Patrick Dwyer Merrill Lynch is an avid supporter of Miami football and takes a moment to discuss the prospects for its bright future as well as its storied past in this article.
After firing Al Golden (following what was the worst loss in program history — a 58-0 loss to Clemson), the Miami Hurricanes, as well as its avid, national fanbase (some of whom may even click here every now and then and see where they might be able to bet on their beloved team’s next game), have made the choice to view 2018 as a season where the Canes might have their strongest team in recent memory.
It’s a great position the Canes are in to have a special season and make some serious progress.
Where We’re Going
In 2017, Miami was widely thought to be one year ahead of schedule — they won their first 10 games before collapsing in the late season. That being said, that season’s 10-win performance was their first since 2004 — so let’s consider this a step in the right direction for the Canes and their head coach Mark Richt.
Another thing that Miami should be very excited about is this year’s secondary. In addition to some majorly exciting prospects, Miami’s secondary has the veteran experience to complement the youthful optimism, led by All-ACC cornerback Michael Jackson, an exciting senior with a legitimate claim to being best corner in the state of Florida — not to mention the Atlantic Coast Conference as a whole!
Many fixate on the strength of this team (defense) as Miami stands knocking at the door many (if not all) elite defensive units in the country, bringing a unique arsenal of weapons to the table.
Let’s Look at Where Miami Has Been
Let’s also take a moment to look back on where we’ve been. Miami is tied for 4th all time according to Associated Press National Poll Championships. The U shares this rarified air with USC and Ohio State. The only teams that rank above them are Alabama, Notre Dame, and Oklahoma.
Miami football has already distinguished itself through numerous records. In the NFL draft they have the record for most first-round selections in a single draft. They also hold the record for most consecutive drafts with 1 or more first round selections.
Miami also packs some serious Heisman power. Two Hurricanes won this holy grail of personal achievements in NCAA football (Vinny Testaverde in 1986 and Gino Torretta in 1992 — both at the quarterback position). There are also 9 current Miami players in the College Football Hall of Fame.
Having a great defense is nothing new to Miami. They have a serious linebacker legacy that includes Ray Lewis, Jonathan Vilma, DJ Williams, Michael Barrow, Darrin Smith and Jessie Armstead — just to name a few, many capturing college distinction in Miami on their way to making history in the NFL.
That’s a bright future and a bright past for Miami football. And, as Miami Hurricanes fans, we’ll be with this team through the awesome and the awful.
