ESPN’s “Way-Too-Early” Top 25 rankings for the 2025 college football season have sparked considerable debate among fans and analysts, particularly regarding the Miami Hurricanes’ placement at No. 23. This ranking has been perceived by many as a slight, given Miami’s strong performance in the 2024 season and the promising talent returning for 2025.
2024 Season Recap
The Hurricanes concluded the 2024 season with an impressive 10-3 record, securing a 6-2 mark in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Their season was highlighted by a notable victory over a top-20 opponent, underscoring their competitiveness on the national stage.
Key Returnees and Departures
Miami’s roster for the 2025 season boasts several key returnees:
- Running Backs: Mark Fletcher Jr. and Jordan Lyle
- Offensive Line: Offensive tackle Markel Bell and guard Matthew McCoy
- Defense: Defensive end Rueben Bain Jr., cornerback OJ Frederique Jr., and safety Zechariah Poyser
However, the team will need to address the departures of several significant contributors:
- Quarterback: Cam Ward
- Wide Receivers: Xavier Restrepo, Jacolby George, and Isaiah Horton
- Offensive Line: Jalen Rivers
- Defense: Linebacker Francisco Mauigoa, defensive end Tyler Baron, and defensive lineman Simeon Barrow Jr.
Recruiting and Transfer Portal Activity
In response to these departures, Miami has been active in the transfer portal, securing commitments from:
- Wide Receiver: CJ Daniels from LSU
- Cornerbacks: Charles Brantley (Michigan State), Emmanuel Karnley (Arizona), and Ethan O’Connor (Washington State)
These additions are expected to bolster both the receiving corps and the secondary, areas that were identified as needing improvement.
Coaching Changes
The Hurricanes have also made a significant coaching change, hiring Corey Hetherman from Minnesota as the new defensive coordinator. This move aims to strengthen the defensive unit and address some of the challenges faced in the previous season.
2025 Schedule Outlook
Miami’s 2025 schedule presents a formidable challenge, featuring matchups against several teams ranked in early polls:
- Season Opener: Home game against Notre Dame, ranked No. 5 in ESPN’s early poll
- Non-Conference Games: Home games against Bethune-Cookman and USF, followed by a highly anticipated matchup against Florida, ranked No. 18 in ESPN’s early poll
- Conference Games: Road games against Florida State and SMU, with SMU ranked No. 15 in ESPN’s early poll
These games are expected to provide a litmus test for Miami’s readiness to compete at a national level.
Conclusion
While ESPN’s ranking of Miami at No. 23 in their “Way-Too-Early” Top 25 poll may be viewed by some as a slight, it reflects the uncertainty and unpredictability inherent in early preseason assessments. The Hurricanes’ strong 2024 performance, combined with strategic additions and coaching changes, suggest that they have the potential to exceed expectations in the upcoming season. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Miami to see how they perform against a challenging schedule and whether they can prove the doubters wrong.