Miami makes it official and names D’Eriq King QB starter. Was there ever any doubt?
The University of Miami has a new starting quarterback — though the whole world knew who it would be.
Graduate transfer D’Eriq King will take the reins in 2020 for the Hurricanes’ new no-huddle, spread offense, if and when the season ever materializes during the COVID-19 pandemic.
UM released the news Monday.
“D’Eriq’s hard work both on and off the field has earned him the starting quarterback position,’’ coach Manny Diaz said of the quick, elusive starter, who greatly impressed coaches and teammates during only four days of spring football practice. “His leadership qualities have been evident since he arrived on campus, continuing through mat drills, spring practice, our virtual meetings and summer activities. We’re excited to see him lead this offense and I know his teammates are excited as well.’’
King, who transferred from Houston, is already being included in various watch lists among the leaders in college football. He is one of several nominees for the 2020 Davey O’Brien Award (nation’s top quarterback) and the Maxwell Award (nation’s most outstanding player).
King, from Manvel, Texas, set the American Athletic Conference record in 2018 with 50 touchdowns — 36 passing and 14 rushing. And that was done despite missing his last two-and-a-half games with a right-knee injury. He was 219 of 345 (63 percent) for 2,982 yards and his 36 passing touchdowns, with six interceptions. He also had 111 carries for 674 yards, a 6.1-yards-per-carry average.
In 2019, King, in his fourth season at Houston, announced he cut short his season after four games so he could use it as a redshirt year and retain his eligibility.
In 2019 during Houston’s game at Tulane, King set the FBS record for consecutive games (15) with a passing or rushing touchdown, breaking former Florida quarterback Tim Tebow’s record.
His Houston career numbers: 4,925 yards passing with 50 touchdowns and 10 interceptions, and 1,421 yards rushing with 28 touchdowns.
The other Hurricanes who were vying for the job are former part-time starter N’Kosi Perry and Tate Martell (redshirt juniors), true freshman early enrollee Tyler Van Dyke and redshirt freshman Peyton Matocha.
UM can officially begin fall camp on Aug. 7, per the NCAA.
This story was originally published July 27, 2020 at 10:51 AM.
