Miami Hurricanes Linemen Featured on Outland Trophy Watchlist

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MIAMI, Fla. – Miami Hurricanes defensive tackle Ahmad Moten Sr. and offensive lineman Matthew McCoy were named to the Outland Trophy Preseason Watch List on Tuesday.

The award annually honors the nation’s top interior lineman on offense or defense. All tackles, guards, and centers are eligible.

Mario Cristobal established an identity of dominating the trenches on both sides. As a former offensive tackle for the program, he takes a certain pride in working the line of scrimmage.

Moten Sr. is among college football’s most prolific defensive tackles ahead of the upcoming regular season. Without edge rushers Akheem Mesidor and All-American Rueben Bain Jr. absorbing all the attention, the Fort Lauderdale native will have a turn under the spotlight. Moten Sr. is coming off a career season: 31 total tackles, 20 solos and 11 assists, nine tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks in 14 games (all starts).

Despite having an opportunity to declare for the NFL Draft following the National Championship game, Moten Sr. decided to return to the program for a redshirt senior season. He’s received early first-round projections, which can only be solidified on the field.

McCoy played a key role in the Hurricanes’ offensive line last season. He was placed at left guard, sharing snaps with redshirt junior Samson Okunlola. In spring, McCoy hinted at a shift to playing right tackle. On Monday’s team Media Day, he emphasized having familiarity with playing most offensive line positions.

“I played every position but center,” McCoy told MiamiRoundtable. “It wasn’t a big adjustment. Coach [Alex] Mirabal does a great job of having us go at both stances – guard and tackle. It’s a little bit different, but I’m pretty used to playing any position.”

The Hurricanes lost four starters to the NFL Draft, including All-American right tackle Francis Mauigoa, who the New York Giants selected with the No. 10 pick. McCoy is among the new leaders for the group, along with Okunlola and sixth-year senior Ryan Rodriguez.

Last season at Duke, Darian Mensah was sacked 28 times. He still led the Atlantic Coast Conference with 3,973 passing yards and 34 touchdowns. If the new Hurricanes quarterback receives improved protection, it unlocks more possibilities for the offense.

The Football Writers Association of America will announce the Outland Trophy semifinalists on Nov. 8, followed by the three finalists on Nov. 24. The winner will be announced during the Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN in December.

Cristobal has turned “The U” into a desirable destination for linemen players to join, develop, and compete. McCoy and Moten Sr. will play critical roles in the Hurricanes’ success at the line of scrimmage. As fall camp resumes, the pads will soon be on.

The Hurricanes' trench dominance led to a National Championship appearance. Although prolific talents depart, it’s an opportunity for new stars to emerge.

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