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Welcome to the seventh 2020 edition of the column I like to call “The Freshman 15”. If you’re a first time reader, this will be a focus on the rankings and the order of the top 15 targets the coaching staff is pursuing.
The order will be based mainly on:
We're officially heading into the home stretch for those planning to sign early, as the December signing period is a little over a month away. UM is trying to balance their tight numbers situation with the talent still left on their board and determining who is a no-doubt take for this class. Although they'd prefer to lock in as much of their class as possible next month, either way, UM is going to re-evaluate their situation after December, so this board is certain to look drastically different in two months.
Let’s get into the board for November.
1. Jalen Harrell, S, Hialeah, FL (Champagnat Catholic) (Last Month: 4)
Ht 6-2 | Wt 180 | 247 Composite: 4-Star, #234 Overall
Evaluation: Elite in run support and shows very good tackling form. Comfortable working in the box and cleaning up plays at the second level. Demonstrates great closing burst to make a play on the ball. Launches himself like a projectile at his target and is a devastating hitter. Physical DB that loves to play press-man and bump and run. Works his off-hand well. Shows good pattern recognition and instincts that help him shut down yards after catch. Versatile defender you can move around to many areas of the field.
In The Mix: The former FSU commit is now considering UM, Georgia Tech, UCF, Nebraska, Penn State, Florida, and Notre Dame in addition to the Noles.
Latest: Harrell was already starting to trend UM’s way, but the Canes certainly made moves on Harrell’s official visit weekend and they should be considered the favorites to sign him at this point. For Harrell, the visit this weekend was mainly about him and his family cementing their considerable feelings for the Miami program and staff, and I’m told that was exactly what happened; he comes from a family of UM fans. While he already took an OV to Georgia Tech, and plans one to UCF later this month, quite frankly, those programs are always going to be at a deficit when recruiting against Miami, although I wouldn’t completely discount GT just yet. In my view, it would take another team coming in late for things to really change, something that is certainly possible with Harrell not locked into signing early next month; other schools such as Nebraska, Penn State, Notre Dame, and UF expressed interest in him when Harrell decommitted from FSU last month, and the Noles haven’t given up either. However, Miami really has to love the spot they are in right now.
2. Jaylen Harrell, DE, Tampa, FL (Berkeley Prep) (Last Month: 2)
Ht 6-4 | Wt 235 | 247 Composite: 4-Star, #300 Overall
Evaluation: An athletic specimen that plays all over the field for Berkeley Prep. Tremendous explosion off the snap and is very fluid for someone of his size. Uses his hands violently, and is workmanlike in setting linemen up to the outside, only to quickly burst inside. Shows the ability to drop back in coverage if necessary and hold his own. Impressive closing speed when he locks onto a target, and finishes his takedowns in a punishing manner.
In The Mix: Seems to be a Big 3 battle between Miami, UF, and FSU, along with Michigan and Penn State.
Latest: Harrell cancelled a planned OV to Michigan last month, but is looking to reschedule after his season ends. Harrell is going to have time to take his visits without rushing because he’s currently planning on waiting until February to sign. Right now, the only official visit he has set up is to Miami on December 13th weekend, the same weekend all the commits are coming. In addition to Miami and Michigan, FSU, Florida, and Penn State are in line to fill out his official visit schedule. Talking to a source close to the recruitment, it’s actually FSU, not UF, that is going to be Miami’s main competition here, and his relationship with Odell Haggins is very strong, so it will be interesting to see what happens with Haggins as FSU’s coaching search progresses.
3. Douglas Emilien, WR, Fort Lauderdale, FL (American Heritage) (Last Month: 9)
Ht 6-0 | Wt 175 | 247 Composite: 3-Star, #548 Overall
Evaluation: At just a shade under 6 feet, Emilien shows great quickness and has all the best attributes of a top notch slot receiver: burst in short areas, strong hands, run after the catch prowess, and excellent route running. Demonstrates electric feet for sharp cuts. Suddenness is elite. Versatile enough to stick on the outside, and can create separation from bigger and stronger corners.
In The Mix: LSU, WVU, Virginia, Cincinnati, and Miami make Emilien’s top group.
Latest: Emilien’s recruitment is pretty straight-forward: LSU has yet to offer to bring Emilien in on an official visit (he did take an unofficial to Death Valley last month) and the Tigers are unlikely to have room for him at this point. On the other hand, Miami has been recruiting him hard for close to two months now, have brought Emilien in for multiple home games, and are making him feel like a priority. Emilien just took an official visit to UVA, and has WVU and Cincinnati set for OV’s in the coming weeks, but as of yet, there has been no indication that any of those schools have positioned themselves to pull an upset on Miami. He’s also set his UM official visit weekend for December 13th weekend, the same weekend all the commits are coming and the last weekend before the early signing period, so that’s another positive for Miami. There isn’t much in Miami’s way in terms of locking him up that weekend.
4. Jaiden Francois, S, Homestead, FL (South Dade) (Last Month: 11)
Ht 6-0 | Wt 185 | 247 Composite: 4-Star, #284 Overall
Evaluation: Shows on tape that he has a nose for the football and displays an impeccable football IQ. He is comfortable oscillating back and forth from the box to playing deep and would make a great lockdown corner or a ball-hawking safety at the next level. Makes plays at the line and can run and cover with just about any receiver on the outside, showing great positional versatility.
