CJ Daniels highlights his multifaceted game, from contested catches to crucial blocks, proving his value beyond just receiving for the Miami Hurricanes.
The Miami Hurricanes' preparation clock continues to wind down as the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl semifinals are just a couple of days away. They will face another SEC program, this time in the Ole Miss Rebels, who are dealing with a personnel dilemma with their coaching staff. Regardless, the College Football Playoffs wait for nobody, not even as the transfer portal has officially opened. The team is coming off a confident victory over the reigning champion Ohio State Buckeyes, with a final score of 24-14.
The Hurricanes dominated from beginning to end, never trailing, overcome what is arguably the toughest path towards a National Championship. However, they've been playing with a massive sense of urgency following the difficult loss against the SMU Mustangs during the middle of the regular season. Afterwards, the team strung together a dominant four-game winning streak, which was enough to crack the 12-team bracket, despite all adversity.
As a matter of fact, in the final game of the regular season, against a ranked Pitt Panthers team, wide receiver CJ Daniels caught two passes for 40 yards, including a long 33-yard catch for the dagger touchdown, resulting in a final score of 38-7. He's come through with multiple electrifying plays, including a one-handed 20-yard catch for a touchdown against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in week one of the regular season.
Daniels is one of a few redshirt seniors who have made a tremendous impact on the Hurricanes throughout the year, along with others, such as cornerback Keionte Scott, edge rusher Akheem Mesidor, wide receiver Keelan Marion, etc. He alluded to feeling "blessed" for the opportunity to showcase all of his capabilities.
"Being able to show my true attributes," Daniels said. "Make those contested catches, make plays, not just in the pass game, but also in the run game. For me, it's not just about the accolades that I have; it's about doing what's best for the team. As much as I want to catch the ball, I want to make a play down the field, I'm willing go in and block a safety, a corner, to have explosive plays in the run game."
The older wide receiver had a couple of crucial plays against the Buckeyes, two 13-yard catches, both resulting in first downs. He finished with five catches for 49 yards total. It will also be his second time in the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl, having previously played in it in the 2023 season with the Liberty Flames. However, they were blown out against the Oregon Ducks, with a final score of 45-6.
There's some potential for personal redemption for Daniels, but the main goal remains the National Championship. The stage is set for Thursday, Jan 8th, at Glendale, Arizona, 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on ESPN.
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