:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66085088/1189817972.jpg.0.jpg)
In 2019, When the Miami Hurricanes took the field, it was DeeJay Dallas who ignited the offense. Dallas was repeatedly the most electrifying weapon the Canes had in their arsenal. His quick burst, explosive ability, and playmaking prowess were the only reliable components that the offense carried from week to week. Dallas ran for 693 yards, 8 TDs, on 115 attempts. He averaged a memorable 6 yards each time he toted the rock. A dual-threat, Dallas finished with 14 catches, for 140 yards, and 2 TDs.
2019 marked Dallas’ first year as a lead back after serving in a reserve role behind Travis Homer in 2018. Eclipsing 600 yards in back-to-back years, his production was noticeably steady. One of Dallas’ most dazzling and memorable plays of the season came in the first game. With the Florida Gators up 17-13 in the early tilt of the 4th quarter, Dallas dodged defenders and rumbled up the left sideline for a 50-yard go-ahead score. Dallas triumphantly threw up “The U” and the building erupted.
The longest play of his season came in the October matchup against Virginia Tech Hokies. Dallas’ balance, strength, ability to escape, and breakaway speed all had a chance to shine on this play. The dynamic running back stutter-stepped at the line of scrimmage, finding a crease behind a Jakai Clark block, and turned on the jets to score the go-ahead TD. He’s simply a dangerous man. He’s always one fraction or split-second away from lighting up the scoreboard.
Dallas’ season was cut short after the blazing running back dislocated his elbow against the Florida International Panthers. As is if the embarrassing 30-24 loss wasn’t enough, the defeat also removed the heart and soul of the Hurricanes offense. Dallas sustained the left arm injury during the second play of the third quarter. As a result of his significant injury at Marlins Park, Dallas was shut down for the remainder of the season. In late December, Dallas announced that he was forgoing his senior season and declaring for the NFL draft. In his three years at Miami, Dallas rushed for 1,528 yards and 19 total touchdowns.
Finishing with career highs in attempts, yards, and touchdowns this year, Dallas carries his repertoire of skill, determination, and versatility with him into the next phase of his career.
