Coach Mario Cristobal's Miami football team hit the road for a Week 5 clash in Death Valley against the Clemson Tigers with a top five ranking to protect. QB Darian Mensah looked to play his way into top five NFL Draft pick status while the Hurricanes defense, led by Marquise Lightfoot, suffered an injury.

Pete Nakos of On3 described the situation after watching Holly Rowe's TV report, which came shortly before the Hurricanes took a 17-6 halftime lead.

“Miami CB Ethan O'Connor and DL Marquise Lightfoot headed to the locker room, per Holly Rowe,” Nakos said. O'Connor went back into the game, Nakos later said. Right guard Max Buchanan was also injured.

Lightfoot, a former five-star prospect showed his ferocity and talent on a QB sack earlier in the game. He came into the game leading Miami in QB pressures with 11 and showed out against the Tigers.

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Cornerback Xavier Lucas was listed as out prior to the game, among Cristobal's walking wounded. Mensah completed 9-of-13 passes for 141 yards and a touchdown for the Hurricanes as he also led the ‘Canes in rushing with 33 yards and a touchdown on the ground as of halftime.

Lightfoot's value to the Hurricanes is unquestioned, but the Hurricanes' depth was also on full display on a Week 5 night of action that showed how good Cristobal's team has become. Lightfoot's status and possible return became a big story as the halftime clock wound down, causing Miami fans to wonder whether they would get their star pass rusher back in time to contribute to what would be a big-time ACC win.