Miami Hurricanes Cornerback Keionte Scott Nearing Return for Playoff Game Against Texas A&M
Miami Hurricanes head coach Mario Cristobal has provided an optimistic update on the status of star defensive back Keionte Scott ahead of Saturday’s playoff matchup against Texas A&M. Throughout the week, Cristobal has indicated that Scott could return to the field, and on Wednesday, the Hurricanes listed him as probable on their initial availability report.
Scott has been actively practicing and making steady progress toward playing on Saturday. “He looks OK, looks like he’s certainly progressing,” Cristobal said on Wednesday. “He’s getting a fair amount of reps. And again, I stated on Sunday, we were hopeful and we still are. We feel confident in his progress and, you know, feel like he’s gaining ground towards being able to play on Saturday.”
Scott had been a standout performer for Miami through the first nine games of the season, accumulating impressive stats including 44 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, three sacks, and one interception. His impact on the field is reflected in his Pro Football Focus (PFF) defensive grade of 90.3, ranking him fourth nationally among cornerbacks with 100 or more snaps.
The talented defensive back missed Miami’s last three regular-season games due to a foot injury. In his absence, freshman Bryce Fitzgerald stepped in and delivered a solid performance. Despite being sidelined, Scott remained actively involved with the defensive backs, offering guidance and support from the sidelines.
“Keionte’s the best teammate that I think I’ve ever had,” said Miami safety Jakobe Thomas. “He’s working absolutely as hard as he possibly can to get back as fast as possible at 100 percent. But day to day, he’s just in the room with us every day, motivating, keeping guys locked in (and) focused, helping us focus on the little minor details and everything.”
In terms of other player availability, the Hurricanes listed Damari Brown as questionable. Brown has been a key contributor at outside cornerback this season, tallying 24 tackles and one pass deflection, along with a solid 75.9 PFF defensive grade. Linebacker Malik Bryant was ruled out, and wide receiver Daylyn Upshaw was listed as doubtful.
Here is Miami’s initial availability report for the game against Texas A&M:
– OUT: LB Malik Bryant
– DOUBTFUL: WR Daylyn Upshaw
– QUESTIONABLE: DB Damari Brown
– PROBABLE: DB Keionte Scott
The Hurricanes will look to lean on returning key contributors like Scott as they prepare for what promises to be a competitive playoff showdown.
https://www.sun-sentinel.com/2025/12/17/will-hurricanes-star-keionte-scott-return-for-texas-am-playoff-game/
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