A Few Canes Notes

Not all that much happening since Signing Day, but still a few things are worth mentioning.

First off, congratulations to to Clint Hurtt and Michael Barrow for getting consideration from Rivals as two of the top recruiters in the ACC. Hurtt's involvement in the recruitment of 8 players landed him the top spot amongst assistants in the conference. Not that they really care what a recruiting website thinks of them, but it's always nice to be recognized for your efforts.

Next is the news of two position changes on the UM roster. Incoming linebacker Jordan Futch has been slotted as the 3rd string TE for the Canes. My guess is that there is so much depth now at LB that his skills might be better off used at the TE position. Not to say Futch couldn't play ahead of Spence or Brown, but there's nothing wrong with moving guys around to see what works.

UPDATE: Interestingly enough, Manny contests that this is a permanent switch. Futch is apparently going to be given a chance to try both positions.

Additionally, Allen Bailey has finally been moved to DE. He came in as a 260 pound MLB recruit and signed with the Canes under the impression he would be allowed to stay a linebacker. However, he has grown way too much to play that role and I have to assume he and Randy Shannon had a conversation about his long-term future in the business and that putting his hand on the ground would be best for all parties. I'm glad Allen acquiesced to the decision rather than throwing a fit and transferring elsewhere. He should be a monster for the D, especially now that we don't have much DL depth.

As for recruiting, it's still pretty early in the game. USC did get a 9th commitment for the 2009 class, but it's next to impossible to compete with them at this point. We are early front runners for many South Florida stars, and should have no problem landing a Top 10 class next year.

Austin Fitzpatrick, son of former Hurricane defensive tackle Tony Fitzpatrick, has us as his top choice entering his senior year. He is an athletic TE out of Texas, so landing him will be a big deal for the future class considering the lack of bonafide threat at the position right now.