And that's where Beard comes in. He has strong South Florida ties from previous coaching positions, similar to current running backs coach Tim Harris. Between the duo, Miami should regain a decent foothold south of Interstate 4.
While touting the 2016 class like it's a finished product would be foolish, the 'Canes have currently assembled the country's No. 1 haul almost exclusively from South Florida. Beard is a critical part of keeping the committed players in the fold and drawing a few more prospects into it.
Sam Bruce, Miami's top-rated recruit at No. 35 overall, is also Beard's former player at U-School. According to Christy Cabrera Chirinos of the South Florida Sun Sentinel, Bruce is looking forward to eventually rejoining his former coach.
I'm excited, not just for him, but also for me to know I'm going to be coached by him again. He's not just a coach, he's more than a coach. He's a mentor and I can go to him with any of my problems. He'll give me his advice and talk to me about the things he's been through. He's an all-around great guy.
Miami Football: Key Goals for New Hurricanes Wide Receivers Coach Kevin Beard | Bleacher Report