The Miami Hurricanes' impressive performance in the College Football Playoff (CFP) has left a lasting impact, showcasing the program's ability to thrive on the biggest stage. This success story is not just about the team's wins, but also the individual players who stepped up their game when it mattered most. Here's an in-depth look at five players who shined during the CFP and are poised to make a significant impact in the 2026 season.
Mark Fletcher: The Rushing Sensation
Running back Mark Fletcher was an absolute powerhouse during the CFP, racking up an impressive 507 rushing yards and showcasing his game-changing abilities. His performance against Indiana, where he scored a crucial touchdown, was a testament to his ability to dominate in high-pressure situations. Fletcher's physicality and explosiveness were on full display, averaging an incredible 4.78 yards per carry after contact. What makes this even more remarkable is his improvement from the regular season, where he averaged 4.9 yards per carry. Personally, I believe Fletcher's ability to elevate his game in the CFP is a clear indicator of his star potential. If he can maintain this level of performance throughout the 2026 season, he could be a force to be reckoned with.
Samson Okunlola: The Unsung Hero
Offensive lineman Samson Okunlola's growth throughout the 2025 season, especially in the CFP, is a story of resilience and skill. His pass and run blocking grades improved significantly during the CFP, earning the highest run blocking grade among Miami's offensive linemen. This is a crucial aspect of the game that often goes unnoticed by casual fans. Okunlola's performance against Ohio State, where he started and excelled, is a prime example of his talent. As the full-time starting left guard in 2026, I expect him to be a key player in protecting the quarterback and creating running lanes. His development is a testament to the program's ability to nurture talent.
Justin Scott: The Emerging Force
Defensive tackle Justin Scott's evolution during the CFP is a fascinating narrative. He averaged more defensive snaps per game in the CFP, showcasing his growing importance to the team. Scott's quickness and power were on full display, generating knock-back at the line of scrimmage. What's impressive is his improvement in tackling, going from a 20% missed tackle rate in the regular season to not missing a single tackle in the CFP. This is a critical skill for a defensive tackle, and Scott's development in this area could make him a dominant force in 2026. His performance during spring football suggests he's on the cusp of becoming one of the best in his position.
Mo Toure: The Veteran's Resilience
Mo Toure, a veteran linebacker, saved his best for when it mattered most. His performance in the CFP was exceptional, increasing his tackles per game and reducing his missed tackle rate. Toure's ability to blitz effectively was evident, generating more quarterback pressures in the CFP. However, his coverage skills are an area that could use some refinement. Teams often target him in coverage, and improving in this aspect would make him an even more formidable player. As he enters his eighth year at the college level, keeping Toure healthy will be crucial for the defense's success. His experience and run-containing abilities make him a vital asset.
Bryce Fitzgerald: The Young Ballhawk
Freshman safety Bryce Fitzgerald's performance in the CFP was a revelation. He earned the title of true freshman All-American, showcasing his talent and consistency. Fitzgerald's ball-hawking skills were on full display, as opposing quarterbacks avoided testing him in coverage. His two interceptions against Texas A&M were game-changers, highlighting his impact on the team's success. As he enters the 2026 season, Fitzgerald is expected to be one of the ACC's top safeties. The challenge for him will be to maintain his playmaking abilities while executing his assignments consistently. Fitzgerald's rapid rise is a testament to the program's ability to develop young talent.
In conclusion, the Miami Hurricanes' CFP run was not just about the team's success; it was a platform for individual players to showcase their growth and potential. These five players, each with their unique stories and skills, have set the stage for an exciting 2026 season. Their performances in the CFP provide a glimpse into the future, where they could become the backbone of a championship-caliber team. This is a testament to the program's ability to develop talent and compete at the highest level.
