Oct 10, 2020; Clemson, South Carolina, USA; Mandatory Credit: Ken Ruinard-USA TODAY Sports
The naming of former Corey Flagg and former safety and striker Keontra Smith as the Miami Hurricanes starting linebackers was made to increase the speed for 2021. When Miami was at its best, the Hurricanes had a huge advantage in speed over its opponents. Jimmy Johnson utilized speed when he coached Miami.
Flagg beat out 2020 starter Bradley Jennings Jr to become the starting middle linebacker. Smith is the starting weakside LB replacing Zach McCloud who permanently moved to defensive end this season.