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Sport: College SportsCategory: Match Previews

Miami's Blount and Lightfoot key to defensive line in 2026

CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 21, 2026, 2:39 PM

Last updated Jun 21, 2026

Miami's Blount and Lightfoot key to defensive line in 2026
Summary

Miami's defense aims to address significant losses on the defensive line as it prepares for the 2026 season. With the departures of Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor, the Hurricanes need Armondo Blount and Marquise Lightfoot to step into larger roles. Blount, a former top-40 recruit, had 17 tackles and 2.5 sacks last season, while Lightfoot recorded 25 tackles and 5.5 tackles for loss, showcasing their potential. The team finished as last year's national runner-up and is projected as a leading contender in the ACC. Their performances will be crucial for the Hurricanes in their pursuit of an ACC title.

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Key Details
  • •Miami ranked fourth nationally in sacks per game last season.
  • •Bain and Mesidor combined for 22 of Miami's 50 sacks in 2025.
  • •Blount has potential to become a consistent impact player.
  • •Lightfoot showed high pressure rates among ACC defenders in 2025.
  • •Miami looks to improve after finishing as national runner-up last season.
Latest Updates
  • 2:39 PMCBS Sports — Can Miami's defense reload up front? Why Armondo Blount and Marquise Lightfoot are keys to 2026 success
What they're saying
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Last year's national runner-up must replace significant production along the defensive line

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