Takai Azziz is set to make waves in the Miami Hurricanes' defense, bringing his impressive ball-hawking skills to a team with championship ambitions. After a strong showing in the transfer portal, which included landing ACC Champion quarterback Darian Mensah, Coach Mario Cristobal and the Hurricanes are determined to finish what they started last season.
Azziz, who committed to the Hurricanes over the weekend, spent two productive seasons at Allan Hancock College in California. There, he played in 19 games, amassing 51 tackles-37 solo and 14 assisted-along with two tackles for loss, 16 pass breakups, and three interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns. Standing at 6-3 and weighing 180 pounds, Azziz is poised to be a significant addition to Miami's secondary.
The Hurricanes' secondary already features talented players like Damari Brown, Xaveri Lucas, OJ Frederique Jr., Zechariah Poyser, and Bryce Fitzgerald. However, the team did lose veterans Keionte Scott and Jakobe Thomas to the NFL draft. To fill these gaps, Miami also brought in Omar Thornton and Conrad Hussey, both from Division I FBS programs.
Under the guidance of defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman, Miami boasted one of the nation's top defenses last season. Azziz aims to contribute to maintaining that standard, following in the footsteps of players like left tackle Markel Bell, who transitioned from Holmes Community College to become a crucial part of Miami's offensive line.
Azziz's knack for being around the football is reminiscent of Bryce Fitzgerald, who snagged six interceptions last season, including a crucial one in the College Football Playoffs against Texas A&M. Azziz will have his chance to shine during Spring Training, where he can secure a spot in the rotation alongside seasoned veterans.
With the Hurricanes viewed as early favorites to clinch the ACC title for the first time, and a strong contender for the College Football Playoffs, the addition of Azziz only strengthens their roster. His presence could be the boost Miami needs to make another run at the National Championship.