How Miami's Offense Faces Up To The Texas A&M Defense
Miami gets their chance Saturday to get revenge against the Texas A&M Aggies after a tough 17-9 loss last season. In order for that to happen, Miami is going to get the best of Texas A&M in some key matchups.
Both teams will head into Saturday looking to win and put their respective past seasons in the review. With the Hurricanes and Aggies both going 5-7 last season, Saturday could be telling as to which program is back on track.
Even though it was only a year ago, the Aggies and Hurricanes have seen some changes in personnel and coaching going into this matchup. New offensive coordinators for both sides and a new starting quarterback for the Aggies this time around.
However, Miami failed to win this game last year due to their offense, as despite outgaining the Aggies the Hurricanes couldn't get into the endzone.
Ahead of Saturday's event, here are some matchups to be aware of between Miami's offense and the Texas A&M defense.
CB Josh DeBerry vs. WR Colbie Young
One of Miami's top targets in Colbie Young will have his hands full with a matchup against Boston College transfer Josh DeBerry on Saturday. Young posted four catches for 79 yards and a score in Week 1, while DeBerry had a team-leading 10 tackles to go with a sack and interception against New Mexico.
Even though Young will have the size advantage at 6-foot-5 and 215 pounds, DeBerry's size has worked well for him, as he's a big corner at 6-foot-1 and 180 pounds. Neither of these players played in last year's matchup, but will look to make their presence known on Saturday. If Miami wants to win, Young will likely need to use his size to beat DeBerry vertically.
Howdy, Josh DeBerry 👋
— Texas A&M Football (@AggieFootball) September 3, 2023
First INT of the season for the Ags.
📺 ESPN pic.twitter.com/CyupFsYxhV
OT Jalen Rivers vs. DE LT Overton
Jalen Rivers has spent his career at Miami up until now serving as a left guard despite being recruited as a tackle. This weekend, he'll get a tough assignment against former Top 20 recruit LT Overton. Overton only had one sack in his true freshman season last year, but will look to live up to his recruiting status by trying to make a name for himself on national television.
Miami's offense line was dominant against the lesser Miami (OH) in Week 1, but will face arguably their toughest defensive line opponent all season with the Aggies. Both players will be seeking breakout performances, which could very well determine the outcome of this game.
RB Henry Parrish Jr. vs. The Aggies Front Seven
One of the top performers from last year's game, Henry Parrish Jr., should be looking to replicate that along with some action in the endzone. In front of him stands one of the most talented defensive lines in the country, with five-stars at each specific position.
While Parrish will be splitting snaps, it's clear he's the top backfield option for the Hurricanes at the moment. Miami needs to see him break off a big run or two in order to keep the passing game open. If he can do so, it could play a large part in determining the outcome of this game.Â
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You can find Liam on Twitter @theleftyliam where he shares news on University of Miami basketball and football as well as opinions