Mark Richt is a former University of Miami quarterback backup who played with the ‘Canes from 1978 to 1982. He’s always been a big influence, both on and off the field, and considered by many to be a stand-up guy. When looking for a new head coach, it’s vital to hire a guy who understands the Miami attitude and atmosphere. It’s a unique brotherhood that no team in college football can replicate, and without a man who understands what it takes, the program will suffer much like it did under former coach Al Golden.
Richt started as the offensive coordinator for Eastern Carolina University in 1989 before being hired as the quarterback’s coach at Florida State University in 1990. After proving to be an integral part of Florida State’s staff from 1990-1993, he was promoted to the position of offensive coordinator in 1994. After seven years of leading FSU as a high-powered offense, Richt was hired as the head coach of University of Georgia in 2001, where he has coached ever since.
Richt offers an impressive resume: two South Eastern Conference (SEC) titles, SEC coach of the year (twice), 14 straight bowl games, nine bowl wins, and seven top 10 ranked finishes.
Most importantly: he has a 19-3 overall record against Atlantic Coastal Conference (ACC) opponents.
Mark Richt was beloved in Georgia and well respected. He has recruited well and has developed current NFL stars A.J. Green, Matthew Stafford and Justin Houston, among others. Richt brings excellent offensive knowledge to Miami, which will help quarterback Brad Kaaya continue to progress in his development. Not only has Richt historically had great offenses, but he also has a defensive SEC attitude and regime that can help UM regain their physicality and swagger back on defense. UM’s defense has been a shell of themselves for years now, and Richt will have to find a way to improve them schematically in order for UM to take that next step towards success.
Many wanted former coach Butch Davis for the job, but it has been a long time since he has coached college football. Additionally, Davis was involved in a scandal at University of North Carolina that had numerous college athletes linked to illegal benefits such as gifts, academic dishonesty, and illegal contact with recruits or agents.
Mark Richt is not only a great hire, but the right hire. He brings a clean resume, UM familiarity, and a winning tradition, something Miami has lacked in previous hires. Miami looked at the athletic department and the board of trustees to come through with a proper hiring of a new head coach, and they answered with a home run hiring. Now Miami fans must do their part and not only show up to every game, but be patient with Richt. This is a process, and Richt brings a very impressive resume that the most recent hires have not possessed.
It’s been a painful season to watch and over a decade of misery for UM fans. The ACC and national media’s criticism and hatred have been noted earlier this year and have continued for UM all season. Many have made a mockery of Miami for years now, both on and off the field. Fear will strike into the ACC and the rest of college football with Miami learning to dominate once again.
Be patient, UM faithful. Greatness is coming back. Swagger is coming back. The U is coming back.
Brandon Carusillo is a senior majoring in public relations and minoring in psychology. He’s from Coral Springs and wants to work as an entertainment agent when he graduates. He loves music, sports, writing and photography.
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