deep analysisJanuary 15, 20261 min read2 views

Unsung Heroes: The 3 Players You Aren't Watching (But Should Be)

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Fiesta Bowl Sports Desk

Glendale, AZ Correspondent

By Talent Evaluator

1. Damien Martinez (RB, Miami)

Wait, a starting RB is an unsung hero? Yes, because this offense is so pass-heavy that people forget Martinez is averaging 6.2 yards per carry. Ole Miss plays a "Light Box" defense to stop the pass. If they drop 7 guys into coverage, Martinez needs to punish them. If he rushes for over 100 yards, Miami controls the clock and keeps Dart on the sideline.

2. Suntarine Perkins (LB, Ole Miss)

Perkins is the spy. His entire job description on Monday night is: "Don't let Cam Ward run." He's the only linebacker on their roster with the sideline-to-sideline speed to match Ward. If Perkins misses a tackle in space on a 3rd down scramble, that's a new set of downs. He has to play a perfect game.

3. Andres Borregales (K, Miami)

In a game with an Over/Under of 64.5, you might not think kickers matter. You'd be wrong. These teams are evenly matched. There is a very high probability this comes down to a final drive. Borregales is arguably the best kicker in the country. He's hit from 50+ yards multiple times in clutch situations. If it comes down to a 48-yarder with 0:03 on the clock, Miami fans can breathe. I'm not sure Ole Miss fans can say the same.

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