No. 5 Miami is showing off its depth on offense after 2 blowout wins to open the season

Coral Gables, Fla. (AP) — Miami's offensive performance in their first three games this season has been nothing short of impressive, showcasing the team's depth and skill. Quarterback Darian Mensah has connected with wide receiver Malachi Toney on nearly every pass play, making it appear effortless. This seamless connection is precisely what the Hurricanes wanted to avoid – an offense that solely relies on their star players.

To achieve this, Miami has focused on developing depth throughout their opening games. As a result, the team has enjoyed two blowout victories, giving them the opportunity to spread the ball around. Offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson emphasized that while Mensah will receive the ball, the team wants to ensure that other players also get involved.

Despite playing minimal in the latter halves of their last two games, Toney still managed to contribute significantly, helping Miami lead the nation in yards per game, yards per play, completion percentage, and first downs per game.

Mensah credits his quarterback coach, Cam Ward, as well as Carson Beck and Mensah himself for the team's success. He explained that the offense operates on a progress-based system, where he simply follows the defense's guidance on where to go. The system employed by Dawson is complex yet effective, focusing on building instant rapport with the quarterback and fostering trust among the players.

Since the 2000 season, only three other FBS teams have achieved a higher ratio of touchdown passes to incompletions over their first two games – Temple in 2025, Army in 2021, and Georgia Tech in 2015. Miami's performance has rewritten several of their own records, highlighting the team's remarkable ability to adapt and excel.