It was a meh year for the Miami Hurricanes. After starting the year 5-1, they lost 5 of their last 7, including 4 in a row. It will be very interesting to see how the Canes can make a comeback after disappearing for a year.
Prestige Ranking: 4*
Last Year’s Record: 7-6
As mentioned earlier, the Canes started out HOT. However, there’s always a calm after the storm, and Miami witnessed first hand how cool it can get in Coral Gables.
Projected Returning Starters:
Offense- Deejay Dallas (RB), Jeff Thomas (WR), Mike Harley (WR), Dee Wiggins (WR), Brevin Jordan (TE), Corey Gaynor (C), Navaughn Donaldson (LG), Delone Scaife JR (RT)
With new QB1 Tate Martell transferring in from OSU, it will be very interesting to see the new dynamic of The U’s offense. It will have to be a fast paced tempo. With the speed they have on the outside, they will have to find a way to evenly get the ball to the guys that have speed.
Defense-
Jonathan Garvin (DE), Pat Bethel (DT), Scott Patchan (DE), Zach McCloud (LB), Shaquille Quarterman (LB), Michael Pinckney (LB), Trajan Brandy (CB), Robert Knowles (S)
There is a LOT of talent on this side of the field. A lot of the players listed here are seniors. There will be a lot of speed and ballhawking with this secondary, they’re gonna be very exciting to watch.
Special Teams-
Bubba Baxa (PK), Deejay Dallas (PR & KR)
After going 9/12 on FG and 45/46 on extra points, Miami is bringing back a great specialist. Coming back for his sophomore year will be something to watch as it’s always possible for the sophomore slump.
Key Losses: Travis Homer (RB)
As the leading rusher for this team, it could be something where the lack of experience may hurt them. Deejay Dallas will be a great starter, but not having that older guy may hurt them.
Key Newcomer – Offense: Tate Martell (QB)
As the starter of the Transfer Portal meme, Tate will have a lot to live up to as someone who left a 13-1 team to go to a 7-6 team will have a ton of eyes on his play.
Key Newcomer – Defense: Bubba Bolden (S)
After not getting a lot of opportunities at USC, there will be plenty here to show why he should’ve received more chances in SoCal.
Breakout Player of The Year: Deejay Dallas (RB)
This year could be a HUGE year for Deejay as he will be playing quite a few positions for The U. As he gets his first full year as the starting running back, it will definitely be something to keep an eye on.
Wins The Conference If:
The only chance Miami has a chance is if Clemson drops the ball and falls off the rails. The ACC is a one stop shop, and that shop is located in Clemson, South Carolina.
Circle This Game on the Calendar: @ Florida State
This game will most likely end up being the game that decides who will be playing Clemson in the ACC title game.
Alcohol Prediction: Pickleback
Some may not know of this shot, but a pickleback is a shot of Jameson and a shot of pickle juice. This is one that brings flare and satisfaction. And that is something that all Hurricane fans should want.
Outlook 2019: 9-3
This will be a huge first step for first year Head Coach Manny Diaz. It should be a very fun season for the Miami Hurricanes.