Lane Stadium, Blacksburg, Virginia - November 5, 2005
Miami, ranked fifth in the country, faced third-ranked Virginia Tech, led by Marcus Vick, younger brother of NFL legend Michael Vick. The atmosphere was electric, amplified by the Hokies' entrance to Metallica’s "Enter Sandman." Even as a Cane fan, it was hard not to be impressed.
The hype surrounding Marcus was immense. That same year, his brother Michael was turning heads in the NFL, playing the type of football that earned him his second Pro Bowl selection with the Atlanta Falcons. This created a buzz, as fans and scouts eagerly watched Marcus at Virginia Tech, hoping to see another Vick superstar emerge. The parallels between the brothers fueled the excitement, making Marcus’s every move a point of intense scrutiny and expectation.
The Game Begins
Just five minutes into the first quarter, Marcus Vick drops back to pass, unaware of Thomas Carroll charging. Carroll, with speed uncommon for a defensive end, blazes past Virginia Tech’s best pass blocker, Jimmy Martin. He strips the ball. Miami recovers, and momentum shifts dramatically. The electric energy from the stadium, initially fueled by the Hokies' thunderous intro, now surges into the Miami Hurricanes and silences the Virginia Tech faithful.
Miami's Defensive Dominance
This play set the tone for the entire game. Miami’s defensive front, led by Thomas Carroll, Baraka Atkins, Orien Harris, Kareem Brown, and the late Bryan Pata, was a relentless force. They dominated the line of scrimmage, forced six turnovers, and held the Hokies to just 167 total yards. Vick and the Hokies could get nothing going. Carroll’s strip sack was just one of many moments where the defense showed its teeth.
Key Players
Thomas Carroll's speed and technique constantly disrupted offenses. Baraka Atkins, switching to tackle, added strength to the interior. Orien Harris, despite missing spring practice with a minor injury, was a seasoned veteran anchoring the line. Kareem Brown brought relentless pressure, and Bryan Pata’s play and presence made him a cornerstone of the defense.
Even with setbacks like Teraz McCray's ACL injury, this squad had depth for days. They rotated players seamlessly, maintaining dominance. Vegas Franklin, Eric Moncur, and Javon Nanton all contributed when it came to depth. Even Calais Campbell, a redshirt freshman, was just starting to show his potential, soon to become one of Miami's all-time greats on the defensive line.
The Legacy of the 2005 Defense
The 2005 Miami Hurricanes defense was one of the best in the nation, finishing fourth in Division I-A in total defense, allowing only 270 yards per game. They led the nation in pass defense, conceding just 152 passing yards per game, and ranked fourth in scoring defense, giving up only 14 points per game. The defense was peppered with future NFL players including four from the linebacker room, also Kenny Phillips, Brandon Meriweather, Kelly Jennings, and Randy Phillips, just to name a few.
The entire defense benefited from the defensive front being blazing quick and disruptive. I often rewatch this game, remembering when the Canes had speed and a deadly defensive line rotation. Since then, Miami has produced several great defensive linemen, some becoming first-round draft picks, like Greg Rousseau and Jaelan Phillips.
Had Rousseau and Phillips played together, it likely would have been Miami's best defensive line in a long time. Their combined presence could have been legendary, potentially rivaling the dominance of the 2005 defensive line. Rousseau's versatility and ability to play multiple positions across the defensive front, paired with Phillips' relentless motor and explosiveness off the edge, would have created nightmares for opposing offenses. The thought of these two lining up together is a dream all Cane fans never got to see, and I’d be remiss not to mention it.
Looking Forward
Fast forward to 2024, and we have a new crop of talent ready to etch their names into Hurricanes history. This year's defensive line is a perfect blend of speed, power, and aggression, one that I believe can take over games just like the 2005 defensive line did against Virginia Tech.
The Hurricanes' defensive line is projected to feature a deep rotation of standout players made up of current guys, transfers, and talented freshmen—each poised to leave their mark and reignite the legacy of Miami's defensive line dominance.
Key Transfers and Returning Stars
Malik Bryant
Entering his second season with the Miami Hurricanes, edge rusher Malik Bryant is poised to make a significant impact. This year marks his first full spring practice, giving him ample opportunity to soak up knowledge and strive for consistency. Working closely with Pro Football Hall of Famer Coach Jason Taylor, Bryant has gained invaluable insights that have propelled his development. Standing at 6'2" and weighing 235 pounds after gaining 20-25 pounds, Bryant’s transformation is a testament to his dedication. His competitive spirit drives him to constantly push himself against teammates in practice, and he looks up to veterans like Akeem Mesidor, who serves as a mentor.
