Jake Heaps: "I Did Not Come Here to Be a Backup."

The Miami Hurricanes open the season on Labor Day at Louisville, and the starting QB position is still an uncertainty.

One the newest 'Canes, Kansas/BYU transfer Jake Heaps, hopes to change that.

Heaps addressed the media today and was very cordial and confident.

Some noteworthy quotes from Heaps:

On winning the QB job:

"It is absolutely vital.  I made this decision for a reason.  I did not come here to be the back-up.  You have to come and earn it though.  I didn't want anyone to hand me the job.  It's my last year so I am giving it everything I have."

On choosing UM:

"I went through the process of everything and looking at my goals and aspirations...... the situation kind of unfolded itself.  It was too good to turn up...... The personnel on this football team provides a tremendous opportunity for me."

On Miami's offensive talent:

"Everyone knows about Duke Johnson. He's got everything. He has great vision, he catches the ball out of the back field well, and he is a smart guy.....  It's not just him though.....the WRs and the TEs are a very talented group.....  This WR group in particular is a very strong group. From the very first time I have got here it has been a blast.  This is a very hungry group.  We have put a lot of work in getting a feel for each other.  We are out there throwing every day and getting to know each other."

On learning the playbook:

"I have really engrossed myself in football...... I want to show these guys my work ethic and really study the play book.  I have had experiences in multiple offenses and with different terminology.... and at this point I feel very comfortable with where I am at."

On his strengths:

"I am a pro style QB.  I am a drop back QB.  I feel like my strengths fit very well with what we want to do here. Coach Coley is running a pro style offense. I feel very confident in my abilities as a passer."

Heaps also acknowledged he is not the most mobile QB but that he feels good about how he moves in the pocket.

On the QB competition:

"Anytime you are part of a QB battle you can have a divided locker room.... it is a testament to these guys that there hasn't been any division... we are all trying to do what is best for this team. We are all competing but we are all helping each other out as well."

On his impression on the team:

"I've tried to come here and be no one but myself, I want to show these guys I am a hard worker and I love the sport of football.  These guys are great and have really welcomed me in."

On his goals/team goals:

"I am here to compete for the starting QB job and that is an exciting opportunity for me.....It's about going out there and playing every down like it's your last.  Our goal is to win the ACC Championship."

On Coach Golden:

"The thing that I get from Coach Golden is that he has done a great job with this program.  He has done a great job implementing his ideals.  Doing things the right way is how I would describe it.  He cares about the guys and will make sure you are doing ok.  He doesn't leave anyone stranded.  He wants to help everyone be successful."

Of course there is still a long way to go in the QB competition.  Kevin Olsen, Brad Kaaya, and particularly a healthy Ryan Williams (if and when that comes to fruition) all have as good a shot as Heaps to be UM's signal caller. But it sounds like Jake is putting his best foot forward and is determined to be a big time factor in the Coaching Staff's decision process.

Stay tuned 'Canes fans.