The program, however, isn’t quite back to being “The U” just yet. Consecutive losses to Pitt, Clemson and Wisconsin to end the 2017 season proved that. Richt, however, does have the program trending in the right direction, reemphasized with a top-10 2018 recruiting class. The Hurricanes also play in one of the biggest opening-weekend games with a trip to Jerry World to face LSU on Sept. 2.
MORE: 2018 ACC conference primer
Miami fell back to No. 11 in Sporting News’ updated way-too-early top 25. Here’s closer look at the Hurricanes heading into 2018:
Miami schedule 2018
Miami recruiting 2018
Miami’s 2018 recruiting class ranked eighth nationally according to 247Sports’ Composite team rankings, and Richt brought in a class heavy on skill position players. Five-star running back Lorenzo Lingard (University, Orange City, Fla.) is the highest-ranked player in the class, which taps into that rich recruiting base in Florida. Miami grabbed two four-star wide receivers, two four-star tight ends and a four-star quarterback. With Florida and Florida State making transitions, this is a golden opportunity to accumulate national championship-caliber talent at The U.
MORE: One big thing for each top 10 class
Miami football roster 2018
What to watch in 2018
- What’s next for Malik Rosier?
Miami’s quarterback made clutch plays in victories against Florida State and Georgia Tech and starred in the blowout victory against Notre Dame, but his three-game slide against Pitt, Clemson and Wisconsin was noticeable. In those games, Rosier completed just 44.9 percent of his passes for 500 yards, three touchdowns and five interceptions. Redshirt-freshman N’Kosi Perry and true freshman Jarren Williams figure to challenge Rosier, but it would be an upset if the veteran isn’t under center for the opener against LSU.
- Will the D-line reach next level?
Defensive line coach Craig Kuligowski reportedly left for the same position at Alabama, creating pressure for the next assistant to continue that development up front. Joe Jackson ranked second at Miami with 6.5 sacks last season, and Jonathan Garvin could be a breakout player in this defense. This unit will be tough again.
- What about the Turnover Chain?
Miami’s Turnover Chain became the most popular sideline accessory in college football last season, and the secondary returns Jaquan Johnson, Sheldrick Redwine, Michael Jackson and Trajan Bandy, who helped Miami account for 31 turnovers last season. Will that number go up in 2018?
