Manny Diaz most concerned with Miami football effort during spring
"“It is great to have someone like Zach, not just his playing ability, he is a hard worker. We probably are a little stronger in the leadership department defensively.”"
Diaz probably feels a bit more confident about with McCloud in the middle of the Miami defense and the return of several other key players. Rousseau, Roche and safeties Amari Carter and Gurvan Hall figure to be other leaders for Miami defensively. The secondary needs to improve in 2020.
Miami had to replace three-quarters of the nation’s leading pass defense from 2018. The Hurricanes were still stout in 2019, but dropped from first to 18th and allowed over 60 more passing yards per game. Unlike the run defense, the Miami pass defense was far more consistent.
The Hurricanes allowed 195.2 passing yards per game in 2019. Miami allowed 198.5 passing yards per game in 2019 in wins and 192.4 passing yards per game in losses. The key on the backend will be replacing cornerback Trajan Bandy. Juniors Al Blades and D.J. Ivey will get the first opportunities to be starters.
Next. Miami one of five spring games not be televised by ACC Network. dark
Most of the focus this spring will be on the Miami offense under Lashlee and new QB D’Eriq King. The focus that is left for the defense will likely be on Roche and Rousseau. There is plenty else to focus on defensively. Who will emerge at defensive tackle, linebacker and at CB are critical for Miami entering the 2020 season.