Miami head coach Mario Cristobal and his staff are a strategic and relentless recruiting team. Cristobal came to Miami with the reputation as one of the best head coach recruiters in the nation.
Over the past two cycles, Cristobal and his staff have delivered the #7 and #4 recruiting classes, according to the 247Sports Composite Ratings and Rankings. But Miami has taken their recruiting game to the next level this cycle. The Canes’ 2025 recruiting class has 22 verbal commitments and is currently ranked #13 in the nation. However, Miami hasn’t received a verbal commitment since August 17th when four-star safety Bryce Fitzgerald gave his pledge to the Canes. Some Miami fans have expressed concern about the commitment drought and subsequent fall in the class ranking.
But wait! That may be Cristobal’s plan.
It’s called The Long Game.
Despite the NCAA loosening of the roster size limits, schools must not exceed 105 scholarships. One might react by saying let’s go and sign a big class this cycle. However, over the projected four years of eligibility, the extra 20 scholarships equates to 5 more each cycle. Therefore, it better to think of the expanded roster as 30 new recruits a year.
As a result, Cristobal & Co. have made an adjustment in their talent acquisition strategy. He wants to maintain a balanced class size and not load up with 35-40 recruits in one class.
Smart.
But let’s return to this cycle and examine Miami's big picture strategy.
If we use a self-imposed strategy 30 max class, then Miami has approximately eight remaining scholarship to award this cycle. Cristobal would prefer to fill those slots with high schools. However, Cristobal will not balk at going back to the transfer portal to fill any remaining roster needs.
Playing the Long Game.
You might have noticed Miami has not landed any “big fish” yet in this cycle. But don’t be fooled, Cristobal has positioned his program down the stretch with more than a dozen “blue chip” prospect, including ten 4 & 5-star targets.
Miami has held back on accepting all commits for the time being. If the Canes continue their torrid pace on the field, then Miami’s outlook might get even better for some “big game.” That’s the “Long Game” Miami is playing this cycle.
Cristobal’s reputation and record might suggest he will land his share of “big fish” at the finish line in December.
Who? Time will tell.
Pass the popcorn!
GO CANES!
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