Time to get Richt with the Lord: The Official Miami HurriCanes Fall Camp Thread
- Thread starter rastafarwrite81
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He qualified as a true freshman didn't he? And Miami has tougher entrance requirements than most SEC schools.
Maybe I should lower my standard for the fans instead of the players. I clearly said "stays" eligible. I'm literally 15 mins away from East St. Louis. I've been knowing this kid before you Miami bums first heard of him at the Under Armour game. He was a terrible student. Here's from his high school coach directly:
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- Jeff Thomas' journey from East St. Louis to Miami
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Thread: Jeff Thomas' journey from East St. Louis to Miami
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Jeff Thomas' journey from East St. Louis to Miami
JT$.jpg
It was not until the final stretch of the recruiting calendar for the 2017 cycle that Miami fans realized the possibility of adding one of the most dynamic players in the country – wide receiver Jeff Thomas from East St. Louis High School.
One glimpse of his highlights and the electric playmaking ability jumps right out. It almost seems like Thomas glides with the ball in his hands.
But his journey from East St. Louis to Miami has not always been a smooth ride. Thomas’s high school coach Darren Sunkett joined the podcast last night to discuss his evolution on-and-off the field.
***
The East St. Louis area, as Coach Sunkett described, produces athletes who compete with a chip on their shoulder – similarly to how football players from Miami are often characterized.
“I’ll tell you, it’s really no difference from Dade County and the kids who grow up in Pork & Beans neighborhood and places like that come from – it’s the same type of environment,” Sunkett said.
“We come from a tough area, but our kids growing up in this type of area, if they can persevere and make it out of this, then they can make it anywhere. We are true believers that with Jeff being from East St. Louis, he can survive anywhere. I think he’s just a perfect fit for the University of Miami.”
Thomas’ ability in the football field has never been in question. For his coaches, it was about finding him the right fit as a young freshman who saw significant playing time at the varsity level.
“Jeff actually came in as a running back from the little league circuit. Us looking at his future and size and things of that sort, we knew we had a special kid and our thing was to convert Jeff into a slot receiver and make him the best slot he could be,” Sunkett explained. “He came in a little raw as far as his route running, but as a natural athlete he’s very gifted. He’s a very gifted pass catcher with great hand-eye coordination and as far as speed goes, he walked in as a freshman and was one of the fastest two or three guys on our football team.”
Where he did have some growing up to do was in the classroom. Thomas just enrolled at the University of Miami this Monday and is fully qualified – something that wouldn't have been possible without him changing his ways in school.
“The biggest thing was academics. When kids come into your program as freshmen, they really don’t understand how important academics are the moment you step foot in high school and Jeff was no different from any other kid – he didn’t take it as seriously as he should have,” he said.
“Jeff is a very intelligent kid, he just didn’t put the effort in that he should have during his early years as a high school student. He had a little bit of an uphill climb to get to where he is academically to qualify at Miami. But kids like him just have tunnel vision, and especially from the inner city, they can’t see that far ahead of them that these opportunities will be there for them when they become seniors.”
Fool that's because he wasn't focus! Not because he dumb. You making him like he was derrick rose
like I said he aint dumb, CAC!
Being a knucklehead usually mean they ain't focused
buddy a cac. he's not tryin to hide it. that cac act like Thomas story is different from most players. some of black players were "knuckleheads" and some still are. that doesn't mean you give up on them.Being a knucklehead usually mean they ain't focused
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The Work 8-5: First week of fall camp
**The quarterback position is shaping up more and more to be an Evan Shirreffs and N'Kosi Perry race. According to program sources, Shirreffs appears more confident than he was in spring practice and seems to be trusting has arm downfield more than he previously had. N'Kosi Perry, who had been working almost exclusively with the second-and-third offensive units, received some first-team action in Saturday morning's practice.
A major positive with Perry that a few people have noted is how quickly he gets the ball out of his hands. There does not seem to be much hesitation in his decision making -- add that with the fact that Perry is the most gifted passer on the roster. I'd expect most of the first team reps at QB to continue going towards Shireffs and Perry.
**There's been a ton of good buzz on freshmen receivers Mike Harley and Jeff Thomas -- and for good reason. Every Canes fan knew the type of speed each of them were bringing to the roster when they signed, but here's a bit more info on what each are doing.
Mike Harley has made big plays just about every single day of camp. Bombs, screens, posts, slants, you name it -- Harley just gets open. The criticism of him as a recruit was whether his smallish frame would hinder him against physical play at the next level, but Harley has shown that he gets off the line like a technician and it's tough for corners to recover against that sort of speed.
Jeff Thomas has shown flashes of what he can do but multiple people I've spoken to get the sense that he's only scratched the surface as far as what he can add to the offense this season. One tidbit that I found interesting when looking at these two freshmen receivers -- Thomas has been working almost primarily in the slot, while Harley is being used in more of a flanker role.
