Second Stringers Star In Spring Game
Loaded backfield ushers in bright future for the 'Canes
Updated 10:45 AM EST, Sun, Mar 29, 2009
The 'Canes coaching staff felt they might be deep in the backfield, but not this deep.
Sophomore running back Damien Berry rushed for 124 yards including a 54-yard romp to pay dirt to highlight a stellar day for the Canes second team offense in its annual spring game Saturday.
When Berry wasn't running through gaping holes created by the O-line, he was bowling over defenders like pins on his way to daylight. He also showed some sure hands with two catches out of the backfield.
"It was just my turn, my time to shine," Berry told the Miami Herald. "The offensive line did a heck of a job blocking for me and opening up holes."
Freshman Mike James also had a strong game on the ground and will battle for rush attempts during the season.
The CanesFest was supposed to be a coming out party for QB Jacory Harris, who became the full time starter after Robert Marve bolted because of Coach Randy Shannon's two-headed quarterback philosophy last year. Harris was effective, but not spectacular, completing 9 of 16 for 141 yards. The "Canes first-team offense didn't score.
Berry, who was listed as a safety his first year with the 'Canes, flipped the advantage to the offense when he entered the game. Playing for the injured Javarris James and Lee Chambers, Berry did his best to secure playing time for the fall.
With efforts like Saturday's, it will be hard to keep him off the field.
First Published: Mar 29, 2009 9:23 AM EST
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