Manny Navarro started working for The Miami Herald as an editorial assistant in 1995. A graduate of Braddock High (Class of 1996), he studied print journalism at Florida International University. Manny was the Herald's Miami-Dade County high school beat writer between the 2002-2006 seasons. He currently covers University of Miami football and basketball as well as recruiting news.
UM Sports Chat
Chat with sportswriter Manny NavarroMost Recently Answered Questions
Questions 21 - 50 of 1414 (Page 2 of 48)Submitted by Michael Messerly from Omaha, Nebraska
Q: Did you hear Boise State making a claim to play any BCS team anytime or anywhere. I think Miami should play them and set up a home and home. Well Boise State is creeping up on the Miami home winning streak of 58 games. But will also show Miami isn't scared to play anyone at anytime. Play them early in the season so Miami doesn't have to worry about the cold of 2006. But bring Boise to Miami late in the year so Boise has to play in the heat!
Answered 11/10/09 15:53:13 by Manny Navarro
A: Good idea Mike. But I think athletic director Kirby Hocutt wants to schedule Pac-10, Big 12 and Notre Dame opponents first.Submitted by Michael Messerly from Omaha, Nebraska
Q: How come people in Miami don't support basketball? Coach Haith is solid and I'm happy Miami has him, but I also fear that Miami might not be able to pay coach Haith if the Canes make trips to the dance. Do you ever see Coach Haith leaving Miami for more money? Or does he like being in the ACC.
Answered 11/10/09 15:52:09 by Manny Navarro
A: Haith enjoys Miami, being in the ACC. Right now, he has the comfort of low expectations and the support of the faculty at UM and enough money to make him happy. I think once he gets really hungry or hits a wall with the program here, he will go somewhere else. The bottomline is UM basketball has giant obstacles to overcome. It starts with attendance and general interest in college basketball.Submitted by Michael from Omaha, Nebraska
Q: Do you ever see the NY Yankees playing Miami in an exhibition game? I know Miami plays the Marlins every year, but I think Alex and the Yankees could play Miami in baseball or would the Marlins frown on that? Have the game at Landshark Stadium with all tickets sales going to the University of Miami. I want to say that the Yankees played a game vs Virginia Tech a few years ago.
Answered 11/10/09 15:39:04 by Manny Navarro
A: The Yankees did play a game against Virginia Tech. But it was after the shooting tragedy at the school. The fact A-Rod has a connection to UM, I could see an exhibition taking place. But I haven't heard anything about that yet.Submitted by Michael Messerly from Omaha, Nebraska
Q: Hey Manny, 3rd and 43 is reporting that Nike has teamed up with 10 colleges and debuting new uniforms. Miami is going to debut vs USF game. So far only Florida State has posted pics of the new uniforms. Miami only shows the gloves. So far I like what I see. Do you think Nike will give Miami fans long awaited black uniforms?
Answered 11/10/09 15:16:51 by Manny Navarro
A: Good find Mike. I'm going to have to ask somebody at UM about it.Submitted by Carlo Blandeburgo from Anaheim, California
Q: Manny I say that Miami's offense would be better and or could have been better all season. The reason it has not jelled totally is because Harris has been given instructions not to scramble, for obvious reasons. If he gets hurt the U is hurting. Think about it he runs out of the pocket in a scramble mode maybe once a game on average. Could you comment on this please.
Answered 11/10/09 14:59:22 by Manny Navarro
A: I'm not sure he's been given specific instruction not to run outside the pocket. I think that is just the way Jacory plays. In high school, he was the same way. Besides, he can get hurt just the same by a lineman falling on his leg or a big hit by a blitzing defender.Submitted by Mike from Lansing, MI
Q: Thanks for all the great info Manny. With so many schlorships gone, who do we focus on to finish the class?