In The Mix: Ohio State, Penn State, Florida, and UM are involved for Francois.
Latest: In terms of other programs coming after him, not much has changed for Francois: He just hasn’t gotten the interest he expected he would when he decommitted from Miami last month. None of his three other top favorites (OSU, PSU, UF) have offered to bring him for an official visit; I can’t speak for OSU or PSU, but I’m told that UF in particular hasn't brought him in because they aren't impressed with his senior film. With about a month left to go before the early signing period and Francois set to be an early enrollee, the only officials he’s set up are to Nebraska this weekend, Indiana on December 6th weekend and Miami on December 13th weekend. Add to the fact that Francois has been telling people close to him that he prefers to sign with the Hurricanes, and it’s looking more and more favorable that UM pulls off the rare hat trick with Francois and gets him to commit a third time.
5. Justin Flowe, LB, Upland, CA (Upland) (Last Month: 1)
Ht 6-2 | Wt 225 | 247 Composite: 5-Star, #5 Overall
Evaluation: Flowe has a prototype inside linebacker frame with a powerful lower body. Plays with a non-stop motor that, when combined with his freakish athleticism, makes him extremely disruptive all over the field and he is always around the ball to make a play. Clocked an impressive 4.68 laser 40 recently and his coverage ability has improved year-to-year in high school. A truly violent and devastating hitter. Takes on blocks well, and knows how to use his strength and hands to shed and wrap up the ballcarrier.
In The Mix: Flowe’s top 4 includes Clemson, Georgia, Oregon, and Miami.
Latest: Of course the big news with Flowe is that he just took his Miami official visit over the weekend. There’s no doubt that the visit went well and that he enjoyed his time at Miami, but did the trip actually move him any closer to signing with Miami over Clemson and others? After hearing from one source directly involved in the visit, the answer appears to be no; the source does not believe Flowe is coming to Miami after spending a few days around him. Just one person’s opinion of the situation obviously, but I needed to hear universal praise regarding the visit to continue with any tiny confidence I had here and that didn’t happen. Flowe takes his official to Clemson this weekend and will be better able to directly compare the two programs. It’s not looking good for UM.
6. Ruben Hyppolite, LB, Hollywood, FL (McArthur) (Last Month: 3)
Ht 6-0 | Wt 225 | 247 Composite: 4-Star, #270 Overall
Evaluation: Versatile linebacker that is comfortable playing all around the field. Elite playing speed for the position that makes him a valuable asset for any defense. Quick to close and is a heat-seeking missile to the ballcarrier. Splits gaps in the offense with vigor and is proactive when shutting down a run game. Can clean up a lot of mistakes and false steps with his burst. Will chase down runners that make it past the second level.
In The Mix: The Maryland commit is still considering Miami, Alabama, Nebraska, and Illinois.
Latest: After a brief period of cooling on Hyppolite and lessening contact for a few weeks, the Canes have reignited their pursuit of the versatile linebacker recently. Hyppolite has been a regular at Miami home games this season, but recently told CIS that he is not planning a Miami official visit since he’s been such a frequent visitor already. Hyppolite maintains that Alabama, Nebraska, and Illinois are also still in play for visits, but he hasn’t set anything up as of yet and is planning to sign next month and early enroll. If Miami decides to move on from Flowe, maybe things change here, but it’s looking more and more like Hyppolite will stick with Maryland.
7. Darnell Washington, TE, Las Vegas, NV (Desert Pines) (Last Month: 6)
Ht 6-8 | Wt 260 | 247 Composite: 5-Star, #11 Overall
Evaluation: A physical presence with an incredibly chiseled frame. Long strider as a runner and clocked a 4.78 laser 40, but seems quicker on tape. Great hands and knows how to use his body to make himself an available target. True red-zone weapon that makes quick work of linebackers and safeties. Knows how to high point the ball in traffic. Big target who can run past most linebackers.
In The Mix: Washington has a top 5 of Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, and Florida in addition to Miami.
Latest: Washington has taken officials to UGA, UF, and Alabama, and I see it as concerning that Washington has now taken 3 OV’s and hasn’t even set up a date for his trip to Miami yet. Originally, his last two visits were supposed to go to Tennessee and Miami, but now Washington is telling people that Oregon may take up one of his final two trips, so it’s possible that UM might not even get an official at this point. That’s a long ways away from where this recruitment was over the summer, when Washington was talking like Miami was in his top 2 or 3 schools. Despite his talk about wanting to be in the most favorable offense for tight ends, it’s feeling like the Canes are fading into the background in this recruitment. According to a source close to the situation, Washington was most impressed with his UGA visit of the three he has taken, as the game experience in Athens seemed to really appeal to him. Like many others, I have UGA out in front and I’m close to putting in a pick for UGA, but I’ll wait and see what is coming out of Coral Gables after his Miami OV to say for sure, assuming that visit is still happening.
