Miami Hurricanes 2021 signee Chase Smith emerges during spring practice
Miami Hurricanes 2021 signee Chase Smith who is projected to play striker emerged during spring practice. Smith provides the Miami football team with the versatility to play striker or be a more traditional linebacker. During the Hurricanes Spring Game this past Saturday, Smith led the defense with seven tackles and had a pass breakup.
Playing with the second-team defense, Smith was able to showcase his speed, ability to pursue the ball carrier and adeptness in pass coverage. Smith played both offense and defense at Bayside High School in Melbourne and was labeled one of the most versatile players in the Class of 2021.
The scouting report on Smith coming out of high school observed he has the ability to play LB or safety in college. Striker in the Miami Hurricanes defense is a hybrid of the two positions. Smith is listed as 6’2, 210 pounds, which is 20 pounds more than his recruiting profile.
The scouting report opined Smith is better closer to the line of scrimmage. Snaps at striker opened up this spring when Keontra Smith was moved to linebacker. Gilbert Frierson returns for his second season as striker. Smith finished his senior season in high school with 72 tackles, four sacks and four interceptions.
Miami striker Gilbert Frierson said freshman Chase Smith is a tall, long, big striker. "He's learning the plays day by day. He's coming along very good."
— Manny Navarro (@Manny_Navarro) March 18, 2021
Smith also showed his athleticism with 50 receptions for 716 yards and seven touchdowns as a two-way player at wide receiver in high school. Smith is the son of legendary Miami TE Willie Smith. Smith provides Miami with the type of length Manny Diaz likes. Smith is the prototype defensive player in the future of football.
Teams are often seeking positionless players. Five-star safety James Williams who arrives later this summer and Smith can be lined up all over on defense for Miami. Williams has been frequently compared to former Clemson LB Isaiah Simmons. Smith and Williams provide Miami with rangy defenders.
Next. Miami continually producing DEs under Manny Diaz. dark
The ability for Smith to be utilized against the run, as a pass rusher/blitzer and in coverage should get him on the field quicker. The ability for Smith to be an every-down player and not have to be used situationally will help Manny Diaz be able to put him around when other players take the field.