People are really excited about Lawrence Cager's return. He has a leg up on Dionte Mullins right now in that battle for the receiver spot opposite of Ahmmon Richards.
**Deejay Dallas is officially starting to get some reps with the running backs. Dallas will still be at receiver, but this potential twist has been rumored for months (first mentioned by DMoney on our spring practice podcast). The intriguing thing about Dallas' skill set is that he is looking really, really good at wide out, and Dugans has moved him around to essentially every role. Although his route running is a work in progress, his body control and ability to snatch the football out of the air have been extremely impressive to those who have watched.
It has become increasingly apparent in just the first week of camp that Dallas will have a role in the offense. He could also have tremendous value as a third-down back.
**When it comes to freshman defensive end DJ Johnson, two words you hear regarding him are "speed and motor". Johnson is sitting somewhere between 255-260 pounds right now. The eye-opening thing about him though his is speed, which some speculated whether or not would translate over from the high school track to the college field -- and it certainly has.
Johnson does not have the pass rush moves he needs moving forward, but he has made a handful of plays in the backfield based almost solely on his speed and relentless motor. Neither him or fellow freshman DE Jonathan Garvin will redshirt.
**Freshman CB Trajan Bandy has been a fit in Manny Diaz's defense almost immediately. The most notable observation I've heard from different sources is how quickly Bandy is able to diagnose plays and react. Bandy had a pick-6 during his first practice. Him and Malek Young will both see time in the nickel spot this season.
As coaches have noted multiple times already, Jhavonte Dean and Dee Delaney are both the truth and have been living up to expectations. Both are probable starters, but things could vary depending on the opposing team's personnel.
**Freshman safety Derrick Smith has the size to be an immediate contributor, which everyone knew. But what has been a bit of a surprise to some is how smooth his hips appear to be in coverage. He is not necessarily in the playing rotation at this moment, but he's showing promise.
**The quarterback position is shaping up more and more to be an Evan Shirreffs and N'Kosi Perry race. According to program sources, Shirreffs appears more confident than he was in spring practice and seems to be trusting has arm downfield more than he previously had. N'Kosi Perry, who had been working almost exclusively with the second-and-third offensive units, received some first-team action in Saturday morning's practice.
A major positive with Perry that a few people have noted is how quickly he gets the ball out of his hands. There does not seem to be much hesitation in his decision making -- add that with the fact that Perry is the most gifted passer on the roster. I'd expect most of the first team reps at QB to continue going towards Shireffs and Perry.
**There's been a ton of good buzz on freshmen receivers Mike Harley and Jeff Thomas -- and for good reason. Every Canes fan knew the type of speed each of them were bringing to the roster when they signed, but here's a bit more info on what each are doing.
Mike Harley has made big plays just about every single day of camp. Bombs, screens, posts, slants, you name it -- Harley just gets open. The criticism of him as a recruit was whether his smallish frame would hinder him against physical play at the next level, but Harley has shown that he gets off the line like a technician and it's tough for corners to recover against that sort of speed.
Jeff Thomas has shown flashes of what he can do but multiple people I've spoken to get the sense that he's only scratched the surface as far as what he can add to the offense this season. One tidbit that I found interesting when looking at these two freshmen receivers -- Thomas has been working almost primarily in the slot, while Harley is being used in more of a flanker role.
People are really excited about Lawrence Cager's return. He has a leg up on Dionte Mullins right now in that battle for the receiver spot opposite of Ahmmon Richards.
**Deejay Dallas is officially starting to get some reps with the running backs. Dallas will still be at receiver, but this potential twist has been rumored for months (first mentioned by DMoney on our spring practice podcast). The intriguing thing about Dallas' skill set is that he is looking really, really good at wide out, and Dugans has moved him around to essentially every role. Although his route running is a work in progress, his body control and ability to snatch the football out of the air have been extremely impressive to those who have watched.
It has become increasingly apparent in just the first week of camp that Dallas will have a role in the offense. He could also have tremendous value as a third-down back.
**When it comes to freshman defensive end DJ Johnson, two words you hear regarding him are "speed and motor". Johnson is sitting somewhere between 255-260 pounds right now. The eye-opening thing about him though his is speed, which some speculated whether or not would translate over from the high school track to the college field -- and it certainly has.
Johnson does not have the pass rush moves he needs moving forward, but he has made a handful of plays in the backfield based almost solely on his speed and relentless motor. Neither him or fellow freshman DE Jonathan Garvin will redshirt.
**Freshman CB Trajan Bandy has been a fit in Manny Diaz's defense almost immediately. The most notable observation I've heard from different sources is how quickly Bandy is able to diagnose plays and react. Bandy had a pick-6 during his first practice. Him and Malek Young will both see time in the nickel spot this season.