8. Davonte Brown, CB, Fort Lauderdale, FL (American Heritage) (Last Month: NR)
Ht 6-2 | Wt 160 | 247 Composite: 3-Star, #2,172 Overall
Evaluation: A long and rangy defensive back with solid 4.6 speed and a promising 6-2 frame. Despite his slight build right now, he isn’t afraid to lower the boom and make a big hit. Demonstrates effectiveness in zone or man coverage. Has a propensity to give up too many easy catches because he isn’t aggressive enough with his jam or with his hands off the snap. There’s a ton of development needed here in terms of his game and his weight, and Brown is nowhere near a finished product.
In The Mix: Miami, Pitt, WVU, and UCF.
Latest: With Justin Hodges out of the class, it seems Miami is trying to trade one unheralded corner with UM ties for another: Davonte is the son of Selwyn Brown, who played DB for UM from 1983-1987, and was a part of the ’83 and ’87 championship teams. Miami has offered a lot of corners lately, but Brown is the only one of the new offerees to make a visit to UM since then; he’s actually made multiple, coming to campus to watch a practice late last month and also sitting in the recruiting section for the Louisville game last weekend. Also involved are Pitt and UCF, both of whom Brown has already officially visited, and WVU, a school Brown is working to set an official to. While Brown is trying to play it cool and is saying everyone is even, it certainly feels like Brown will be in this class if Miami decides they want him. He also doesn’t rule out waiting until February to sign.
9. Keyshawn Greene, LB, Crawfordville, FL (Wakulla) (Last Month: NR)
Ht 6-3 | Wt 195 | 247 Composite: 4-Star, #169 Overall
Evaluation: Greene is considered one of the fastest linebackers in the nation, running in the high 4.4’s. This helps him find the ball and shut down a play in the backfield quickly, and Greene also shows he is a sound tackler on tape. That type of agility will also give him the chance to be elite in coverage at the next level. Shows strong backside pursuit to kill potential big plays.
In The Mix: The FSU commit is considering Florida, Auburn, and Nebraska, in addition to Miami.
Latest: Greene is probably the most interesting new name on the board, as the speedy linebacker landed an offer from UM shortly after the news broke that Willie Taggart had been fired at FSU last week. While Greene currently maintains his FSU commitment for now, he told CIS last week that he will start taking visits as the uncertainty at FSU plays out, and that he intends to make a trip to Miami soon. Schools like Florida, Auburn, and Nebraska have reached out in the past week as well. I’m wary because going Greene’s small town of Crawfordville to the city atmosphere of Miami would be such a drastic environment change that kids are usually unwilling to make, but Greene is saying all the right things about the Canes so far. We’ll know more if and when he makes a visit to campus. Another thing to keep in mind: Greene is now planning on pushing back his signing to February instead of next month, never a good sign for the school holding the commitment.
10. Dazalin Worsham, WR, Trussville, AL (Hewitt-Trussville) (Last Month: 8)
Ht 6-0 | Wt 185 | 247 Composite: 4-Star, #289 Overall
Evaluation: Smooth and athletic strider. Plays with sudden feet on routes underneath. Plays much faster than his listed 4.8 speed. Will take what the defense gives him and shows ability as a possession receiver. Huge threat in the screen game as an elusive runner after the catch in the open field with a shred of daylight. Impressive body control in every direction to haul in passes.
In The Mix: Miami and Alabama are his final 2.
Latest: Worsham took an official visit to Miami in June and it seemed like only a matter of time before he publicly became part of the class. The confidence coming from Miami’s end has lowered a bit now that it’s been five months and that hasn’t happened; it seems the visit high wore off here. Worsham is considering Alabama again after they started pushing for him even harder since his decommitment from the Crimson Tide and he admitted Alabama has retaken the lead. I also don’t like that UM has already burned their official visit here, while Alabama could still use their OV at any time and potentially lock him up. Worsham has also been a regular at Alabama games during the season. Things are trending in the wrong direction here, but Miami is still battling.
11. Kentron Poitier, WR, Miami, FL (Miami Palmetto) (Last Month: 13)
Ht 6-2 | Wt 200 | 247 Composite: 3-Star, #480 Overall
Evaluation: A big-bodied receiver that mainly does his work on the outside. Exceptional body control to adjust in mid-air for a pass. Effectively shields off defenders and high-points the ball. Sports extreme-level focus, top-notch hands, and concentration to make tough catches look easy. A terror in the red zone and a true deep threat. Would like to see more variation in his route tree.
In The Mix: Tennessee, Syracuse, FSU, UF, Louisville, South Carolina, and Miami.
Latest: Poitier was in the stands to watch Miami take their third game in a row in their rivalry with the Noles, and it was on his FSU official visit no less, during which the Noles fired their coach; so the UM staff had to love that, and it was a complete disaster of events for FSU. Poitier continues to show interest in the UM program and he has been a frequent visitor to Miami home games this season. Poitier is looking to set up an official visit down the line to Miami, and has also already taken one to Syracuse over the summer. The school to watch out for here would be UF, as I’m told from a source Poitier is taking a heavy-look at the Gators. He has his official set to Gainesville later this month when UF takes on FSU.
