program that has had an impact on kids from all over the Sunshine State and a few others.
Most of the kids love the Canes, even if they’re headed elsewhere. Those who don’t necessary love the program, know that UM is an accomplished program that earned their respect.
Sanction chatter and scandal aside, it still seems to be all about ‘The U’.
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ESPNU 150 QB Chad Kelly, Buffalo (N.Y.) St. Joseph’s
College: Clemson
“My uncle [Jim Kelly] played there, and [the program] produced tons of great NFL players. There’s a little love and hate but full respect.”
Three-star James Brooks, WR, Groveland (Fla.) South Lake
College: Undecided
“I would love to have an offer from Miami, and I hate that I don’t. I think they have a great program with phenomenal athletes.”
Three-star WR Drico Johnson, Orlando (Fla.) Agape Christian
College: Central Florida
“I love the Hurricanes; I grew up watching them. They didn’t really go after me and I’m very happy with UCF, but I still have love for Miami.”
ESPNU 150 OL Jessamen Dunker, Boynton Beach (Fla.) High School
College: Florida
“Hate. They are Gator bait!”
Four-star CB Christopher Bivins, Gainesville (Fla.) High School
College: South Florida
“I love the Hurricanes. They represent swagger, championships and greatness.”
Three-star RB Roshard Burney, West Palm Beach (Fla.) Palm Beach Gardens
College: Undecided
“I have been a Miami Hurricanes fan ever since I was little. I still love them.”
Four-star CB Donaldven Manning, Miami Central
College: Virginia Tech
“I definitely don’t love Miami, but I don’t hate them, either. I can’t wait to compete against them.”
Four-star OLB James Burgess Jr., Homestead (Fla.) South Dade
College: Miami
“You know I love the Miami Hurricanes. It’s family, tradition, swagger and a future in the NFL.”
Three-star RB Jamie Gilmore, Citra (Fla.) North Marion
College: Undecided
“I love the history of the program with all the championships, but I hate the bad publicity they are receiving right now.”
ESPNU 150 DE Dante Fowler, St. Petersburg (Fla.) Lakewood
College: Florida State
“A little bit of both.”
Three-star S Rayshawn Jenkins, St. Petersburg (Fla.) Admiral Farragut
College: South Florida
“I love the Hurricanes even though they are going through a lot of stuff right now. They just have so much tradition that you can’t stop loving the program.”
ESPNU 150 WR Cayleb Jones, Austin (Texas) Stephen F. Austin
College: Texas
“I’ll always have love for The U. It’s a great program that is going through a tough time and negative publicity from bad choices. They will bounce back.”