As coaches have noted multiple times already, Jhavonte Dean and Dee Delaney are both the truth and have been living up to expectations. Both are probable starters, but things could vary depending on the opposing team's personnel.
**Freshman safety Derrick Smith has the size to be an immediate contributor, which everyone knew. But what has been a bit of a surprise to some is how smooth his hips appear to be in coverage. He is not necessarily in the playing rotation at this moment, but he's showing promise.
like I said he aint dumb, CAC!
The fukk does that have to do with the statement? College ain't about who's smart and who's dumb.....dummy. It's about focus and discipline. We've known about the "lil fast cat from East St. Louis" ever since he was running track as a pee wee. He was always a horrible student at a horrible school that gave him all the "help" he needed. You nikkas think you know a kid cause he committed to a school that you root for, so now you wanna take ownership for him. Everyone in this area can tell you, their biggest concern for him is his grades. From his family down to his old coaches all have the same concern of him staying eligible down in Miami, thats why the push from everyone here was Illinois or Mizzou so they can still have some influence on his focus cause he's such a fukk up in school. But continue to be a Stanley that reads shyt outta context. Bum didn't even know his name prior to the UA game. But wanna tell me about the kid that I've seen him run track and play football back when everyone thought he was gonna be too small to go D1. Shet the fukk up....bum ass Cane dikk rider.
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Being a knucklehead usually mean they ain't focused
Exactly.....he was never focused on his grades. He didn't take an algebra class until his senior year at a school who's academic rigor is laughable. The words "dumb" never came outta my mouth. For a kid who is behind the 8 ball already academically, I'd be shocked if he "stayed" eligible down in Miami. Not a shot at the kid, just an honest assessment from someone who knew of the kid before he was even a D1 prospect.
This is why no other program is like Miami. They really believe in the family aspect of things.
U Network: Richt reaches out to Miami alumni needing help
By TIM REYNOLDS
Today
U Network: Richt reaches out to Miami alumni needing help
Link copied!
CORAL GABLES, Fla. (AP) — The first week of training camp at Miami had just ended, and Hurricanes coach Mark Richt made his way after practice into a luncheon to do some recruiting.
He wasn’t seeking new players.
His aim was to assist past ones.
Richt calls it “The U Network,” a program he’s been plotting ever since he returned to his alma mater to coach 20 months ago. It is now off the ground with a simple mission: to help any former Miami player, especially those seeking a job. Richt, along with several members of his staff and other university personnel, set up what became a networking event and job fair — the first of what will be many, Richt hopes.
“The U Network is a 365-days-a-year adventure, so to speak,” Richt said. “We just want to help our guys connect with each other in a reunion-type thing, help friendships that already exist and make new friends within the football alumni. But also, if anybody feels forgotten or anybody feels like nobody cares, we do care. And we want everybody to know that we’re here to find work if they need work, or a good connection, or just know that you’ve got friends.”
For the inaugural event, Miami had representatives from numerous sides of the business world — the plumbers’ union, the Coral Gables Police Department, builders, roofers, a flooring company, the hospitality industry and others come out to talk to job-seeking ’Canes.
Dozens of former players from different generations and their families showed up — and at least one got a job on the spot. Others said they left with more meetings scheduled, or at least a better idea of what might be out there in the marketplace.
“I’ve been in business for over 30 years and it’s hard for me to ask for help,” said former Miami player John Fenton, who was a Richt teammate with the Hurricanes and now is a CEO coach in Atlanta. “I’ve come to the realization that I can’t do it all myself. None of us have all the answers. So this is a great way to connect, build relationships and get the help we need.”
Tolbert Bain has no problem asking for help.
He’s been sufficiently humbled by what he’s gone through.
Bain was a starting defensive back for Miami’s national championship team in 1987. He went to prison in a heroin conspiracy case and served about three years, getting out in 2013. He went to the first U Network event in a suit, hoping someone will give him a chance.
“Coach is straight up, a great guy. We have the right guy back in place to take the program back to its glory days,” Bain said. “When I heard about this, I knew it was a great idea. Brotherhood here at the University of Miami, it’s for real. It’s not just for TV. It’s for real. This place, everybody truly supports one another.”
Richt said he wants anyone who played for Miami involved. To illustrate that, placards were set up around the event naming all former Hurricanes who Richt’s staff hasn’t been able to reach. Those in attendance were asked to fill in the gaps with a phone number or an email address of anyone they knew who was on that list.
The way he sees it, investing in Miami’s past will also help the present and the future.
“We want our current players to know that when it’s all over, whether it’s after a pro career or whatever it is, that when they need help they’ll have a place to go,” Richt said. “If they know that coach will care about them then, I think that helps them play even harder for each other now.”
