Three young players received important updates from UM coaches this week, including one that involved a noticeable position shift. Robby Washington, a former Miami Palmetto standout, is switching to cornerback after ranking 22nd overall by 247 Sports in the 2023 receiving class.
Mario Cristobal described Robby as “a strong football player and an exceptional athlete.” “Since joining us, he has dealt with a few minor injuries, and we are searching for defensive backfield reinforcement.”
Washington is anticipated to develop into a top-tier cornerback because of his strong coverage and tackling abilities in practice, according to Cristobal.
As he gets used to his new position, defensive coordinator Lance Guidry stated that Washington’s playing time this season is unknown. He has to learn the new lingo and methods because he is starting over. He is an athlete who can handle both corner and some nickel duties.
Standing 5-11, Washington played in two games the previous year and hauled in two passes for 27 yards.
Bobby Washington, Washington’s sibling, is a linebacker with the Hurricanes.
Coaches were thrilled with rookie safety Zaquan Patterson during the game against Florida A&M, despite the fact that he did not play defensively in the season opener against Florida. Each week, Guidry intends to gradually incorporate him into the defense. He’s shooting for six to 10 snaps, maximum fifteen. Guidry stated, “Patterson demonstrated tremendous promise and will benefit from game experience.” “He could see more action if necessary because of an injury.”
“Patterson is on track to become a key player for us sooner rather than later,” Cristobal continued.
Cristobal and offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson talked about giving Chris Johnson Jr. more responsibility. “He’s a trustworthy colleague and is deserving of greater playing time,” Cristobal said.
I want to increase his involvement,” Dawson stated emphatically. He is an accomplished player who can produce big plays.
Scott had a sack, and Hayes and Pruitt had interceptions on record.
Linebacker Wesley Bissainthe’s growth was commended by Cristobal, who said, “He’s transformed from 184 pounds three years ago to around 229-231 now.” He plays at a high level and is an excellent leader of the team. He was last week’s player of the week and is once again a candidate.
In addition to making significant stops to thwart UF’s early drives, Bissainthe got an interception against Florida A&M.
Cristobal said that left tackle Markel Bell, who was replacing the injured Jalen Rivers, performed admirably overall despite giving up Florida A&M’s lone sack. The team has faith in Bell, the coach added. Isaiah Horton and Cam Ward were the team’s leading offensive players when they faced Florida A&M.
Baron and Patterson were the two with the most defensive snaps of everyone. elite players. Last season, Jadais Richard, a cornerback, struggled with coverage and let up three completed passes totaling 54 yards in his covering area.
Because of the duration of the season and the likelihood of injuries, Cristobal emphasized on his weekly program with Joe Zagacki and Don Bailey Jr. the importance of better preparing backup players. “The remainder of our roster needs to be prepared to contribute,”
Brief remarks: Cristobal recognized Matt McCoy’s growth as a starting left guard and complimented Guidry’s understanding of the game. Chris Cotter and former NFL linebacker Mark Herzlich have been assigned by ESPN to cover Ball State’s game on the ACC Network this Saturday at 3:30 p.m.
