It is no secret Miami has struggled defensively after a strong four-game stretch to start the season. Earlier this week, Canes Warning discussed how the FSU offense presents an opportunity for Miami's defense to get back on track.
In that article, we explored how bad things have gotten for the Canes in October, namely allowing a jarring 39.0 points and 409.0 yards per game. After getting off to a strong start, this recent three-game slump has caused Miami's 2024 defensive totals to slip too.
Miami's yards per game (306.1) is now good for 30th nationally and their yards per play (5.09) is 40th. Miami allows 22.57 points per game. Despite the recent woes, it's not all doom and gloom. In their first four games of the season, the defensive unit allowed just 41 total points.
Miami has also done a good job getting off the field on third downs this season holding opponents to 29.9 percent good enough for 12th nationally. This includes holding Louisville to just three-of-12 last week. Conversely, they have struggled in fourth-down situations, allowing 60%, but I digress.
I just need Miami defense to figure out its identity before the ACC championship. Guidry got time. Maybe some young bulls have to grow some but I believe we can win a natty with the offense we have
— Malik Rosier (@MalikRosier12) October 20, 2024
Book mark it if you want 🫡 standing on business pic.twitter.com/1RywxfkvYW
Miami's pass defense has not been great this season but it has been opportunistic with 10 interceptions which has them top 10 in the nation. The pass rush has too been effective with 3.29 sacks per game, ranking 10th.
Miami's run defense has also been very stout holding opponents to 92 yards on the ground per game which is eighth-best in the FBS. They've been able to cause penetration in the run game and are tied for 13th nationally with 7.6 tackles for a loss per game.
The Canes have also had some note-worthy individual performances on the defensive side of the ball. Despite struggling against the pass, Mishael Powell is top ten in the nation in interceptions with three on the year.
Miami also has two different defensive linemen in the top 40 in sacks per game, Simeon Barrow and Tyler Baron, both with 0.64 per game. Again, some players and positives they can lean on as they get the train back on the tracks.
The point here is that the Miami defense has struggled the past few weeks, but there is hope yet. Explosive plays in the passing game have cost them this season, but there are pieces for defensive coordinator Lance Guidry's unit to build off of as they gear up for a playoff push.
Guidry's defenses at Marshall were known for being good on third down, against the run, and with their defensive pass efficiency. His unit this year is two out of three on those right now.
If he can scheme up the pass defense a bit more while continuing to get pressure, continue to turn the ball over, and stop the run, they should be able to round into form down the stretch. Florida State provides a great get-right opportunity on Saturday night for a unit that has remained good enough for a 7-0 start but has yet to reach its full potential.