Miami’s secondary is heading into the national championship with more questions than answers-and the timing couldn’t be trickier.
Let’s start with what we know for sure: defensive back Xavier Lucas won’t be on the field for the first half against Indiana. Lucas was ejected for targeting in the second half of Miami’s Fiesta Bowl win over Ole Miss, and under NCAA rules, that means he’s automatically suspended for the first half of the next game.
That’s a tough blow for a Hurricanes defense that’s relied on Lucas all season. The freshman has racked up 30 solo tackles, a forced fumble, and an interception in 2025.
He’s been a steady presence on the back end, and now Miami will have to open the title game without him-right as they try to contain Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who’s coming off a strong semifinal showing of his own.
But Lucas isn’t the only concern. Cornerback Damari Brown is still working his way back from a left foot injury, and his status remains up in the air.
According to reports, Brown is considered day-to-day and trending toward a game-time decision. He hasn’t played since November 29 and was ruled out for the Fiesta Bowl, so even if he suits up, it’s fair to wonder how close to 100% he’ll be.
Brown himself says he expects to play-but that’s far from a guarantee.
That leaves Miami in a bit of a bind. If Brown can’t go-or is limited-and Lucas is sidelined for the first two quarters, head coach Mario Cristobal may have to lean heavily on reserves in the early going. That’s not ideal against an Indiana offense that’s shown it can move the ball when Mendoza gets into rhythm.
There is, however, a silver lining: O.J. Frederique, who was limited to just six snaps in the semifinal, has said he’s ready to roll for the championship.
That’s a big boost. Frederique brings experience and versatility, and if he’s truly back to full strength, he could be a stabilizing force in a secondary that’s suddenly short on depth.
So what does this all mean for Miami heading into Monday night?
Best-case scenario: Brown is able to play meaningful snaps, Frederique is fully healthy, and the Hurricanes can weather Lucas’ first-half absence with minimal disruption. That would allow Miami to keep its defensive structure intact and avoid overexposing younger, less experienced players against a capable Indiana passing attack.
Worst-case scenario: Brown can’t go or is clearly limited, Frederique isn’t at full speed, and Miami is forced to rotate in backups early and often. That scenario would put a lot of pressure on the front seven to generate pressure and help protect a secondary that could be stretched thin.
As kickoff approaches, Miami’s defensive game plan will hinge on how those injury situations shake out. One thing’s for sure: the Hurricanes can’t afford a slow start against a team like Indiana. And with Lucas sidelined for the opening half, every snap in the secondary will matter that much more.