The Miami Hurricanes come into the 2021 CFB season after posting an 8-3 record last year. D’Eriq King returns as the starting quarterback for the Hurricanes, and he will finally have experienced players on his offense. The addition of Charleston Rambo and the development of offensive linemen provide high hopes for the Miami offense this season. Here’s a look at the offense for the Hurricanes as their season approaches.
Quarterbacks
At this point, it’s clear that King will be the starter for the Hurricanes in 2021. However, since King is anticipated to return only during Fall camp, Tyler Van Dyke could take the starting position. Dyke was the signal-caller in 2020 and played in two games last season. Dyke’s unique build at 6’4” and 220 pounds make him a solid backup option. Jake Garcia is a freshman who could move up the depth chart if his strong arm impresses Manny Diaz. However, Peyton Matocha and Ryan Rizk are not expected to see much action, but they can be viable backup options if they are moved up from the practice squad.
Running Backs
Unsurprisingly, the running backs are the most talented position group for the Miami Hurricanes this season. Cam Harris is the probable starter for the Hurricanes, for he led Miami to a 3-0 start last season. Donald Chaney Jr., now a sophomore, will likely serve as Harris’s backup; Chaney possesses all the attributes and natural talents of an NFL running back. Jaylan Knighton will probably be used more on the outside than the backfield, for his combination of speed and versatility makes him a dangerous threat in the slot to opposing defenses. Freshmen such as Cody Brown and Thad Franklin will also get some touches later in the season. If Miami wants to reach the ACC Championship again, the running backs will have to perform at a high level.
Wide Receivers
The wide receiver group requires the most improvement next season. Thankfully, Michael Harley decided to return to the Hurricanes in January although he was eligible for the NFL as a senior. Rambo, who transferred from Oklahoma to Miami, provides a new threat for the Hurricanes; Rambo’s great body control, hands, and speed will make him and Harley a dynamic duo on the outside. Mark Pope is expected to have a breakout season, but he needs to create more separation for himself to become a trusted target for King. Pope’s dropped deep pass in the Cheez-It Bowl still lives freely in the minds of Miami fans. Daquiris Wiggins and Jeremiah Payton are capable route-runners, but they probably won’t see much action after their 2020 performances. Nonetheless, Xavier Restrepo and Keyshawn Smith both have elite speed and could get some playing time in passing situations.
Tight Ends
After Brevin Jordan left for the NFL Draft, Will Mallory will likely step up to the starting tight end position. Mallory has decent playing experience and is a skilled pass-catcher, but he is not an elite blocker. Larry Hodges, a redshirt freshman, is bound to replace Mallory in blocking situations, for Hodges is better in short-yardage plays. Dominic Mammarelli is another strong blocker, and Elijah Arroyo is a young talent at tight end who can quickly move up the depth chart. In fact, Arroyo has a similar game to Brevin Jordan. While the tight end position probably won’t get as much production as last season, it’s still a focal part of the Hurricanes’ offense.
Offensive Line
The starting offensive line for 2021 will likely be similar to that of the spring game. This includes Zion Nelson at left tackle, Jakai Clark at left guard, Corey Gaynor at center, Navaughn Donaldson at right guard, and DJ Scaife Jr. at right tackle. The only position that might have conflict is right tackle, for Jarrid Williams could get his starting spot back later in the year. The offensive line is one of the most experienced groups for the Miami Hurricanes.
Concluding Thoughts
The Miami Hurricanes will have to amp up their offensive production to contend for an ACC Championship. Specifically, the wide receivers and tight ends will have to get more involved and create big plays. King will need to improve as a passer, and one running back must have a breakout year for the Hurricanes to have a solid running game. The offensive line should be dependable, but King will also have to use his legs once he is fully healthy to keep the defense guessing.