Answered 11/10/09 14:57:39 by Manny Navarro
A: Offensive linemen. Miami wants both Linder and Barton from St. Thomas Aquinas. Those are the priorities right now. If they can add a difference maker -- Christian Jones or a tight end -- that could also round out the class, they'll do it.Submitted by Sarasota Cae from Sarasota, FL
Q: Why would the Herald send you the World Series when it seems your primary role is covering the University of Miami as described in your bio? That is a slap to the 'Cane/Herald community.
Answered 11/03/09 17:50:11 by Manny Navarro
A: I also cover The Marlins and have a weekly Sunday baseball Sarasota. This is how journalism works nowadays. Newspapers are dying and reporters are losing their jobs. That leaves the people left behind to do two and three jobs. We need the economy to turn around and a better plan for survival.Submitted by Bad technique Cane from Miami fla
Q: Manny, how bad is our secondary being tought mechanics. Griese was continually making allegations of bad technique, angles? I understand the pass rush has a lot to do with it, but would you agree secondary coaching is not up to par. It's been a few years now.
Answered 11/03/09 17:48:35 by Manny Navarro
A: Read my blog tomorrow. I asked Demarcus Van Dyke, Chavez Grant and Randy Phillips all those questions. There were plenty of interesting responses.Submitted by Keith from Miami
Q: Manny, any idea who is going to enroll early?
Answered 11/03/09 17:47:17 by Manny Navarro
A: I have to go back and look at the list of commitments. There weren't many kids who told me they were interested in doing it. Center Shane McDermott is one. Darian Hall said he was going to be early. LB Javarie Johnson. Those are the only three for sure.Submitted by Raul from Hialeah, FL
Q: Do you think Miami has enough in the tank (baring injuries of course) to run the table and at least make it to the championship game next year? I was just thinking college football does not have a Florida type team in 2010 and all the big games are HOME next year. What do you think?
Answered 11/03/09 17:43:52 by Manny Navarro
A: Raul, Miami has major holes to fill on its offensive line next year. You've seen what this season has been like thus far. UM has given up 23 sacks in eight games. In addition to that, they are paper thin at every position but WR and RB. You need depth to win championships. I don't see it right now.Submitted by Jmoney from Atlanta,Ga
Q: Manny is it safe to say the Hurricanes will end up in the top ten in recruiting? It is starting to get better.
Answered 11/03/09 17:41:47 by Manny Navarro
A: I think as long as UM has a Top 20 class, they're fine. At this rate, I think UM is headed in that direction.Submitted by Dan from Miami
Q: Oye Manny...It seems as if Shannon doesn't take responsibility for mistakes. He's always quick to place blame on a missed block, missed assignment, incorrect personnel, etc. I understand that players are the ones on the field, but when will he acknowledge that coaches are the ones responsible for getting these players prepared? We are 8 games into the season, and we still have guys making these types of mistakes. What gives? Thanks for all you do!
Answered 11/03/09 17:37:45 by Manny Navarro
A: Randy has never been one to take blame solely or place it on any of his coaches. He feels like UM's coaching staff does a good job getting players ready. Honestly, I think both parties deserve blame.Submitted by Caneiac from Washington, D.C.
Q: Time for the scoop on Storm, Dent, and Clements. Storm came out of nowhere, give is the 411 on all that? How does this affect Clements and Hall? So was Clements the silent or is it still outstanding? Also, what is gonna happen with Dent now that FSU wants him? Is he solid? Lastly, what is the story with Payne and Linder, we need those two bad!
Answered 11/03/09 17:35:39 by Manny Navarro
A: All great questions Caniac. The only kid I've spoken to in the last 24 hours -- since I've been back from New York -- is Clements. Give me some time to reach out.Submitted by ljackson from elkhart,in
Q: Hey Manny... What's good? My question is why is everybody thinking miami need more linebackers? They now have 4-5 commitments. Who is the receiver favoring miami? Also, who do the Canes get on the OL?
