After two tough seasons and a disappointing bowl game loss to Rutgers last year (31-24), the Miami Hurricanes football team is stepping into the 2024 season with fresh hope and determination. The team has made several key changes, especially on offense, which have boosted their confidence for the upcoming season. With new players and key returners, Miami is ready to make a strong comeback.
Quarterback
Miami’s biggest change this offseason is their new starting quarterback, Cam Ward. After two seasons with Tyler Van Dyke leading the team, where inconsistency and mistakes held the offense back, the Hurricanes needed a more reliable leader. They found that in Ward, a 6’2, 223-pound transfer from Washington State.
Ward had a great season at Washington State, throwing for 3,735 yards with 25 touchdowns and only seven interceptions, completing over 66% of his passes. His ability to make plays and protect the ball is exactly what Miami needs to turn things around. Ward can make plays both in the air and on the ground, adding a new element to Miami’s offense.
Running Backs
Miami’s running backs core is expected to be the best in the country. Leading the way is Damian Martinez, a transfer from Oregon State who is considered one of the top running backs in college football. Martinez is a powerful runner at 6’0, 232 pounds, who knows how to find the end zone. Last season, he rushed for 1,185 yards and nine touchdowns on 194 carries, averaging 6.1 yards per carry. His tough running style will wear down opposing defenses.
Backing him up is Mark Fletcher, who returns after running for 514 yards and five touchdowns on 105 carries last season. Fletcher provides a solid option as the second running back, making sure Miami has a strong running game even when Martinez is not on the field. A.J. Allen has also impressed during fall camp and is expected to contribute, adding more depth to the running backs.
Wide Receivers
In the wide receiver group, Miami has a strong duo that is ready to cause problems for opposing defenses. Xavier Restrepo, who had an outstanding season with 85 receptions for 1,092 yards and six touchdowns, returns as the top target. Restrepo’s ability to catch deep passes and his reliable hands make him a major threat.
Alongside him is Jacolby George, who also had a great season last year with 57 receptions for 864 yards and eight touchdowns. George and Restrepo have great chemistry, making them a powerful pair. With other receivers like Isaiah Horton and Michael Redding III, Miami’s receiving group is deep and dangerous.
Defensive Line
Miami’s defensive line is possibly the strongest part of the team and could be one of the best in the country. Leading the group is Reuben Bain Jr., who had 7.5 sacks last season and is a strong force at left end. His ability to disrupt the offense will be key to Miami’s defensive success.
Adding to this strength is Elijah Alston, a transfer from Marshall. Alston had six sacks and an interception last season and is expected to make an immediate impact. Alongside him, Simeon Barrow Jr. and Marley Cook have performed well in fall camp, completing a defensive line that could be tough for opposing offenses to handle.
Secondary
While Miami’s front seven looks strong, the secondary is a concern. The cornerback position, in particular, lacks experience. Dyoni Hill is expected to be the top corner, but he has limited experience. Behind him, Robert Stafford and Jaden Harris at strong safety are also relatively untested. The success of the defense will largely depend on how quickly this group can improve and gain confidence during the season.
The Miami Hurricanes football team is entering the 2024 season with a new sense of purpose. With a new quarterback, a strong running game, and a potentially dominant defensive line, the Hurricanes have the pieces to compete at a high level. However, their success will depend on how quickly the secondary develops and if the team can play consistently. If Miami can overcome these challenges, this could be the season they return to success and leave the last two years behind them.