OXFORD — Miami's offense used a series of big plays for a 41-26 win over the defense in the final preseason scrimmage Saturday at Yager Stadium in preparation for the Aug.31 opener at North Carolina.

        The scrimmage used a system that rewarded both the offense and defense for big plays.

        Miami's offense wasted no time. Sophomore quarterback Ben Roethlisberger completed a 50-yard pass to senior wideout Randy Stegman on the first play, and junior running back Cal Murray showed great bursts on a pair of runs that set up a short Roethlisberger touchdown pass to junior wideout Korey Kirkpatrick.

        After a missed 50-yard field goal ended a drive by the second-team offense, Roethlisberger came back on the next possession and hit sophomore wideout Michael Larkin (St.Xavier) with a 12-yard touchdown strike.

        Miami's rushing attack got strong efforts from all four tailbacks. Sophomore Mike Smith scored twice , including one on a 75-yard dash.