Miami Hurricanes five biggest sleepers for 2018 season

Sophomore Defensive Tackle Jon Ford

Ford had trouble getting on the field last season behind now-departed defensive tackles R.J. McIntosh, Anthony Moten and Kendrick Norton. McIntosh and Norton were selected in the NFL Draft while Moten signed as an undrafted free agent with the Dolphins.

As a true freshman in 2017, Ford recorded only one assist. He will have a much greater opportunity to play this fall.

The only spot at defensive tackle that is guaranteed this fall is Senior Gerald Willis. Willis sat out last season and played on the scout team. Richt has continually raved about how much Willis has dominated in practice.

The other starting spot, for now, will likely go to Junior Pat Bethel. Bethel recorded 18 tackles last season as the fourth defensive tackle in the Hurricanes rotation.

Ford was a three-star recruit coming out of high school. He was the 390th ranked player in the Class of 2017, the 27th ranked defensive tackle and the 50th best player in Florida.

While the fanbase will be clamoring for four-star Freshman defensive tackle Nesta Silvera and his classmate Jordan Miller on the interior, Ford’s play will have a lot to say about the rotation.

In an appearance on WQAM in March Miami Defensive Coordinator Manny Diaz spoke about Ford’s development.

"“It is like we are still taking the wrapper off from Christmas because he arrived so late in August camp…It was like he wasn’t taught day one stuff. He was thrown in there and got some game experience, so this is all new to him. He has unlimited potential and he has the size and ability of what you want to be a big-time guy on the inside. Now it is about getting reps.”"

At 6’5 275, Ford will likely play a lot this fall. He should provide Miami with an excellent run stopper.