Miami football: Four things offense needs to be most concerned about
The five starting offensive linemen for the Miami football team against Central Michigan did not do a good enough job for the Hurricanes offense to run smoothly. The inconsistency up and down the five starters was prevalent against the Chippewas.
Inside the U posted the ratings from Pro Football Focus
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- LT Zion Nelson: 11.9 pass blocking grade, four quarterback pressures
- LG Navaughn Donaldson: 70.2 pass blocking grade, one quarterback pressure
- C Corey Gaynor: 50.7 pass blocking grade, one quarterback pressure
- RG Jakai Clark: 67.7 pass blocking grade, one quarterback pressure
- RT DJ Scaife: 49.4 pass blocking grade, four quarterback pressures
The 303 total yards Miami had against Central Michigan is their lowest amount during the 2019 season. The Hurricanes had 308 against Florida. The offense is greatly improved under Enos, but still has a long way to go to get where they need to be. Miami has too much talent at the skill positions offensively to not produce more.
The 60 percent TD conversion rate by Miami in the RedZone is 75th nationally. The Hurricanes simply have to convert better in the red zone. Part of the problem has been the struggles of kicker Bubba Baxa. Manny Diaz has had to go on fourth down more than expected because of the lack of faith in Baxa.
Diaz: “There’s 100 things we have to fix, but I’d rather fix them after a win.”
— Christy Chirinos (@ChristyChirinos) September 21, 2019
That has impacted the Hurricanes success rate in the RedZone. Miami has gone for it on fourth down seven times this season, converting just twice. Their 28.57 conversion rate on fourth down is 107th in FBS. Miami’s seven fourth down attempts are tied for 40th. The two conversions are tied for 75th.
A lot of that is on the offensive line. The Hurricanes have run the ball on five of their seven attempts on fourth down for a total of negative three yards.
Next. Miami football players have to police themselves. dark
If the offensive line doesn’t start to became at least adequate the offense will continue to struggle. Teams will be able to blitz and force the offense for the Miami football team to keep extra blockers in to help with pass protection.