Miami head coach Mario Cristobal has officially announced the commitment of a sensational four-star recruit, beating out Auburn and the Bulldogs for the prized talent. As the season opener against Florida approaches, Cristobal is making it clear that he expects his younger players to be ready to step up.
During his weekly appearance on the Joe Rose Morning Show on WQAM, Cristobal emphasized his confidence in the freshmen and sophomores on the team, stating that he anticipates them contributing right from the start of the season. Cristobal, known for his willingness to give young players opportunities, has already seen significant success with his approach in his first two seasons at Miami.
In 2023, Rueben Bain was named the ACC Rookie Defensive Player of the Year, while Bain and right tackle Francis Mauigoa were both honored as freshmen All-Americans. Bain’s playing time increased due to injuries on the defensive line, and Mauigoa started all 13 games for the Hurricanes last season.
As the team prepares for the season opener against Florida, Bain, Mauigoa, cornerback Damari Brown, and redshirt freshman Samson Okunlola are projected to be the only second-year players starting for Miami. Okunlola is expected to start at left guard, while Brown, who played in 10 games as a true freshman in 2023, is likely to start at cornerback.
Cristobal has high expectations for several other first and second-year players as well. Miami has signed consecutive top 10 recruiting classes, positioning the team with a strong pool of young talent. Among them is Mark Fletcher, the Hurricanes’ leading returning rusher, who recorded 514 yards and five touchdowns as a true freshman last season. Fletcher is healthy and ready to go after recovering from a significant foot injury sustained in the Pinstripe Bowl loss to Rutgers.
“Our first class is now true sophomores, and most of those guys will be playing,” Cristobal said. “If guys are ready to go, we’re going to play them… But certainly, we’re not in wait-and-see mode for those guys. Every day, we push them to their max to get them ready. It’s a long season, and at some point, they’re going to have to help us… If you can help us win, you’re going to play.”
In addition to Fletcher, Oregon State transfer Damien Martinez, a powerful running back over 230 pounds, joins the backfield, giving Miami a formidable duo to wear down opposing defenses.
Sophomore Ray Ray Joseph is also expected to play a key role in 2024 as the second-team slot receiver behind Xavier Restrepo and as Miami’s primary kick returner. Joseph gained valuable experience last season, returning nine kickoffs for 185 yards and two punts for 30 yards.
Miami’s 2024 recruiting class, ranked fourth nationally, includes several true freshmen poised to make an impact as the season progresses. Wide receiver JoJo Trader has been particularly impressive in training camp and could be a breakout player against Florida. Defensive tackle Justin Scott and tight end Elijah Lofton are other freshmen to watch, with Lofton set to see action at multiple positions, including H-back, running back, and tight end.
As the Hurricanes gear up for their opener, Cristobal’s confidence in his young players is evident, setting the stage for a season where youth and talent could make all the difference.
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