Capitalizing on backfield vacancies and a standout performance against Stanford, this powerful freshman is shattering expectations and carving out a permanent role in the Miami Hurricanes’ high-octane rotation.
MIAMI, Fla. – Initially, it was difficult to envision freshman Javian Mallory getting legitimate playing time, given the Miami Hurricanes’ loaded veteran running back; however, a promising fall camp and circumstances opened a hole for him to run through with more opportunities.
In Friday’s 46-5 win over Stanford, the 19-year-old played in seven snaps and finished with 37 total yards. He first entered the game in the third quarter, then played extra in the fourth when the game was out of reach. Regardless, it’s more live-game experience he’s gaining.
Junior running back Jordan Lyle didn’t appear to be on the team’s sidelines. He was arrested on Aug. 13, facing charges of aggravated fleeing, eluding at a high speed, and reckless driving, which initially occurred on July 10.
The 21-year-old Fort Lauderdale (Fla.) native was looking to carve out a comeback season. After starting in last year’s opener against Notre Dame, Lyle fell deep in the depth chart primarily because of injuries. He rushed just 35 times for 108 yards and scored a touchdown in six appearances.
It’s unclear how much practice time Lyle is getting behind the scenes; circumstances are unfortunate, but it’s an opportunity for Mallory to develop. In the win against Stanford, he rushed three times for 31 yards. In the fourth quarter, Mallory carved out a 19-yard play on the ground, which was the longest of all the Hurricanes' running backs.
The former three-star recruit is earning the trust of the coaching staff.
Mallory is likely to stay in the rotation, regardless of Lyle’s status. The freshman is listed at 5-11 and 210 pounds, with the versatility of playing both the run and passing game. Mallory can take a similar stride as Girard Pringle Jr. did towards the end of the last regular season.
The Hurricanes don’t shy away from playing freshmen, as long as they earn and retain the trust behind the scenes through hard work and practice. Joining Mallory in getting their first collegiate snap were wide receiver Somourian Wingo, tight end Gavin Mueller, and right guard Jackson Cantwell, among others.
Another opportunity for them to build on the early momentum comes on Thursday against the Florida A&M Rattlers at Hard Rock Stadium. They’re coming off a 31-13 loss to the South Carolina State Bulldogs on Sunday.
It’s a short week for both sidelines, but the Hurricanes left California primarily healthy and are keeping the “1-0” mentality strong.
Anthony Aguirre covers the Miami Hurricanes and Miami Heat for Roundtable Sports. Contact info for tips/info: [email protected] & 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports
