The Miami Hurricanes’ defense has been a mix of highs and lows this season, alternating between moments of competence and glaring flaws. Some Saturdays inspire optimism about a deep playoff run, while others raise concerns about the team’s ability to maintain momentum into December.
Despite the inconsistencies, the defense’s stats remain strong. Heading into their home finale against Wake Forest, the No. 11 Hurricanes (9-1, 5-1 ACC) rank 21st nationally in total defense (316.6 yards per game), 24th in rushing defense (112.8 yards per game), and 27th in pass-efficiency defense (115.5). The season began on a high note with a dominant 41-17 victory over Florida, where they held the Gators to just one third-down conversion.
However, the defense’s performance has declined as the season progressed. We started off playing really well, said defensive coordinator Lance Guidry. But we hit a bit of a slump and need to step it up because, at this stage, minor mistakes can turn into major issues during crucial moments.
Those mistakes such as communication breakdowns and missed assignments proved costly in a narrow 28-23 loss to Georgia Tech two weeks ago. Against the Yellow Jackets’ option-based offense, Miami surrendered 271 rushing yards and allowed nine third-down conversions on 14 attempts.
Guidry acknowledged that adjustments during that game came too late. “They had a solid plan and used their bye week effectively,” he said. We didn’t respond the way we needed to, and that’s on me.
The Georgia Tech loss was not an outlier. Miami’s defensive struggles have been evident throughout ACC play, where the team ranks poorly in several metrics: 31.7 points allowed per game (14th), 144.8 rushing yards allowed (11th), and 5.9 yards per play (12th). These vulnerabilities almost cost them games against Louisville and Virginia Tech, underscoring the need for better execution and faster starts.
With a bye week before the Wake Forest game, the Hurricanes are aiming to reset and address key issues, particularly communication. Injuries have also been a factor, with cornerback Damari Brown and defensive lineman Elijah Alston listed as game-time decisions for Saturday.
This bye week has been critical, head coach Mario Cristobal said. We’ve focused on improving communication, alignments, and assignments. When those are done well, it builds confidence and lets players perform at their best.
Guidry emphasized the importance of overcommunicating during practices, ensuring clear signals and messages are understood by all players. Cornerback Daryl Porter Jr. echoed this focus, noting that integrating new players into the secondary has been a challenge but expressing confidence in the team’s progress.
We’ve had more time to work on shifts and motions, Porter said. I feel like we’ll be much sharper this week.