Hurricanes expect two key defenders back from injury vs. Florida State

Clemson, S.C. — Marquise Lightfoot and Xavier Lucas, two key defenders for the Miami Hurricanes, are set to return from injuries they sustained during the early part of the season, according to head coach Mario Cristobal. Lightfoot was sidelined during Miami's victory over Clemson on October 3rd, while Lucas had missed action since the game against Stanford.

Additionally, Cristobal confirmed that linebacker Ezekiel Marcelin Jr. and cornerback Damari Brown are currently healthy and available for the upcoming game against Florida State. However, sophomore offensive lineman Max Buchanan's availability remains uncertain as he was out with an injury. Following an appearance in a hospital bed on social media, Buchanan later deleted the post, leaving the coaching staff hopeful for his return later in the year.

Buchanan had started five games at right guard for Miami, earning a 72.4 run-blocking grade and a 43.8 pass-blocking grade according to Pro Football Focus. Lightfoot has emerged as one of the standout performers for the Hurricanes' defense this season, with 19 tackles and five sacks under his belt, including a sack in the team's recent victory.

The recent injuries have been a significant setback for the Hurricanes' defense, as cornerback OJ Frederique Jr. and Lucas, two other key players, have also been sidelined since the season opener. Cristobal expressed his frustration regarding the injuries, emphasizing that they appear to lack a clear pattern, urging the team to study their practices to identify any potential common threads.