After what most would label a disastrous 6-7 first season of the Manny Diaz era, the defense for the Miami football team was still among the best in the nation in 2019. Blake Baker was a disciple of Diaz during their one season together ironically at Louisiana Tech in 2014. Baker had success with the Bulldogs and with Miami.
The Hurricanes finished 23rd in scoring offense allowing 20.2 points per game, 13th in total defense allowing 309.8 yards per game, 18th in rushing defense allowing 114.62 yards per game and 19th in pass defense allowing 195.