12. Marlon Martinez, OG, Fort Lauderdale, FL (St. Thomas) (Last Month: 12)
Ht 6-5 | Wt 285 | 247 Composite: 3-Star, #660 Overall
Evaluation: Versatile enough to work at tackle or guard. Shows exceptional ability in to pull, quickly get out in front, and pummel his target. Decent at redirect blocks in pass pro. Digs opponents out of their anchored spot and moves them where he wants them to go. Well-timed and compact initial punch. Would like to see slightly better bend.
In The Mix: The LSU commit is really only considering Miami at this point.
Latest: Not much has changed here: Martinez is still being pursued hard by the Canes. The problem? Martinez has been solidly committed to LSU since May, and Miami essentially paid no attention to him for most of the cycle. Right now, Miami is certainly on the outside looking in, and it’s looking more like Martinez sees UM as a backup option were anything drastic to happen with LSU and their numbers situation.
13. Jaylan Knighton, RB, Deerfield Beach, FL (Deerfield Beach) (Last Month: NR)
Ht 5-9 | Wt 185 | 247 Composite: 4-Star, #101 Overall
Evaluation: Elite straight-line speed that makes him seem like he was shot out of a cannon. A true burner that is still physical enough to lower his shoulder and run through contact. Shows an effective jump cut to defeat contain and swiftly run away from the flow of the defense. Gets north-south very quickly. Crafty in leaking out of the backfield as a pass-catcher and is a threat in the screen game.
In The Mix: Ohio State, Florida, Miami, LSU, and Florida State.
Latest: Knighton makes his return to the board after making things a little more interesting and decommitting from FSU after the Noles fired Willie Taggart. His first visit after the news? To Gainesville to see UF on an unofficial visit, and afterwards he immediately scheduled a return official visit to UF for next month. Right away, that should give you an indication of where his mind is at, and he is also trying to set up a trip up north to Ohio State on his own dime after burning his official to Columbus over the summer. Technically, Miami is involved, but they are beginning to look like an afterthought yet again, as Knighton already passed on the local school once.
14. Marcus Dumervil, OT, Fort Lauderdale, FL (St. Thomas) (Last Month: NR)
Ht 6-5 | Wt 300 | 247 Composite: 4-Star, #93 Overall
Evaluation: The most impressive part about him is how well he carries his 300 pound frame; he can easily add another 25+ pounds and you probably wouldn’t notice that much because of how his weight is distributed. He can be overwhelming at times on the edge, smothering defenders. Shows very quick feet, so that even if he is beat off the snap, he recovers well to get in good position to make his block.
In The Mix: Pretty much every school in the country is going after Dumervil along with Miami, such as LSU, Alabama, Florida, Oklahoma, Ohio State, Louisville and others.
Latest: After finally making his long talked about visit for a Miami game last weekend, Dumervil is somehow back on the board for the third time, words I’d never thought I’d type. Aside from Martinez, Dumervil is the only other offensive lineman currently with a Miami offer that UM is actively pursuing, something that is concerning in of itself, but is enough to get him on this board nonetheless. Like his teammate Martinez, LSU appears to be the heavy favorite right now, and even if the pick was somehow not the Tigers, it certainly would be a team besides Miami at this point. His UM visit could also be chalked up to a courtesy visit to watch a game in which his cousin was playing for Louisville. Don’t fall for it.
15. Ronald Williams, CB, Hutchinson, KS (Hutchinson C.C.) (Last Month: 14)
Ht 6-2 | Wt 190 | 247 Composite: 3-Star, N/A Overall
Evaluation: A HS quarterback, Williams is still learning the finer points of the position and is very raw as of now. However, his athletic traits are off the charts. Pairs a tall and lanky frame with exceptional ball skills to become a danger for opposing QB’s. Breaks quickly on the ball and demonstrates good burst in short areas. His length really bothers WR’s and allows him to get to more balls than the average corner.
In The Mix: Kentucky, Texas A&M, Arkansas, Nebraska, Mississippi State, and Miami.
Latest: This is really a place-holder spot that could be a few different corners, as UM has offered a ton in the past month; I see it as first come, first serve in terms of who is showing interest and schedules a visit to campus. As for Williams, he is originally a Louisiana-native that ended up in JUCO and is a late-bloomer slowly starting to garner major attention. He recently took an official to Kentucky, has an OV set to Texas A&M this weekend, and will take an official to Alabama on December 13th weekend. With 2 OV slots left, Miami is a candidate to get one, but of course if something is going to happen, it will need to happen fast, as Williams is an early enrollee. An interesting wrinkle here is that Williams is former teammates with Miami OL Ousman Traore, who the Canes pulled from Hutchinson last cycle, and UM also recently offered Williams’ defensive backfield teammate Jakorian Bennett; Bennett recently told CIS that the pair are trying to set up a Miami OV soon.
Falling Off
5. Brian George, CB: Official visit to Miami seems less and less likely as time goes on, and UM has seemed to move on to other JUCO targets at CB.
7. Eli Acker, OT: Similar to George, summer talk of an official visit has really died down, and it’s looking likely he will stick with Ole Miss.
10. Cayden Baker, OT: Committed to UNC.
15. RJ Adams, OG: Miami called off his tentative official visit and is no longer recruiting Adams.
Welcome to the seventh 2020 edition of the column I like to call “The Freshman 15”. If you’re a first time reader, this will be a focus on the rankings and the order of the top 15 targets the coaching staff is pursuing.
