Halftime in College Station: Miami’s Offense Stalls, Defense Holds the Line
With two quarters in the books in College Station, we’ve got a defensive slugfest on our hands-and not the kind that leaves fans marveling at strategic brilliance. Miami and Texas A&M have combined for a first half that’s been more about missed opportunities than big moments, especially for the Hurricanes’ offense.
Let’s start with the basics: Miami has just 68 total yards. That’s not a typo.
Two drives started around the red zone, and both ended with missed field goals. The Hurricanes are 1-for-7 on third down.
And while the defense is doing its part to keep things scoreless, the offense has been stuck in neutral.
Carson Beck’s Rough Start
Carson Beck was brought in for games like this-tight, high-stakes matchups where poise and experience are supposed to make the difference. But through one half, the fifth-year senior hasn’t looked like the answer. He’s thrown for just 31 yards, has been sacked twice, and nearly coughed up a fumble on a pressure-filled dropback.
It’s not just the numbers-it’s the body language. Beck hasn’t looked comfortable in the pocket. He’s hesitating, holding the ball too long, and the rhythm that defined his strong finish to the regular season is nowhere to be found.
This was supposed to be the moment where Beck’s veteran presence paid off. Instead, it’s been a continuation of the rollercoaster season that’s left Miami fans feeling more frustration than faith.
Offensive Playcalling Under the Microscope
While Beck’s struggles are front and center, Miami offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson isn’t escaping the spotlight either. The playcalling has lacked creativity and flow, and there haven’t been many quick, high-percentage throws to help Beck settle in. The Aggies’ defensive front is winning at the line of scrimmage, and Miami hasn’t found a way to slow them down.
There’s also been a noticeable lack of commitment to the run, despite having a legitimate back in the backfield. Mark Fletcher Jr. broke off a 17-yard run-the Hurricanes’ longest play of the half-but Miami hasn’t built off it. Instead, they’ve found themselves in too many third-and-longs, which is exactly what head coach Mario Cristobal said they needed to avoid.
Silver Lining: The Defense Is Holding Strong
The good news for Miami? The scoreboard still reads 0-0.
That’s a testament to the defense, which has shown up in a big way. They’ve kept the Aggies from capitalizing on Miami’s offensive woes and have consistently shut down drives before they could get dangerous.
Malachi Toney nearly gave the Hurricanes a spark with a punt return, but was tracked down by Texas A&M safety Marcus Ratcliffe after appearing to ease up just a bit. Still, plays like that show there’s potential for a momentum shift-if the offense can find a pulse.
Second Half Adjustments: Ground Game Incoming?
Heading into the locker room, Cristobal hinted that Miami may lean more on the run game in the second half. That could be the right call. The passing game hasn’t clicked, and the offensive line hasn’t held up long enough for Beck to get comfortable.
“Being in third and long is not the answer against these guys,” Cristobal said at halftime-and he’s absolutely right.
If Miami can establish the run, maybe they can open up some play-action looks and give Beck a chance to reset. With the defense playing lights out, it might only take one or two scoring drives to get out of College Station with a win.
But make no mistake: Miami’s margin for error is razor-thin. The defense is doing its part. Now it’s on the offense-and the coaching staff-to rise to the occasion.