Tag: Reese Poffenbarger

Miami turns around their QB room with two transfers

Miami has a QB capable of putting the Canes in the ACC title picture.

In just eight days, the Miami Hurricanes transformed their quarterback room from a perceived weakness to an undoubted strength.

This turnaround began with the addition of Reese Poffenbarger on Jan. 8 and was further solidified by securing Cam Ward on Saturday. On Jan. 1, Ward released a video on X with his intentions to enter the NFL Draft. Less than two weeks later he announced his commitment to Mario Cristobal and the Miami Hurricanes.

Poffenbarger, an impressive talent from the University of Albany, has shown his prowess in the FCS. He emerged as a third-team All-American, leading the division with 3,603 passing yards and 36 touchdowns.

His significant contributions propelled Albany to an 11-game winning streak and a semi-final appearance in the FCS playoffs. Poffenbarger’s stats are notable.

Career Stats (2022-23):

59.8% Comp | 6,613 Yards | 7.9 YPA | 60 TDs | 17 INTs

He will have two years of eligibility remaining.

Then, Cam Ward’s surprise commitment to Miami added another layer of excitement. After a successful stint at Washington State, where he threw for 3,736 yards and 25 TDs in 2023 alone, Ward’s decision to join the Hurricanes instead of entering the NFL draft is a game-changer. His experience and talent elevate the quarterback room many levels better than it was just a week ago.

Miami’s quarterback roster now boasts not only Poffenbarger and likely preseason Heisman hopeful Cam Ward, but also talents like Jacurri Brown, Emory Williams, and Judd Anderson. This depth provides a healthy competitive environment Cristobal craves, essential for growth and performance.

The offense, under Shannon Dawson, has already seen improvements, jumping from an average of 23.6 points per game in 2023 to 31.5 in 2024. The addition of Poffenbarger and Ward is poised to further enhance this upward trajectory.

The return of top ACC wide receivers Xavier Restrepo and Jacolby George ensures that Miami’s offense has the tools needed for a successful season. The pressure will be higher than ever for Mario in year three at Miami. With this lineup, the Hurricanes are not just addressing past weaknesses but are setting the stage for a powerful offensive showcase in the upcoming season.

The Hurricanes have not just filled a gap; they have added a potential Heisman candidate at quarterback that promises excitement and high-level performance in the season ahead.