Appreciation for Fans and Quick Turnaround
Mario Cristobal kicked off the press conference thanking the fans who braved bad weather during the opening game. "First of all, I want to thank the fans that weathered some of that bad weather to start the game," Cristobal said. He stressed the importance of home support and mentioned looking forward to seeing the fans "pack the house this weekend coming up against Texas A&M."Preparing for Texas A&M
Cristobal was quick to switch focus to the formidable challenge that lies ahead. "Got a chance to review the film and quickly turn our focus to Texas A&M, obviously a really impressive team," he mentioned. He noted that the Aggies had an impressive Saturday performance and that he was "looking forward to the opportunity."Challenges for Miami's Defense
When asked about how the Hurricanes' defensive backfield would hold up against Texas A&M’s aerial attack, Cristobal was comprehensive. "They bring a lot of challenges not only through the air but they're big up front; they're big, they're physical, they're talented," he explained. "Those are athletic guys; they move their feet well, they're heavy-handed."On Offensive Power and Game Plan
Cristobal was all praise for Texas A&M's offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino. "He's done it every way imaginable. He knows how to use his pieces. They've got a great quarterback and he's got some great supporting cast members," he noted. The focus for Miami? "Making sure that we study film really, really well, that our plan is as airtight as it could be."Colbie Young impresses with touchdown against Miami (OH)
WR Colbie Young was one of the standouts last week in the season opener. Cristobal was happy to discuss the progress he's made. "He worked on his speed, he worked on his initial quickness more than anything this offseason. His ability to accelerate and decelerate so he could become a complete route runner," he said.
Evaluation of Game One
Cristobal seemed content with his team's overall performance in the opening game. "Solid performance in a lot of different areas, especially as it relates to tackling and blocking," he said. "Our players watch the film, and they left there with just an appetite to get better."Emphasis on the Red Zone
Asked about the red zone performance, an area where Miami struggled last year against Texas A&M, Cristobal stated that it's always a point of emphasis. "Last year we really struggled in the red zone, and they [Texas A&M] were a top-10 red zone defense in the country," he recalled.On the Offensive Side
Cristobal had high praise for WR Colbie Young’s development, who he said has improved in the offseason. "Colbie worked on his speed, his initial quickness. His hard work in the offseason has paid off, and it showed this past game," said the coach.Points of Emphasis: The Red Zone
Asked if the red zone would be a point of emphasis this week, Cristobal responded, "Every team in the country will always make that point. Last year we really struggled in the red zone, and Texas A&M was a top 10 red zone defense in the country."Handling the Pressure
As for the bigger spotlight and attention that the game against Texas A&M will attract, Cristobal shrugged off its significance. "The juice takes care of itself. When you reach that level of being a competitor, it doesn't matter what lines up in front of you; you want to get after it."Analyzing the Texas A&M Defensive Line
Cristobal was effusive in his praise for the Aggies' defensive front, noting their unique blend of power and athleticism.
"What stands out besides being disruptive, they're disruptive because they're explosive players that are really thick and powerful, but they're also athletic where they can counter, they can get themselves out of tough positions. They split double teams even when your double teams are really, from a technique and fundamental standpoint, they're done really well. They create edges in the passing game. You know, they find ways to, you know, just use their hands really well and pin an elbow or get a hold of a wrist, dip, rip, get underneath, flip the offense lineman's hips and create some really just condensed pockets. They push the pocket in the middle, but it's not just from a bull-rush standpoint. They truly are coached really well, and they're really talented, and they play hard. Now they're an excellent d-line.”
Honoring the Past, Looking to the Future
Cristobal acknowledged the 1983 Hurricanes team that will be honored at halftime on Saturday. "It's iconic, historic. It changed the community down here. It inspired so many after that to come and become Miami Hurricanes."When asked about the added pressure of such a momentous occasion, the coach reiterated his belief in his team. "They're really excited to play, and it showed in practice today."
Van Dyke finger not a concern for Cristobal
Cristobal seemed unconcerned about Tyler Van Dyke’s taped-up hand, a hot topic amongst Canes fans the las week and a half. "He's fine. It's more of efficiency and just operational; he has no limits right now," assured Cristobal, addressing concerns about whether the injury will be a season-long issue for the quarterback.
