Donald Chaney Jr.’s time at Miami was a saga of nearly-there moments, peppered with flashes of ‘what if’ brilliance. This dynamic running back, who once seemed destined for Hurricane greatness, is now poised to unleash his full potential over at Louisville.
A college career at Miami, thwarted by injuries, left fans and analysts alike speculating about the heights he could reach.
Emerging from Belen Jesuit as a do-everything back, Chaney Jr. dominated the field as a consensus four-star prospect, lauded by 247Sports, ESPN, and Rivals. Not only did he shine as the sixth-best running back and a top-50 player nationally, but his record at Belen Jesuit—4,511 yards and 60 touchdowns—cemented his status as the school’s all-time leading rusher.
Starting as a Hurricane in 2020, Chaney Jr., the progeny of former South Carolina Gamecock receiver Donald Chaney, hit the ground running. In a crowded backfield, he stood out, rushing for 322 yards and three touchdowns on 68 carries, blending agility and power like a seasoned ball carrier. His 11 receptions for 143 yards are not just numbers; they are statements of his versatility. What got the fans talking was his bullish tenacity – the guy simply refused to fall backward when tackled.
But as often happens, fate throws a curveball. Injuries, including an ACL tear in his sophomore year and another setback in 2022, hit the brakes on his stats and growth. It wasn’t just the numbers that suffered; these injuries robbed him of precious game time and development.
Bouncing back in 2023, Chaney racked up 478 yards on 94 carries, showcasing not just resilience but a consistent threat in the backfield. Remember his performance against Georgia Tech, where he rushed for 106 yards? That was Chaney in his element. Despite being part of a committee of backs led by freshman phenom Mark Fletcher Jr., Chaney was always the one tipped to take the lead in the off-season.
In his final season with Miami, Chaney had a moment during the Georgia Tech game that flipped the script. In what was a solid run, he fumbled for the first and only time in his Miami career. This wasn’t just any game; it was a crucial clash where Coach Mario Cristobal chose ambition over caution, aiming for Chaney’s first 100-yard game instead of taking a knee and sealing the win. This risky move backfired, turning what could have been a 5-0 lead into a soul-crushing defeat against the Yellow Jackets that lingered the rest of the year for the Hurricanes.
At Louisville, it’s a fresh start for Chaney. Under Jeff Brohm, who has brought in a talented group of transfers, he’s not just another player; he’s a prominent figure, with a wealth of experience and potential in a backfield brimming with talent and a play caller who schemes open his skill players often.
Chaney’s true capacity is still something of a mystery – but only for those who haven’t seen him play. His Miami days were a teaser; what we’re all waiting to see is how he’ll perform in a full, injury-free season. If he can stay healthy, I’m betting on him not just to shine in the conference but to emerge as one of the most complete backs in college football.