Miami Hurricanes Face Challenges with Injuries Ahead of NC State

The Miami Hurricanes are facing significant challenges as they prepare for their crucial home matchup against the NC State Wolfpack, with injuries impacting key players. According to the Miami Herald, standout nickel cornerback Keionte Scott has been ruled out for the game.

Scott, who has emerged as a vital component of Miami's defense this season, was recently named a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award, awarded to the nation's top defensive back. He has been a standout performer, leading the Hurricanes with ten tackles for loss and five pass breakups, alongside 43 total tackles and three sacks.

His absence will be felt as he has played a staggering ninety percent of the defensive snaps prior to last week’s game against Syracuse. The report states that Scott is dealing with a lower extremity injury, and his status for the remainder of the season remains uncertain.

Along with Scott, running back Mark Fletcher Jr., cornerback OJ Frederique, and wide receiver Tony Johnson have also been ruled out. Defensive tackle David Blay Jr. is listed as questionable. Fletcher’s absence is particularly noteworthy as he missed his first game of the season last week, resulting in a shared workload among Jordan Lyle, CharMar Marty Brown, and Girard Pringle Jr., who stepped up in the run game.

Pringle notably rushed for a team-high 55 yards and a touchdown against Syracuse. With wide receiver CJ Daniels also sidelined, Keelan Marion has emerged, making significant contributions in the passing game recently.

In the secondary, Xavier Lucas, Ethan O’Connor, and Damari Brown have held the fort during Frederique’s absence. The defensive line has seen extended play from Justin Scott, Donta Simpson Jr., Armondo Blount, and Herbert Scroggins III in Moten's absence.

Miami is looking to maintain their playoff hopes against NC State in what could be a critical game as they close out the season with tough matchups against Virginia Tech and Pittsburgh in the coming weeks.

The ACC has mandated that teams submit multiple availability reports prior to games, allowing fans and analysts to track player statuses as they approach kickoff. The first report, released two nights before the game, indicates the players who are available, probable, questionable, or out, giving insights into team preparations.

As the Hurricanes gear up for this pivotal game, the impact of injuries will certainly be a focal point in their game plan and execution.