The order will be based mainly on:
- How likely a recruit is to commit to Miami at the time
- Skill level
- Miami's need at their position
We're officially heading into the home stretch for those planning to sign early, as the December signing period is a little over a month away. UM is trying to balance their tight numbers situation with the talent still left on their board and determining who is a no-doubt take for this class. Although they'd prefer to lock in as much of their class as possible next month, either way, UM is going to re-evaluate their situation after December, so this board is certain to look drastically different in two months.
Let’s get into the board for November.
1. Jalen Harrell, S, Hialeah, FL (Champagnat Catholic) (Last Month: 4)
Ht 6-2 | Wt 180 | 247 Composite: 4-Star, #234 Overall
Evaluation: Elite in run support and shows very good tackling form. Comfortable working in the box and cleaning up plays at the second level. Demonstrates great closing burst to make a play on the ball. Launches himself like a projectile at his target and is a devastating hitter. Physical DB that loves to play press-man and bump and run. Works his off-hand well. Shows good pattern recognition and instincts that help him shut down yards after catch. Versatile defender you can move around to many areas of the field.
In The Mix: The former FSU commit is now considering UM, Georgia Tech, UCF, Nebraska, Penn State, Florida, and Notre Dame in addition to the Noles.
Latest: Harrell was already starting to trend UM’s way, but the Canes certainly made moves on Harrell’s official visit weekend and they should be considered the favorites to sign him at this point. For Harrell, the visit this weekend was mainly about him and his family cementing their considerable feelings for the Miami program and staff, and I’m told that was exactly what happened; he comes from a family of UM fans. While he already took an OV to Georgia Tech, and plans one to UCF later this month, quite frankly, those programs are always going to be at a deficit when recruiting against Miami, although I wouldn’t completely discount GT just yet. In my view, it would take another team coming in late for things to really change, something that is certainly possible with Harrell not locked into signing early next month; other schools such as Nebraska, Penn State, Notre Dame, and UF expressed interest in him when Harrell decommitted from FSU last month, and the Noles haven’t given up either. However, Miami really has to love the spot they are in right now.
2. Jaylen Harrell, DE, Tampa, FL (Berkeley Prep) (Last Month: 2)
Ht 6-4 | Wt 235 | 247 Composite: 4-Star, #300 Overall
Evaluation: An athletic specimen that plays all over the field for Berkeley Prep. Tremendous explosion off the snap and is very fluid for someone of his size. Uses his hands violently, and is workmanlike in setting linemen up to the outside, only to quickly burst inside. Shows the ability to drop back in coverage if necessary and hold his own. Impressive closing speed when he locks onto a target, and finishes his takedowns in a punishing manner.
In The Mix: Seems to be a Big 3 battle between Miami, UF, and FSU, along with Michigan and Penn State.
Latest: Harrell cancelled a planned OV to Michigan last month, but is looking to reschedule after his season ends. Harrell is going to have time to take his visits without rushing because he’s currently planning on waiting until February to sign. Right now, the only official visit he has set up is to Miami on December 13th weekend, the same weekend all the commits are coming. In addition to Miami and Michigan, FSU, Florida, and Penn State are in line to fill out his official visit schedule. Talking to a source close to the recruitment, it’s actually FSU, not UF, that is going to be Miami’s main competition here, and his relationship with Odell Haggins is very strong, so it will be interesting to see what happens with Haggins as FSU’s coaching search progresses.
3. Douglas Emilien, WR, Fort Lauderdale, FL (American Heritage) (Last Month: 9)
Ht 6-0 | Wt 175 | 247 Composite: 3-Star, #548 Overall
Evaluation: At just a shade under 6 feet, Emilien shows great quickness and has all the best attributes of a top notch slot receiver: burst in short areas, strong hands, run after the catch prowess, and excellent route running. Demonstrates electric feet for sharp cuts. Suddenness is elite. Versatile enough to stick on the outside, and can create separation from bigger and stronger corners.
In The Mix: LSU, WVU, Virginia, Cincinnati, and Miami make Emilien’s top group.
Latest: Emilien’s recruitment is pretty straight-forward: LSU has yet to offer to bring Emilien in on an official visit (he did take an unofficial to Death Valley last month) and the Tigers are unlikely to have room for him at this point. On the other hand, Miami has been recruiting him hard for close to two months now, have brought Emilien in for multiple home games, and are making him feel like a priority. Emilien just took an official visit to UVA, and has WVU and Cincinnati set for OV’s in the coming weeks, but as of yet, there has been no indication that any of those schools have positioned themselves to pull an upset on Miami. He’s also set his UM official visit weekend for December 13th weekend, the same weekend all the commits are coming and the last weekend before the early signing period, so that’s another positive for Miami. There isn’t much in Miami’s way in terms of locking him up that weekend.
4. Jaiden Francois, S, Homestead, FL (South Dade) (Last Month: 11)
Ht 6-0 | Wt 185 | 247 Composite: 4-Star, #284 Overall
Evaluation: Shows on tape that he has a nose for the football and displays an impeccable football IQ. He is comfortable oscillating back and forth from the box to playing deep and would make a great lockdown corner or a ball-hawking safety at the next level. Makes plays at the line and can run and cover with just about any receiver on the outside, showing great positional versatility.
