The improvements have not been as
drastic on the defensive side of the ball,
but they have also occurred under Martin.
After allowing a clip of 35.7 points and
nearly 500 yards of offense per game last
year, the RedHawks have lowered those
averages to 29.5 points and 356.0 yards
per game.
Mark Schmetzer, who covers Miami for
the Cox Media Group, said the offensive
improvements alone have helped the de-
fense, which is led by junior middle line-
backer Kent Kern.
"With the way it's shaping up right now,
the defense is not going to be spending as
much time on the field," Schmetzer said.
"Chuck was talking last week about how
he was watching film from last year's team.
The defense would come off the field after
a series, and instead of going over to their
benches to sit down, they would literally
just hang near the sidelines because they
knew they were going to be going right
back into the game.
"The offense couldn't hold the ball.
They didn't want to waste the time going
that extra 20 yards [to the benches]."
If nothing else, the offensive improve-
ments have helped improve the RedHawks'
defense. Chances are high, though, that it
still won't be enough to compete with an
angry and motivated Michigan squad. ❑
Fifth-year senior linebacker Lo Wood (shown above playing for Notre Dame last season)
has transferred from the Fighting Irish and earned a starting job for Miami (Ohio).
PHOTO BY BILL PANZICA
