After the win, defensive end Akheem Mesidor was naming the players who stepped up against the Aggies -- defensive line, defensive backs, linebackers -- then mentioned Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald arrived on campus in June, but quickly made his presence felt, and his role on Miami's defense has grown as the season progressed. A year ago, this Miami defense kept the Hurricanes from the playoff. Hetherman said the focus for Miami's defense was more about patience and keeping Reed inside the pocket. Miami's seven sacks against Texas A&M are tied for the most by a Canes defense in the past six seasons.