Miami Hurricanes Defense Faces High Expectations After Turnaround

Experts debate whether the team can maintain its defensive dominance in the upcoming season.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Miami Hurricanes' defense made a dramatic improvement in the 2025 season under new coordinator Corey Hetherman. Now, there are high expectations that the team will be able to sustain that level of defensive play in 2026. However, some analysts question whether it's realistic to expect the defense to perform at the same elite level again this year.

Why it matters

The Miami Hurricanes are a high-profile college football program, and their defensive performance is closely watched by fans and media alike. A strong defense is crucial for the team's success, so maintaining that momentum will be key to their competitiveness in the upcoming season.

The details

In 2025, Hetherman's first year as defensive coordinator, the Hurricanes' defense made a massive leap, going from one of the worst units in the conference to one of the best. The team's sack numbers, turnovers forced, and points allowed all saw significant improvements. Now, there is an expectation that the defense will continue to dominate, but some experts are skeptical that the unit can replicate that level of performance again in 2026.

  • The Miami Hurricanes' defense made a dramatic turnaround in the 2025 season.
  • The 2026 season will be the second year under defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman.

The players

Corey Hetherman

The Miami Hurricanes' defensive coordinator, who turned around the team's defense in his first season in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“It's going to be really tough for them to maintain that same level of defensive dominance. Hetherman did an incredible job last year, but it's unrealistic to expect them to be that good again in 2026.”

— Matt Leinart, College Football Analyst (ESPN)

“I think the Hurricanes' defense can absolutely be just as good, if not better, in 2026. Hetherman has the players, the scheme, and the coaching ability to keep this unit performing at an elite level.”

— Kirk Herbstreit, College Football Analyst (ESPN)

What’s next

The Hurricanes will open their 2026 season on September 5th against the University of Florida, providing an early test for the defense's ability to maintain its high level of play.

The takeaway

The Miami Hurricanes' defensive turnaround in 2025 was remarkable, but sustaining that level of excellence will be a significant challenge. Whether the defense can live up to the high expectations placed on it will be one of the key storylines to follow in the upcoming season.