Miami football continues to bolster LB corps with Tirek Austin-Cave

Welcome to the Miami football program Tirek Austin-Cave. The 6’1, 203 pound, three-star linebacker committed to Miami on Independence Day.

Tirek Austin-Cave joins the Miami football program as part of a desperately needed strong linebacking corps in the 2020 recruiting class. Miami loses three four-year starters at LB following the 2019 season. Austin-Cave joins Romello Height who committed to Miami earlier this week, Corey Flagg and Alvin Mathis as LBs for 2020.

Austin-Cave’s commitment to the Miami football program solidifies their ninth-place standing among 2020 recruiting classes. He is the fourth LB to commit to Miami for 2020. Only Height ranks higher among the Hurricanes recruits at LB. Manny Diaz initially offered Austin-Cave during his short stint at Temple.

Austin-Cave had previously discussed that the history of LB play at Miami played a role in his decision to consider the Hurricanes as a possible collegiate destination. Diaz offered Austin-Cave in February. The newest member of Miami’s 2020 recruiting class is passionate about committing to the Hurricanes.

"“I put a lot of hard work in…From the moment I got the offer, I felt like I had to get down to campus. When I went down there for my official visit (in June), it was amazing. Just being there and talking to all the coaches, and seeing what they have for me playing WILL linebacker, and I can see that as well, I got a good feel.Historically with Miami, and the linebackers they produced in the past, and what they are doing right now with coach Manny Diaz, I can see a very bright future. That is one of the main things that got me. It’s a small school. There are 11,000 (undergraduate) kids. It’s a private school, and I thought that was good for me.One thing I really like about the school is the connection I have with them. From the time they offered me, I had a great connection with them from the jump. They really don’t have to get their main guys from the northeast. For them to offer me, that really meant a lot.”The strength and conditioning coach, coach (David) Feeley, I was able to see what he does with guys in a short time there. Seeing what the trainers and the coaching staff do for players, I just felt like it was a good fit for me.”"

If Austin-Cave is going to make an impact as a true freshman he will likely have to compete with 2019 freshman Avery Huff and potentially redshirt sophomore Waynmon Steed who has dealt with injuries. The battle to replace Michael Pinckney in 2020 will be fierce.

The transformation during Feeley’s six months leading the Miami strength and conditioning program has made a noticeable difference. Freshman offensive lineman Zion Nelson arrived at Miami weighing 240 pounds. He has since bulked up to 275 pounds. Nelson will have a good chance to start opening night against Florida.

Austin-Cave will have to have a similar transformation at LB. He won’t have to put on the 35 pounds that Nelson has, but 25-30 seems reasonable to expect on his current 6’1 203-pound torso. Austin-Cave is eager and ready to come in and work with Feeley and the rest of the Miami staff. He a good addition for 2020.