CBS Sports Predicts Best and Worst-Case Scenarios for Miami in 2025

Here's a breakdown of Patterson's best- and worst-case scenarios for Miami this season:

Best case 11-1:  Carson Beck has a fully healthy season and displays the NFL-ready form he showcased before his injury in a quarterback-friendly system that elevated Cam Ward to the No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft. New defensive coordinator Corey Heatherman engineers his unit to limit explosive plays, and Miami reaches the College Football Playoff for the first time.

Worst Case 8-4:  The Hurricanes not only fail to defeat Notre Dame and SMU but also lose two more to leave Miami feeling very unhappy, given the roster's talent level. Recruiting has been strong for 8-4 to be the worst-case scenario, but since Miami hasn't maximized its potential in a while, they want to get the most out of their roster this season.

Their defense should be much improved this season, compared to the results they had last season under Lance Guidry. He is gone, and they now have former Minnesota defensive coordinator running the defense, along with the addition of Florida safeties coach Will Harris. Plus, they landed some key players in the transfer portal with Wisconsin CB Xavier Lucas, Washington State CB Ethan O'Connor, and Jacksonville State DB Zechariah Poyser joining the family, among others

It's reasonable to assume the Hurricanes will be improved defensively. One of the biggest questions that must be answered is can Carson Beck stay healthy? Not to mention, will he return to the level of production he had before the injury? If he rebounds, it's safe to assume Miami will be in the hunt for a playoff spot. If not, they will probably be in the 8-9 win range as Patterson predicted. Regardless, be sure to tune into Sports Illustrated for more updates on everything related to the Miami Hurricanes.