Miami enjoyed a tremendous day from Washington State transfer Cam Ward, who completed 19 of 24 passes for 324 yards and three touchdowns. Shaky QB play has consistently been an issue in Coral Gables lately, but Ward could abruptly halt the trend.

Peek at the upcoming year, and it’s easy to notice a familiar trap: “Hey, Miami’s schedule isn’t that bad.” Sure enough, the Hurricanes host rival Florida State and avoid Clemson, UNC, NC State and even SMU.

Over the final weekend of the month, the ‘Canes plucked star running back Damien Martinez (Oregon State), wideout Sam Brown (Houston), linebacker Jaylin Alderman (Louisville) and corner Dyoni Hill (Marshall) out of the portal. All four may contribute significantly in 2024.

Miami always manages to get some preseason love, and an upgraded, Ward-led roster will be tougher to write off in August.