Miami football: 3 takeaways from statement victory over Louisville

3. Miami’s defense struggled in second half

The Hurricanes’ defense played a great first half in this game, giving up only six points and consistently pressuring Louisville quarterback Micale Cunningham and not allowing Tutu Atwell make any big plays through the air.

Then the second half happened and this did not look like the Miami defense that we are all accustomed to seeing.

Louisville ran it right down Miami’s throat and scored on their opening drive in the second half and that led to running back Javian Hawkins to have a big half and Hawkins finished with 164 yards rushing for the game.

Cunningham had a better second half and finished with 307 yards and three touchdowns and was able to keep plays alive with his legs. Attwell finished with 114 yards receiving and made plays downfield. This is an area that is concerning with Miami going forward because they still have to face high-powered offenses in Clemson and North Carolina.

Louisville is very talented and well-coached on offense, but the Canes defense will have to be better if it wants to have a special season.