Damion Lowe: Inter Miami's guardian

Through 20 matches, Inter Miami has had a revelation appear in a much-needed position. Center back Damion Lowe has been one of the bright spots in a new-look Inter Miami squad, and he has brought a different dimension to the team. Much like fellow defender DeAndre Yedlin, Damion Lowe has brought consistency and high-level play to a position Inter Miami has had troubles at previously.

Center back had been a constant issue for Miami in its first two seasons. Jorge Figal, Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, Andres Reyes, Ryan Shawcross, and Christian Makoun all had short, unmemorable visits in Fort Lauderdale and find themselves elsewhere in 2022. That group was a part of a defense that conceded 88 goals in just 57 matches over two seasons. As you can see, this was an issue.

Now, the Herons have 29-year-old Lowe commanding the back line and his individual performance has been incredible. The Jamaican international has been one of the best defenders in the MLS this season, and it shows when one looks at the statistics.

Lowe has the fourth best successful pressure percentage (41%), causing players to lose possession when he applies the heat. In addition, he has been a monster in the passing lanes, and his 60 interceptions rank second in the MLS.

Furthermore, his 82 clearances are 11th in the MLS. He's also third in the MLS in blocked shots (21). Lowe has been performing with the best of them so far, and even earned MLS Team of the Week honors for Week 18.

With Lowe captaining the defense, Yedlin bringing elite level play to outside back, and Inter Miami's offense taking a step forward, the team is only getting better and improving at the right time. A solid defense is something that Inter Miami has lacked for the last two seasons, and now, it's looking like that problem is coming to an end.

Also, don't forget that the 6'3 defender is also a threat with aerial balls and will continue to be one of the Herons' most targeted players on set pieces and corner kicks.