Report: Star Miami defender James Williams (injury) not dressed out against Virginia

Miami has kicked off against Virginia, looking to snap out of a funk, having lost four of its last five games. But the Hurricanes will be doing so without a key defensive player thanks to a James Williams injury that has the lengthy safety out for today’s contest.

According to WQAM, Williams is not in uniform today.

Coach Mario Cristobal had addressed Williams’ status during the week following a knock he took recently that left his availability at least somewhat in question. Even then, though, Cristobal had sounded optimistic about him playing.

“He got a little banged up,” Cristobal said Monday. “He got a little bit banged up, but he seems to be OK. He’s moving around.”

The lengthy safety has been one of Miami’s main contributors on defense, currently second on the team with 32 tackles. He has also recorded five pass breakups, a forced fumble and an interception, to go along with a half tackle for a loss.

All of that one year after emerging as an impact player as a true freshman.

Williams appeared in 10 games in 2021 in his first college season, earning seven starts as he was tabbed All-ACC Honorable Mention following the season. He picked up right where he left off this year.

Jake Garcia started due to Tyler Van Dyke injury

The James Williams injury isn’t the only one Miami is dealing with, though it’s certainly a significant one. Another one that makes a major difference? Starting quarterback Tyler Van Dyke is out.

Instead, Jake Garcia earned the start in his absence.

That news came after Cristobal declined to answer whether Van Dyke or Garcia would start earlier this week, as the former deals with an injury he suffered against Duke.

“Tyler has improved a bunch,” said Cristobal on Wednesday. “Status still unknown, we’ll determine that a little bit later.”

Additionally, Cristobal offered more insight on the process while updating the plan for Garcia, who stayed ready throughout the week in case his number was called again.

“Jake has practiced really well,” Cristobal said. “So we feel confident, obviously, in the room.”