Early in the season led by Mississippi transfer Henry Parrish, Miami ran well in wins over Bethune-Cookman and Southern Mississippi. Miami currently ranks 95th nationally averaging 130.57 rushing yards per game. The Hurricanes are 99th nationally averaging 3.72 yards per carry.
The hiring of Mario Cristobal as head coach and Alex Mirabal as offensive line coach was supposed to increase the physicality Miami plays with and improve the run. Miami seemed to gain some momentum with 38 carries for 107 yards in the 20-14 win over Virginia Tech earlier this month.
Henry Parrish has 87 carries for 429 yards for a 4.93 yards per carry average with four touchdowns this season. Miami has been far more productive offensively when Parrish is healthy and playing well. Parrish missed the game versus Virginia Tech with an undisclosed injury. Parrish had 11 carries for 63 yards versus Duke.
Miami has also created touches for Henry Parrish as a receiver. Parrish has 14 receptions for 108 yards and two TDs. Jaylan Knighton who was expected to share carries with Parrish this season has struggled. Knighton has 42 carries for 161 yards without a TD. Thad Franklin is expected back after not playing versus Duke.
Franklin has 44 carries for 202 yards and leads Miami with five rushing TDs. Mario Cristobal said on his show earlier this week that Parrish needs more touches. Miami plays at Virginia on Saturday. The Cavaliers are 73rd nationally allowing 147.71 rushing yards per game. Virginia is 36th allowing 202.6 passing yards per game.
"“He’s a guy that has put in the time…he looks like he’s back to form he’s invested the time he’s the guy needs more touches.”"
With Virginia having a better pass defense than against the run, Parrish could be an outlet for Miami quarterback Jake Garcia who is projected to start in place of Tyler Van Dyke who suffered a shoulder injury versus Duke last week. Virginia has mostly limited opposing running backs as receivers this season.
Sean Tucker of Syracuse had a season-high five receptions for 45 yards as a RB against the Virginia defense. Georgia Tech RB Hassan Hall had four receptions for 37 yards. Virginia has been inconsistent in stopping the run this season. Four Cavalier opponents have had at least 170 yards rushing this season.
Virginia has held the other three under 90 yards rushing. Miami has three games under 100 yards rushing this season, had 107 on 28 carries versus Virginia Tech and at least 175 in their other three games. Miami needs to create more balance offensively. Parrish being at full strength should help for the rest of the season.