MIAMI — Bernie Kosar, Vinny Testaverde, Steve Walsh, Gino Torretta, Ken Dorsey.
These names define an era of greatness for the Miami Hurricanes — a time when the program earned five national titles and the nickname "Quarterback U." But since then, the Hurricanes have struggled to replicate that success — at the position and as a team.
More than 20 years later, classes might be back in session at Quarterback U with Cam Ward.
"From thinking I was ready for the NFL draft to knowing that I’m still not done yet in college, there’s still food left on the table for myself and this team," Ward said.
Ward spent his first two years at the FCS level, followed by two seasons at Washington State, and now he’ll have his last dance at The U.
"Every time I play, I just play like I really want to, and coming from West Columbia, not a lot of people get opportunities to play Power Five football," Ward said.
Now that he’s with a program and in a market like Miami, Ward has noticed the extra eyes on him.
"Personally, I’m the same player I was at Wazzu — making plays in the pocket, making plays outside the pocket, leading my guys. But it’s crazy when you come into a new situation in a bigger market. Everything can change. But at the end of the day, nothing’s going to change for me. I’m always going to be who I am."
The Hurricanes kicked off the season with four dominant wins, followed by two comeback victories — one being the second-largest in program history — silencing any doubts about Ward and the Hurricanes' legitimacy.
"He is the alpha-dog leader. I’ve stated that term ad nauseam. It’s what he is. It changes things. Certain guys bring a spark, and it catches with everybody. He’s that guy," head coach Mario Cristobal said.
While Ward's game speaks for itself, his celebration is making noise too, with other athletes copying it — and some even throwing it back at him during games.
Needless to say, he has the football world’s attention in more ways than one.
Now, he'll look to become the Hurricanes' first Heisman Trophy winner since 1992 and, more importantly, try to bring The U its first national title since 2001.