Clark was referring to a brutal stretch of Big East games that will close out the season. The Hurricanes have 13 conference games left, and seven will match them against teams that are either ranked or receiving votes in the national polls. Big East records became even more crucial this season, because in a new format, the last-place team in each division will not qualify for the conference tournament in March. The loss spoiled a 31-point game by UM freshman Darius Rice. Rice made a UM freshman record seven three-pointers in 15 attempts.
Problem is, no one took responsibility for Miami's defense.
After playing to a 31-31 draw in the first half, the Hurricanes allowed 54 points in the second half, many of which came on open shots and layups. But then came the Hokies' game-changing run. When Miami point guard Michael Simmons picked up his fourth foul with more than 16 minutes left and had to sit, Miami's troubles worsened. The Hurricanes struggled to get the ball upcourt, and the turnovers mounted. Junior guard John Salmons struggled through 19 minutes for the Hurricanes, as he continued to fight the flu.