University of Miami

Top Miami football players and Manny Diaz relay message in video from their homes  

The Canes are doing their part.

Four University of Miami football standouts and coach Manny Diaz are featured in a UM-produced public service video urging fans to stay vigilant and heed what national and local authorities are advising to help fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Hurricanes posted the 41-second video Wednesday on Twitter.

Quarterback D’Eriq King, cornerback Al Blades Jr., linebacker Zach McCloud, defensive end Greg Rousseau and Diaz each speak from their homes, where they are isolated. The student-athletes, along with all UM students, are finishing up the semester with online courses.

“Canes fans, these are unprecedented times,’’ Blades begins. “And we’re all doing our best to stop the spread of Covid-19.’’

King: “This pandemic has shaped daily life as we know it. And just like you, our football team is trying our best to navigate the new normal.”

McCloud: “Pay attention to medical experts and follow the measures set forth by leadership.’’

Rousseau: “It is important that everyone of all ages practices social distancing and sanitary protocol...

McCloud: “...so that we can do our part to contain this virus.’’

Diaz: “We are all in this fight together. But with every challenge comes a new opportunity. And we will come out of this stronger...

Blades: “...and more unified than ever.’’

King: “Stay healthy.’’

McCloud: “Stay safe.’’

Rousseau, throwing up the U: “And go Canes.’’

Blades: “And go Canes.’’

King: “Go Canes.’’

McCloud: “Go Canes.’’

Diaz: “And go Canes.’’

This story was originally published April 1, 2020 at 12:32 PM.

Susan Miller Degnan
Miami Herald
Miami Herald sports writer Susan Miller Degnan has been the Miami Hurricanes football beat writer since 2000, the season before the Canes won it all. She has won several APSE national writing awards and has covered everything from Canes baseball to the College Football Playoff to major marathons to the Olympics.
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