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Miami Player Profile: Walter Tucker

In an effort to keep even the most hardcore Miami fan up to date on their favorite players, SOTU will be running a Player Profile series. In these posts, our writers will profile two players from each position that they think should get more face time. They will recap their previous year, or in some cases, preview what may be to come. That way, when the season get's here, you hopefully will have a new found love for the team on the field.

By Jerry Steinberg

Walter Tucker

Sophomore - FB - 6'0 220 - Plantation, Fl

Tucker appeared in 8 games last season, primarily on special teams. Was originally a LB but was converted to FB halfway through the season.

Now finds himself likely atop the depth chart as a lead blocker in Miami's offensive back field.

Tucker brings a little more athleticism to the position, and was an amazing track athlete in H.S. (two time state champion in the 110 meter hurdles). Has also been clocked at 4.4 in the 40.

This should serve him well as a receiver and an occasional runner, but can he match the mauling style of his predecessor Maurice Hagens?

Summary: Finding carries in this offense behind Duke Johnson, Gus Edwards, and Joe Yearby won't be easy. Tucker's best bet to see snaps is to become a thumping lead blocker. UM may go to a lot more one back sets if he isn't up the task, but I like his chances to thrive in the role. Another speedy athlete with tailback skills who succeeded at FB at both Miami and the in the NFL was Najeh Davenport. I am not yet saying Tucker will have that kind of success, but it at least shows the conversion is within the realm of possibility.  With the 'Canes stable of top notch tailbacks, they may very well be a run first and run second offense. Tucker's development at FB is storyline that is not getting a lot of attention, but could be very important in the long run.