The Miami Hurricanes wrapped up spring football on Saturday with a scrimmage at Cobb Stadium. The defense beat the offense, 25-20. Mario Cristobal met with media after the game and talked about how his team has made progress over the last month. "I will never come up here and try to fluff up the spring. We have a ways to go, but we have progressed so much."
While Cristobal and people around the program understand that this time is for development and that there will be plenty of moving pieces during the fall, the standout performances in the spring game is always nice to see. Here are the 3 biggest winners from Saturday:
Malachi Toney – Freshman WR
Freshman Malachi Toney made an immediate impact, showcasing his playmaking abilities, speed, and was able to snag a 22-yard touchdown reception. Toney is an early enrollee who looks like he will be able to step up and help the wide receiver room this season. Fellow slot WR Ray-Ray Joseph and TE Elija Lofton have also impressed in the spring.
Luke Nickel, Emory Williams – QB's
With fall starter Carson Beck out while rehabbing an injury, Nickel and Williams have received the 1st string reps in the spring. Freshman QB Nickel made some impressive throws during the game. His potential and arm talent was obvious. Williams was the more consistent thrower on the day with a good portion of his passes being conservative as he relied on checkdowns. He was responsible for throwing the TD to Toney, but it should be noted that both QB's connected with him all day. Judd Anderson also got some plays at quarterback during the game.
The Defense
New Miami DC Corey Hetherman's unit was impressive on Saturday. Defined by a day of bending without breaking, the defense forced two fumbles, an interception, and had a goal-line stand (during the tackling portion). Freshman Amari Wallace had the interception. Rueben Bain did not participate in the tackling portion of the spring game, but in the four plays he was in for he recorded two sacks.
An honorable mention goes to running back Girard Pringle as he pulled off several elusive runs that energized the offense. Despite missing some spring practices due to injury, his performance in the spring game was a positive sign for the backfield. Notable players missing from the game included TE Lofton, DT Ahmad Moten, and WR Joshisa Trader.