Miami Hurricanes Gear Up for Wake Forest Clash Amid Injury Concerns

The Miami Hurricanes, currently ranked No. 8, are set to welcome back a key defensive player for their upcoming game against Wake Forest. Backup linebacker Popo Aguirre is scheduled to return to action on Saturday. However, the Hurricanes will still be without two important members of their defensive squad, as reserve defensive end Elijah Alston and cornerback Damari Brown remain sidelined due to injuries.

Damari Brown has been out since sustaining a lower extremity injury during the season opener against Florida. During that game, Brown played 14 snaps before being taken out in the second half. Standing at 6-feet-2 and weighing 195 pounds, Brown is known for his versatility, capable of playing both on the outside and in the nickel. Against Florida, he allowed only two receptions for 22 yards from four targets in coverage. With fellow cornerback Jadais Richard also injured, Brown’s absence adds pressure to a secondary already stretched thin.

Elijah Alston has also been a significant contributor this season, with statistics including 15 tackles, four tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks across six games. He was injured during Miami’s narrow 38-34 victory over Virginia Tech and has been in and out of the lineup since. His presence is missed as Miami’s front seven have struggled to maintain consistency in ACC play.

Meanwhile, Popo Aguirre showed promising signs of improvement, as evidenced by his 18 snaps against Louisville where he made a notable contribution by recovering a fumble. On the season, Aguirre has accumulated 20 tackles, two tackles for loss, and one sack.

Offensive concerns also loom for the Hurricanes, as offensive lineman Ryan Rodriguez continues to recover from a long-term lower extremity injury sustained in the Florida game.

Following a bye week, Miami aims to rebound from a disappointing 28-23 defeat to Georgia Tech. The Hurricanes will face a Wake Forest team that averages 27 points per game. According to DraftKing Sportsbook, Miami enters the game as 23-point favorites over the Demon Deacons.

Miami is strategizing for a potential spot in the ACC Championship Game, with must-win scenarios in their upcoming fixtures being crucial to materialize their championship aspirations.