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Miami Hurricanes LB Francisco Mauigoa, previously of Washington State, spoke to media after Monday’s practice. He opened up about his transition to Miami since January, sharing insights about his current state with the defense, and relationships with teammates,
The first thing that becomes apparent when speaking to Mauigoa is his confidence in the defensive system he's now a part of. When asked about the similarities and differences with Washington State, he confidently asserted, "We run the same terminology, making it easy for me to understand. Basically same defense, just different ways of running it. I feel like I'm comfortable with this defense."
Relationships within the team play a vital role in the success on the field. Speaking about veteran LB Corey Flagg, Mauigoa highlighted their bond, saying, "We built a really strong relationship through this offseason." The two have been committed to improving, with added efforts such as "watching film when nobody's here at the building" and practicing "different techniques for pass rushing or rushing and the running back."
The linebacker room, according to Mauigoa, is brimming with talent. Despite the limited spots, there's fierce competition among the players. With new players like KJ Cloyd from Louisville and several impressive freshmen, Mauigoa acknowledged, "We got a lot of competitors. These guys have their unique technique and skill sets…the competition is up there.”
Addressing the recent practice where defensive coordinator LAnce Guidry noted that they needed to do a better job against the run game, Mauigoa believes it's all a part of the growth process. He admitted to a few mistakes but emphasized that “eliminating having those brain farts” is what it essentially comes down to for his unit. "It's just down to competition," he explained. "You bounce back from it, learn from your mistakes, and try to fix it the next day."
As for the upcoming scrimmage at the Hard Rock, Mauigoa's anticipation is palpable. "This is going to be my first time playing at the Hard Rock, and I'm pretty excited for it. I can't wait to feel the atmosphere, the turf, and compete with my brothers."
Switching gears, Mauigoa reflected on his time at Washington State amidst the recent shifts in college football dynamics. He fondly remembers the Pac-12 as "good competition with great teams." Addressing the ongoing realignments, he commented on the challenges Washington State faces, hoping for the best for his former school.
Mauigoa didn't shy away from praising his teammates. He spotlighted several players like the true freshmen in the linebacker room, notably Raul “Popo” Aguirre, who he describes as "smart, very instinctive, and very aggressive."
On Keontra Smith, Mauigoa said, "(He) has been performing really well in the fall. He's been very tremendous." Praising his agility and skill set, Mauigoa believes Smith can be an invaluable asset for the team.
Wrapping up the session, Mauigoa shed light on some offensive talents, notably freshman running back Mark Fletcher he describes as "very physical" and challenging to tackle, emphasizing the added value for the team.
The first thing that becomes apparent when speaking to Mauigoa is his confidence in the defensive system he's now a part of. When asked about the similarities and differences with Washington State, he confidently asserted, "We run the same terminology, making it easy for me to understand. Basically same defense, just different ways of running it. I feel like I'm comfortable with this defense."
Relationships within the team play a vital role in the success on the field. Speaking about veteran LB Corey Flagg, Mauigoa highlighted their bond, saying, "We built a really strong relationship through this offseason." The two have been committed to improving, with added efforts such as "watching film when nobody's here at the building" and practicing "different techniques for pass rushing or rushing and the running back."
The linebacker room, according to Mauigoa, is brimming with talent. Despite the limited spots, there's fierce competition among the players. With new players like KJ Cloyd from Louisville and several impressive freshmen, Mauigoa acknowledged, "We got a lot of competitors. These guys have their unique technique and skill sets…the competition is up there.”
Addressing the recent practice where defensive coordinator LAnce Guidry noted that they needed to do a better job against the run game, Mauigoa believes it's all a part of the growth process. He admitted to a few mistakes but emphasized that “eliminating having those brain farts” is what it essentially comes down to for his unit. "It's just down to competition," he explained. "You bounce back from it, learn from your mistakes, and try to fix it the next day."
As for the upcoming scrimmage at the Hard Rock, Mauigoa's anticipation is palpable. "This is going to be my first time playing at the Hard Rock, and I'm pretty excited for it. I can't wait to feel the atmosphere, the turf, and compete with my brothers."
Switching gears, Mauigoa reflected on his time at Washington State amidst the recent shifts in college football dynamics. He fondly remembers the Pac-12 as "good competition with great teams." Addressing the ongoing realignments, he commented on the challenges Washington State faces, hoping for the best for his former school.
Mauigoa didn't shy away from praising his teammates. He spotlighted several players like the true freshmen in the linebacker room, notably Raul “Popo” Aguirre, who he describes as "smart, very instinctive, and very aggressive."
On Keontra Smith, Mauigoa said, "(He) has been performing really well in the fall. He's been very tremendous." Praising his agility and skill set, Mauigoa believes Smith can be an invaluable asset for the team.
Wrapping up the session, Mauigoa shed light on some offensive talents, notably freshman running back Mark Fletcher he describes as "very physical" and challenging to tackle, emphasizing the added value for the team.
