OFFENSE DEFENSE

While injuries certainly affected the offensive consistency last season, the poor offensive line play was the root of all the Hurricanes’ troubles. With Zion Nelson recovered from his nagging knee injury, five-star tackles Francis Mauigoa and Samson Okunlola, and transfers Matt Lee (UCF) and Javion Cohen (Alabama), the line should be a strength this season. That’s welcome news for quarterback Tyler Van Dyke, who was upright for just nine games last season, and Henry Parrish Jr. Both expect to rebound from subpar statistical seasons a year ago. The receiving corps is stocked with untapped potential. Colbie Young must have a breakout season for Miami to generate a productive passing attack. He had 32 catches for 367 yards last season, and those totals must at minimum double this season. Tight end Cam McCormick will be a threat on check-downs.

Last season lots of excitement happened when opponents dropped back to pass. The Hurricanes picked off 14 passes and sacked quarterbacks 37 times. But opponents also hit 20 touchdown passes and averaged a whopping 8.4 yards per pass. Meanwhile, Marshall’s defense allowed just 16 points a game and led the nation getting off the field on third down. So, enter Marshall’s defensive coordinator Lance Guidry. Akheem Mesidor led the Canes with seven sacks and Jahfari Harvey added 5.5. Both return along with Leonard Taylor III (10.5 tackles for loss) to create havoc once again. Kamren Kinchens and James Williams are arguably the best safeties in the ACC. The addition of Jaden Davis from Oklahoma is a huge boost to an already talented secondary. Inexperience at linebacker could spell trouble early in the season.

Special Teams

2023 Schedule

Special Teams

Newcomers

Mark Fletcher, RB — The powerful runner can make defenders miss in the open field, but doesn’t shy away from contact. He will be eased into the rotation early this season.

Francis Mauigoa, T — The five-star tackle was ranked No. 1 at the position and fifth overall in the nation by ESPN. He will be a building block on the offensive line.

Samson Okunlola, T — Another five-star tackle ranked among the top three in the nation, Okunlola will team with Francis Mauigoa to form terrific bookend tackles.

NC STATE Raleigh, NC

HEAD COACH: Dave Doeren

OC: Robert Anae

DC: Tony Gibson

2022 RECORD: 8-5 (4-4)

FOUNDED: 1887

STADIUM: Carter-Finley Stadium (57,583)