Miami Hurricanes defense, QB Tate Martell, WR K.J. Osborn star in spring game

Patrick Joyner will be a key player for the Miami defense in 2019. Joyner was switched from defensive end to linebacker this spring because of a lack of depth in the middle of the Miami defense. He led the Hurricanes with four tackles on Saturday.

Martell was used exclusively out of the shotgun in the spring game. He was under center occasionally when he struggled in last Saturday’s scrimmage. Martell was 6-10 and led the Hurricanes QBs with 154 yards passing and two touchdowns. That was vastly improved from last week and a big boost to his confidence.

Martell and Osborn developed a rapport on Saturday. They connected on an 80-yard touchdown. It was encouraging to see a big play for the Miami offense. Osborn showed excellent all-around talent on the touchdown reception. He made an outstanding catch bringing the ball in, shook off a defender and raced 60 yards to the end zone.

The Hurricanes lacked big plays on a consistent basis last year. That put a lot of pressure on the Hurricanes offense to consistently mount long scoring drives. In offensive coordinator, Dan Enos’ new system big plays will be more likely. Osborn’s experience will help the receiving corps and he has become a leader.

Spring practice is over after 15 practices over the last five weeks. It’s now up to the players to put in the work. The Miami Hurricanes will re-convene in late July to get ready for the 2019 season and Florida back in Orlando August 24.