No. 6 Miami Hurricanes Projected Depth Chart Against Syracuse
As the No. 6 Miami Hurricanes gear up to face the Syracuse Orange, all eyes are on the team’s depth chart. With Miami surging in the rankings thanks to a strong season under head coach Mario Cristobal, this ACC matchup is crucial as the Hurricanes aim to solidify their standing and build momentum for postseason aspirations.
The depth chart reflects the team’s talent, depth, and the coaching staff’s strategy for countering Syracuse’s strengths. Here’s a closer look at the projected lineup for the Hurricanes in this pivotal game.
The Miami offense has been a key factor in the team’s success this season, showcasing a balanced attack with dynamic playmakers across the board.
Quarterback
- Starter: Tyler Van Dyke
Van Dyke continues to lead the Hurricanes with poise and precision. The junior quarterback has been the backbone of Miami’s offense, posting impressive passing numbers and demonstrating exceptional decision-making. His ability to read defenses and deliver accurate throws will be critical against a Syracuse secondary that thrives on turnovers. - Backup: Jacurri Brown
Brown offers a more mobile option, and while his opportunities have been limited, his athleticism gives Miami flexibility in certain packages.
Running Back
- Starter: Henry Parrish Jr.
Parrish has been the workhorse for Miami, consistently delivering solid performances on the ground. His vision and ability to find holes in the defense make him a reliable option. - Backup: Don Chaney Jr.
Chaney provides a powerful complement to Parrish’s style, capable of breaking tackles and gaining tough yards.
- This trio has been instrumental in stretching defenses and creating mismatches. Young is the deep-threat specialist, George excels in the intermediate game, and Restrepo operates as a reliable slot receiver with excellent hands and route-running ability
- Both players add depth and are capable of stepping up when called upon, particularly in multi-receiver sets.
- Starter: Elijah Arroyo
Arroyo provides a dual threat as a blocker and receiver. His ability to create mismatches with linebackers makes him a valuable asset in the passing game.
- Starters: Jalen Rivers (LT), Javion Cohen (LG), Matt Lee (C), Anez Cooper (RG), Francis Mauigoa (RT)
This unit has been a cornerstone of Miami’s success, giving Van Dyke the protection he needs while opening lanes for the running game. Anchored by center Matt Lee, the line faces a Syracuse front that will challenge its physicality.
Miami’s defense has been one of the most dominant in the ACC, blending speed and aggression with a deep rotation of talented players.
Defensive Line
- Starters: Akheem Mesidor (DE), Leonard Taylor III (DT), Branson Deen (DT), Jahfari Harvey (DE)
The defensive line has been a force, consistently pressuring opposing quarterbacks and shutting down the run. Taylor’s ability to disrupt plays in the backfield will be key against Syracuse’s mobile offense. - Reserves: Nyjalik Kelly, Rueben Bain Jr.
Kelly and Bain provide fresh legs and maintain the pressure when rotating in.
Linebackers
- Starters: Francisco Mauigoa (MLB), Wesley Bissainthe (OLB)
Mauigoa leads the linebacking corps with his instincts and tackling ability, while Bissainthe offers speed and coverage skills on the outside.
Secondary
- Starters: Kamren Kinchens (S), James Williams (S), Te’Cory Couch (CB), Jaden Davis (CB), Daryl Porter Jr. (NB)
The secondary has been a highlight for Miami, with Kinchens and Williams anchoring the back end. Couch and Davis have been reliable in shutting down opposing receivers, while Porter excels in nickel packages.
- Kicker: Andy Borregales
Borregales has been dependable, converting key field goals throughout the season. - Punter: Dylan Joyce
Joyce’s ability to flip field position has been a quiet but crucial factor in Miami’s success. - Return Specialists: Brashard Smith, Jacolby George
Both players bring explosiveness to the return game, capable of breaking off big plays.
Against Syracuse, Miami’s ability to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball will be pivotal. Offensively, Van Dyke’s leadership and the dynamic receiving corps must exploit Syracuse’s defensive vulnerabilities. Defensively, the Hurricanes need to contain Syracuse quarterback Garrett Shrader, whose mobility and playmaking ability can create challenges.
The No. 6 Miami Hurricanes enter their matchup against Syracuse with a deep and talented roster ready to compete. While Syracuse poses a unique set of challenges, Miami’s blend of offensive firepower and defensive discipline should give them the edge. With postseason aspirations in sight, this game represents another opportunity for the Hurricanes to prove they belong among the elite in college football.