MIAMI VOICES
ON WINNING THE NATIONAL TITLE
‘This was not only the team, but the coaching staff. They were determined to change the image of this college. They recruited young men with great character and they proved that you can do that and win. They are determined to never go back to that [lawbreaking and violations] again.’
Donna Shalala, Miami University president
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ON HIS TEAM’S CHARACTER
‘The officials came to me after the game and said, “It was so enjoyable to work with your players. They’re a class act. They are national champions.” That carries over a lot more to life than just winning a championship.’
Larry Coker, Miami head coach
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ON HIS FIRST TOUCHDOWN CATCH
‘I tried to get physical with the DB and he fell down. When the ball was in the air, I said “Please let me catch it, please let me catch it.” ’
Andre Johnson, Miami wide receiver
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ON RETURNING FOR HIS SENIOR SEASON
‘I’m definitely coming back next year. It means a lot to me to continue my education and be there for guys like Andre Johnson and Kevin Beard. You can’t replace game experience.’
Ken Dorsey, Miami junior quarterback
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ON MIAMI’S DEFENSIVE PERFORMANCE
‘We didn’t practice to give up three or four touchdowns, we practiced to shut them out. We didn’t shut them out but we shut them down.’
Jonathan Vilma, Miami linebacker
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ON IF THIS IS THE BEST MIAMI TEAM EVER?
‘Best ever? None better.’
Vilma