Chase Smith: Miami Hurricanes' Unsung Hero in Win Over Clemson

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MIAMI, Fla. – The No. 4 Miami Hurricanes’ defense arguably had its best performance of the season in a 41-13 win over Clemson last Saturday; however, rather than edge rusher Marquise Lightfoot or defensive tackle Ahamd Moten Sr. setting the tone, it was sixth-year linebacker Chase Smith.

In the Tigers’ opening drive, the 23-year-old had two crucial tackles:

First on senior wide receiver Tyler Brown, then the other on freshman quarterback Tait Reynolds to force a three-and-out. Immediately, the Hurricanes took advantage of the early opportunity and scored the game’s first touchdown. Quarterback Darian Mensah connected with wide receiver Cooper Barkate for 61 yards on a tunnel screen.

Later in the third quarter, Smith delivered another big play. 

Clemson’s offense was on the brink of a trip to the red zone, but a successful conversion on a fourth-and-one situation was needed. As Reynolds was facing the sidelines, Tigers offensive coordinator and play-caller Chad Morris initiated a fake snap to sophomore running back Gideon Davidson.

Despite the Hurricanes’ entire defensive line, except Moten Sr., reacting late on the play, Smith knew what was happening and denied the conversion to force a turnover on downs. Just like the first drive, the offense capitalized on the stop with a touchdown.

Smith finished with a season-high six tackles, five solos and an assist, and a tackle for loss. It was a much-needed performance in the Hurricanes’ first test against a highly respected opponent. After losing star edge rushers Akheem Mesidor and All-American Rueben Bain Jr. to the NFL in this year’s draft, Smith was one of the key returners from last season’s National Championship run.

The Palm Bay (Fla.) stood with the Coral Gables program, despite no promise of a turnaround. Smith faced adversity – limited by injuries in the 2022 and 2023 college football seasons. However, it didn’t stop him from coming back and improving. Last season, Smith broke through behind former Hurricanes linebacker Wesley Bissainthe. He logged 31 total tackles, 15 solos and 16 assists, two passes broken up on two passes defended, and two fumbles recovered while playing in all 16 games.

Smith is starting to excel in a starting role, which couldn’t have come at a better time. A performance like that can be an establishment for the rest of the season. The Hurricanes enter a bye week before returning to the field at Hard Rock Stadium for next Saturday’s in-state rivalry clash against the Florida State Seminoles. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. E.T. and will be televised on ESPN.

More Miami Hurricanes News:

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– Miami Hurricanes Remain Firm on Latest AP Top 25 Polling

– Former Miami Hurricanes Signee Takes Game Visits to SEC Programs

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