ESPN Identifies Miami Football’s 2024 X-Factor
ESPN has highlighted the Miami football program’s strong receiver group as a critical factor for college football’s top 25 teams in 2024.
In their season preview, ESPN recognized Miami’s wide receivers, including Sam Brown, Jacolby George, and Xavier Restrepo, as pivotal players. All three surpassed 800 receiving yards in 2023.
Andrea Adelson from ESPN remarked on quarterback Cam Ward’s proven capabilities, noting the uncertainty around Miami’s big play receivers. However, she affirms that Miami does have the talent needed. George led the ACC in 2023 with 540 yards after the catch and 12 contested catches, according to Pro Football Focus. He also ranked fifth in the ACC with an average of 15.16 yards per reception and tied for fourth with eight touchdown receptions. Restrepo was ninth in the ACC with six touchdown catches, and Brown, who played for Houston in 2023, was tenth in the Big XII with 12 receptions of 20 or more yards.
Miami WR Jacolby George Last Season:
🙌 540 Yards AFTER Catch
🙌 12 Contested Catches1st Among Returning ACC WRs in BOTH Categories🔥 pic.twitter.com/X8sw5hChIC
— PFF College (@PFF_College) May 23, 2024
Isaiah Horton showed potential in 2023 with limited playing time, recording 13 receptions for 168 yards. He is expected to be the fourth receiver in Miami’s 2024 lineup, behind Brown, George, and Restrepo.
Andrea Adelson commented on Miami’s receivers: “The big question for Miami is whether they have receivers capable of making big, explosive plays that have been lacking. Early indications are positive. Miami returns Restrepo and George, with Horton emerging as a star and Brown fitting in well… The depth and explosiveness should return in 2024.”
Ward’s strong arm and mobility, combined with Restrepo’s ability to exploit defensive seams, are expected to generate big plays. Freshman JoJo Trader also shows potential as a big-play receiver. Miami faces a significant test in their first week against Florida’s revamped secondary at Ben Hill-Griffin Stadium, where Florida’s new secondary coach, Will Harris, will be a formidable challenge.
Miami’s offense in 2024 is anticipated to be balanced, with running back Damien Martinez complementing the passing game. The combination of Ward’s skills and the receiving options suggests a more dynamic and explosive Miami offense in the upcoming season.
