MOST REALISTIC…

November 3, 2025 -

Prior to the disappointing loss to SMU on Saturday, we projected Miami could take as many as 31 new recruits this cycle. After the loss, not so much anymore.

Miami was upset by SMU, 26-20 in overtime. It was not just a hard fought loss, it was the way the Canes lost. Penalties and interceptions. In every other aspect of the game, Miami clearly dominated. But it wasn’t good enough to win.

Miami (6-2, 2-2) will likely not go to Charlotte this season and unlikely to get a bid to the college football playoff. Our focus must now shift to closing on the recruiting trail. It won’t be easy now.

We decided to take a page out of Miami’s manual. Self evaluation. Who are the most likely prospects Miami still has a chance to land next month?

WARNING…we may be overly optimistic.

Safety Blake Stewart

Miami is still hunting for a second safety in this class and Stewart has been a top priority for long time. He’s backed off his commitment to Clemson and the door may be open for the Canes.

Safety JJ Dunnigan

A late riser on Miami’s board, Dunnigan de-committed from Kansas recently and it appears to be a battle between Colorado and Miami for this four-star talent.

Edge DeAnthony Lafayette (LSU commit)

Lafayette is currently committed to LSU but the coaching chaos in Baton Rouge may make DeAnthony consider other options. Miami’s been on him for awhile and he appears intrigued with being coached by Hall of Fame Aaron Taylor.

DL Carter Gooden (UCLA commit)

Another late riser on Miami’s board, Gooden is currently committed to the Bruins. Miami still has a need on the DL and he appears to be willing to stay on the east coast. The challenge is he has many other pursuers.

TE Gavin Mueller (Colorado commit)

Yet another late riser on Miami’s board, Mueller is a perfect pairing with Israel Briggs. However, he’s committed to Colorado, but the situation in Boulder has made him consider his options, including Miami. It appears the interest is mutual.

Other possibilities: RB Amari Latimore, TE Luke Brewer, EDG Dre Quinn, DT Isaiah Broughton

Impact…

Should Miami land these five targets, the 2026 class would score 275.97. In 2025, the Canes class would have ranked #12. In 2024, this score would place Miami at #8. In 2023, Miami’s class would have ranked #11. In 2022, Miami’s class would have ranked #7.

BOTTOM LINE:

This loss will be costly for Miami. However, the Canes can still land a solid class in 2026. But a top ten finish is unlikely.

GO CANES!