Tim Johnk beamed with pride from Omaha, Nebraska, as he witnessed one of his standout athletes, CharMar “Marty” Brown, emerge as a vital contributor to the Miami Hurricanes during a pivotal moment of the season.
Brown, a running back and transfer from North Dakota State, had a quiet presence in the playoffs until his crucial performance during the Cotton Bowl against the Ohio State Buckeyes. He was sidelined during Miami’s first playoff game against Texas A&M and remained without a carry until the finale against the Buckeyes. However, when it mattered most, Brown shined.
“Marty got in there,” Johnk shared in a phone interview with the Miami Herald, “and he did Marty things.”
In a standout moment, Brown delivered five carries for 26 yards, made a critical 5-yard reception on a vital third down, and capped the game with a 5-yard touchdown run, sealing the Hurricanes’ 24-14 victory and advancing them to the College Football Playoff semifinal. Miami (12-2) will face the No. 6 Ole Miss Rebels (13-1) in the Fiesta Bowl on Thursday, vying for a spot in the national championship game.
While Brown’s playing time had dwindled late in the season due to a competitive running back lineup that includes junior Mark Fletcher Jr. and freshman Girard Pringle Jr., he maintained his readiness for the moment.
“He knew this was his kind of game,” Miami’s head coach Mario Cristobal remarked. “This was one of those physical, knock ‘em, sock ‘em around type of games… and he was prepared.” When called upon, Brown excelled, contributing significantly through his runs, blocks, and receptions.
Johnk had coached Brown throughout his high school career at Creighton Prep in Nebraska, leading him to impressive stats, including 2,610 rushing yards and 38 touchdowns. Brown transitioned smoothly into college football, helping North Dakota State claim the FCS Championship in his freshman year and earning the prestigious Jerry Rice Award for the top freshman in the subdivision.
Now, as part of Miami’s roster, Brown is second on the team with 105 carries and has amassed 415 rushing yards and six touchdowns. Notably, 72.5% of his rushing yards have come following first contact, underlining his ability to break tackles and drive forward.
“He’s a really good running back in between the tackles. He’s got great forward lean,” said Johnk. “It’s been exciting to watch him all year.”
Despite not being the featured back, Brown’s previous performances have shown his ability to make significant impacts. After a promising debut against Notre Dame, where he logged 69 yards and a touchdown, his confidence has remained high.
“When your name is called, they just say ‘Just be ready.’ And he was ready,” said Fletcher, highlighting Brown’s professionalism and preparedness. Offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson noted that running backs coach Matt Merritt plays a crucial role in determining player rotations, and he felt that Brown was the right choice for the final drive.
Dawson praised Brown’s resilient attitude throughout the season, even when opportunities were limited. “How you handle those situations are vital,” he reflected.
As Miami gears up for the Fiesta Bowl, Brown’s readiness and determination could play a pivotal role in their pursuit of a national championship, a title that has eluded the Hurricanes since their last victory in 2001.