Key Defenders Return for Miami Ahead of Florida State Showdown

Miami’s coaches are breathing a little easier after the bye. On Monday, head coach Mario Cristobal told WQAM that both defensive end Marquise Lightfoot and starting cornerback Xavier Lucas are "all the way back" from the injuries that sidelined them earlier this season.

Lightfoot, who went down in the first half of Miami’s win over Clemson on Oct. 3, was listed as questionable for a while. The news that he’s cleared to suit up gives the Hurricanes a much‑needed pass‑rushing option when they line up against the Seminoles.

Lucas’ situation is similar. He missed the opener against Stanford with an undisclosed ailment and hasn’t seen the field since. Cristobal said Lucas will be ready for Saturday’s home game, which could finally let Miami’s secondary breathe a little easier after a string of setbacks.

It isn’t just those two. The coach also confirmed that linebacker Ezekiel Marcelin Jr. and cornerback Damari Brown are healthy, adding more depth to a unit that has been shuffled around all season.

Unfortunately, the offensive side still has a question mark. Sophomore guard Max Buchanan, who started at right guard in each of Miami’s five games so far, is nursing an injury. He posted a photo of himself in a hospital bed on social media Wednesday before deleting it, and Cristobal said the hope is Buchanan will be back later in the year.

All of this comes as Miami prepares for the biggest home game on its schedule – a rivalry clash with Florida State. The Canes are ranked No. 3 nationally and sit atop the ACC, while the Seminoles have struggled to stop opponents on the ground this season. With Lightfoot and Lucas expected to line up, Miami’s defense should finally look more like the top‑ranked unit it was projected to be.

Fans can expect a hard‑hitting, aggressive front line from Lightfoot and a more confident secondary with Lucas back in the mix. If the Hurricanes can stay healthy and execute, the rivalry could tilt in Miami’s favor, giving them a chance to extend their winning streak at home.