Akeem Mesidor
A standout on the defensive line, Akeem Mesidor transferred to Miami from West Virginia and is entering his third season with the Hurricanes. Known for his attacking playstyle and versatility, Mesidor can play both on the edge and at defensive tackle. In the 2022 season, he recorded 38 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 7 sacks, earning an All-ACC Honorable Mention. His impact was significant, leading the team in tackles for loss and sacks. Mesidor prefers playing the three-technique position but is comfortable at both end and tackle, making him a valuable asset. His passion for the game is evident in the smile on his face when he talks about rushing the passer.
Marley Cook
Marley Cook, a transfer from Middle Tennessee State, quickly made a mark at Miami by squatting a record 705 pounds. This feat showcased his physical strength and helped him bond with his new teammates. At Middle Tennessee, Cook recorded 57 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and 8 sacks. His standout performance in 2022 earned him a PFF defensive grade of 85.2, with a pass rush grade of 90.1. Cook attributes breaking the squat record to being let loose and pushed in the gym by Miami coaches.
C.J. Clark
Transferring from NC State, C.J. Clark brings versatility and experience to Miami’s defensive line. Standing 6'3" and weighing 305 pounds, Clark played over 1,400 snaps at the Power Five level. Clark is experienced and has started multiple games at multiple positions across the defensive line.
Simeon Barrow Jr.
Simeon Barrow Jr., another key transfer from Michigan State, adds a pass-rushing presence in the interior. Over three seasons, he accumulated 110 total tackles, 10.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. In 2023, Barrow recorded five games with a PFF grade over 70, with a standout game against Nebraska earning him a grade of 82.8. He also has 30 starts at the defensive tackle position. Just a wealth of experience.
Tyler Baron
Tyler Baron, a standout edge rusher from Tennessee, is one of Miami's most significant transfers. Standing 6'5" and weighing 260 pounds, Baron brings a wealth of experience to the Hurricanes. Over four years at Tennessee, he accumulated 105 tackles and six sacks in his final season. His 2023 season highlights include six sacks and 41 pressures, demonstrating his ability to disrupt plays off the edge. Baron arguably has the best resume among all these guys given his play in the toughest conference in football. Adding him with already established pass rushers like Bain and Alston will give offensive coordinators fits, and take a lot of scheming to keep at bay.
Elijah Alston
Elijah Alston joins Miami after a standout career at Marshall, where he was the top-graded returning pass rusher in the country. Alston’s 2023 season included 35 total pressures, five sacks, and a remarkable 93.8 grade in run defense. His decision to join Miami was influenced by his past experience with Coach Lance Guidry, whom he praises for his passion and coaching style. Alston’s maturity, leadership, and active play across the defensive front I predict will make him a fan favorite this year.
Rueben Bain Jr.
ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year Rueben Bain Jr. had a spectacular freshman season, recording 45 pressures, including nine sacks. Standing at 6'3" and weighing 275 pounds, Bain’s combination of size and speed makes him a formidable presence. His standout game against Clemson, with a PFF grade of 89.8, highlights his ability to dominate. Bain’s leadership and versatility will be key as Miami aims for a dominant season.
Incoming Freshmen
Miami’s defensive line is further bolstered by talented freshmen like Justin Scott, Marquise Lightfoot, Cole McConathy, Artavius Jones, and Armando Blount. Each brings unique skills and potential, promising significant contributions to an already formidable unit.
Justin Scott: A five-star recruit known for his explosiveness and ability to disrupt plays. He was highly sought after and is expected to make an immediate impact with his power and technique.
Marquise Lightfoot: Excels with his speed off the edge and relentless motor, making him a constant threat to opposing quarterbacks.
Cole McConathy: A versatile defensive end bringing agility and a high football IQ, allowing him to read plays effectively and respond quickly.
Coaching Excellence
Under Defensive Coordinator Lance Guidry, the Hurricanes' defense made significant strides in 2023, ranking highly in several categories, including 13th nationally in total defense and 4th in tackles for loss. The wealth of coaching experience, including Hall of Famer Jason Taylor, ensures that Miami’s defense is in excellent hands.
The Miami Hurricanes' defensive line this year features a dynamic blend of experienced transfers, emerging stars, and talented freshmen, setting the stage for a standout season. This article demonstrates that Mario Cristobal and Lance Guidry value versatile players who can train across multiple positions.
Barrow and Marley will strengthen the interior, while Alston, Baron, and Bain will rotate at the ends. Mesidor and Clark will be utilized across the defensive line. Expect to see Bain, Baron, and Alston in some exotic looks, as Guidry often employs DEs in coverage and spy roles.
In the words of Elijah Alston, “It’s all there; we just need to get it together.”
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