Alabama Football: Top 5 potential transfer destinations for Jalen Hurts

4. Miami

Miami’s need for a quarterback is obvious. After appearing to be “back” in 2017 thanks to a 10-0 start to the season, expectations were high in Coral Gables for this season with the Hurricanes beginning the year ranked in the Top 10.

Miami got immediately exposed in a season opening loss to LSU in Dallas, but bounced back to win five in a row. From there, they lost four straight to put their bowl hopes in doubt before rallying for wins against Virginia Tech and Pitt to earn a spot in the Pinstripe Bowl against Wisconsin.

The ‘Canes were listless at Yankee Stadium, getting blown out 35-3 by the Badgers. That turned out to be Mark Richt’s final game as head coach as he abruptly retired. Miami turned to defensive coordinator Manny Diaz as their next head coach, just a little over two weeks after Diaz had accepted the head coaching job at Temple.

Miami’s defense was just as strong this season as last, but struggles at quarterback caused the surprising backslide. Neither N’Koski Perry nor Malik Rosier could provide competent QB play for the ‘Canes this season. Perry will be back in 2019, but he showed nothing in his time as the starter to assure himself the starting job.

Perhaps the most talented QB on the roster, former four-star recruit Jarren Williams, left the team at the end of the season to pursue transfer options.

The need is evident for Miami, with Jalen Hurts potentially stepping into the position and providing an immediate upgrade for Manny Diaz and company. In a weakened ACC, Hurts could be the missing piece that turns the Hurricanes into a legitimate ACC contender. They still wouldn’t be on Clemson’s level, but The U would likely be the preseason Coastal Division favorite with Hurts in tow.

Former Houston head coach Major Applewhite could add to the appeal as well. He’s rumored to be in the mix to be Miami’s new offensive coordinator. During Hurts’ initial recruitment out of high school, Applewhite was Houston’s offensive coordinator.

Miami should be considered a contender for Hurts’ services regardless, but if they add Applewhite to the mix they could jettison toward the top of the list.