Miami Hurricanes Football Preview: Defensive End

With the start of camp on Thursday, it’s time to survey the defensive line once again. This edition will preview the defensive end group.

The Miami Hurricanes will have to replace four-year starter Anthony Chickillo at the defensive end position this season. Chickillo, who had an outstanding freshman season in 2011, faced criticism among the fans. Some considered him as a “bust”, but that is far from the truth. He had to put on 30+ pounds to play the 2-gap system for Mark D’Onofrio’s defense, which did slow him down. Although, he did his job and did what they asked for him to do. Luckily, Miami has some great depth and young talent at the defensive end position to replace him.

Chad Thomas – Sophomore – 6’5 265 lbs

The fan favorite and musical artist Chad Thomas is a projected starter for the Canes during the 2015 season. Despite not being able to record any sacks last season, he did show glimpses of play making ability. Thomas has the perfect skill set for the defensive end position with his length, size, and pass rushing ability. The former five-star from Booker T. Washington will have to be in better shape because his snap count will most likely increase. Hopefully the coaching staff will use his skill set to his advantage. He needs to get up field and rush the passer, like a 4-3 end would. Maybe a few tweaks here and there will allow him to 2-gap less and make more plays.

Demetrius Jackson – Redshirt Freshman – 6’5 250 lbs

Jackson received a redshirt last fall and reports have said that it has been nothing but beneficial. Jackson, along with Thomas, played at Booker T. Washington in high school but only for a year. Not many people know what to expect from Jackson, but look out for him to explode on to the seen this year. Some think he might have the most NFL talent.

Kendrick Norton and RJ McIntosh

Both of these guys are labeled into one category, because they are likely to receive a redshirt. Kendrick Norton and and RJ McIntosh will play defensive end or tackle depending on the depth. Norton, who is a defensive tackle, could play end in some formations. McIntosh may need a redshirt, but he has the size to play right away at 6’4 270lbs. He needs to be ready if injures occur, and could prove in fall camp that the coaches need to play him.

Trent Harris – Sophomore – 6’2 245 lbs

Arguably the defensive end with the best technique and work ethic, Trent Harris played in all twelve games last season because of his ability to execute the defense effectively. His downfall is his size at 6-2 245, but he does play bigger than that. Harris will see the field often this year, because he can play to the scheme the defensive coaches want. He is the most underrated player on the team. With that, look for him to push Chad Thomas for a starting role, or be his counterpart.

Al-Quadin Muhammad – Redshirt Sophomore – 6’3 260 lbs

There is no doubt Miami missed this player in certain situations last year. Due to suspension, AQM had to miss the entire season. Luckily for Miami, he did not transfer to another school. AQM remains a fan favorite because of the hype he generated out of high school. In his freshman season, he recorded 2 sacks against FAMU. When the lights where on against FSU, he missed out on several opportunities to sack Winston and change the game for Miami. With a spring under his belt and the 2015 season season ahead, Miami will need him to get after to quarterback immensely.

Scott Patchan – Freshman – 6’6 245 lbs

Like Chickillo, Patchan is another generation to player for the Canes. The former four-star early enrolled in the off-season, but he could not participate due to an ACL injury. Coaches will use fall camp to determine if Patchan will be able to help the defense or if he still needs time to recover. Patchan will be important to Miami’s future on the defensive line so a redshirt wouldn’t hurt.

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