The first year Miami Hurricane who transferred in from West Virginia Akheem Mesidor received national recognition. Mesidor named the Walter Camp National Defensive Player of the Week for his performance against Virginia Tech.

The third-year sophomore defensive lineman hauled in eight tackles including a stout 3.5 sacks vs. Virginia Tech. The Miami Hurricanes defeated the Hokies 20-14 on October 15, 2022. The last time a Hurricane recorded 3.5 sacks in a game was Gregory Rousseau when the Canes beat FSU 27-10 on the road.

The 6-foot-3, 280 pound Mesidor has been an absolute nightmare for opposing offensive linemen. The native from Ontario leads the Miami defense with 5 total sacks. (Corey Flagg is second on the list with 2.5) The last Miami Hurricane to win the Walter Camp National Player of the Week Award was D’Eriq King on November 8, 2020.

Mesidor has been a welcomed addition to the Miami Hurricanes defense and his versatility is on display. The former Mountaineer was listed as a defensive tackle and often played as a nose tackle. His explosive first step and relentless motor has been a thing of absolute nightmarish beauty.

Defensive Coordinator Kevin Steele has moved Mesidor along the defensive line but he is primarily utilized as a defensive end. Whether inside or outside it hasn’t mattered. Mesidor continues to take up residency in the opposing backfield and the national recognition was a justified result.

The Miami Hurricanes will continue to look to improve as they are now 3-3 overall and 1-1 in conference play. Miami, according to CFBStats, lists the 33rd best defense overall in terms of total yardage. The rushing defense has also improved to the tune of12th nationally. The Hurricanes give up only 96.5 yards rushing a game.

The Walter Camp Defensive Player of the Week recipient is a big reason why the defense has improved after the half way mark of the season. Congratulations to Akheem Mesidor on his recognition. #gocanes.