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June 11, 2008
OXFORD, Ohio - One might assume that when a team loses its top three running backs to graduation, prospects for improvement may not be immediately forthcoming. However, Miami University running backs coach Jay Graham says that that's not the case for his RedHawk troops in 2008.
"During spring drills, I think we showed that we can become a tough position," says the first-year coach. "We still have to improve in our pass protection, but our players showed me that we will run the ball well. With the addition of Andre Bratton, I think we're going to be pretty good."
No. 1 on the depth chart heading into August will be sophomore Thomas Merriweather from Florissant, Mo., but he will face a stiff challenge from junior Andre Bratton from Woodbridge, Va. Merriweather rushed for 143 yards on 40 carries as a true freshman, while Bratton sat out most of the 2007 season after being injured in game three against Cincinnati.
"Thomas had a real good spring for us," said Graham, a former running back himself at Tennessee. "He can become an every-down type of back for us, running both inside and outside. Thomas is improving day by day on his pass protection, and is a young man who makes good decisions."
"Andre is an explosive back who has great acceleration and can make big plays," continued Graham. "He catches the ball well and is probably one of our better outside runners. We expect Andre to be completely healthy when fall practice begins."
Sophomores Jamel Miller (Tallmadge, OH) and T.J.LATTIMORE (Maple Heights, OH) plus freshman DANNY GREEN (Oak Park, IL), who enrolled early and practiced with Miami this spring, all will get a chance to battle for playing time come August. Another true freshman, J.R. TAYLOR (Reynoldsburg, OH), will join the RedHawks in less than eight weeks.
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Finding a way to compliment Miami's strong corps of receivers is a priority for Graham.
"We have to be able to pass protect in order to give our quarterback an opportunity to throw the ball to our great receivers," he said. "And when you've got the threat of good receivers, those coverages will allow us the chance as runners to gain good yardage. If our backs keep improving their pass protection and are more decisive in our run game, I think we'll get to the level where we want to be."
Miami football season tickets are now on sale and can be purchased by calling 1-866-MU-HAWKS (684-2957) or 529-HAWK for renewal assistance. Season tickets for chair-back seats are $115, while general seating is $99.
MIAMI'S EXTRA POINT TICKET PACKAGE, 20 people or more: $15 per person
-includes reserved seats
-25% discount on game day tickets
-group recognition over the PA system
-special RedHawks gift for group leader
MIAMI'S TWO-POINT CONVERSION TICKET PACKAGE, 50 people or more: $12 per person
-includes reserved seats
-40% discount on game day tickets
-group recognition over the PA/Video board system
-special RedHawks gift for group leader
-participate in the Fan Tunnel
MIAMI'S TOUCHDOWN TICKET PACKAGE, 100 people or more: $10 per person
-includes reserved seats
-50% discount on game day tickets
-group recognition over the PA/Video board system
-participate in the Fan Tunnel
-autographed football from player/coach for group leader
--www.MURedHawks.com--
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