Saturday Blitz
Fansided

Miami Football: 5 freshmen that will make a major impact in 2017

By David Eversole

MIAMI GARDENS, FL - NOVEMBER 05: Miami Hurricanes and Pittsburgh Panthers players line up prior to a snap during the first half of the game at Hard Rock Stadium on November 5, 2016 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Rob Foldy/Getty Images)
MIAMI GARDENS, FL - NOVEMBER 05: Miami Hurricanes and Pittsburgh Panthers players line up prior to a snap during the first half of the game at Hard Rock Stadium on November 5, 2016 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Rob Foldy/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
1 of 6
Next

Miami Football enters the season with high expectations. Mark Richt has several newcomers that could make a significant impact right away.

Richt and his staff have rebuilt the Hurricanes on both sides of the ball. Miami finished the season 9-4, winning five straight including a dismantling of a solid West Virginia team in the Russell Athletic bowl.

The Hurricanes defense was a big part of their resurgence, and reminiscent of their glory days from the 80’s and 90’s, they got incredible play from their shawfront seven. Miami was led by the outstanding trio of freshmen linebackers Michael Pinckney, Shaquille Quarterman, and Zach McCloud. Pinckney and Quarterman were both named freshmen All-Americans by ESPN.

This year the ACC Coastal division is as wide open as ever, and Miami has the talent to win the Coastal for the first time since they joined the ACC in 2004.

For the Hurricanes to return to the top they will need contributions from several first year players during the season. Miami has a lot of upperclassmen in key positions but there is always room for emerging talent to get plenty of playing time.

Here is a look at five freshmen that could have a great impact for the Hurricanes this season.

Home/Miami Hurricanes