Miami football: 2001 defense made great by offensive mindset
The remainder of the play is how legends are born. The play officially was scored as
“Edward Reed (MIA) took lateral and rushed for a 80 yard touchdown.”
by
. In actuality, Reed grabbed the ball, not received a lateral. Reed’s return iced the game and gave Miami an 18-7 victory to remain undefeated.
The clutch play against the Eagles was one of many Reed made throughout his Miami career and in 2001. Reed finished his Miami football career with a program record 21 interceptions. The nine interceptions Reed had in 2001 are the third most in Miami history.
Three weeks later at Virginia Tech, Miami needed the defense to help ice their victory. The win in Blacksburg was arguably their biggest during the 2001 regular season. In their final game before traveling to Pasadena, California for the Rose Bowl, Miami needed key plays late to win. The 2001 Hurricanes prepared like professionals.
Buchanon spoke to The Athletic about the importance of one key play. His film study allowed him to recognize Virginia Tech’s play by the formation they were in. Buchanon was able to jump a slant route and get a key second-quarter interception. Miami scored six plays later.
"“That was a film-study interception. I knew from the way they lined up that the receiver was going to run that route. I saw it and just picked it off.”"