Jakobe Thomas Opens Up on Miami Football Journey, Team Mindset, and Personal Goals in CIS Exclusive

As the Miami Hurricanes continue their preparations for the 2025 college football season, defensive back Jakobe Thomas is embracing his role as both a competitor and a leader. In an exclusive sit-down with CanesInSight (CIS), Thomas shared his insights on Miami’s growth, his individual ambitions, and how the team is working to rise in the ACC hierarchy under head coach Mario Cristobal.

Transition to Miami and Embracing the Culture

Thomas’s journey to Miami reflects not just a desire to play at the highest level, but also a belief in the program’s direction. Transferring into the Hurricanes’ defensive backfield presented challenges, but Thomas has welcomed the transition with open arms.

Miami is different in the best way, Thomas explained. “The energy here is crazy, and the expectation to perform every day keeps you locked in. I knew if I wanted to reach my full potential, this was the place to do it.

Thomas noted that the Hurricanes’ culture under Cristobal prioritizes accountability and relentless effort. He highlighted that no moment in practice goes to waste. Every rep, from individual drills to team scrimmages, is evaluated.

Learning From the Coaches and Veteran Leaders

One of the aspects Thomas values most about his Miami experience is the coaching staff’s hands-on approach. Defensive coordinator Lance Guidry and the secondary coaches have played key roles in shaping his understanding of the scheme and refining his technique.

They’re teachers first, Thomas said of his coaches. Every day I’m learning something new about leverage, reading the quarterback, or how to disguise coverages. They’re not just telling us what to do—they make sure we understand why we’re doing it.

Thomas has also leaned on veteran teammates for guidance. Fellow defensive backs and leaders on the team have offered advice that has accelerated his adjustment.

When you come into a program with a lot of talent, you have to be humble enough to learn, he said. The older guys set the example. They’ve been in big games, and they know what it takes to play at a high level.

Team Goals: Building Consistency and Confidence

Miami’s defense has shown flashes of dominance in recent seasons, but consistency has been a point of emphasis during offseason workouts and fall camp. Thomas emphasized that the team’s mindset revolves around stacking good days together and eliminating mental lapses.

He pointed out that the Hurricanes’ defensive depth gives them a unique advantage. With young talent pushing veterans and position battles unfolding throughout camp, the level of competition has naturally elevated the group’s performance.

Personal Development and Season Aspirations

Individually, Thomas has set ambitious goals for the 2025 season, but he frames them within the team’s success. He aspires to be a reliable playmaker and a difference-maker on special teams, where he knows Miami will need every edge in close games.

Thomas also shared that his offseason work has focused heavily on film study and improving his football IQ. By studying opponent tendencies and understanding Miami’s defensive system inside and out, he hopes to react faster and create turnovers.

Leadership Beyond the Field

While still carving out his place in the program, Thomas has embraced the opportunity to contribute as a leader. He believes that a championship-caliber team is built on unity and selflessness.

He also mentioned the importance of off-field habits in shaping a winning program. From film sessions to team meals, Thomas highlighted how the Hurricanes are building a culture where accountability extends beyond the practice field.

With the season approaching, Thomas is confident that Miami has the talent and mindset to compete at a high level in the ACC and beyond. He knows the journey will require focus, resilience, and the ability to respond to adversity.