Breaking down the Miami Hurricanes’ position groups after fall camp
The Miami Hurricanes’ training camp is complete and preparations for the season-opener against Miami (Ohio) on Friday have begun.
UM coach Mario Cristobal has not released a depth chart for the first game, but through partial practice observations and interviews with coaches and players, we can infer where each position group stands as the season approaches.
Here is a look at each group following fall camp:
Quarterbacks
No earth-shattering surprise here, Tyler Van Dyke will be Miami’s starting quarterback on Friday. A shoulder injury derailed the fourth-year junior’s 2022 season, but he is healthy now and will try to execute new offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson’s offense. Behind him are sophomore Jacurri Brown and freshman Emory Williams. Brown showed flashes of his ability when he took over the starting role late in the season, but he also struggled against tougher defenses. Williams has looked impressive since arriving on campus, but Brown’s game experience will likely have him second on the depth chart.
Running backs
The Hurricanes have several running backs who are expected to contribute this season. The halfback corps starts with returning starter Henry Parrish Jr., who was arguably Miami’s best and most consistent offensive player last season. But he won’t have to carry the unit this year. Behind him is a talented group that includes newcomers Ajay Allen (who transferred from Nebraska) and freshman Mark Fletcher Jr. Expect those two to see significant playing time this year. Fourth-year redshirt sophomore Don Chaney Jr., whose career has been hampered by injuries, will also see the field this year. Redshirt freshman TreVonte’ Citizen, who suffered a severe knee injury during training camp last year, will also try to make his way back this season.
Wide receiver
UM will likely line up returning receivers Colbie Young and Jacolby George on the outside with Xavier Restrepo at the slot position. But Dawson said the Hurricanes are going to rotate many of their wide receivers onto the field throughout the season. Freshman Nathaniel “Ray Ray” Joseph has made a name for himself since arriving in the spring, and he will likely see time at slot receiver, along with junior Brashard Smith. Transfer Tyler Harrell, JUCO arrival Shemar Kirk and returnees like Michael Redding III, Isaiah Horton and Frank Ladson Jr. provide more depth.
Tight end
Health could determine the projection for this group. Elijah Arroyo is returning from an injury that kept him out most of last season. If he is healthy, he will line up as the starting tight end. Sophomore Jaleel Skinner will look to take the next step in his progression and become a threat in the passing game after making nine catches for 129 yards and a score last year. Veteran transfer Cam McCormick will see plenty of reps, and freshmen Jackson Carver and Riley Williams could see some time, too.
Offensive line
Miami’s refreshed offensive line will feature three new starters: transfers Javion Cohen and Matt Lee at center and left guard, respectively, and freshman Francis Mauigoa at right tackle. The three new Hurricanes join left tackle Jalen Rivers, who moves from left guard to left tackle, and right guard Anez Cooper. That group of five has been working together since the spring and have the potential to be a strong point on this year’s team. Behind them, Samson Okunlola, Tommy Kinsler, Matthew McCoy, Ryan Rodriguez, Luis Cristobal Jr., Jonathan Denis, Logan Sagapolu and Chris Washington could all fill in on the second team as needed.
Defensive line
Similar to the offensive line, the defensive line will likely feature a mix of returning veterans and newcomers. Purdue transfer Branson Deen has established himself as a key player at defensive tackle, and he will be joined by talented junior Leonard Taylor III in the middle of the line. On the edges, Rueben Bain has earned effusive praise since he arrived on campus and will receive playing time early. Akheem Mesidor, who excelled in his first year with UM after transferring from West Virginia, will also be a key player on the edge. Sophomore Nyjalik Kelly, who flashed his pass-rushing abilities last year, will also likely start on the edge. But the Hurricanes have several linemen who will rotate in frequently, including Jahfari Harvey, Chantz Williams and Jayden Wayne on the edges and Ahmad Moten, Jared Harrison-Hunte, Anthony Campbell and Thomas Gore in the center.
Linebacker
Like the defensive line, expect more than just two starting linebackers to get a lot of playing time in defensive coordinator Lance Guidry’s defense. Transfer Francisco Mauigoa, the older brother of freshman Francis, transferred from Washington State and appears poised to take over at middle linebacker. Corey Flagg Jr., who has recovered from a foot injury, will likely rotate in at that position. At weakside linebacker, sophomore Wesley Bissainthe or Louisville transfer K.J. Cloyd could take over as the technical starter at the position. Veteran Keontra Smith will also be a large factor, regardless of who starts.
Cornerback
Cornerback is perhaps the most hotly contested position on the team after starters Tyrique Stevenson and D.J. Ivey left for the NFL. UCF transfer Davonte Brown will likely start at outside cornerback. His younger brother, freshman Damari Brown, had a strong training camp and could move into a starting role, too. Daryl Porter Jr. and Te’Cory Couch are also in the mix for outside cornerback. At the “Star” role, which will serve as a nickelback, Oklahoma transfer Jaden Davis and Couch will likely see time there. Vanderbilt transfer Jadais Richard can also play at either outside corner or nickelback.
Safety
All-American Kamren Kinchens and junior James Williams have their two safety spots locked up. However, Williams will see his role change a little in Guidry’s defense. Guidry said Williams will sometimes move up into the box in some running downs. But the two safeties are entrenched in their roles. Behind them, Markeith Williams, Brian Balom and Jaden Harris will compete for playing time.