Miami’s Defensive Success Heavily Relies on the Defensive line Position
Miami’s defensive rankings in the Atlantic Coast conference have been impressive under the guidance of coordinator Lance Guidry. The Canes was ranked Top 3 in total defense. A closer look emphasizes the importance of the pass defense in a conference that’s evolving into an up-tempo affair. The defensive line position significantly factors in UM’s overall defensive performance. Let’s take a closer look.
7-6 in 2023: Outstanding Run Defense Stats
The 2023 Hurricanes disappointed. There’s no sugar coating the outcome. A 7-5 regular season included home losses to Louisville and Georgia Tech. UM’s postseason wasn’t much better after pitching a sleepy, loss to Rutgers in the Pinstripe Bowl. Most of the Hurricanes fans grumblings focused on the offense. Lance Guidry’s defense put together Miami’s highest overall finish in one season after allowing a mere 321 total yards per game.
The Hurricanes were especially efficient against the run last season. UM gave up 89.2 rushing yards per outing. That number was good enough to rank first in the Conference. A closer look depicts a unit that did register a high number of QB sacks (30). In fact, the Canes finished the season ranked 11th in the nation for sacks. Miami intercepted 12 passes and recorded 13 forced fumbles.
What Does All This Mean?
In the recent run of winning seasons for the Miami football program, quality play in the trenches has had a lot to do with the rise of the Big Orange and Green under head coach Mario Cristobal.
Don’t be surprised if this becomes one of the best position groups on the team in 2024. The pieces are in place and Miami could make a run again at being a top-15 defense due to what is available in the trenches. Defensive coordinator Lance Guidry has stability with a high ceiling on the line of scrimmage. That could go a long way.
the defensive line is legit.
Trinton is the owner of CanesToday. He writes for all sports, with a focus on football and recruiting, he is a freshman in high school and wants to graduate from the University of Miami