In The Mix: Ohio State, Penn State, Florida, and UM are involved for Francois.
Latest: In terms of other programs coming after him, not much has changed for Francois: He just hasn’t gotten the interest he expected he would when he decommitted from Miami last month. None of his three other top favorites (OSU, PSU, UF) have offered to bring him for an official visit; I can’t speak for OSU or PSU, but I’m told that UF in particular hasn't brought him in because they aren't impressed with his senior film. With about a month left to go before the early signing period and Francois set to be an early enrollee, the only officials he’s set up are to Nebraska this weekend, Indiana on December 6th weekend and Miami on December 13th weekend. Add to the fact that Francois has been telling people close to him that he prefers to sign with the Hurricanes, and it’s looking more and more favorable that UM pulls off the rare hat trick with Francois and gets him to commit a third time.
5. Justin Flowe, LB, Upland, CA (Upland) (Last Month: 1)
Ht 6-2 | Wt 225 | 247 Composite: 5-Star, #5 Overall
Evaluation: Flowe has a prototype inside linebacker frame with a powerful lower body. Plays with a non-stop motor that, when combined with his freakish athleticism, makes him extremely disruptive all over the field and he is always around the ball to make a play. Clocked an impressive 4.68 laser 40 recently and his coverage ability has improved year-to-year in high school. A truly violent and devastating hitter. Takes on blocks well, and knows how to use his strength and hands to shed and wrap up the ballcarrier.
In The Mix: Flowe’s top 4 includes Clemson, Georgia, Oregon, and Miami.
Latest: Of course the big news with Flowe is that he just took his Miami official visit over the weekend. There’s no doubt that the visit went well and that he enjoyed his time at Miami, but did the trip actually move him any closer to signing with Miami over Clemson and others? After hearing from one source directly involved in the visit, the answer appears to be no; the source does not believe Flowe is coming to Miami after spending a few days around him. Just one person’s opinion of the situation obviously, but I needed to hear universal praise regarding the visit to continue with any tiny confidence I had here and that didn’t happen. Flowe takes his official to Clemson this weekend and will be better able to directly compare the two programs. It’s not looking good for UM.
6. Ruben Hyppolite, LB, Hollywood, FL (McArthur) (Last Month: 3)
Ht 6-0 | Wt 225 | 247 Composite: 4-Star, #270 Overall
Evaluation: Versatile linebacker that is comfortable playing all around the field. Elite playing speed for the position that makes him a valuable asset for any defense. Quick to close and is a heat-seeking missile to the ballcarrier. Splits gaps in the offense with vigor and is proactive when shutting down a run game. Can clean up a lot of mistakes and false steps with his burst. Will chase down runners that make it past the second level.
In The Mix: The Maryland commit is still considering Miami, Alabama, Nebraska, and Illinois.
Latest: After a brief period of cooling on Hyppolite and lessening contact for a few weeks, the Canes have reignited their pursuit of the versatile linebacker recently. Hyppolite has been a regular at Miami home games this season, but recently told CIS that he is not planning a Miami official visit since he’s been such a frequent visitor already. Hyppolite maintains that Alabama, Nebraska, and Illinois are also still in play for visits, but he hasn’t set anything up as of yet and is planning to sign next month and early enroll. If Miami decides to move on from Flowe, maybe things change here, but it’s looking more and more like Hyppolite will stick with Maryland.
7. Darnell Washington, TE, Las Vegas, NV (Desert Pines) (Last Month: 6)
Ht 6-8 | Wt 260 | 247 Composite: 5-Star, #11 Overall
Evaluation: A physical presence with an incredibly chiseled frame. Long strider as a runner and clocked a 4.78 laser 40, but seems quicker on tape. Great hands and knows how to use his body to make himself an available target. True red-zone weapon that makes quick work of linebackers and safeties. Knows how to high point the ball in traffic. Big target who can run past most linebackers.
In The Mix: Washington has a top 5 of Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, and Florida in addition to Miami.
Latest: Washington has taken officials to UGA, UF, and Alabama, and I see it as concerning that Washington has now taken 3 OV’s and hasn’t even set up a date for his trip to Miami yet. Originally, his last two visits were supposed to go to Tennessee and Miami, but now Washington is telling people that Oregon may take up one of his final two trips, so it’s possible that UM might not even get an official at this point. That’s a long ways away from where this recruitment was over the summer, when Washington was talking like Miami was in his top 2 or 3 schools. Despite his talk about wanting to be in the most favorable offense for tight ends, it’s feeling like the Canes are fading into the background in this recruitment. According to a source close to the situation, Washington was most impressed with his UGA visit of the three he has taken, as the game experience in Athens seemed to really appeal to him. Like many others, I have UGA out in front and I’m close to putting in a pick for UGA, but I’ll wait and see what is coming out of Coral Gables after his Miami OV to say for sure, assuming that visit is still happening.
