Three Miami players were commended by anonymous ACC coaches for their performances in 2022.

ESPN college football writer Adam Rittenberg reached out to multiple coaches in the ACC and asked them about key players in the conference. Miami did not meet expectations this season, but that did not take away from the talent on the roster.

When speaking to Rittenberg, several ACC coaches pointed out Miami’s impressive defense. The coaches talked about Miami defensive end Akheem Mesidor, safety Kamren Kinchens, and defensive back Tyrique Stevenson. These 3 players were the top performers on Miami’s defense throughout the season.

On the defensive line, Mesidor finished the season with 38 total tackles, 7 sacks, and 1 forced fumble. Mesidor’s 7 sacks led the team. Kinchens had a major impact on the defense. With 6 interceptions, Kinchens was tied for the most interceptions in the FBS. Five other FBS players had 6 interceptions in 2022. Along with his coverage skills, Kinchens totaled 59 tackles on the season.

For Stevenson, he registered 25 combined tackles, 2 interceptions, and 7 pass breakups. Stevenson, a 4th-year junior, had at least 1 tackle in every game he appeared in.

Following a 42-16 loss to Pittsburgh, Miami ended the regular season with a 5-7 record. It was not the season Miami head coach Mario Cristobal expected to have, but there were some positive moments.