Miami football 2023 defense improved significantly
The Hurricanes allowed 165.44 rushing YPG versus Power Five opponents in 2022 and 61.50 versus Power Five opponents. Miami allowed over 200 yards rushing four times during the 2022 season. In another four games, Miami held opponents under 100 yards rushing. The 2022 defense was wildly inconsistent.
Miami finished 12th nationally in 2023, allowing 105.62 rushing YPG. The Hurricanes allowed 121.63 rushing YPG versus ACC conference opponents and 80.0 against non-conference opponents. Miami allowed 119.10 rushing YPG versus winning teams and 74.5 versus non-winning teams in 2023.
Miami held seven opponents under 100 rushing yards in 2023. North Carolina, who ran for 235 yards and Rutgers, with 208 were the only teams over 200 yards on the ground versus Miami in 2023. Guidry makes stopping the run his priority defensively. For the most part, Miami succeeded in 2023.
After a disastrous season under Steele defensively in 2022, Miami improved significantly in 2023. Bain had a breakout season and Mauigoa was a huge improvement at MLB. More help is on the way in 2024 and beyond. Miami signed an elite 2024 defensive line class. Several 2024 freshmen should contribute defensively.