In the aftermath of Stephen Morris’ first career start in Miami’s win Saturday, there was some talk that there was a new quarterbacking sheriff in town.
On a lot of levels, the talk makes sense. Morris was impressive in the win over Maryland, throwing for 286 yards and a touchdown, although the true freshman did have two interceptions. Entering a year that saw him appear on many a preseason Heisman list, Jacory Harris has been an erratic disappointment. Harris has thrown 14 touchdowns against 11 interceptions, and is ranked 83rd in the country in passing efficiency.
A concussion to Harris opened the door for Morris’ start Saturday, but Randy Shannon is attempting to slam shut any discussion of a quarterback controversy. Basically, the head coach said Sunday that, if Harris is healthy, he will be the starter. Just when that will be, however, remains to be seen.
“If he’s cleared and doing all the things, then, yes, he’ll be the starter,’' Shannon said after the game. “You don’t lose your job because of one game. That’s going to be the next question this week, huh -- quarterback controversy. You are all going to make it worse than what it is.
“I will not know until the medical staff tells me. Until the medical staff clears him, Jacory will be out. If the medical staff never clears him, Jacory will not play.
“I can’t say he’s going to play this week, next week or the week after. It’s up to the medical staff. So, when he’s cleared to go, then I can let you guys know.”
Harris is expected to miss this weekend’s game against Georgia Tech as well, meaning that another performance from Morris will cause the cries for a change at the position to grow even louder. Regardless of what Shannon may say publicly.