The Miami Hurricanes have been considered slight favorites in the ACC Coastal Division for 2017, but Mark Richt’s team needed a quarterback to replace Brad Kaaya. Malik Rosier is officially the answer.
In a school release, Richt tabbed the redshirt junior to end what was really a three-man competition.
“Malik has been named the starting quarterback,” he said. “Evan [Shirreffs] is currently number two on the depth chart. The young guys, N’Kosi Perry and Cade Weldon, will continue to learn and compete.”
Shirreffs exited the spring as a co-No. 1 on the depth chart with Rosier, and Perry — a record-setting 4-star recruit — arrived during the summer. They couldn’t match Rosier’s pace, though.
Over the last three seasons, Kaaya started every game except for one, when he had concussion. Rosier stepped in for the now-Detroit Lions quarterback in Miami’s memorable 2015 win against Duke where officials mishandled an eight-lateral kick return.
Now, he’ll lead the ‘Canes into the 2017 campaign. Miami opens the year against Bethune-Cookman, a Football Championship Subdivision school, before traveling to Arkansas State. Rosier must take advantage of easing into the schedule, since rival Florida State awaits in mid-September.
Perry, who broke records at his high school previously held by eventual NFL quarterback Daunte Culpepper, is almost certainly the future of the Hurricanes. However, Rosier gives them a better chance to win this season due to his knowledge of Richt’s system and slight bit of experience.
Besides, Miami’s potentially elite defense is expected to carry the team anyway, and the All-ACC combo of running back Mark Walton and wide receiver Ahmmon Richards will lead the offense.
If Rosier can simply avoid mistakes consistently, that should be enough to help the ‘Canes navigate a rebuilding division and secure a place in their first-ever ACC Championship Game.