ESPN names Miami football 2024 X-Factor

As part of their preview ahead of the season, ESPN named the receivers for the Miami football program as one of the "X factors for college football's top 25 teams in 2024," Miami wide receivers Sam Brown, Jacolby George and Xavier Restrepo each had over 800 yards receiving in 2023.

Andrea Adelson of ESPN stated "We all know what quarterback Cam Ward is capable of doing" but the question mark is if Miami has big play receivers. The answer to that question should be a resounding yes. George was first in the ACC in 2023 with 540 yards after the catch and 12 contested catches per Pro Football Focus.

George also finished fifth in the ACC averaging 15.16 yards per reception and tied for fourth with eight touchdown receptions. Restrepo was ninth in the ACC with six TD receptions. Brown finished 10th in the Big XII with Houston in 2023 recording 12 receptions of 20 or more yards.

Isaiah Horton flashed big play potential in limited snaps in 2023. Horton had 13 receptions for 168 yards, seven for first downs, four of 15 or more yards, and one for more than 25 yards. Horton is projected to be the fourth WR in the 2024 Miami rotation behind Brown, George and Restrepo.

"24. Miami Hurricanes
Receivers...the big question for Miami is whether he has the receivers who can make the type of big, explosive plays that have been routinely missing from the Hurricanes offense. The early returns say yes. Not only does Miami return Xavier Restrepo and Jacolby George, Isaiah Horton looks like an emerging star and Houston transfer Sam Brown fits in nicely....the depth and explosiveness down the field has been missing. That should change for the Hurricanes in 2024. "

- Andrea Adelson

Ward has a big arm and the mobility to make plays when the play called breaks down. Restrepo's ability to get into the seam of a defense should mesh well with Ward and create big plays. Miami has the opportunity to have a big play offense in 2024. Running back, Damien Martinez should complement the Miami wide receivers.

Freshman JoJo Trader is another player to watch as a potential big-play receiver. Miami will be tested in week one against a rebuilt Florida secondary at a loud Ben Hill-Griffin Stadium. Florida hired Will Harris as their new secondary coach. Harris was the secondary coach at Washington in 2021 when they led the nation in pass defense.

Miami should have a balanced offense in 2024. The threat of Martinez as a runner should keep defenses honest for Ward and the Miami pass offense. Miami should be more of a big-play pass offense in 2024 led by Ward and the option of receivers he has to throw to.