Walton visits, inspires teammates

CORAL GABLES – Shortly after announcing Hurricanes running back would undergo season-ending surgery on his injured ankle, Miami coach

noted one of the biggest challenges the Hurricanes would face without Walton wasn’t replacing the back’s hard-hitting running style.

It was finding players to fill the leadership void left by Walton’s absence.

While other players continue trying to do that, it turns out Walton may still be involved with trying to spark his teammates on a consistent basis.

The junior, who had rushed for a what was then a team-high 428 yards before he was injured during Miami’s 24-20 win over Florida State on Oct. 7, was on the practice field Tuesday.

Though he was still on crutches, Walton wore his usual No. 1 practice jersey and was seen wearing a helmet while talking with teammates and coaches.

“It’s awesome to have him around,” Hurricanes left tackle said. “I remember when he came crutching in after his surgery, the entire room just lit up. He’s a great kid. He works hard. He does everything right. You can’t ask anything more of someone than that. It’s exciting anytime we see him. He’s always smiling.”

Added defensive end “It’s encouraging to see him out here, see him fighting. Anyone else, they might still be babying it. Mark? He’s a fighter. ”

No. 8 Miami at North Carolina, Saturday,

Mark Richt Kc McDermott Next game:

noon, ESPN2

Mark Walton Demetrius Jackson: