Mario Cristobal addresses retiring the Miami turnover chain

The beloved turnover chain is no longer a tradition at the University of Miami, and Mario Cristobal is doubling-down on retiring it.

Speaking to Brett McMurphy of The Action Network, the first-year Hurricanes leader was originally emphatic in his decision, stating the chain wasn’t “part of our culture” while revealing his decision.

After the initial blowback of Miami ridding themselves of one of the most fun recent traditions in college football, Cristobal addressed the topic at ACC Media Days.

“I think probably the media has put more thought into this than I have,” began Cristobal. “We just really focus on getting better as a program and have focused on technique, fundamentals, regimentation, academics, strength and conditioning, sports science, community service, and that’s what the focus has been on.

“It is not a shot or form of disrespect to anybody or anyone. Certainly history is history, and whether it’s positive, whether it’s inconsequential, whatever it may be, it’s still history and part of your program. We’re just moving in a direction that right now doesn’t involve it. That’s really the best way to address it.”

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Continuing, the former Oregon coach added that he hasn’t even paid any attention to the chain, and that his team has been working so hard on the field that it doesn’t take up any room in their mind.

“Let’s put it this way. We’ve been working so hard and paying attention to so many other things that, in my opinion, are much more critical to winning football games and having success that it really hasn’t been a subject or a topic. We won’t be using it,” stated the Miami coach. “You guys okay with that? We good now? Everybody got the chain stuff? Okay. All right. Thank you.”

While the chain was introduced while Miami was forcing turnovers at an accelerated rate, the Hurricanes haven’t brought it out as often in the seasons since. Miami forced just 11 turnovers last season — a stark contrast to the 31 forced in 2017.

Meanwhile, Cristobal is getting ready for his first season as Miami head coach after leaving Oregon to replace Manny Diaz over the offseason. After taking over at his alma mater, he got to work on the recruiting trail and has the 2022’s No. 11-ranked class in the country coming in, according to the On3 Consensus Team Recruiting Ranking.

The turnover chain is no longer, but Miami fans will always have the memories. However, we’re willing to bet Hurricanes faithful will be just fine if Mario Cristobal can bring the program back to the forefront of college football.