Hurricanes adapt without Walton

CORAL GABLES – With standout running back

lost for the year because of an ankle injury that will require surgery, the 11th-ranked Hurricanes will turn to a group of young running backs to try to fill the void left by his absence.

But during his weekly appearance on WQAM-560 Monday, Hurricanes coach acknowledged it won’t be easy, considering the role Walton played not only at tailback, but on special teams and as a vocal leader in the locker room.

“I told the team we’re going to miss his productivity on the field as a running back, as a pass protector, as a special teamer, but he’s also got a lot of the spirit of the team every day in practice,” Richt said. “Who’s going to pick up the slack there? I mean, if we say next man up, jumps in there at tailback, but there’s special teams the next man up, there’s spirit and enthusiasm and love of the game that people’ve got to step up and be the next man up.”

Homer, who has served as Walton’s backup this season and has rushed for 207 yards in Miami’s first four games, will carry the majority of the load moving forward.

who has 34 yards this season and is working back from an anterior cruciate ligament injury, will also see increased reps, as will freshmen and

Walton Gray, DeeJay Dallas. Braxton Berrios Next game:

3:30 p.m., ABC

Mark Richt Mark Travis Homer Trayone Robert Burns

UM’s was named the ACC Receiver of the Week on Monday after his performance in the Hurricanes’ 24-20 win over FSU. Berrios had eight catches, two TDs and finished with 90 yards. No. 11 Miami vs. Georgia Tech, Saturday,