New CB Coach DeMarcus VanDyke says Tyrique Stevenson brings different element

The addition of cornerback Tyrique Stevenson through the transfer portal from Georgia will bring a different element to the Miami defense according to recently promoted new Hurricanes CB coach Demarcus Van Dyke. Miami initially recruited Stevenson out of high school and he instantly becomes the Hurricanes top CB.

Miami prefers long CBs and 6’0, 202 pounds, Stevenson provides good size. The Hurricanes will be experienced at CB in 2021, but not a lot of depth. Miami returns juniors Al Blades Jr. and D.J. Ivey, sophomore Te’Cory Couch and freshman Marcus Clarke and Isaiah Dunson at CB. Malik Curtis is a 2021 signee expected to play CB.

Curtis is listed as an athlete who mostly played offense at Bishop Verot in Fort Myers. Curtis was the only 2021 signee Miami had who is expected to play CB in college. The addition of Tyrique Stevenson is the first step to building more depth at CB. Miami needs to make CB a priority in the 2022 recruiting class.

Van Dyke appeared on Hurricane Hotline on WQAM earlier this week as transcribed by Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald. Van Dyke discussed what Stevenson brings to the Miami defense and the history of his journey to return to South Florida. Stevenson seems assured to become a starter.

"“He’s going to bring a different element to the defense…We wanted him in high school and we felt he was probably one of the best high school players in the state coming out, but we didn’t get him. But now we have a second chance. He’s home now, back where he belongs. He played some meaningful games in the SEC.He’s a long corner. Good speed, very aggressive, good ball skills. I’m excited for him. That group is a good group.”"

Stevenson played at the highest level in college football for two years at Georgia. Miami has several games against experienced QBs in 2021. The addition of Stevenson is critical for improving the Miami pass defense in 2021. In two years with Georgia, Stevenson had 47 tackles and 10 pass breakups for the Bulldogs.

In an increased role as a sophomore in 2020, Stevenson had 34 tackles and five pass breakups. Stevenson shined for Georgia in their Peach Bowl victory over Cincinnati. Stevenson had a critical pass breakup on third down to stop the Bearcats and get the ball back for UGA ahead of the eventual drive for the game-winning field goal.

Tyrique Stevenson is immediately the most talented CB on the Miami roster. The Miami Southridge alum was the 37th ranked player, third-ranked CB and fourth-ranked player in Florida in the class of 2019. Miami needed an upgrade at CB. The Hurricanes CBs were inconsistent throughout the 2020 season.