HC Mario Cristobal led Miami to a transformative 2024 with 10 wins, which culminated in QB Cam Ward’s first overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. Now, the Hurricanes will look to fill the vacancy left by Ward with Georgia transfer Carson Beck.
While the program has maintained momentum by securing Beck from the transfer portal, their ambition toward a breakthrough season continues.
Mario Cristobal Compares QB Journeys for Carson Beck, Cam Ward
Miami HC Mario Cristobal discussed the matter with analyst Josh Pate in a recent episode of “Pate State Speaker Series” with updates on Beck’s health status as he recovers from a UCL injury.
“The first part that’s really encouraging for us, [Beck’s] almost at 100%, and I’m talking about maybe a week away from being there. I mean, he’s been throwing for weeks now. He joins our team on Sunday, and everything is full throttle. There are no limitations for him, and he looks great,” the coach reported.
While acknowledging distinct personality differences between Beck and Ward, Cristobal emphasized significant underlying similarities.
“He is different than Cam personality-wise, but not from a drive and determination side. And I think that really hit us strong in that very short process with Carson. His knowledge of the game speaks very loudly of a guy that has been prepping his entire life,” said Cristobal.
Cristobal also emphasized how both quarterbacks share exceptional football intelligence, and their game speaks volumes about their preparation up to this point. While Ward’s departure creates an inevitable void, Cristobal’s excitement about Beck’s potential to maintain the Hurricanes’ upward trajectory offers insight into the program’s plans.
“Both of their knowledge of the game, their knowledge of the run game, their knowledge of the protections involved in every single concept that we have, that has me as a former offensive line coach really fired up,” said Cristobal.
Beck’s teammates quickly recognized his commitment, as they transitioned from the Ward era, waiting to take the Hurricanes further.
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“It didn’t take long for his teammates to realize, this is the dude. This guy’s not here to BS, to mess around. This guy’s here to win and he’s a team guy,” Cristobal observed, suggesting Beck has already established credibility in Miami’s locker room.
With Miami’s defensive improvements under new coordinator Corey Heatherman and Beck’s wealth of big-game experience from Georgia, Cristobal believes the foundation is in place for the Hurricanes.
The coach’s confidence suggests Miami is positioning itself for not just another 10-win season but also ACC championship contention.
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