​Samson Okunlola and Matthew McCoy are frequently the subject of comparisons among Miami Hurricanes fans. The two linemen shared time at left guard in 2025 and are both competing for starting roles in 2026. With all five offensive line positions up for grabs for the Hurricanes, these two behemoths could end up starting at guard or tackle this season.
Okunlola, a former five-star offensive tackle prospect from high school, has appeared in 32 games over three seasons at the University of Miami. Standing six-foot-six and weighing 330 pounds, the right kind of versatility defines him as a big-bodied tackle or guard who has yet to fully meet the lofty expectations associated with his five-star label. Still, he has flashed moments of elite potential for the Hurricanes and for offensive line coach Alex Mirabal, suggesting his ceiling is high if he can consistently translate his flashes into steady production.
McCoy, a three-star recruit from Creekside High School in St. Augustine, Florida, matches Okunlola in size at six-foot-six and 330 pounds. His versatility has been on display as he has lined up at tight end, tackle, and guard for Miami. In 2025, McCoy appeared in 43 games for the Hurricanes, earning 15 starts at left guard. His experience across multiple positions provides the staff with valuable flexibility as they determine the best configuration along the line, particularly in pass protection scenarios and against varied defensive fronts.
The Hurricanes face the ongoing challenge of determining which player can best handle edge rushes and hold up on an island at offensive tackle. The decision also hinges on which athlete is better suited to play inside, where the balance of responsibilities often includes more help from running backs and the center. Each lineman brings a distinct skill set to the table: Okunlola’s length, strength, and potential for development at tackle or guard, and McCoy’s demonstrated versatility and experience in competitive game situations.
Looking back at the Indiana Hoosiers matchup in the national championship context provides a useful lens for evaluating their capabilities. In a high-stakes game against a respected defensive front, both players had opportunities to showcase their ability to anchor, execute technique, and adjust to pressure from the edge. Okunlola’s usage at left guard and McCoy’s recurring role at the same position created an opportunity to assess how each player handles quick-twitch edge rushers, as well as their communication with the rest of the line and with the quarterback. Their performance in this matchup, combined with their overall body of work, informs the staff’s ongoing evaluation as they prepare for the 2026 season.
As the season approaches, Miami’s offensive line unit is positioned to benefit from the breadth of talent and experience that Okunlola and McCoy bring to the table. With the competition for starting roles intensifying, both players have a clear path to significant playing time, whether at guard or tackle. The coaching staff will be watching closely to determine who can best execute against top-tier defenses, hold the edge, and execute in open-man or zone-blocking schemes. The outcome of this ongoing battle will shape the Hurricanes’ ability to protect the quarterback, establish a productive running game, and navigate the challenges posed by a rigorous schedule.