ORLANDO — Three quick thoughts on Miami’s spring game Saturday, which ended in the offense’s 35-32 win over the defense in front of an announced crowd of 9,102 at Camping World Stadium.
1. The quarterback competition remains interesting.
The Hurricanes weren’t going to announce a starter until August, no matter what happened Saturday. But the situation looks better now than it did in February. N’Kosi Perry put up strong numbers (9-of-13 passing for 145 yards and a touchdown). He seemed to be more poised and accurate than he was during a rough redshirt freshman season when he completed barely half his passes. As importantly, Ohio State transfer Tate Martell was solid (6-of-10 passing for 154 yards and two touchdowns), often against the top defense. The third option, Jarren Williams, also threw a touchdown pass. “They go into summer knowing that all three guys can play,” coach Manny Diaz said.
2. The other transfers are a mixed bag.
Former Buffalo receiver K.J. Osborn led all players with 105 receiving yards, including an 80-yard pass from Martell. There’s no question he will be a key contributor. But Tommy Kennedy —who was one of the top grad transfer offensive linemen on the market —had a rough outing. The 6-foot-4, 285-pound misfired on multiple snaps and remains a work in progress after jumping from Butler.
3. Tampa’s Scott Patchan is set to contribute.
After an up and down career with injuries and a brief position change to tight end, the Freedom High product will have a chance to make a big impact on the defensive line. The redshirt senior worked with the starters and teamed with Jonathan Garvin for a safety on the game’s first series. He finished with 3 ½ tackles (two for a loss).