Answered 11/03/09 17:33:16 by Manny Navarro
A: I think Brandon Linder and his St. Thomas teammate are the other two OL UM lands. As for linebacker, Miami needs help. I'm not sure Arthur Brown is ever going to figure things out. I think Miami's strength in this class is going to be LB. I like Kevin Nelson, Javarie Johnson and Travis Williams. I think all three of those kids will be able to help and backup Spence, McCarthy and Futch next season along with Ray Buchanon. Trust me, UM needs help at LB.Submitted by Raul from Hialeah, FL
Q: Oye Manny, I know you are surprised, I was just reading the article that we got a verbal from Eduardo Clements. I thought you had said it was a long shot, I've got to be honest I did too but where in the hell are all these RB's going 2 play(I believe Lamar Miller is special though man)? Any other surprises?
Answered 11/03/09 17:30:19 by Manny Navarro
A: Not really a surprise to me. I've known about Clements for more than a month. He told me in confidence and I promised not to announce it. I was just surprised he broke it today.Submitted by Daniel from Miami, FL
Q: Manny, with 3 RBs commits and possible FB in Hagens, who leaves or transfers from Miami's current stable? It maybe early in the week, but do you see any injured players returning this week? Thanks for the coverage and GO Canes!
Answered 11/03/09 17:25:36 by Manny Navarro
A: Not sure who might make it back this week. Randy was vague about that. But it definitely doens't look like Patrick Hill will be back.Submitted by HurricaneRic Machiav from atl
Q: Hey Manny, they say Arthur Brown isn't ready. Shouldn't the defensive coordinator create schemes to fit players talent? Your thoughts.
Answered 11/03/09 17:23:18 by Manny Navarro
A: Where to place blame with guys like Arthur Brown? To me it goes both ways. Coaches have to find a way to get the guy on the field and the kid has to find a way to get on the field.Submitted by Daniel Ryan from Jax, Fl
Q: Manny; As of now UM has 4 OL committs for 2010, what's the deal why can't we get some quality OL to come here. Last year it was a top priority, but reports now say that UM dont see those guys either panning out or they've made very little headway. What's going on, last years crop of OL had I believe 2 players that played other positions in HS and were going to be converted to OL for UM. This is truly worrisome, and I think J.Harris may agree!
Answered 11/03/09 17:20:54 by Manny Navarro
A: Daniel I've been talking about this OL and the lack of talent it has since last year. The fact only six guys are in the rotation tells you the young guys aren't coming along at a rapid enough pace. Is it coaching? I don't know. Usually, it takes OL two full seasons to get acclimated to the speed of college football. For every Jason Fox, you have 10 Harland Gunns. I think unfortunately for Miami, there aren't a lot of Jason Foxes on this line or any coming down the road. Unless, of course, Miami nabs Brandon Linder.Submitted by Chris S from Windermere Florida
Q: What players that are currently injured do you think will be back before the season is over. Is Moncur coming back? Spence? Coach Shannon spoke this morning about all the guys that were injured and said they were not coming back for the next game, so the injuries have to be more the bumps and bruises...thanks.
Answered 11/03/09 17:18:04 by Manny Navarro
A: Chris this team is playing with tons of injuries. Randy Phillips told me flatly today there are only three guys who are playing who have yet to suffer an injury -- Brandon Harris, Sam Shields and Jared Campbell. Everyone else is playing banged up.Submitted by Leo from Raleigh, NC
Q: Manny, I know lots has been said about the injuries on defense and the fact that we had a lot of 2nd and 3rd stringers playing, but, what we saw at WF was a defense that had no clue in the 1st half and another that wasn't half bad in the 2nd. To me that is a result of coaching or lack there of. Whether we have a successful run with our last few games, to me, will depend much more on defensive coaching than any other part of the team. Your view?
