Schiano is 52 years old, Diaz 44. Aranda is 41, Satterfield 45, Niumatalolo 53, Brown 38, Norvell 36 and Kiffin 43. Kiffin has the most name recognition and most experience as a Head Coach and at Power Five schools.
Diaz also has the charisma needed to be a Head Coach at a Power Five school. He is extremely passionate and articulate. The turnover chain that swept the nation last season was Diaz’s idea.
Victory Bell Rings
Former North Carolina State Head Coach Chuck Amato gave Diaz his first start as a Graduate Assistant in Raleigh.
Diaz stayed on the staff there for six years. Amato spoke to the Palm Beach Post in 2016 about the potential of Diaz becoming a Head Coach someday.
"“Manny’s very, very intelligent…He’s going to make a good head coach one day”"
Amato was impressed with Diaz’s ability to learn quickly and to relay that to his players. The former Wolfpack Head Coach also spoke about Diaz being ahead of the other Assistant Coaches on his staff in Raleigh.
"“It’s not what we know,…It’s what they know…just a little bit ahead of everyone. He’s such a smart person.”"
If the Miami defense continues to be among the elite in the country and the turnover chain continues to make appearances that should help Diaz’s stock continue to rise nationally. Although the chain is a gimmick, it makes a statement and has rattled opponents.
Next: Miami Hurricanes pass defense has to improve in 2018
Diaz knows his players and the product. It fits perfectly with the Miami Hurricanes football program.