Dobard adapts to role on defense

CORAL GABLES — With Miami’s defensive depth issues, the Hurricanes have had to get creative.

One experiment they’ve been tinkering with over the course of the past week? Moving tight end to the defensive line, where the Hurricanes were without starting defensive ends and

as well as defensive tackle week against Virginia Tech.

Before Miami traveled to Blacksburg, defensive coordinator said it was unlikely Dobard — who has just two catches in six games this season — would be available at defensive end considering how complex it can be to transition to a new position, particularly on a short week.

But as the Hurricanes continue preparing for Saturday’s game at Notre Dame, Diaz said the Hurricanes are still working to help Dobard adapt to the new role.

“We’ll have to see the way the game goes,” Diaz said Wednesday when asked if Dobard could play on defense Saturday. “What I appreciate is that he’s a senior that’s just trying to find a way to make an impact to help the football team in any way he can. That’ll be big down the stretch.”

For now, at least one of Dobard’s new teammates on the defensive side of the ball has been encouraged by the former tight end’s progress.

“He looks good. It doesn’t look like he just started. He’s got a little bit of an idea about it,” said defensive tackle

Jackson,

NBC

Manny Diaz McIntosh. Next game: Stan Dobard Chad Thomas Demetrius Gerald Willis,

last

RJ

Miami at Notre Dame, 3:30 p.m. Saturday,