Akheem Mesidor Talks Spring Practices, New DC: “I Love His Defense”
As the spring football season unfolds, Akheem Mesidor, the standout defensive lineman for the University of Miami Hurricanes, has been vocal about his excitement and enthusiasm regarding the changes to the team’s defense under new defensive coordinator (DC) Lance Guidry. Mesidor, who has been one of the most consistent and disruptive forces on the Hurricanes’ defensive line, took time to discuss his impressions of the new coaching staff and how the spring practices have been shaping up.
With the departure of former DC Kevin Steele, Miami brought in Lance Guidry, a highly regarded defensive mind known for his aggressive schemes and ability to get the best out of his players. Mesidor, who transferred to Miami from West Virginia, has been one of the standout performers on the defense since joining the team, and his positive remarks about Guidry signal a promising shift for the Hurricanes as they prepare for the upcoming season.
A New Defensive Vision
When asked about the new defensive scheme under Guidry, Mesidor was full of praise. “I love his defense,” he said with enthusiasm. “He’s all about making plays and putting us in positions to succeed. He wants us to be aggressive, and that fits perfectly with my style of play. We’re going to be tough to block, and I can already feel that mentality growing every day in practice.”
Guidry, who previously had successful stints at programs like Marshall and Tulane, is known for bringing an attacking, high-energy approach to his defensive units. Under his leadership, Miami’s defense is expected to be more aggressive, with a focus on creating turnovers, applying pressure on quarterbacks, and using speed and strength to disrupt opposing offenses. Mesidor, a player known for his relentless motor and ability to collapse the pocket, is eager to embrace this style.
A Match Made in Heaven
Mesidor’s excitement about Guidry’s defense goes beyond the scheme itself; it’s also about the culture the new coordinator is instilling in the team. “Coach Guidry is all about accountability and energy. He gets us fired up to compete every day. He believes in us, and that gives us the confidence to go out and give everything we’ve got,” said Mesidor.
Guidry’s defensive philosophy includes a heavy emphasis on position versatility and pressure up front, which aligns perfectly with Mesidor’s skillset. As a defensive lineman, Mesidor has the ability to line up in various spots on the defensive line, whether it’s as an interior rusher or on the edge. His versatility allows him to be a constant