Answered 11/03/09 17:16:43 by Manny Navarro
A: Leo, this is actually my topic on the blog for later tonight. Randy Phillips said whatever teams have come out with in the first half have usually been nothing UM has seen before. The Canes usually have to make halftime adjustments. Those are being made. Unfortunately, I think there are a lot of limitations with players. Some of them don't have what it takes between the ears to really understand what is going on. Sooner or later, the Arthur Browns, Brandon McGees and everyone else recruited to this program has to figure things out.Submitted by VASoulCane from Radford, VA
Q: Manny, what's good man? 3 Questions. 1) With Storm and Eduardo on board now, what do you think Darion Hall will do? 2)Nix has been fickle from the start, but now its seems he has Glenn wavering a bit too. What do you think happens there? And finally, Was Eduardo REALLY the silent commit? OR are one of the longshots:Linder, Lemonier, or Luc still possible candidates for that silent commit? Manny, Talk to me.
Answered 11/03/09 17:14:06 by Manny Navarro
A: All depends on Hall. Miami doesn't want guys who are scared of the competition. I haven't spoken to Hall in a while. He didn't sound like somebody wavering to me. I think the Jacksonville kids are actually just building drama. I'll try and reach their coach tonight. CLEMENTS WAS THE SILENT COMMIT.Submitted by George from Miami, FL
Q: I don't know if you'll be able to directly answer on my question, so I'll add an additional question. My first question is since Eduardo Clements just committed, is it safe to say that he was the "silent commitment"? If he wasn't the silent commitment, then I'm extremely pumped to know that we're going to get another quality recruit. My additional question is after the commitments of Storm Johnson and Dent, how many scholarships does the U have left for this recruiting cycle?
Answered 11/03/09 17:11:11 by Manny Navarro
A: Clements was the silent commitment. When I talked to Clint Hurtt last month, he told me UM was planning on signing 25-27 recruits. My guess is two more OL, one CB, one TE if he becomes available.Submitted by Michael from Omaha, Nebraska
Q: Where do you see Miami basketball finishing this season. I know we have a young team with some skill guys but the ACC seems to be wide open. Besides Duke who do you pick to win and who do you think is the darkhorse! Thanks.
Answered 10/27/09 15:25:44 by Manny Navarro
A: I think the Canes, picked 12th by a few preseason magazines, are probably going to finish right around where they did a year ago. I'd say anywhere in the 6 to 8 range in the ACC. I like those freshmen a lot and Malcolm Grant. They will all be welcome additions to this team. The key for UM is Dwayne Collins. If he plays better than we've ever seen him before and does it consistently this Miami team is good enough to finish in the Top 6 and possibly reach the NCAA Tournament. But I'd bet 8-8 in the ACC, 19-20 wins is about right. They'll got the NIT at least if all those guys I mentioned stay healthy.Submitted by Jesse from Philly
Q: One more question Manny. Do you think this was the year to go to a NC, because I remember you writing an article early this was that year. Do you think it is possible next year or 2011 with people leaving for the draft and/or graduating ie. Jason Fox?
Answered 10/27/09 15:22:28 by Manny Navarro
A: Jesse, it seemed to me like this year might have been more favorable for the Canes to do it for a few reasons. One, their tough schedule. Two, the problems on the OL next year. Three, I thought the rest of college football was a bit down (which it is). Does that mean UM can't win a title in 2010 or 2011? No. But I still feel the Canes have let perhaps a great opportunity slip by this year.Submitted by Eric from Marco Island, FL
Q: Manny, I know people are concerned about stars and what not from the last couple questions, but honestly, can you tell us what some of our best players were coming out? Kenny Dorsey? Ray Lewis? Clinton Portis? Edge? Dan Morgan? Didn't we have the 14th rated class when Kenny came in? and Texas have the #1 class (and they didn't do much with it, wasn't until later they started winning)?
