Daryl Jones can't do the job. When the Hurricanes faced a tough early road game last year Sept. 9 in Washington, UM ran for only 30 yds. Many Miami players are talking about how much they enjoy playing so far for new HC Larry Coker, who was promoted from off. Many players say they were unable to express themselves under the tight disciplinarian control of Butch Davis, who has moved on to become HC of the Cleveland Browns. Cornelius Green with a lingering toe problem that is causing growing concern.
Coaches feel they have some depth at the position.
Taliaferro suffered a broken back last September in Penn State's 45-6 loss at Ohio State and was paralyzed for several weeks. Taliaferro now helps coach the Nittany Lion DBs, helps coaches at practice every day, breaks down film, lifts weights and eats with the players. Both coaches placing major emphasis on important Big East matchup for each. O'Brien says he feels his team is the best-conditioned in the Big East and that his players will now have the mental toughness to pull through in the 4th Q of close games. O'Brien also says he believes the Eagles' team speed is improved enough to allow BC to compete on even ground with any team in the league.