Akheem Mesidor Mirrors Canadian Legends from 2001 Miami Hurricanes Championship Team
The University of Miami has a storied history in college football, particularly when it comes to national championships. One player currently helping to shape this legacy is Akheem Mesidor, a defensive lineman from Ottawa, Canada. As the Hurricanes compete in the College Football Playoff, their pursuit of a national title has brought attention to the significant contributions of Canadian talent in their success.
Akheem Mesidor’s Impact on the Hurricanes
A standout performer throughout Miami’s playoff campaign, Mesidor has been pivotal in leading the 10th-seeded team to the championship game. A victory over the top-ranked Indiana Hoosiers would secure the school’s first national championship in 24 years, further enhancing Miami’s legacy.
In addition to Mesidor, the roster includes Nino Francavilla, an offensive lineman from Toronto. Together, they strive to become the 11th and 12th Canadians to earn a championship ring since the NCAA established a definitive national championship game in 1998.
Historical Canadian Contributions
The University of Miami has a rich history of Canadian players contributing to its national championship victories. The school has secured five titles since its inception over a century ago, with Canadian athletes consistently playing a role. Key players include:
- Ian Sinclair (Toronto) – 1983 Championship
- Steve Blyth (Vancouver) – 1987 Championship
- Jean Stiverne (Montreal) – 1989 and 1991 Championships
- Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson – a secondary story, entitled to a Canadian passport
The Iconic 2001 Miami Hurricanes
The 2001 Miami Hurricanes are often regarded as one of the greatest college football teams in history. That season, the team featured an impressive roster full of future NFL stars, including:
- Andre Johnson
- Kellen Winslow Jr.
- Clinton Portis
- Ed Reed
Among the team were four Canadian players, marking it as one of the most significant representations in a national championship squad:
- Miguel Robédé – Defensive lineman from Val d’Or, Quebec
- Joe McGrath – Offensive lineman from Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan
- Sherko Haji-Rasouli – Offensive lineman from Toronto, crucial for the team
- Brett Romberg – Starting center from Windsor, Ontario, known for leadership
Championship Game Details
As the Miami Hurricanes (13-2) prepare to face the Indiana Hoosiers (15-0), anticipation builds for the College Football Playoff National Championship. This important game is scheduled for January 19 at 7:30 p.m. EST in Miami Gardens, Florida.
If successful, Mesidor’s achievement will not only mark his personal milestone but also revive the legacy of Canadian athletes in Miami’s rich football history. The chance to celebrate with a Canadian flag after a championship victory is a moment many players dream of. With Mesidor leading the charge, hope remains high for the Hurricanes.