8. Davonte Brown, CB, Fort Lauderdale, FL (American Heritage) (Last Month: NR)
Ht 6-2 | Wt 160 | 247 Composite: 3-Star, #2,172 Overall
Evaluation: A long and rangy defensive back with solid 4.6 speed and a promising 6-2 frame. Despite his slight build right now, he isn’t afraid to lower the boom and make a big hit. Demonstrates effectiveness in zone or man coverage. Has a propensity to give up too many easy catches because he isn’t aggressive enough with his jam or with his hands off the snap. There’s a ton of development needed here in terms of his game and his weight, and Brown is nowhere near a finished product.
In The Mix: Miami, Pitt, WVU, and UCF.
Latest: With Justin Hodges out of the class, it seems Miami is trying to trade one unheralded corner with UM ties for another: Davonte is the son of Selwyn Brown, who played DB for UM from 1983-1987, and was a part of the ’83 and ’87 championship teams. Miami has offered a lot of corners lately, but Brown is the only one of the new offerees to make a visit to UM since then; he’s actually made multiple, coming to campus to watch a practice late last month and also sitting in the recruiting section for the Louisville game last weekend. Also involved are Pitt and UCF, both of whom Brown has already officially visited, and WVU, a school Brown is working to set an official to. While Brown is trying to play it cool and is saying everyone is even, it certainly feels like Brown will be in this class if Miami decides they want him. He also doesn’t rule out waiting until February to sign.
9. Keyshawn Greene, LB, Crawfordville, FL (Wakulla) (Last Month: NR)
Ht 6-3 | Wt 195 | 247 Composite: 4-Star, #169 Overall
Evaluation: Greene is considered one of the fastest linebackers in the nation, running in the high 4.4’s. This helps him find the ball and shut down a play in the backfield quickly, and Greene also shows he is a sound tackler on tape. That type of agility will also give him the chance to be elite in coverage at the next level. Shows strong backside pursuit to kill potential big plays.
In The Mix: The FSU commit is considering Florida, Auburn, and Nebraska, in addition to Miami.
Latest: Greene is probably the most interesting new name on the board, as the speedy linebacker landed an offer from UM shortly after the news broke that Willie Taggart had been fired at FSU last week. While Greene currently maintains his FSU commitment for now, he told CIS last week that he will start taking visits as the uncertainty at FSU plays out, and that he intends to make a trip to Miami soon. Schools like Florida, Auburn, and Nebraska have reached out in the past week as well. I’m wary because going Greene’s small town of Crawfordville to the city atmosphere of Miami would be such a drastic environment change that kids are usually unwilling to make, but Greene is saying all the right things about the Canes so far. We’ll know more if and when he makes a visit to campus. Another thing to keep in mind: Greene is now planning on pushing back his signing to February instead of next month, never a good sign for the school holding the commitment.
10. Dazalin Worsham, WR, Trussville, AL (Hewitt-Trussville) (Last Month: 8)
Ht 6-0 | Wt 185 | 247 Composite: 4-Star, #289 Overall
Evaluation: Smooth and athletic strider. Plays with sudden feet on routes underneath. Plays much faster than his listed 4.8 speed. Will take what the defense gives him and shows ability as a possession receiver. Huge threat in the screen game as an elusive runner after the catch in the open field with a shred of daylight. Impressive body control in every direction to haul in passes.
In The Mix: Miami and Alabama are his final 2.
Latest: Worsham took an official visit to Miami in June and it seemed like only a matter of time before he publicly became part of the class. The confidence coming from Miami’s end has lowered a bit now that it’s been five months and that hasn’t happened; it seems the visit high wore off here. Worsham is considering Alabama again after they started pushing for him even harder since his decommitment from the Crimson Tide and he admitted Alabama has retaken the lead. I also don’t like that UM has already burned their official visit here, while Alabama could still use their OV at any time and potentially lock him up. Worsham has also been a regular at Alabama games during the season. Things are trending in the wrong direction here, but Miami is still battling.
11. Kentron Poitier, WR, Miami, FL (Miami Palmetto) (Last Month: 13)
Ht 6-2 | Wt 200 | 247 Composite: 3-Star, #480 Overall
Evaluation: A big-bodied receiver that mainly does his work on the outside. Exceptional body control to adjust in mid-air for a pass. Effectively shields off defenders and high-points the ball. Sports extreme-level focus, top-notch hands, and concentration to make tough catches look easy. A terror in the red zone and a true deep threat. Would like to see more variation in his route tree.
In The Mix: Tennessee, Syracuse, FSU, UF, Louisville, South Carolina, and Miami.
Latest: Poitier was in the stands to watch Miami take their third game in a row in their rivalry with the Noles, and it was on his FSU official visit no less, during which the Noles fired their coach; so the UM staff had to love that, and it was a complete disaster of events for FSU. Poitier continues to show interest in the UM program and he has been a frequent visitor to Miami home games this season. Poitier is looking to set up an official visit down the line to Miami, and has also already taken one to Syracuse over the summer. The school to watch out for here would be UF, as I’m told from a source Poitier is taking a heavy-look at the Gators. He has his official set to Gainesville later this month when UF takes on FSU.
