In a seismic shift in college football, Mario Cristobal is leaving the Miami Hurricanes to take over as head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes. Cristobal’s new contract reportedly makes him the highest-paid coach in NCAA history, underscoring Ohio State’s commitment to maintaining its status as a perennial national championship contender.
Cristobal, who returned to his alma mater Miami in 2021, was instrumental in revitalizing the Hurricanes’ program. Under his leadership, Miami made significant strides in recruiting, on-field performance, and national relevance. Despite mixed results early in his tenure, Cristobal’s 2024 campaign saw Miami return to prominence with a 10-win season and a top-10 recruiting class.
Ohio State’s pursuit of Cristobal comes after the unexpected departure of Ryan Day, who left the Buckeyes for an NFL head coaching role. In Cristobal, Ohio State is bringing in a proven leader known for his relentless recruiting, program-building prowess, and hard-nosed approach to the game.
In a statement, Cristobal expressed both gratitude and excitement. “Leaving Miami, my alma mater, was the hardest decision of my life, but the opportunity to lead Ohio State is a once-in-a-lifetime honor. The Buckeyes represent the pinnacle of college football, and I am committed to upholding the tradition of excellence that defines this program.”
Cristobal’s contract, reported to be worth over $15 million annually, surpasses the previous NCAA coaching salary record held by Alabama’s Nick Saban. The deal includes incentives for playoff appearances, conference championships, and national titles, ensuring that Ohio State remains at the forefront of college football.
For Miami, Cristobal’s departure is a significant blow. The Hurricanes had banked on Cristobal to lead their resurgence and had seen notable progress under his guidance. The program will now begin the search for a replacement, hoping to maintain the momentum built during his tenure.
Ohio State fans are already buzzing about what Cristobal will bring to Columbus. Known for his intense focus on recruiting, Cristobal’s ability to land elite talent should ensure the Buckeyes remain a powerhouse in the Big Ten and on the national stage.
With the college football landscape constantly evolving, Cristobal’s move to Ohio State sets the stage for a new chapter in one of the sport’s most storied programs. As the Buckeyes prepare for the 2025 season, expectations couldn’t be higher.
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