For most Americans, Thanksgiving comes in November. But for University of Miami linebacker Rod Mack, every day seems as though it’s Thanksgiving.
“Honestly, I’m just happy to be healthy for the first time in a couple of years,” said Mack, a fifth-year senior from Miami Pace. “I come to practice with a smile on my face now. For a while I didn’t think I’d ever be healthy again.”
Two years ago, Mack (6 feet 1, 225 pounds) was the Hurricanes’ starting middle linebacker. He made five starts in seven games before sustaining a season-ending knee injury. He also had an ankle injury that required surgery during the offseason.
Those injuries lingered into the 1998 season. Before he knew it, he was relegated to a backup role behind Dan Morgan at weakside linebacker. Because Mack has so much experience — he has appeared in 31 games at UM, making seven starts — he found himself being consulted frequently.
This year, UM has a 12-man linebacker crew that includes seven freshmen and sophomores, so it’s common to see Mack counseling the youngsters during practice.
“They still come to me with questions,” Mack said. “Last year, when Dan and Nate [Webster, middle linebacker] were having so much success it made me proud.”
Mack hasn’t been forgotten. He will get a lot of playing time as Morgan’s backup, and is in UM’s short yardage, goal line and nickel defense packages.
“His experience is very valuable,” coach Butch Davis said. “He’s an older guy and knows how to prepare. He’s the major insurance policy you have because he’s started at all three positions.”
That’s why Mack prepares the same before each game. Last year, he started the East Tennessee State game because strongside linebacker Michael Smith was out with an injury. He was also called on during the UCLA game, when UM was down a linebacker because Webster was serving a one-game suspension.
“It seemed like last year a lot of crazy things happened,” Mack said.
Mack, who earned his business management degree, is pursing a second degree in finance.
His education and health are two reasons Mack plans on enjoying his final year of college football as much as possible.
“Whatever happens personally, or whatever success I have on the field,” Mack said, “I’m going to be grateful.”
Hirsch being honored
Sonny Hirsch, the radio play-by-play voice of UM for 28 years, will have a street near the Orange Bowl named after him in the next couple of months.
Hirsch died March 25 of coronary artery disease.
Sonny Hirsch Way, which will be 14th Street between Third and Eighth avenues, was unanimously approved by the Miami City Commission on Aug. 11.
Larry Blustein, a longtime friend and associate of Hirsch, was the main force behind the movement. Blustein said he wanted to do something to honor Hirsch’s legacy.
The fifth floor press box at the Orange Bowl is also scheduled to be dedicated in Hirsch’s honor early in the season.
Depth only concern
Davis said depth is his main concern regarding his 12th-ranked Hurricanes entering Sunday’s Kickoff Classic against No. 9 Ohio State. “All of the depth we have here is unproven,” Davis said. “We feel better about the depth we have [than a year ago].” … Davis said he had no doubts this was a game UM had to play when the opportunity arose. “I think there’s too much upside. When you get a chance to play an opponent like this it’s a great chance to measure your program.”
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