Five Major Takeaways: No. 1 Miami’s Loss at No. 11 Notre Dame

Miami’s first loss raises questions

The Hurricanes showed fight late, but much of their performance fell short of expectations. The defensive unit continued to struggle, with missed execution and a secondary that the story described as below average.

Corey Hetherman’s defense faces questions, while pass rusher Damon Wilson II had no tackles. Miami also missed Malachi Toney, whose absence was felt on offense. The story says the defense must find answers quickly if the team is to meet its goals.

Slow start proved costly

Miami scored three points in the first half, its lowest first-half total since the Texas A&M playoff game. In a regular-season game, the story traces the team’s last such low to its 2023 matchup with Georgia Tech.

Mensah threw for 73 yards before halftime, as the offense opened conservatively and struggled to execute. Miami looked more like itself when it pushed the ball downfield after the break, but Mensah’s interception helped swing momentum.

Barkate steps into leading role

With Toney out for several weeks, Cooper Barkate became a leading target for Mensah and delivered. He finished with 10 receptions, 92 yards and two touchdowns. The story praises Barkate’s route-running and his ability to make plays when needed. His performance offered Miami a reliable option while Toney is sidelined.

Wilson’s quiet night adds concern

Wilson, a transfer from Missouri, was expected to strengthen Miami’s defensive line, but the story says his pressure production has been underwhelming this season. He did not record a tackle against Notre Dame.

Elijah Lofton and Mark Fletcher Jr. each recorded one more tackle than Wilson. His quiet performance added to the questions about a defense that needed key contributors to step up.