Mishael Powell is Miami’s Most Important Defender
There is a difference in “Most Important” and “Most Valuable” player on any given team or unit. A valid debate could be made that Rueben Bain, or Kiko Maugioa, could play their way into being Miami football’s most prized defensive asset in 2024. However, my theory is that safety Mishael Powell is the most essential defender going into fall camp.
The Hurricanes critically need the safety to be a productive, effective, and steady starter this fall as they were last year. Let’s get into it.
The 6-1, 210-pound defender is a versatile defensive back who can play any position in the secondary. Powell racked up 92 tackles, nine passes defended and three interceptions in his past three seasons with the Huskies.
This past season for the national runner-ups, Powell started all 15 games as a slot corner or safety and has plenty of versatility in the secondary as a player who can line up at multiple spots.
In 876 snaps this past season, Powell played 477 in the slot, 165 in the box, and 122 at free safety. He finished the year with a strong 73.9 coverage grade and brought in three interceptions, including one in the Pac-12 title game against Oregon, and defended nine more passes, according to 247.
Powell says the coaches’ plan for him is to play “safety primarily” but also the nickel/star position.
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
