The Miami Hurricanes football program appears to be gaining momentum after a turbulent end to the 2024 season.
Despite falling short of the College Football Playoff and finishing with a 10-3 record, head coach Mario Cristobal has taken decisive action to address key weaknesses exposed during the team’s heartbreaking 42-41 loss to Iowa State in the Pop-Tarts Bowl.
Two game-changing moves stand out: the hiring of Corey Hetherman, former defensive coordinator at Minnesota, and the acquisition of high-profile transfer quarterback Carson Beck, formerly of Georgia.
Beck’s arrival in Coral Gables marks a significant coup for the Hurricanes.
The former Georgia quarterback, whose NIL package reportedly totals $4 million for the 2025 season, is now one of the highest-paid players in college football.
“Georgia transfer quarterback Carson Beck is expected to receive an NIL package that pays him $4 million in 2025,” CBS Sports reported.
“A massive sum but one that is still less than an initial asking price industry sources believe would have shattered the highest-paid NIL deal in college football history.”
Beck opted for Miami over declaring for the NFL Draft, where inconsistent performances and a season-ending UCL injury had dropped his stock to a projected third-round pick.
Miami’s pitch was compelling, bolstered by the allure of teaming up with a program that’s building for a breakthrough season.
Reports suggest Beck’s decision may have also been influenced by his relationship with Miami women’s basketball player Hanna Cavinder.
Adding to the intrigue, Beck entered the transfer portal with a rare “do-not-contact” tag, signaling his sole focus on joining the Hurricanes.
Before landing Beck, Miami explored other high-profile quarterback options.
The Hurricanes initially pursued Oklahoma’s John Mateer, who ultimately chose to follow his offensive coordinator from Washington State to Norman.
Miami also expressed interest in Texas’ Quinn Ewers and USC’s Jaiden Maiava, though neither entered the transfer portal.
With Beck’s commitment now secured, Miami has filled the void left by former quarterback and Heisman Trophy finalist Cam Ward.
On the other side of the ball, Corey Hetherman’s hiring as defensive coordinator brings renewed optimism.
Miami’s defense struggled with consistency in 2024, and Hetherman’s reputation for fielding disciplined and aggressive units at Minnesota bodes well for the Hurricanes.
His leadership will be critical in shoring up a defense that allowed 42 points in their final game of the season.
As Mario Cristobal enters his fourth season at the helm, the stakes are higher than ever.
With Beck under center and Hetherman revamping the defense, the Hurricanes appear poised to make a run at the ACC title and a College Football Playoff berth in 2025.
Speaking of Beck, what are your thoughts on the $4 million price tag it cost to secure his commitment for the Canes???
