For years, the Miami Hurricanes struggled with recruiting and developing offensive linemen. Over the past 15 years, Canes fans witnessed undersized offensive linemen who did not meet the Miami standard. Often, our best offensive linemen were former tight ends who converted to the position. Enter Mario Cristobal and Alex Mirabal, and the Canes have become a force up front. Last season, Miami boasted one of the better offensive line groups in the nation, and this year, the unit promises to be as good, if not better, with blue-chip recruits from the 2023 class entering their sophomore season and key additions from the transfer portal. So, what can the Canes expect from the offensive line this season?
Jalen Rivers (Left Tackle)
Jalen Rivers is one of the best overall players not just of the Miami Hurricanes’ offensive line but of the entire team. Entering his junior year with the team as the anchor of the left side, Rivers has consistently performed at a high level, demonstrating his physicality, intelligence, and versatility. While primarily playing left tackle, his ability to shift inside to guard or even center if needed makes him invaluable. Rivers is expected to be one of the top left tackles in the country this season, with the potential to elevate his game even further, setting himself up for a future in the NFL.
Francis Mauigoa (Right Tackle)
Francis Mauigoa made an impressive impact as a true freshman starter in 2023, handling the demands of the right tackle position with maturity and resilience. Despite some growing pains, particularly in high-pressure games, Mauigoa’s physical traits, including his strength and athleticism, make him a standout player. In 2023, Mauigoa logged over 200 snaps as a true freshman and has continued to produce and solidify his spot. After a year in the Canes’ strength and conditioning program, Mauigoa has reached an NFL-ready 6’6″, 332 lbs as a true sophomore. Heading into his second year, Mauigoa is poised to make significant strides, potentially becoming one of the best tackles in college football. His ability to dominate in both run blocking and pass protection, combined with his continued development, makes him a key figure on Miami’s offensive line. Like Rivers, Mauigoa also has the ability to move inside.
Markel Bell (Tackle/Guard)
Markel Bell, a JUCO transfer with an imposing 6’8″, 340-pound frame, adds significant depth and versatility to Miami’s offensive line. Known for his athleticism and physical presence, Bell has the potential to start at tackle, allowing Rivers to shift inside, or he could contribute at guard. His rapid development since joining the program has positioned him as a likely candidate to start multiple games this season. Bell’s size and athleticism are crucial assets, and he is expected to be a major contributor in 2024.
Zach Carpenter (Center)
Zach Carpenter, transferred from Indiana as the top center portal prospect.Carpenter brings experience and toughness to the center position and was a two-year starter in the Big Ten. Carpenter has faced elite competition and excelled, particularly in pass protection, where he allowed only eight pressures on 445 pass-blocking opportunities in 2023. His familiarity with high-level play makes him a seamless replacement for Matt Lee, and there is confidence that the transition will not result in a downgrade. Carpenter’s consistency and strength in the middle of the line are expected to play a pivotal role in Miami’s success in 2024.
Anez Cooper (Right Guard)
Anez Cooper has emerged as a key player on Miami’s offensive line, transitioning from a low three-star recruit to a dominant force at guard. Known for his physicality, Cooper excels in both run blocking and pass protection. His development under Miami’s coaching staff has been evident as he is now considered one of the top guards in the country. Cooper’s continued improvement is expected to solidify his place as a cornerstone of the Hurricanes’ offensive line, with potential NFL aspirations on the horizon.
Samson Okunlola (Guard/Tackle)
Samson Okunlola, was one of the big five-star offensive linemen that joined the Canes 2023 class. Okunlola who battled injuries last year redshirted in 2023 but is now ready to make a big impact. Okunlola’s versatility allows him to play both tackle and guard, and if he focuses and works hard he will be in contention to start at guard this season. His size, strength, and technique make him one of the most promising young linemen in the program. Okunlola is will have a lot of competition from McCoy who has been fantastic in both Spring and Fall camp.
Matthew McCoy (Guard/Tackle)
Matthew McCoy, who transitioned from tight end in high school to the offensive line, brings valuable athleticism and versatility to the Hurricanes. McCoy has been in the program for several years and has demonstrated the ability to play both tackle and guard. As he competes for a starting guard spot, McCoy’s development and adaptability could make him a key contributor in 2024. His athleticism, combined with continued improvement in physicality, positions him as a potential breakout player.
Tommy Kinsler (Guard/Tackle)
Tommy Kinsler was a major recruiting win for Miami over Florida in 2023. He stands out for his size and athleticism, towering over most players on the field. Kinsler has the physical tools to excel at either guard or tackle. He is currently competing for a starting guard spot, with his development crucial to the depth and success of Miami’s offensive line. If Kinsler wins the competition, he could be one of the breakout stars of the 2024 season.
Ryan Rodriguez (Center)
Ryan Rodriguez, a veteran of the Miami program, has steadily developed into a reliable backup center. Recruited by the previous coaching staff, Rodriguez has overcome injuries and continued to improve each year. His intelligence, work ethic, and versatility make him a valuable depth piece, and he could step into a starting role if needed. Rodriguez’s experience and steady progress position him as a key depth piece in 2024.
Lou Cristobal (Guard)
Lou Cristobal, nephew of head coach Mario Cristobal, transferred from Georgia State and has provided depth along the offensive line. Though he has seen limited action and may not be in line for a starting role, Cristobal’s toughness, experience, and leadership are valuable to scout team. He is expected to contribute primarily in a backup capacity, providing reliable depth and mentoring younger players.
Derrick Plazz (Tackle/Guard)
Derrick Plazz, a freshman from Jacksonville, Florida, was one of the key offensive linemen that Mario nabbed in the 2024 class, flipping his commitment from Penn State. While not the most physically imposing player, Plazz’s versatility allows him to play both tackle and guard. He is expected to spend this season developing on the second or third team, with the potential to become a solid starter in the future. Plazz’s high floor and adaptability make him a valuable addition for the future.
Frankie Tinilau (Tackle)
Frankie Tinilau, a Samoan-Australian lineman who played at Miami’s La Salle High School, is an intriguing prospect with significant upside. Despite dealing with injuries that delayed his debut, Tinilau has shown flashes of his athleticism and power in limited practice reps. His progress in fall camp shows that he can be a depth piece at tackle but as of now he needs to continue to develop.
Antonio Tripp (Guard/Center)
Antonio Tripp, an IMG Academy product from Baltimore, brings versatility to the offensive line, capable of playing both guard and center. While he is still finding his way in the program, Tripp’s IQ make him a valuable depth player. He is expected to contribute primarily in a backup role this season.
Nino Francavilla (Center)
Nino Francavilla, a Canadian lineman who was originally committed to Harvard, has impressed with his physical tools and athleticism. Although he is still early in his development, Francavilla’s size and potential make him a promising prospect at center. He could compete for a starting role in two years, and his ability to also play guard adds to his value on the line. Francavilla is expected to redshirt this year, as the center position will have veteran depth with Carpenter, Rodriguez, and even Jalen Rivers if the coaches decide to move him inside. Don’t expect Francavilla to see any meaningful minutes this year.
With depth added through the portal and recruiting, the Canes will bring back an experienced offensive line that will be among the best in the nation and a top offensive line in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Expect Miami to be a physical team at the line of scrimmage as long as Mario Cristobal and Alex Mirabal are in Miami gear.
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