The 2025 campaign will be remembered as a breakthrough for the Miami Hurricanes, who under head coach Mario Cristobal surged to the College Football Playoff championship game.
Despite a valiant effort, the team fell 27-21 to Indiana, ending a dream of an immediate national title, but the run cemented Cristobal’s vision of restoring Miami to the top tier.
The offseason has brought significant change, with quarterback Carson Beck and defensive stalwarts Rueben Bain and Akheem Mesidor departing for the NFL, leaving sizable shoes to fill.
A New Wave of Talent
To address those gaps, the Hurricanes have turned to the transfer portal, welcoming Darian Mensah, the ACC champion quarterback from Duke, and EDGE rusher Damon Wilson II, who posted 9.5 sacks last season at Missouri.
Both players bring proven leadership and production, giving Cristobal a blend of experience and upside as the roster rebuilds around a core of returning talent.
Among those returning, Mark Fletcher Jr. and Malachi Toney are expected to shoulder larger roles, providing depth at running back and defensive back respectively.
A Manageable Path Forward
The 2026 schedule presents a favorable mix, featuring only one top‑10 opponent — Notre Dame — whom Miami already defeated last season. Additional marquee matchups against Clemson and Florida State promise further tests of the team’s mettle.
Analyst Brooks Austin has already labeled the Hurricanes a lock for the 2026 College Football Playoff, citing the combination of a light conference slate and the impact transfers.
If the new pieces click, Miami could not only return to the playoff but also contend for its first national championship since the early 2000s.