Mike Harley Solidifies Himself as Miami’s Most Reliable Wideout

Senior wideout Mike Harley, Miami’s season-leader in receiving yards, surpassed 150 yards for the second game in a row on Friday night against NC State.

While some of Miami’s other options at wide receiver have struggled with drops thus far in 2020, Harley has remained a consistent target for quarterback D’Eriq King. Harley’s quickness and route running make him a serious threat in any slot, as shown against NC State, snagging a slant pass and turning it into a 54-yard go-ahead touchdown.

Before the touchdown reception, Harley and King connected for 35 yards when Miami was back near its own end zone. The big-time connection gave the offense the momentum it needed on what would be the game-winning drive.

Harley’s reliability will hopefully become a norm in the receiver room for Miami with Mark Pope and Dee Wiggins having streaky 2020 seasons thus far. Brevin Jordan’s prolonged absence also limits the proven playmakers on the field for the ‘Canes. Nevertheless, reliability is what we’ve come to expect with Harley. Now, he, as well as many other areas of the offense, shine with a strong quarterback at the helm.

Harley was emotional in the locker room following Miami’s win, commenting on how his hard work has started to pay off.

As a fourth-year senior, it seems that Harley is embracing the leadership role that comes with his experience. Harley followed up a career day against Virginia with a game in which he arguably performed better. With his NFL potential in mind, he couldn’t have picked a better time to peak. Here’s hoping his hot streak stays alive in the coming weeks.