Cam Ward lights up Miami football spring game
Quarterback Cam Ward was 19-24 for 324 yards with three TDs and no interceptions per ESPN as he led the White Team to a 30-14 win. In the first half when the defense was still allowed to bring players to the ground, Ward was 17-23 for 260 yards and two touchdowns. In the second half, Miami used what was called thud tackling.
Ward led Miami on three touchdown drives and one that ended in a field goal in seven possessions. Ward showed his ability to throw the long ball with completions of 19, 21, 24, 40 and 49 yards per Christopher Stock of Inside the U. The first-team offense showed good chemistry.
Xavier Restrepo had seven receptions for 113 yards and one touchdown, Isaiah Horton added six for 88 and one score and Jacolby George reached the end zone from 24 yards out. All but one of Horton's receptions were from Ward. Ray Ray Joseph added six receptions for 56 yards as the primary backup to Restrepo.
Shermar Kirk was also impressive with three receptions for 119 yards playing with the backup QBs. With the transfer portal opening on Tuesday, Miami could pursue a WR who can compete with Horton to be a starter. Freshman JoJo Trader who had two receptions for 49 yards should also compete for extensive snaps in 2024
Ward was impressive, using the entire field on Saturday against a vanilla Miami defense. Ward showed the ability to improvise on Saturday. On one play with the pocket collapsing, Ward flicked the ball to freshman tight end Elija Lofton for a short completion. Ward's ability to improvise has been touted all off-season.
The diverse skill set for Ward and his leadership ability was on full display on Saturday. Ward showed the ability to elevate the Miami offense. Wide receivers were in a position to make plays catching passes from Ward. With Ward at QB, the Miami offense can be elite in 2024. The difference with Ward at QB was prevalent on Saturday.