Miami defense second-highest graded by Pro Football Focus nationally

Led by several transfers, Miami has the second-highest graded defense by Pro Football Focus this season behind Mississippi. Miami is 13th nationally allowing 8.7 points per game, sixth permitting 188.7 total yards per game and 12th giving up 65.67 rushing yards per game and 123.0 passing yards.

The Hurricanes are eighth with 27 tackles for loss, second with 12 sacks, third with six interceptions, and first holding teams to 14.71 on third down conversions. Miami has limited opponents' explosive plays with only two of 30 or more yards. With quarterback Cam Ward getting most of the hype, Miami has been dominant defensively.

Edge rusher Tyler Baron has been dominant with defensive lineman Rueben Bain being out since the first series of the season versus Florida. Baron is tied for first nationally with seven TFLs and is third with 4.5 sacks. Baron is also fourth on Miami with 10 tackles.

Middle linebacker Francisco Mauigoa is having another All-ACC season, leading the Hurricanes with 17 tackles and adding 2.5 TFLs and 1.0 sack. The secondary was a question mark for Miami entering the 2024 season. First-year starting safety Jaden Harris is second on Miami with 15 tackles has 1.5 TFLs, a 0.5 sack, one interception and a pass breakup.

Miami has not allowed a TD since the fourth quarter of the season opening 41-17 win at Florida. Florida, Florida A&M and Ball State have combined to go 25 consecutive drives without a TD. Miami has only allowed three field goals to Florida A&M in a 56-9 win during that streak.

By almost every measure Miami has been dominant defensively this season. They have played without Bain except for one series and cornerback Damari Brown who has been injured since the fourth quarter versus Florida. Once Miami gets healthy they can improve defensively to become more dominant.