The 2023 season for the Miami Hurricanes has been marked by a remarkable influx of true freshmen talent, leaving an indelible mark on the gridiron. With injuries to key players threatening to cast a shadow over their season, The Canes’s 2023 class has risen to the occasion, making Miami the team with the most freshmen snaps nationally at a staggering 887.
Leading the charge of these young talents is the impressive Francis Mauigoa, a freshman who has firmly established himself as the Canes’ starting right tackle. Mauigoa’s rapid development has seen him log over 200 snaps this season, showcasing poise and skill that belie his years.
Despite facing adversity in the form of injuries to All-American safety Kam Kinchens, starting tight end Elijah Arroyo, and defensive stalwarts Akheem Mesidor and Nyjalik Kelly, the Hurricanes have displayed remarkable resilience. Their ability to absorb the loss of key players is a testament to the fantastic play from these freshman phenoms.
One standout freshman, Reuben Bain, has been nothing short of a revelation. In just four games, Bain boasts a remarkable PFF score of 83.9, with 10 pressures, one sack, and four tackles. His stellar performance has placed him on a pedestal, even outshining Florida State’s Jared Verse, once considered a surefire first-round NFL draft pick.
The tight end position has also witnessed a rejuvenation with Riley Williams. Williams has seamlessly integrated into the team, stretching the field in a manner reminiscent of the great Miami tight ends of the past. With each game, his snaps have increased, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him continue to shine, even with the return of Arroyo.
Another rising star, Jayden Wayne, has steadily increased his snaps, signaling a promising future for the Miami defense. Coach Mario Cristobal’s assertion that Wayne’s workload will continue to expand speaks volumes about his potential impact.
The backfield has not been left behind, with Mark Fletcher and Chris Johnson Jr. making their presence felt. Fletcher has secured starter-level snaps alongside Don Chaney and Henry Parrish, while Chris Johnson’s elite explosiveness and speed have already resulted in touchdowns and electrifying long runs.
But the impact of Miami’s freshmen doesn’t end there. Samson Okunlola, Josh Horton, Ray Ray Joseph, Damari Brown, and Emory Williams have all contributed significantly, each leaving their mark on the team. Williams has looked impressive in his limited time as QB2, and has garnered praise from Cristobal himself for his approach, work ethic and preparation. In practice, players have raved about Williams leadership and talent and the Canes got to see a small snapshot against Bethune of the bright future ahead for the young signal caller.
The injuries that initially seemed like a setback have turned into a blessing in disguise. They have provided Miami the opportunity to showcase their prodigious talent from the 2023 class, allowing the Hurricanes to build much-needed depth and experience as they prepare for crucial matchups in October against North Carolina and Clemson, followed by a November showdown with the formidable #3 Florida State.
The story of Miami’s 2023 season is not just about talent but also about progression. Credit is due to the coaching staff for their relentless commitment to player development. As freshmen step into critical roles and continue to improve, it is a testament to the ongoing transformation taking place at Miami. The Canes are embracing Coach Cristobal’s mantra, “How you do anything is how you do everything,” with unwavering focus. This laser-focused team, whose brightest days lie ahead in terms of talent, currently averages a staggering 43.8 points per game. The thought that they might become even better in the coming month is a spine-tingling prospect for college football. Miami Hurricanes are not just a team; they are a force to be reckoned with, ready to make their mark in the college football landscape.
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