Miami Football: Top 3 breakout candidates for 2021 season

1. Charleston Rambo

Charleston Rambo’s departure from Oklahoma was not about ability. On the other hand, the Sooners’ receiver room is overcrowded with talent. Coming to Miami was about catches. In this offense, Rambo will get his fair share.

The Hurricanes passing offense steadied itself with D’Eriq King’s veteran leadership and presence. However, there were few dynamic plays down the field. Tight ends Will Mallory and Brevin Jordan were the only two receivers averaging over 15 yards per reception last season. Miami receivers struggled to get open against the better secondaries in the ACC as well.

While the passing game was fourth in passing efficiency in the ACC, it was ninth in explosiveness.

Rambo brings a championship pedigree to Coral Gables from Oklahoma. Rambo also brings speed to the receiver room. It is up to offensive coordinator Rhett Lashlee to scheme Rambo open and take advantage of his speed.

Rambo averaged over 17 yards per reception last season, good for fourth in the Big 12. That eclipses Mike Hartley, who led the Hurricanes in receptions. At 6-foot-1, Rambo also gives Miami more size on the perimeter to pair with Dee Wiggins.

Head coach Manny Diaz made no bones about wanting more explosion in the passing game. Much like the running game, however, the improved play of the offensive line is critical to the downfield passing game as the addition of Rambo.