In terms of defense, the Miami football club has two lineman and a safety that could emerge as standout performers in 2024. Miami’s 2024 breakout seasons might potentially include true freshman defensive tackle Justin Scott, transfer edge rusher Tyler Baron, and safety Mishael Powell.
Scott should gain from the uncertainty surrounding Michigan State transfer defensive tackle Simeon Barrow. A story stating that Barrow was not with the Hurricanes surfaced on Friday, following his relocation to Miami in early May. Transfers C.J. Clark and Marley Cook would be the anticipated starting if Barrow leaves as stated.
With Cook and Clark at DT, Miami lacks experience. In 2024, Scott ought to compete with Miami’s returnees Anthony Campbell, Joshua Horton, and Ahmad Moten for DT snaps. Only in 2023, during his debut season with Miami, would Campbell face Temple. Horton took part in three games in 2023. In 2023, Moten participated in 11 games.
In the 2024 class, Scott was the top player in Illinois, the third defensive lineman, and the tenth-ranked signee. Scott is the sixth defensive player, the 12th overall signee, and the highest-ranked defensive lineman in Miami history. By mid-2024, Scott should be the third defensive end in the rotation, even though Cook and Clark will probably start the entire year.
Baron is predicted to start the season as the third edge rusher, behind Akheem Mesidor and Rueben Bain, who are all returning starters. 2023 saw Mesidor participate in just two games due to a foot ailment that ended the season. Baron is expected to start, since Miami is likely to bring Mesidor along gradually.
In his four seasons with Tennessee, Baron recorded 101 tackles, 27.0 tackles for loss, 13.5 sacks, three pass breakups, a forced fumble, a recovered fumble that was returned for a score. With 28 tackles, 10.5 TFLs, 6.0 sacks, two pass breakups, and a fumble return for a touchdown in 2023, Baron had his greatest season to date.
During spring practice, Powell was mostly used as a slot cornerback. Powell will probably play the same position he did at Washington because Miami will be thin at safety going into the 2024 campaign.
Powell has accumulated 92 career tackles, 3 interceptions, 4.0 TFLs, 12 PBUs, and 1.0 FF. Powell recorded 38 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, three interceptions, and six pass breakups in 2023.
Miami will benefit from Baron and Powell’s defensive experience. As a true freshman, Scott has the potential to make an impact and lay the groundwork for the Miami DL’s future two seasons. On the DL, Baron and Scott may have an impact. Powell will be the leader of the new Miami safety group.
