I know everybody is asking about quarterback and the offense, but I'll post that breakown later today when the dust settles a bit. Let's start with our Portal efforts the defensive side of the ball.
- The key name to know on defense is Missouri DE Damon Wilson. The former five star from Venice, Florida is the best defensive player in the Portal, and Miami is zeroing in on him. They are looking for bigger defensive ends to replace Rueben Bain and Akheem Mesidor.
- The Canes are also looking for a young defensive tackle to replace Donta Simpson. One name to keep an eye on: Ohio State transfer Jarquez Carter. He is a former teammate of Miami freshman DT Mykah Newton. The pair is from Newberry, Florida. Ahmad Moten, Justin Scott an Armondo Blount are expected to return and anchor our defense.
- Linebacker received a big boost with the expected return of Mo Toure, who is playing his best football in the playoffs. He continues to get healthier and faster. They are continuing to look for linebackers, but my sense is that they will look to their existing roster for most of the production. Don't sleep on Kamal Bonner, who fell behind due to injury but has been coming on in practice.
- Boston College transfer Omar Thornton is committed and will play both nickel and safety. We are not pursuing Koi Perich and I don't expect further action at safety. We are evaluating corners, as we have four starting caliber veterans and it is unclear how that will play out after the championship.
- I like Miami for Kicker Jack Olsen. He is highly accurate from within 50 yards. I expect Miami to pursue a kickoff and long FG specialist. Keep an eye on FSU kicker Jake Weinberg.
