Miami football: Fletcher and Mauigoa ACC Impact Freshmen

Mark Fletcher and Francis Mauigoa were named in the 247 Sports Football Recruiting Podcast in their “ACC true freshmen primed to make an impact in 2023.” Rueben Bain, Nathaniel Joseph and Robby Washington as honorable mention ACC true freshmen ready to make an impact in 2023 for the Miami football team.

Mauigoa is poised to make the biggest impact for the Miami football team in 2023. Since the second day of spring practice, Mauigoa has been the first-team right tackle. Mauigoa was the sixth-highest-ranked signee, second offensive tackle and second player in Florida in the 2023 class.

Mauigoa has continually been recognized throughout the offseason. On Thursday Bain and Maugioa were named 247 Sports Preseason All-Americans. Guard Javion Cohen, center Matt Lee and Mauigoa are all new starters for Miami on the offensive line. Cohen transferred from Alabama and Lee from Central Florida.

Fletcher has been impressive in training camp after missing spring practice because he didn’t enroll until this summer. At 6’0.5 and 226 pounds, Fletcher provides Miami with a needed big back. In the first training camp scrimmage last Saturday, Fletcher scored two touchdowns.

Andrew Ivins discussed expectations for Fletcher.

"MIAMI: RB MARK FLETCHER, OT FRANCIS MAUIGOAHonorable Mentions: WR Robby Washington, WR Nathaniel Joseph, EDGE Rueben Bain“My understanding is Mark Fletcher is going to be the battering ram…He had two touchdowns in their first opening scrimmage. When they get in the red zone, get down to first-and-goal, Mark Fletcher is going to be the guy.”"

Mario Cristobal and offensive line coach Alex Mirabal made the line of scrimmage a priority in the 2023 recruiting class. Mauigoa is the jewel of that class. Eventually, Mauigoa and fellow 2023 five-star Samson Okunlola are expected to provide Miami with book-end tackles. Copper Petagna discussed Mauigoa’s quick rise.

"“I think Mario is going to have a hard time not getting overly excited about him…He was comfortable enough to insert him into the starting lineup on day two of spring ball…I think Mauigoa is a cornerstone of that program.”"

Bain is projected to be a major contributor to Miami in 2023. Initially, Bain is expected to be a situation pass rusher. Bain provides Miami with the versatility to be an edge rusher or tackle. Miami has a deep group of edge rushers in 2023. That allows Bain to develop at his own pace.

Joseph provides the Miami football program with potentially an explosive returner and wide receiver. In the spring game, Joseph showed off his speed on a long TD reception. Cristobal stated last week that no one will outwork Joseph. Expect a lot of looks from new offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson on offense.

Washington is another freshman that brings a lot of speed to Miami. Expect Washington to be utilized outside and in the slot for Miami in 2023. Joseph and Washington help Miami have more depth and talent on the roster at WR in 2023. The 2023 Miami class was seventh nationally and should make an impact this fall.