Should the Miami Hurricanes Have Defensive Third-Down Concerns?

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MIAMI, Fla. – According to CBS Sports, the Miami Hurricanes have a concerning “third-down dominance on defense” area ahead of the upcoming college football season. 

Last season, the team had the 11th-best third-down conversion percentage defense among Football Bowl Subdivision programs – 66 conversions allowed in 211 attempts (31.3 percent). As many would point out, edge rushers Akheem Mesidor and All-American Rueben Bain Jr. played a significant role in the Hurricanes’ defensive success. Both departed the program for the NFL and were first-round selections.

Despite any outside concerns about the loss of star power, defensive line coach and Pro Football Hall of Famer Jason Taylor is preparing the next group to take over.

Marquise Lightfoot is the most highlighted returner in the defensive end room. He played in a reserve role last season, but made the most of each opportunity. Lightfoot finished with 25 total tackles, 16 solos and nine assists, 5.5 tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks in 15 games (one start).

The 20-year-old junior is a prime breakout candidate for the upcoming season, projected in a full-time starting role.

Herbert Scroggins III is another edge rusher looking to step up. Given Hayden Lowe’s departure ahead of fall camp, he has a strong chance to carve out a rotational role. Last season, as a freshman, Scroggins III had four tackles and played in 14 games, including the entire College Football Playoff run to the National Championship.

Joining the room from the transfer portal is Damon Wilson II. He spent last season at Missouri and produced new career highs. In 13 games (all starts), Wilson II had 23 total tackles, nine solos and 14 assists, nine sacks, and a three-yard interception against Vanderbilt. He earned Second Team All-Southeastern Conference honors.

Although Mesidor and Bain Jr. delivered dominance at the line of scrimmage, the Hurricanes don’t need to replicate what they had. It would be great, but different players have unique talents. Lightfoot has quick speed and Wilson II is explosive, both continuing to sharpen up in fall camp.

The Hurricanes didn’t have to look far for replacements because they already had the talent, just waiting for the opportunity. Lightfoot, Wilson II, Armondo Blount, Scroggins III, and freshman Asharri Charles will each have opportunities to produce on the field.

Mesidor and Bain Jr. established a high standard within the program and coach Taylor will enforce it on the new rising talents without any concerns of regression.

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