Mario Cristobal named top 8 coach feeling most pressure nationally
Mario Cristobal was included with "Deion Sanders, Ryan Day among college football coaches facing the most pressure to win entering 2024 season" by Shehan Jeyarajah of CBS Sports. Cristobal is facing a pivotal 2024 season after starting 12-13 in his first years with Miami.
The addition of nine transfers, led by quarterback Cam Ward has elevated expectations for Miami in 2024. Miami needs to win big in 2024, or Cristobal's seat will heat up quickly. Miami returns leading receivers Xavier Restrepo and Jacolby George to set the foundation for what should be a proficient offense.
Miami will be led on defense by 2023 ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year Rueben Bain and middle linebacker Francisco Mauigoa. Mauigoa led the ACC with 18 tackles for loss in 2023. How well the secondary plays could determine how good Miami is defensively in 2024.
Linebacker and wide receiver are positions to watch in the portal over the next few weeks. Miami is reportedly looking for starter-level transfers through the portal. Miami is the favorite to sign Oregon State transfer running back Damien Martinez who ran for over 2,000 yards in the last two seasons.
"Mario Cristobal, Miami
- Shehan Jeyarajah, CBS Sports
The Hurricanes are 12-13 in two seasons under Cristobal...multiple losses have come directly at the hands of poor game management...Miami hit the portal hard, adding dynamic quarterback Cameron Ward to the mix. If the 'Canes can't reach ACC contention -- especially in a rebuilding league next year -- things could quickly unravel. "
Miami is only behind co-favorites Clemson and Florida State to reach the ACC Championship Game. Cristobal is the only ACC school on the list. Billy Napier of Florida, where Miami will open the 2024 season, is also named. Florida is 11-14 in the first seasons under Napier.
Next. CFB writer gives Mario Cristobal second-year grade. CFB writer gives Mario Cristobal second-year grade. dark
The consensus is that Miami has a favorable 2024 schedule. Miami is only expected to be an underdog against Florida, Louisville, and Florida State. If Miami splits the games against Florida State and Louisville, a special season is attainable.