The NCAA ruled today that eight of Miami’s players have been suspended for at least one game in light of an investigation of players who received improper benefits from a former Hurricane booster, Nevin Shapiro.
Included in those that will miss Miami’s Labor Day date with the Terrapins at Byrd Stadium are starting quarterback Jacory Harris, preseason All-ACC linebacker Sean Spence and safety Ray Ray Armstrong and defensive tackle Marcus Forston.
The suspensions range from one to six games, with defensive lineman Olivier Vernon taking the cake with a six game suspension and an order to repay $1,200.
It would tend to reason that this turmoil will make the road easier for Terps coach Randy Edsall to take home a win in his first game, especially considering Miami’s dealing with a new head coach of its own in Al Golden.
Either way, Miami’s defense will be without some of its play-makers, possibly opening the door for Terps quarterback Danny O’Brien to continue his pace from last season.
Stay tuned with The Diamondback — which unfortunately had to be sent to print for tomorrow before the NCAA’s investigation was released — for updates heading into this Monday’s matchup.
