Miami football needs to improve third downs in big games

The Miami football team converted only 29.27 percent of their third-down conversions in their three losses in 2020. In their eight wins in 2020, Miami converted 44.5 percent of their third-down conversions. Miami finished 61st in 2020 converting 40.63 percent of its third-down conversions.

The Miami defense was 47th allowing opponents to convert 38.27 percent of their third-down conversions. In the three losses, the Miami defense allowed Clemson, North Carolina and Oklahoma State to convert 20 of 43 third-down conversions for 46.5 percent. In wins, Miami held opponents to 35.29 percent on third downs.

Third down was a significant factor in wins and losses for the Miami football team in 2020. If the Hurricanes can improve on third down on offense and defense, they can take another step forwards to returning to being an elite program in college football. Finding the players who can make plays on third down will be critical in 2021.

Quarterback D’Eriq King threw for 111 first downs for Miami in 2020. Mike Harley led Miami in receptions, receiving yards and receiving TDs in 2020. Harley also had the most receiving first downs for Miami in 2020 with 32. Running back Cam’Ron Harris led Miami in rushing yards in first downs running with 35, King had 32.

All of the leaders on the Miami offense on third downs return in 2021. In the second year in the Rhett Lashlee offense, the Hurricanes should be more productive converting on third down. The Miami defense allowed 124 passing first downs, 103 rushing and 31 via penalty. Those numbers were 40, 41 and eight in losses.

The numbers were vast with Clemson converting 16 passing first downs, 12 running and six on penalties. North Carolina ran over Miami with only seven first downs via the pass, 22 on the ground and two on penalties. Oklahoma State flipped those numbers with 17, seven and five.

Those numbers are concerning. In losses, Miami opponents were able to rely on what they do best to convert critical first downs. Clemson used balance, North Carolina dominated running the football and Oklahoma State attacked Miami through the air. Miami has to become more stout on third downs defensively in 2021.