Why the Miami Hurricanes Should Limit Starters Against Central Michigan

NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos...

MIAMI, Fla. – As the No. 6 Miami Hurricanes are facing a non-Atlantic Coast Conference opponent this Saturday against Central Michigan at Hard Rock Stadium, an official injury report isn’t required, which means the status of running back Mark Fletcher Jr. and wide receiver Malachi Toney is unknown until 6:30 p.m. E.T.’s kickoff.

Both stars suffered upper-body injuries in last Friday’s 33-20 win over Wake Forest. Although they’re not expected to be significant, the Hurricanes need Fletcher Jr. and Toney to be as healthy as possible ahead of an extended ACC schedule, plus a primetime road trip against No. 3 Notre Dame. As both offensive playmakers could still play this weekend, placing them on a snap count could be a viable option.

The Hurricanes would be able to extend opportunities for others, like at running back. Along with Fletcher Jr.’s uncertain availability, redshirt junior CharMar “Marty” Brown has been ruled out for the rest of the season. He appeared to hyperextend his right knee in the second quarter against Wake Forest on a 32-yard dash to the goal line.

Freshman Javian Mallory and sophomore Girard Pringle Jr. would benefit from playing more snaps against Central Michigan. Although Fletcher Jr. is the star in the backfield, both underclassmen will have important roles in keeping the Hurricanes’ run game strong. Mallory is currently the biggest standout freshman on the Coral Gables campus. The 19-year-old has rushed 20 times for 196 yards and scored three total touchdowns (two rushing and one receiving).

The Fort Lauderdale (Fla.) native currently leads all Football Bowl Subdivision running backs with 7.25 yards after contact (per attempt on a minimum of 20 carries).

In the passing game, the Hurricanes suffered another season-ending loss with sophomore wide receiver Joshua Moore. Although Daylyn Upshaw will likely be a primary starter, it’s an opportunity for reserves to absorb more snaps. Redshirt junior Vandrevius Jacobs, plus freshmen Somourian Wingo and Vance Spafford, are explosive playmakers.

Among the long list of injuries, defensive tackle Amhad Moten Sr. suffered a shoulder injury against Wake Forest, but played throughout the game. The redshirt junior is projected to be a first-round selection in the 2027 NFL Draft. However, the Hurricanes could look to ramp up Jarquez Carter and Keona Davis in the interior.

The Hurricanes have depth in multiple positions and should look to utilize it against Central Michigan, who are severe underdogs, as the weekend matchup approaches.

Anthony Aguirre covers the Miami Hurricanes and Miami Heat for Roundtable Sports. Contact info for tips/info: alexagmu@gmail.com & 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports

More at NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos