Miami Hurricanes Player Profile: Travis Homer

When Mark Walton went down to a season ending injury last year, it threatened to derail the entire Miami rushing game. The depth behind Travis Homer was scarce and if he didn’t step up and lead the backfield, Miami could be left one dimensional with a mostly average quarterback. But Homer proved his worth right away, the biggest part of Miami’s one point victory over Georgia Tech in his first week as the starter. Homer gashed the Rambling Wreck’s defense for 170 yards and a touchdown on just 20 carries. The sophomore ended the season with over 1,000 total yards and nine trips to the endzone.

Homer was a solid recruit, a 3-star back and 15^th overall at his position, according to Rivals. He had offers from Alabama and FSU among others. The hometown kid decided to pick the U in 2016 and had little impact as a freshman before breaking out in 2017. Now a Junior, Homer will be the starter when the season begins, barring injury. While not proficient in any one area, Homer is a very good all-around runningback. He has good speed and agility, a great finishing gear and good power. His vision is solid and he is a complimentary piece in the passing game. There isn’t really a lot of improving that Homer needs; as long as his o-line keeps him clean, he should continue to find success.

Any questions about his 2018 status have more to do with the backs around him than Homer himself. Being a jack of all trades and master of none has its issues when the Canes have speedster Deejay Dallas and frosh phenom Lorenzo Lingard sharing the backfield. Homer will likely be the most polished pass-blocker, which will guarantee snaps but if Dallas or Lingard get the hot hand, expect Richt to stick with them over Homer’s steadiness. Still, Travis Homer will no doubt play a large role in Miami’s 2018 offense.