Richt originally hoped to start the program months ago, but planning took longer than first envisioned. It’s training camp right now, and Miami goes into 2017 with the annual set of high expectations that all Hurricane teams carry.
Still, Richt and his coaching staff found the time to be at the network’s debut event. Richt had practice film waiting for him when the event started; he didn’t get to it for hours.
“Mark Richt is asking players to commit three, four or five years, the most important years of their lives to him and this program,” said Don Bailey Jr., a former Richt teammate, the team’s radio broadcast analyst and one of the business owners talking to players. “In turn, he’s committing to them to make sure their life is secure after football. I think it’s the ultimate payback.”
___
More AP college football: http://collegefootball.ap.org and AP Top 25 (@AP_Top25) on Twitter
U Network: Richt reaches out to Miami alumni needing help
By TIM REYNOLDS
Today
U Network: Richt reaches out to Miami alumni needing help
Link copied!
CORAL GABLES, Fla. (AP) — The first week of training camp at Miami had just ended, and Hurricanes coach Mark Richt made his way after practice into a luncheon to do some recruiting.
He wasn’t seeking new players.
His aim was to assist past ones.
Richt calls it “The U Network,” a program he’s been plotting ever since he returned to his alma mater to coach 20 months ago. It is now off the ground with a simple mission: to help any former Miami player, especially those seeking a job. Richt, along with several members of his staff and other university personnel, set up what became a networking event and job fair — the first of what will be many, Richt hopes.
“The U Network is a 365-days-a-year adventure, so to speak,” Richt said. “We just want to help our guys connect with each other in a reunion-type thing, help friendships that already exist and make new friends within the football alumni. But also, if anybody feels forgotten or anybody feels like nobody cares, we do care. And we want everybody to know that we’re here to find work if they need work, or a good connection, or just know that you’ve got friends.”
For the inaugural event, Miami had representatives from numerous sides of the business world — the plumbers’ union, the Coral Gables Police Department, builders, roofers, a flooring company, the hospitality industry and others come out to talk to job-seeking ’Canes.
Dozens of former players from different generations and their families showed up — and at least one got a job on the spot. Others said they left with more meetings scheduled, or at least a better idea of what might be out there in the marketplace.
“I’ve been in business for over 30 years and it’s hard for me to ask for help,” said former Miami player John Fenton, who was a Richt teammate with the Hurricanes and now is a CEO coach in Atlanta. “I’ve come to the realization that I can’t do it all myself. None of us have all the answers. So this is a great way to connect, build relationships and get the help we need.”
Tolbert Bain has no problem asking for help.
He’s been sufficiently humbled by what he’s gone through.
Bain was a starting defensive back for Miami’s national championship team in 1987. He went to prison in a heroin conspiracy case and served about three years, getting out in 2013. He went to the first U Network event in a suit, hoping someone will give him a chance.
“Coach is straight up, a great guy. We have the right guy back in place to take the program back to its glory days,” Bain said. “When I heard about this, I knew it was a great idea. Brotherhood here at the University of Miami, it’s for real. It’s not just for TV. It’s for real. This place, everybody truly supports one another.”
Richt said he wants anyone who played for Miami involved. To illustrate that, placards were set up around the event naming all former Hurricanes who Richt’s staff hasn’t been able to reach. Those in attendance were asked to fill in the gaps with a phone number or an email address of anyone they knew who was on that list.
The way he sees it, investing in Miami’s past will also help the present and the future.
“We want our current players to know that when it’s all over, whether it’s after a pro career or whatever it is, that when they need help they’ll have a place to go,” Richt said. “If they know that coach will care about them then, I think that helps them play even harder for each other now.”
Richt originally hoped to start the program months ago, but planning took longer than first envisioned. It’s training camp right now, and Miami goes into 2017 with the annual set of high expectations that all Hurricane teams carry.
Still, Richt and his coaching staff found the time to be at the network’s debut event. Richt had practice film waiting for him when the event started; he didn’t get to it for hours.
“Mark Richt is asking players to commit three, four or five years, the most important years of their lives to him and this program,” said Don Bailey Jr., a former Richt teammate, the team’s radio broadcast analyst and one of the business owners talking to players. “In turn, he’s committing to them to make sure their life is secure after football. I think it’s the ultimate payback.”
___
More AP college football: http://collegefootball.ap.org and AP Top 25 (@AP_Top25) on Twitter
Alot of kids don't get right till they get a little older. Being in a prestigious university such as UM and seeing all the opportunities around may wake him up and make him realize he needs to shape up or else he'll go back to E. St Louis
I used to be stationed at Scott AFB and would hit up them clubs in east st from time to time muthafukkas in their doing the chickenhead
.... shyt is the the gutter tho.
