Damien Martinez, an Oregon State transfer running back, committed to Miami’s football program on Saturday. According to Pro Football Focus, Martinez is the nation’s tenth-best returning 2024 RB. Martinez is anticipated to be Miami’s starting running back for the 2024 season.
Martinez ranked 19th nationally in 2023, averaging 98.75 rushing yards per game while finishing with 1,185 yards and nine touchdowns. Martinez’s potential as a receiver is limited. Martinez had 15 receptions for 127 yards and no touchdowns across two seasons at Oregon State.
Martinez accessed the transfer portal this spring after initially deciding to stay at Oregon State during the winter transfer portal period. Martinez travelled to Arizona and Mississippi State before visiting Coral Gables last weekend. Miami also paid Martinez two home visits.
Martinez also cancelled a visit to Kentucky. Martinez is Miami’s most accomplished running back since Duke Johnson established the all-time rushing record in 2014. Martinez, who stands 6’0 and weighs 232 pounds, is a running back with short yardage strength and big-play speed.
“10. Damien Martinez, Oregon State Beavers”
Martinez has quietly been one of college football’s most prolific running backs over his first two seasons. Since 2022, his 1,304 yards after contact rank fourth among returning Power Five backs. In that time, 68 of his rushes have gone for 10 or more yards, following just Quinshon Judkins among Power Five rushers.
It should be mentioned that Oregon State led the Power Five in run-blocking grade this season and was sixth in the FBS the previous year, so Martinez has had the opportunity to go through some enormous openings.”
Martinez demonstrated his explosiveness in 2023, with 39 runs for 10 or more yards, nine for 20 or more, and four for 30 or more. Miami ranked 59th nationally in 2023, with 65 carries of 10 yards or more. The combination of Cam Ward at quarterback and Martinez at running back should increase Miami’s explosiveness in 2024.
Martinez’s acquisition is essential for Miami, as leading returning rusher Mark Fletcher is uncertain to start the season due to a Lisfranc foot injury. As expected under Mario Cristobal, Miami was relentless in its pursuit of Martinez. Martinez also brings experience to Miami’s youthful running backs.
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