Matt Lee Reflects on the Season, Transferring to Miami, and the Challenges Ahead
Matt Lee, Miami’s veteran center, gave us a peek into the inner workings of the team, his personal journey, and the anticipated challenges in the coming weeks.
From the get-go, it was clear that the bond and chemistry among the players, especially within the offensive line, was paramount. Lee attributed the improvements to continuous playtime together. "This is how many games have we played? Eight going into nine. The same unit of five has been starting together since 2023," he noted. This consistent lineup has facilitated the on-field chemistry, leading to the performance from one of the best lines in the country.
The bond among players isn’t the only thing fostering this growth. The influence of the coaching staff, particularly coach Mirabal and Cristobal, hasn't gone unnoticed. "Coach Mirabal, the way that he approaches every day... continues to push us," Lee said.
When probed about the impending challenges presented by NC State's defensive front, Lee, echoing Coach Cristobal’s sentiments, pointed out the proficiency of their defense. "They're good, they got good players, they got a good scheme," he stated. He spoke about the unique challenges the 3-3-5 defense stack offers, particularly when executed by a team as skillful as NC State.
Lee expressed profound satisfaction with his decision to transfer, deeming it "the best decision I've made in my life." For potential transferees or new recruits eyeing Miami, Lee's sentiments were clear: "The people, the coaches, the players, the culture, the city, the school—everything about it has been absolutely perfect."
On the subject of challenges faced during the exhaustive season, especially with November looming, Lee shared insights into the mental and physical toll it takes on players.
"Everyone around the country...is feeling it," Lee expressed, emphasizing the importance of leadership in navigating these challenges. For Lee, guiding the younger members of the team through these demanding periods is crucial.
From the get-go, it was clear that the bond and chemistry among the players, especially within the offensive line, was paramount. Lee attributed the improvements to continuous playtime together. "This is how many games have we played? Eight going into nine. The same unit of five has been starting together since 2023," he noted. This consistent lineup has facilitated the on-field chemistry, leading to the performance from one of the best lines in the country.
The bond among players isn’t the only thing fostering this growth. The influence of the coaching staff, particularly coach Mirabal and Cristobal, hasn't gone unnoticed. "Coach Mirabal, the way that he approaches every day... continues to push us," Lee said.
When probed about the impending challenges presented by NC State's defensive front, Lee, echoing Coach Cristobal’s sentiments, pointed out the proficiency of their defense. "They're good, they got good players, they got a good scheme," he stated. He spoke about the unique challenges the 3-3-5 defense stack offers, particularly when executed by a team as skillful as NC State.
Lee expressed profound satisfaction with his decision to transfer, deeming it "the best decision I've made in my life." For potential transferees or new recruits eyeing Miami, Lee's sentiments were clear: "The people, the coaches, the players, the culture, the city, the school—everything about it has been absolutely perfect."
On the subject of challenges faced during the exhaustive season, especially with November looming, Lee shared insights into the mental and physical toll it takes on players.
"Everyone around the country...is feeling it," Lee expressed, emphasizing the importance of leadership in navigating these challenges. For Lee, guiding the younger members of the team through these demanding periods is crucial.