It's now official: Miami will be without eight players, including quarterback Jacory Harris, when they take on Maryland in the season opener on Monday. The NCAA handed down suspensions to eight players connected with booster Nevad Shapiro, giving them anywhere from one- to six-game suspensions.
The suspensions are as follows. Via Andy Staples of Sports Illustrated:
- One game: QB Jacory Harris, DL Marcus Forston, WR Travis Benjamin, LB Sean Spence, DL Adewale Ojomo.
- Four games: DB Ray-Ray Armstrong, DL Dyron Dye.
- Six games: DL Oliver Vernon
Those are some major losses. Harris is the big name, but the most significant loss is probably Armstrong, who is one of the top defensive backs in the ACC. That should make things easier for the Terps' young receiving core. The loss of all those defensive lineman should also be a big help to the Terps.
For more on Shapiro's claims and the NCAA investigation into Miami football, stay with this StoryStream. To check in with Miami fans, head over to The 7th Floor.