Can Miami Hurricanes defense be better in 2018?

"Last year we had a hit list, and we were 4-for-4. Well, we’re on a lot of people’s hit lists this year. We’re going to get the best game from a lot of people. To be able to bring it at a high level every week has probably been the most exciting thing, and I don’t know if I felt that same thing a year ago.”"

The players Miami have added in the three recruiting classes since Richt was hired are giving Diaz more options in the schemes they play defensively. Diaz is more concerned with the talent they have then how they line up.

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"“It’s always players before tactics…We have the personnel now to be more flexible. We can still play a nickel defense with Trajan (Bandy) in there like we did some in the past.”"

With McCloud sidelined for most of the Spring with a wrist injury the Hurricanes have experimented with a 4-2-5 defensive alignment. DeAndre Wilder has often been in the newly created striker position that is a hybrid of a linebacker and defensive back.

Safeties Derrick Smith and Romeo Finley have seen the majority of the time there. Diaz spoke about their versatility.

"“Big bodies that can be stout enough against the run…quickness and DB instincts.”"

Finley and Smith played well last season in extremely limited roles. Smith had 13 tackles and one tackle for loss. Smith finished the season with six tackles. Miami is largely inexperienced defensively behind the first team. They are however extremely talented with the depth they have added in the last three recruiting classes.

Next: Who were Miami Hurricanes defensive standouts in Spring game?

Miami will get tested early in 2018 against the State University of Louisiana. They will also play at Boston College in their ACC rotational crossover game other than Florida State and at Toledo. The young Hurricanes defenders are going to have to grow up quickly.