The last few years, I’ve become more pessimistic, and it’s been even longer since I allowed myself to have any delusional thoughts. But after yesterday, I feel a little delusion forming in the back of my brain — and I’m wondering if it’s warranted. I’m seeing a lot of things I haven’t seen in a very long time, so I’m going to point out a handful of things that look different.
1. Communication on both sides of the ball is phenomenal, especially compared to previous years. Last year’s defense was easily the worst combination of poor tackling, busted coverages, and lack of communication I’ve ever seen.
This season, the guys are lined up and talking pre-snap — and by the time the ball is snapped, everyone’s on the same page. That’s a big improvement over being misaligned and still communicating as the ball is snapped.
Heatherman has preached communication and simplifying things, and he’s been as close to perfect as you can ask for. Simply knowing your assignment and getting the play in quickly sets everything in motion — and he does that. Through three games, he deserves an A.
2. Complimentary football and all three phases working together.
Aside from the hold against ND, special teams and coverage have been drastically better. Marion brings a dimension we haven’t had in a while, in addition to being a solid gimmick guy and improved WR.
It’s nice not having to see one phase carry the other two — or constantly needing one unit to play a perfect game to have a shot. Most good teams have this balance, and we finally do too.
3. Leadership, chemistry, and full buy-in.
Unlike past years, there are multiple older guys on both sides of the ball who are also high-character individuals — not just a few scattered here and there.
It feels like this team really cares and wants to be great. It’s easily the most bought-in group since maybe 2017. Most of the guys genuinely seem happy for each other’s success.
Going back a few years, it seemed like guys cared more about the perks of playing at UM than actually winning. After games, it felt like a race to see who could get out of the locker room first to go party.
4. Quality coordinators on both sides of the ball.
This is a major reason we’re finally playing complimentary football. Heatherman has already gotten his flowers in this thread, and Dawson continues to improve year after year.
Both coaches are excellent at simplifying things while still having the ability to out-scheme opponents. Mario has finally built a complete, high-quality staff.
5. A real jolt of energy from the young guys.
This is the first time in forever that we’ve had this many young players logging key snaps — and mature enough to handle it. Toney, Moore, Fitzgerald, and one who hasn’t played much but was an absolute steal: Mr. Antione.
The speed with which he’s come back from a major injury is incredible — and he looks like a prototype future lockdown guy.
Blount is technically a freshman since he reclassified, so I’d throw him in this group too. Lowe would’ve been another big one. That was a huge loss.
6. Physicality at the line of scrimmage and a culture shift.
The team culture and physicality at the LOS have made Miami a bully again. Mario has completely changed the mindset, and the players have taken on his personality.
They’re ready to scrap it out in the parking lot and are fine with bloodying their noses. At one point, I thought that identity was gone forever — but being tough and physical is now the brand again.
So I guess what I’m saying is... I’m starting to feel like I’m setting myself up to be hurt again, lol. But something feels different this time compared to past years.
The next step is to keep the focus and be ready to take everyone’s best shot. I now expect to beat UF and ND — but it’s those random 12 p.m. road games against mediocre teams that still worry me. That’ll be the dragon that needs slayed.
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