Maybe it's just us, but don't the Hurricanes' new Nike uniforms for the game against Virginia Tech make the model look like a giant orange tic-tac?

Maybe more like a pumpkin Gumby. Or like Mr. Hanky dipped in orange paint.

With luck, they'll look different under the lights, because even Michael Irvin couldn't get us excited when he helped Nike unveil it today along with those for nine other programs chosen to receive the latest customized version of the brand's ProCombat uniforms.

(Okay, he helped a little.)

"I can't wait till November 20th," said The Playmaker. "You've heard many times when they say, 'Oh the team takes on the personality of the head coach.' These uniforms take on the personality of the team. This is fast, this is bold, this is what the U is all about - fast, bold players. That's the way we play the game.

"Check out how these numbers are designed, that's beautiful. And the 'U' - I came up with that, love that - that says everything about what Miami is. Running at you, you're going to see that U flash up. And all you're saying is 'he's going to beat you, he's going to beat you' in your own mind.

"They carefully designed a suit to help us beat you."

Miami first wore Nike's ProCombat uniforms last year against USF, an all-white kit that was reported to be 37% lighter than standard uniforms. The "system of dressing" is designed so that every part is made of the lightest material and bears the most state-of-the-art protection possible.

The new version isn't just notable for its glaringly orange jersey and pants combo -- for the first time in years, the Canes will wear a new-look helmet. Gone is the white top with the split-U logo, and in is a giant -- and possibly slightly sparkly? -- green dome.

That's alright by no. 47, who peppered his speech with potential NCAA violations like a pro.

"The color says money. That's money. When I see it, I say 'money.' Here again, we have to always think in terms of recruits.

"I hope I'm not getting in any NCAA violation for doing this," he interjected. "It's on Nike, not on me.

"They see that shiny green helmet, they are thinking, 'Man, I want to play in the NFL one day. Money, money green, I got to go to Miami.' You see how all of that stuff works? They did this right."

Hmmm...maybe it is just us.

Janie Campbell is a Florida native who believes in the pro-set and ballpark hot dogs. Her work has appeared in irreverent sports sites around the internet.