12. Marlon Martinez, OG, Fort Lauderdale, FL (St. Thomas) (Last Month: 12)
Ht 6-5 | Wt 285 | 247 Composite: 3-Star, #660 Overall
Evaluation: Versatile enough to work at tackle or guard. Shows exceptional ability in to pull, quickly get out in front, and pummel his target. Decent at redirect blocks in pass pro. Digs opponents out of their anchored spot and moves them where he wants them to go. Well-timed and compact initial punch. Would like to see slightly better bend.
In The Mix: The LSU commit is really only considering Miami at this point.
Latest: Not much has changed here: Martinez is still being pursued hard by the Canes. The problem? Martinez has been solidly committed to LSU since May, and Miami essentially paid no attention to him for most of the cycle. Right now, Miami is certainly on the outside looking in, and it’s looking more like Martinez sees UM as a backup option were anything drastic to happen with LSU and their numbers situation.
13. Jaylan Knighton, RB, Deerfield Beach, FL (Deerfield Beach) (Last Month: NR)
Ht 5-9 | Wt 185 | 247 Composite: 4-Star, #101 Overall
Evaluation: Elite straight-line speed that makes him seem like he was shot out of a cannon. A true burner that is still physical enough to lower his shoulder and run through contact. Shows an effective jump cut to defeat contain and swiftly run away from the flow of the defense. Gets north-south very quickly. Crafty in leaking out of the backfield as a pass-catcher and is a threat in the screen game.
In The Mix: Ohio State, Florida, Miami, LSU, and Florida State.
Latest: Knighton makes his return to the board after making things a little more interesting and decommitting from FSU after the Noles fired Willie Taggart. His first visit after the news? To Gainesville to see UF on an unofficial visit, and afterwards he immediately scheduled a return official visit to UF for next month. Right away, that should give you an indication of where his mind is at, and he is also trying to set up a trip up north to Ohio State on his own dime after burning his official to Columbus over the summer. Technically, Miami is involved, but they are beginning to look like an afterthought yet again, as Knighton already passed on the local school once.
14. Marcus Dumervil, OT, Fort Lauderdale, FL (St. Thomas) (Last Month: NR)
Ht 6-5 | Wt 300 | 247 Composite: 4-Star, #93 Overall
Evaluation: The most impressive part about him is how well he carries his 300 pound frame; he can easily add another 25+ pounds and you probably wouldn’t notice that much because of how his weight is distributed. He can be overwhelming at times on the edge, smothering defenders. Shows very quick feet, so that even if he is beat off the snap, he recovers well to get in good position to make his block.
In The Mix: Pretty much every school in the country is going after Dumervil along with Miami, such as LSU, Alabama, Florida, Oklahoma, Ohio State, Louisville and others.
Latest: After finally making his long talked about visit for a Miami game last weekend, Dumervil is somehow back on the board for the third time, words I’d never thought I’d type. Aside from Martinez, Dumervil is the only other offensive lineman currently with a Miami offer that UM is actively pursuing, something that is concerning in of itself, but is enough to get him on this board nonetheless. Like his teammate Martinez, LSU appears to be the heavy favorite right now, and even if the pick was somehow not the Tigers, it certainly would be a team besides Miami at this point. His UM visit could also be chalked up to a courtesy visit to watch a game in which his cousin was playing for Louisville. Don’t fall for it.
15. Ronald Williams, CB, Hutchinson, KS (Hutchinson C.C.) (Last Month: 14)
Ht 6-2 | Wt 190 | 247 Composite: 3-Star, N/A Overall
Evaluation: A HS quarterback, Williams is still learning the finer points of the position and is very raw as of now. However, his athletic traits are off the charts. Pairs a tall and lanky frame with exceptional ball skills to become a danger for opposing QB’s. Breaks quickly on the ball and demonstrates good burst in short areas. His length really bothers WR’s and allows him to get to more balls than the average corner.
In The Mix: Kentucky, Texas A&M, Arkansas, Nebraska, Mississippi State, and Miami.
Latest: This is really a place-holder spot that could be a few different corners, as UM has offered a ton in the past month; I see it as first come, first serve in terms of who is showing interest and schedules a visit to campus. As for Williams, he is originally a Louisiana-native that ended up in JUCO and is a late-bloomer slowly starting to garner major attention. He recently took an official to Kentucky, has an OV set to Texas A&M this weekend, and will take an official to Alabama on December 13th weekend. With 2 OV slots left, Miami is a candidate to get one, but of course if something is going to happen, it will need to happen fast, as Williams is an early enrollee. An interesting wrinkle here is that Williams is former teammates with Miami OL Ousman Traore, who the Canes pulled from Hutchinson last cycle, and UM also recently offered Williams’ defensive backfield teammate Jakorian Bennett; Bennett recently told CIS that the pair are trying to set up a Miami OV soon.
Falling Off
5. Brian George, CB: Official visit to Miami seems less and less likely as time goes on, and UM has seemed to move on to other JUCO targets at CB.
7. Eli Acker, OT: Similar to George, summer talk of an official visit has really died down, and it’s looking likely he will stick with Ole Miss.
10. Cayden Baker, OT: Committed to UNC.
15. RJ Adams, OG: Miami called off his tentative official visit and is no longer recruiting Adams.
