Could personnel changes help address Miami’s defensive struggles, which have resulted in allowing 31.7 points per game in ACC play? According to defensive coordinator Lance Guidry, it’s largely too late for major changes, aside from one key player returning from injury and increased opportunities for a veteran player.
Head coach Mario Cristobal announced Monday that sophomore cornerback Damari Brown, sidelined since early in the season, is a game-time decision for Saturday’s game against Wake Forest at Hard Rock Stadium (noon, ESPN). If he’s not ready this weekend, Cristobal expects him to be available for the Nov. 30 game at Syracuse. However, Cristobal sounded optimistic on his radio show, saying, “The goal is this week, and we feel good about it” for Brown, defensive end Elijah Alston, and guard Ryan Rodriguez.
Brown, who posted a 96 passer rating in coverage last season over 280 defensive snaps, could take playing time from Dyoni Hill. Hill, a transfer from Marshall, has struggled this season, allowing a 97.2 passer rating in his coverage area.
Additionally, Cristobal indicated that linebacker Jaylin Alderman, a Louisville transfer, will see an increased role. With Raul Aguirre sidelined, Alderman played a season-high 41 snaps against Georgia Tech, grading as one of Miami’s top defenders in the game. Pro Football Focus rates Alderman as the 12th-best of 43 UM defensive players this season, and seventh-best against the run.
Guidry mentioned that safeties Zaquan Patterson and Markeith Williams could also see more snaps, though starter Jaden Harris continues to lead the secondary with 511 defensive snaps this season, trailing only safety Mishael Powell and linebacker Francisco Mauigoa.
As for other positions, Cristobal said improvement must come from the current rotation stepping up their performance.
Miami fans should keep an eye on several games with College Football Playoff implications this weekend. A loss by SMU, which plays Virginia on Saturday, would help Miami’s chances of reaching the ACC championship game if the Mustangs also lose to California on Nov. 30. Wins against Wake Forest and Syracuse would guarantee Miami a spot in the ACC title game against Clemson.
Outside the ACC, Miami fans should root for Notre Dame (No. 6) to lose its remaining games against No. 18 Army and Southern California. Losses by Penn State or one of the top SEC teams would also improve Miami’s chances. However, if Miami doesn’t reach the ACC title game or loses twice, their playoff hopes diminish significantly.
Miami’s recruiting efforts continue to gain momentum. The Hurricanes recently flipped edge rusher Hayden Lowe from USC and are reportedly close to flipping four-star linebacker Tarvos Alford from Ohio State. They’re also pursuing four-star defensive tackle Jarquez Carter.
Cristobal emphasized that improvement during the bye week extended to coaches as well as players. “We spent the bye week improving every aspect of our program, starting with how we teach and coach,” he said. Cristobal added that Miami has faced unexpected challenges during games but has generally adjusted well.
Top recruits, including 2026 tight ends Brock Harris and Israel Briggs, will visit Miami during this weekend’s game against Wake Forest. ESPN has assigned Mark Jones and Roddy Jones to broadcast the matchup.