While there are plenty of talking heads doubtful that Al Golden's young Miami Hurricanes will even be able to win six games this season, old Howard Schnellenberger put down his pipe for a second, traveled down to Coral Gables, took one look at the team, and decided they were just about the best damned thing he's ever seen in his entire 78 years on Earth. Considering Schnellenberger was the coach who originally launched the 'Canes into prominence, that's got to be worth something.
"That's the best-looking squad I've ever seen in my life physically including the Miami Dolphins, the University of Alabama, anybody," Schnellenberger told USA Today. "In 56 years of coaching, they looked better physically than anyone I've ever seen. They're young, but I think [Golden is] due for a real breakout. I don't know what everybody's expecting, but I expect them to be damn good."
Well, saying the team is better than the Miami Dolphins isn't saying much. Oh what sad, hellish era of Miami football we live in.
Of course, Schnelly's comments come just a few days after ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit declared that a measly six win season for the 'Canes would be "outstanding."
The Hurricanes have only had three season since Shcnellenberger became coach in 1979 when the team has won six games or less.
So, a six-win season is hardly outstanding. Yet, the fact that the team looks "better physically than anyone" Schnelly has ever seen before is promising for the teams future. Schnelly only won five games his first season before going on to win the team's first national championship. Butch Davis had a five-win season in 1997, but that team eventually matured into a monster.
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