CNN/SI - 1999 College Football Conference Previews - CNN/SI's Miami of Ohio team preview

Touchdown Travis

Miami of Ohio ('98: 10-1, 7-1)

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Posted: Wednesday August 11, 1999 05:30 PM

The Plot

Miami faithful just don't know how good they have it. In the same school year Wally Szczerbiak leads the RedHawks to the NCAA basketball Sweet 16, Travis Prentice rushed for more yards than anyone in America not named Ricky. However, less than 20,000 a game watched Prentice's heroics in Oxford, a main reason 10-1 Miami got left home come bowl time. Bowl prospects will only get better by beating Marshall for a shot at the conference crown.

The Director

Terry Hoeppner, first season

Starring

RB Travis Prentice -- A couple "average" games away from all-time Miami and MAC rushing leader.
LB Dustin Cohen -- Dominating presence comes off 146-tackle, four-INT season.

Co-starring

WR Trevor Gaylor -- Should see more action as Hoeppner opens up offense.
QB Mike Bath -- Productive as sophomore but needs to cut down on mistakes.
DT Andy Araci -- Junior anchor of D-line promises to be even tougher.

And introducing

SS Rod Clark -- This 5-foot-8 sophomore has the unenviable task of replacing Arizona Cardinals draftee Paris Johnson.

Why it will work

Offense is experienced and dangerous with Prentice's presence.

Why it won't

Significant loss in defensive personnel leaves questionable depth.

Our critics' review

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