“In previous years we weren’t always on the same page,” Gaines said. “This defense is definitely more together. We really understand the vision of what we’re trying to do. That’s why we fly around a little better.”
Miami lists itself as a 4-3, but a bulkier Porter, along with Pierre and Chickillo at ends, will allow Miami to play a 3-4. Defensive coordinator Mark D’Onofrio said he will use multiple fronts. In a 4-3, senior Shayon Green (6-3, 264) will start at end opposite Chickillo.
On third down, the exuberant Muhammad and sophomore Tyriq McCord will be the key pass-rushers. Coaches believe Chickillo, Perryman, Green and recent transfer David Gilbert can get to the backfield, which last season was like foreign land.
“I think we’re trying a lot of guys and creating competition,” said D’Onofrio, who will call plays from the booth this season instead of the sideline. “I’m excited about seeing where we’re at with that group.”
At linebacker, Gaines and Perryman will play next to either freshman Alex Figueroa or junior Thurston Armbrister, who have tussled for the strong-side linebacker spot all month. The expected secondary starters are Jenkins, Howard, Gunter and junior Kacy Rodgers II, with Bush expected to earn a starting role once he recovers from offseason surgery.
As freshmen, they might have tried too hard to make game-changing plays. There will be less freelancing this year.
“We’re smarter,” Jenkins said. “We know the game now. We’re not young anymore.”