Answered 10/27/09 15:19:30 by Manny Navarro
A: I don't have the numbers in front of me Eric. But I'v done the research before. The point is stars are meant to be used as opinion by the evaluators at those websites. Those guys don't always see all of those athletes in person. They see them on film, hear about them from other people and rank them. It's impossible to evaluate every high school kid in the country and get a true measure of what could or could not make them great players down the line. That's why I only throw my opinion out about the guys I see play in person and speak with myself.Submitted by Pat from Germantown, MD
Q: It's been a long time, Manuel! Earlier in your posts, you mentioned something about our (lack of) talent for a championship team. With all that being said, don’t we have enough talent to beat the remaining teams on our schedule? I don’t think anyone on our schedule this year has/had more talent than us other than Oklahoma and we beat them (I know w/o Sam Bradford … DRAFT HIM REDKINS!!!). Are we ever going to reach our potential … I think at least our starters can be household names by next year?
Answered 10/27/09 15:11:37 by Manny Navarro
A: We've passed the midway point in the year Pat and the starters are getting banged up. It's time for the Ramon Buchanons, the Brandon McGees, the Ben Jones and Brandon Washingtons to start playing and showing us they aren't just fill-ins. Is Miami's starting 22 good enough to win out? Yes. But those starting 22 aren't 100 percent. Frankly, this is the time anyway you'd hope to start seeing guys who haven't seen the field much start seeing it more and making plays. It's called player development.Submitted by Caneiac from Washington, D.C.
Q: It sounds like the Canes are offering a few more JuCo O-linemen. What are the chances of the U adding them to their class? How about other JUCO players at TE or QB?
Answered 10/27/09 15:08:25 by Manny Navarro
A: I don't see Miami going after a JUCO QB. A tight end? Absolutely if something good was out there. As for the offensive lineman interest, it signals to me Jeff Stoutland or someone on the staff has sounded the panic button. He must not think much of the guys on scout team right now. Miami's offensive line situation without question will be the biggest story to follow this spring. I think they are in big trouble. Orlando Franklin looked terrible at tackle Saturday against Clemson. Ben Jones might have had "the light bulb turn on" as Stoutland said last week. But who else can you put at tackle next year? Jermaine Johnson, Stephen Plein must not be ready at all.Submitted by John from Atlanta, GA
Q: Hey Manny, Thanks for your great work! What do you take from the Clemson game? The perceived argument between Whip and Shannon? For some reason I felt like the Canes were missing that killer instinct (especially on D) against Clemson.
Answered 10/27/09 15:03:13 by Manny Navarro
A: What I took from the Clemson game was two things. One, this team still doesn't have the mentality that an elite Top 10, BCS type school needs to have. Two, this team still doesn't have the depth it needs to survive as a Top 10, BCS type school. The Canes aren't back John. They're just getting better. They need more time.Submitted by JayTee from Tallahassee
Q: Manny: As fans, we have many questions about the players' abilities, attitudes, etc... Why not the coaches? The loss this week-as well as at VT- was as much due to defensive game plan, attitude, and effort as anything else. Now, on the "great" teams around the country, these attributes are credited to the coaches. What does that say about our coaches? Assuming consistent talent level, is this group of coaches one that will produce a Nat'l Champion team?
Answered 10/27/09 15:00:43 by Manny Navarro
A: Good question JayTee. I'm not sure all of the coaches on this staff are. A big part of this comes down to evaluating talent, injuries and how smart the players really are. You can teach a guy how to do something until you are blue in the face. But at what point does it become his responsibility to learn it?Submitted by Big Mike from Coral Gables
Q: Manny, what's going on with this year's recruiting class? I see alot of 3 star recruits and few 4 stars. I don't see any 5 stars and perhaps UM finishing with a 15-20th ranked recruiting class. I thought this year's fast start would help Miami land bigger names in the recruiting front....help me out, am I missing something?
Answered 10/27/09 14:57:54 by Manny Navarro
A: Mike don't read too much into star ratings. I've preached this for years. Sean Spence was a three-star recruit at the end of his junior year of high school. Arthur Brown was a five-star recruit since about his sophomore year. Who is the better player right now? Worry more about the coaches. Here is an idea. Go to Rivals or Scout and look up the star rating and then see if a guy has improved or gotten worse since signing. That's a good barometer for how good the coaches are.
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