Despite Late-Season Collapse, Miami Hurricanes Secure Highest Final AP Poll Position Since 2017
The 2024 college football season proved to be a rollercoaster for the Miami Hurricanes. The team displayed flashes of brilliance that reminded fans of their storied past, yet their inability to maintain momentum in the season’s closing stretch left many wondering what might have been. Despite the late-season collapse, the Hurricanes earned their highest final AP Poll ranking since 2017, signaling a program on the rise under head coach Mario Cristobal.
A Promising Start to the Season
Miami entered the 2024 season with tempered expectations. Following a rebuilding year in 2023 under Cristobal, the Hurricanes were not viewed as strong contenders in the ACC. However, a mix of veteran leadership and emerging young talent quickly shifted the narrative.
The Hurricanes began the season with an emphatic victory over a non-conference opponent, setting the tone for a strong opening stretch. Their early-season success included key wins against ranked opponents, bolstered by the standout play of quarterback Tyler Van Dyke and a defense that consistently disrupted opposing offenses.
Miami’s offense, coordinated by Shannon Dawson, showcased an aggressive yet balanced approach. Van Dyke’s precision passing was complemented by a dynamic rushing attack led by freshman phenom Jason Brown. On the defensive side, the Hurricanes benefited from the leadership of linebacker Wesley Bissainthe and the disruptive presence of defensive end Nyjalik Kelly, both of whom played pivotal roles in Miami’s resurgence.
Midseason Momentum and National Attention
As the Hurricanes continued to stack wins, they began to garner national attention. By midseason, Miami had climbed into the top 15 of the AP Poll, a position they had not occupied in years. Pundits and fans alike began to speculate about the Hurricanes’ potential as a dark horse candidate for the College Football Playoff.
A thrilling overtime victory against a top-10 opponent further solidified Miami’s reputation as a team capable of competing with the nation’s elite. The win showcased the team’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure, qualities that had often been absent in previous seasons.
The Late-Season Collapse
Unfortunately for Miami, the season’s final stretch did not mirror its promising start. After climbing as high as No. 10 in the AP Poll, the Hurricanes’ performance began to waver. Injuries to key players, including Van Dyke, exposed the team’s lack of depth in critical positions. Additionally, unforced errors and turnovers plagued Miami in pivotal games.
A heartbreaking loss to a conference rival marked the beginning of Miami’s downward spiral. The defeat was followed by back-to-back losses against ranked opponents, both of which featured second-half collapses that highlighted the team’s struggles with consistency and discipline. The Hurricanes finished the regular season with an 8-4 record, a respectable mark but far short of the lofty expectations set earlier in the year.
Bowl Game Redemption
Despite the disappointing end to the regular season, Miami’s strong early performance earned them an invitation to a prestigious bowl game. The Hurricanes faced a highly ranked SEC opponent in a matchup that many viewed as an opportunity for redemption.
Miami’s bowl game performance was a microcosm of their season: moments of brilliance punctuated by costly mistakes. After falling behind early, the Hurricanes mounted a spirited comeback led by backup quarterback Emory Williams, who stepped up in Van Dyke’s absence. While Miami ultimately fell short in a narrow defeat, their resilience and determination were evident.
The Highest Final AP Poll Position Since 2017
When the final AP Poll was released, Miami found themselves ranked No. 18, their best finish in seven years. While the ranking was bittersweet given the team’s potential to achieve more, it represented a significant step forward for a program that had struggled to find its footing in recent years.
For Miami fans, the final ranking was a reminder of the program’s progress under Cristobal. In just his second season at the helm, Cristobal had guided the Hurricanes to their highest win total since 2017 and reestablished Miami as a relevant force on the national stage. The team’s ranking also served as a testament to the strides made in recruiting, player development, and overall program culture.
Key Factors Behind Miami’s Resurgence
Several factors contributed to Miami’s improved performance in 2024:
- Recruiting Excellence: Cristobal’s reputation as an elite recruiter paid dividends, as Miami’s 2024 roster featured several highly touted prospects who made an immediate impact. The infusion of young talent provided a much-needed boost to a roster that had previously been thin in key areas.
- Improved Coaching Staff: The addition of experienced coordinators and position coaches brought a new level of professionalism and expertise to the program. Dawson’s offensive scheme and defensive coordinator Lance Guidry’s aggressive approach were instrumental in Miami’s success.
- Player Development: Under Cristobal’s leadership, several players experienced significant development. Van Dyke returned to form after an inconsistent 2023 season, while players like Kelly and Bissainthe emerged as stars.
- Fan Support and Culture: The Hurricanes’ return to relevance reinvigorated a passionate fan base that had long been yearning for a return to the program’s glory days. The energy and support at Hard Rock Stadium provided a noticeable home-field advantage throughout the season.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As the Hurricanes turn their attention to the 2025 season, there is reason for optimism. While the team will need to address key departures, including Van Dyke’s expected move to the NFL, the foundation appears strong.
Miami’s 2025 recruiting class is ranked among the nation’s best, a testament to Cristobal’s ability to attract top-tier talent. Additionally, the experience gained by young players during the 2024 season should pay dividends moving forward.
The Hurricanes will also face the challenge of maintaining consistency, a theme that has defined their program in recent years. Cristobal’s emphasis on discipline and accountability will be crucial in helping Miami take the next step toward competing for ACC titles and College Football Playoff berths.
Conclusion
The 2024 season was a tale of two halves for the Miami Hurricanes. A promising start and midseason surge had fans dreaming of a return to national prominence, only for a late-season collapse to temper those aspirations. However, the team’s highest final AP Poll ranking since 2017 offers a tangible sign of progress and a foundation on which to build.
As Cristobal continues to mold the program in his vision, the Hurricanes appear poised for a bright future. While challenges remain, Miami’s 2024 campaign demonstrated that the path back to glory is within reach. For now, the Hurricanes’ resurgence serves as a reminder of the program’s potential and the enduring promise of “The U.”