Enemy Blogger Interview: Miami

This week, we have Canes Pundit joining us, and we are very thankful again for someone taking the time to answer our questions. With that, let's jump right in.

1. Miami is returning some suspended players, including recently named starter for this game, Jacory Harris. What kind of impact will they have on this game?

I think Jacory will provide the game management that was lacking in the Maryland game. With that, however, comes his tendency to turn the ball over. LB Sean Spence, - Miami's best defender - returns, as does our two top returning sack leaders. It should clearly benefit a defense that gave up a lot of yards to Maryland.

2. Who are the playmakers on offense and defense?

The top playmaker on offense is RB Lamar Miller. He is 215 lbs, and runs a 4.3 40. He should be a nationally known name by year's end. On defense, it is aforementioned Sean Spence, an outside linebacker that is slated to go in the first two rounds of next year's NFL draft.

3. Both Ohio State and Miami had horrid offseasons, and many think Miami should end up with getting the "Death Penalty". What are your thoughts on the situation?

I doubt they get the death penalty, thought I do anticipate the loss of scholarships and a bowl ban. It's a shame because most of the infractions involve coaches and players that are no longer here. The current players' infractions form 2008, though minimal, were valid and required punishment. I just feel that if you're going to scrutinize to this level, then every school must be held culpable for their actions - as every school has a student athlete that has received a free meal or $100 in benefits at some point.

4. As the Miami defense, who scares you most? Braxton Miller or Joe Bauserman?

I would side with the 25 year old senior with starting experience. While Miller was highly touted out of high school, he is still a  true freshman.

5. How do you think this game plays out? How will Miami finish out the season? (W/L), Bowl game?)

I think if this game was played last weekend, Miami would be better off. Now that Ohio State has gotten it's "scare" I think they focus more at the task at hand. If Nathan Williams returns, (Ed. Note: Nathan Williams had his knee scoped, so he's a no-go for Miami) I like their chances even more. That being said, Miami was a depleted team against Maryland and gets 7 starters back for this game. And it is at home, with Miami having a special teams edge. If, IF, they can minimize turnovers, I see them having a very good chance of winning this game. (Just FYI, I did pick Miami to lost to Maryland)

As for the rest of the season, I envision something in the neighborhood of 9-3/8-4 with a December bowl appearance (uh...provided they are still eligible to play in a bowl).