Miami and Mario Cristobal take next step in trying to sign star WR for Carson Beck

Will the Canes be able to win this recruiting battle?
Sep 7, 2024; Syracuse, New York, USA; Syracuse Orange wide receiver Trebor Pena (2) scores a touchdown as Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets defensive back Ahmari Harvey (3) tries to stop him in the first quarter at JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images
Sep 7, 2024; Syracuse, New York, USA; Syracuse Orange wide receiver Trebor Pena (2) scores a touchdown as Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets defensive back Ahmari Harvey (3) tries to stop him in the first quarter at JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images | Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

As things stand, it no question feels like the top priority in the transfer portal for Miami football is to bring in a bit more explosiveness on offense. More particularly, the Hurricanes and Mario Cristobal are in need of some help at receiver.

Enter Trebor Pena? As soon as the Syracuse standout announced he was entering the portal, the speedster has been linked with Miami. As you might have been able to guess, however, there's serious competition in trying to sign him.

The good news here, though, is that Cristobal and Co. have been in contact with Pena and his reps, setting up an official visit for this week. Miami isn't the only school getting ready to host him, as 247's Matt Zenitz has reported Pena will also be visiting UCLA and USC - he took a trip to Penn State last weekend too.

Syracuse WR transfer Trebor Pena will visit Miami this week

UCLA emerging as a potential destination sure is interesting, especially after the Bruins announced they signed quarterback Nico Iamaleava. The former Tennessee quarterback was a 5-star signee coming out of high school - UCLA looks ready to back him with a stud wideout.

Keep in mind that is what Miami wants to do too, as the team invested a lot of money this offseason in signing Carson Beck from Georgia. CJ Daniels is expected to be a standout for the team, but more experience is needed. Pena could come in and take over the slot role for the departing Xavier Restrepo.

Last season for the Orange, Pena took home All-ACC honors after he posted 84 receptions for 941 yards and nine touchdowns. Miami fans know all about him, as he caught six balls for 128 yards and a score vs. the Canes in the regular season finale. Cristobal has high interest in him and he's going to want to turn his head in Coral Gables this week. If he does, it could potentially lead to Pena suiting up for Miami next fall.

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