The Miami Redhawks used a dramatic comeback and late field goal to grab a victory over the UConn Huskies on Saturday afternoon for Miami’s Homecoming.
After getting behind 14-0, David McComb used his legs to make it 14-7, and then Brendan Loftus had a 57 yard touchdown reception, and halftime arrived tied at 14. The RedHawks grabbed the lead off a Scoop Smith touchdown reception from McComb. Of note, McComb got hurt, leading to Caleb Heavner leading the RedHawk offense in the 4th quarter. Heavner led the game winning drive behind a couple of impressive throws and freshman kicker Brady Stidham hit the game winning field goal.
3 Key Takeaways:
Health of David McComb: McComb left the game late and handed things over to Caleb Heavner. McComb has 1121 yards on 64-103 this season, with 7 touchdowns to 1 INT. Heavner is 7-9 for 36 yards and an INT this year. Safe to say the QB room becomes a big question mark if this injury is long-term. Monday brought more clarity on this weekend’s availability, with coach Martin saying McComb is “very, very doubtful”. He also said that McComb is still undergoing testing.
The Rushing Attack is still a large concern: Especially with McComb hurt, the rushing game has to produce. 56 yards on 26 carries is what the team (minus McComb’s 3/33) produced. UConn’s defense is 26th in the nation, allowing just 95 rushing yards per game, so this wasn’t unexpected on Saturday, especially with the RedHawk offense ranking 131st nationally (98 yards per game).
Malcolm McCain is the key to the defense: McCain added 9 tackles (5 solo) on Saturday, and is up to 31 on the season. Blayne Myrick is in a distant second for leading tackler with 21. McCain must continue to be the disruptive, physical linebacker moving forward.
This week will be spent with significant anxiety surrounding McComb’s status. Even with McComb doubtful this weekend, it appears that Heavner will lead the offense. The good news is that Saturday’s matchup with Bowling Green should be a game that Miami can get the running game going. The Falcons should present an opportunity for Heavner to get established in the offense against an opponent they should easily beat.