Hard Rock Stadium played host to Saturday morning’s scrimmage that preceded the annual CanesFest event. Head Coach Mario Cristobal shared his insights on the scrimmage with Don Bailey, Jr.
The offense started with a bang, showcasing their explosive plays, "They got downhill in the running game," remarked Coach Cristobal. "The running game made some big plays, and so did the passing game." A reshaped offensive line exhibited a notable difference in size and power, taking control and setting the tone for the scrimmage. However, the defense responded with a resilience that earned praise from Cristobal, "A really nice counterpunch later by the defense," he noted.
While the offense had its moments of brilliance, the defense's pressure on the quarterback and its emphasis on takeaways was evident as Cristobal noted. "When the offense was good on first down, they moved it all the way through," said Cristobal, emphasizing the importance of early downs.
Speaking about Coach Lance Guidry's focus on creating negative plays, Cristobal acknowledged the mixed outcomes. "There were times when we did [create negative plays] and sometimes where we didn't. The biggest thing we're emphasizing is high effort, physicality, and playing smart."
Embodying the true spirit of a Hurricane, Cristobal wants his team to adopt an ethos of hard work and determination. "Being a Hurricane, it's about working hard, playing hard, going max effort all the time," he emphasized. It's about bringing back the soul and essence of old school Miami football, a combination of talent and tireless work ethic.
Highlighting the importance of substance over style, Cristobal stated, "Football's not a fashion show." He continued, emphasizing the need for players to focus on the core aspects of the game instead of superficialities. "We've got good looking body types, but they need to understand what coverage is, the angles, and get to work."
The day was not without its lapses, and Cristobal didn't shy away from acknowledging them. "This game's very unforgiving," he noted, signaling the need for more consistent performances.
Cristobal expressed his appreciation for the loyal Hurricane fans who turned out in full force. Looking ahead, the coach shared his immediate plans, "Jump on the film, correct it, go to walkthroughs, get our meals, and get right back to curfew. We're in camp."
The offense started with a bang, showcasing their explosive plays, "They got downhill in the running game," remarked Coach Cristobal. "The running game made some big plays, and so did the passing game." A reshaped offensive line exhibited a notable difference in size and power, taking control and setting the tone for the scrimmage. However, the defense responded with a resilience that earned praise from Cristobal, "A really nice counterpunch later by the defense," he noted.
While the offense had its moments of brilliance, the defense's pressure on the quarterback and its emphasis on takeaways was evident as Cristobal noted. "When the offense was good on first down, they moved it all the way through," said Cristobal, emphasizing the importance of early downs.
Speaking about Coach Lance Guidry's focus on creating negative plays, Cristobal acknowledged the mixed outcomes. "There were times when we did [create negative plays] and sometimes where we didn't. The biggest thing we're emphasizing is high effort, physicality, and playing smart."
Embodying the true spirit of a Hurricane, Cristobal wants his team to adopt an ethos of hard work and determination. "Being a Hurricane, it's about working hard, playing hard, going max effort all the time," he emphasized. It's about bringing back the soul and essence of old school Miami football, a combination of talent and tireless work ethic.
Highlighting the importance of substance over style, Cristobal stated, "Football's not a fashion show." He continued, emphasizing the need for players to focus on the core aspects of the game instead of superficialities. "We've got good looking body types, but they need to understand what coverage is, the angles, and get to work."
The day was not without its lapses, and Cristobal didn't shy away from acknowledging them. "This game's very unforgiving," he noted, signaling the need for more consistent performances.
Cristobal expressed his appreciation for the loyal Hurricane fans who turned out in full force. Looking ahead, the coach shared his immediate plans, "Jump on the film, correct it, go to walkthroughs, get our meals, and get right back to curfew. We're in camp."
