Miami has lived up to all the expectations thus far.
In one of the more anticipated Week 3 matchups, the top-20 showdown turned into a beatdown real quick at Hard Rock Stadium.
The Hurricanes did not take the South Florida Bulls lightly at all and took the fight to them from the opening drive. They imposed their will, and even through a lengthy weather delay, the Canes took care of business as they added another ranked win early in their resume.
The wide receivers had themselves a day and continue to
produce at a high level for Shannon Dawson and this Miami offense.
Here is the report card for the playmakers after the 49-12 win over USF.
Joshua Moore: A
My guy finally had this breakout game and introduced himself to the college football world in an outstanding way.
The true freshman out of West Broward recorded three receptions for 61 yards and two touchdowns. The 6’4 wide receiver showcased his talents and had an incredible touchdown to make it 14-0 in the first quarter.
Joshua Moore has been someone that I’ve been incredibly high on. I chose him as my breakout player this season (yes, even as a true freshman) and believe he’ll be an instant impact player. He proved that against USF on Saturday.
Not only was he the highest graded Canes player against USF, he was the highest graded true freshman in the country in Week 3 with an elite 92.7 grade, per Pro Football Focus.
Moore possesses unique physical traits and can really make this wide receiver room special with his play. I believe that we’ll continue to see great things out of him as the season progresses.
Once Joshisa “JoJo” Trader comes back from his injury, Moore should not see a dip in production or snaps. He has earned his reps, but so have the others, too.
A good problem to have in that room, which was once regarded as the one that had the most questions surrounding it.
Keelan Marion: A-
Keelan Marion has been great so far for the Hurricanes.
During the offseason, a few receivers received most of the hype and talk, but Marion may have flown under the radar and is now showcasing why he is worth talking about, too.
He was the leading receiver for Miami on Saturday as he totaled six receptions for 81 yards.
He does a great job running his routes and getting in and out of his cuts with a burst of separation. He has been a good target for Carson Beck, and I expect that to continue. He is a playmaker with the ball in his hands, and the offense benefits greatly because of it.
Malachi Toney: B+
Malachi Toney is as reliable as it gets, and he is only a true freshman.
It’s unbelievable how much of an impact a player can have, knowing he is only 17 years old. Toney is arguably the best slot receiver in the country, and most people would probably agree with that sentiment, too.
He recorded six catches for 66 yards against USF. He caught all of his targets and has been Beck’s consistent go-to guy to move the chains.
Toney didn’t even have the game that we are already accustomed to, but it was still impressive, knowing that the room is better than what most people initially thought, and now everyone is being fed the ball.
He’s been Miami’s best receiver three games into the season, and he has deserved all the praise he has received. Toney has been recognized not only on a local level but on a national level, and rightfully so.
He’ll continue to be the top option for Beck and this offense, alongside the transfer from LSU.
CJ Daniels: B+
We are starting to run out of adjectives and words when it comes to CJ Daniels.
Every game, he has made a play that is just incredible. Against South Florida, he decides to make another highlight reel-making play, setting the Canes up for a score later in the drive.
Daniels caught four passes for 56 yards. His abilities are perfect for what Beck can do in this offense and what Miami needs in the passing game.
He is just a big-time player and looks to be someone that we can rely on in big games. Another game where it’s against a ranked opponent and an anticipated matchup, and he shows up under the lights.
He’ll have another golden opportunity in a rivalry primetime game against the Florida Gators this Saturday on ABC at Hard Rock Stadium.
Keep an eye out for Daniels!
Tony Johnson: B
Tony Johnson was a pleasant surprise on Saturday.
He recorded two receptions for 64 yards, both of which went for first downs and resulted in big gains.
Johnson was the other wide receiver transfer that the Hurricanes got out of the portal from Cincinnati. He showed his flashes for the first time against USF, and it was nice to see.
The depth in this room now seems to be in a great spot. Johnson appears to be someone who can step in and fulfill a role when asked or needed.
Overall, I thought the wide receivers really made their mark and proved that they can help Beck and this offense be one of the best in the country.
What was once a questionable room due to the lack of experience, the talent in the room is being seen on the field, and with the team from Gainsville coming into Hard Rock on Saturday, it’s another excellent opportunity to show the country how good they are.
