Mario Cristobal sets expectations for Miami defense in 2024

Mario Cristobal has a lot of expectations for the Miami defense going into the 2024 season. He expects them to be better based on progress made.

If the Hurricanes want to get back to that hard-nosed approach, it has to start on defense. That’s certainly something Cristobal preached throughout his career.

So expected an improved unit going into the Fall.

“We made a lot of progress last year from a total defense standpoint, really just about every statistical category,” Cristobal said at ACC Media Days. Part of that was the caliber of player in the building had improved. We bolstered that even more this off-season.”

One thing that helped Miami last year going into this season is defensive coordinator Lance Guidry. As he goes into his second season at the helm of that side of the ball, there’s a familiarity in the air.

“I think when you have continuity at the defensive coordinator position, that bodes well also,” Cristobal said. “A guy you’re going to be speaking to in a little bit, Kiko Mauigoa, he’s a big reason why, as a leader of that defense, being surrounded by people that are driven, hungry and want to be there. We took a good step last year. We expect to take an even bigger one this year.”

Mario Cristobal ready to see improvements on the field

If there’s an improved defense, perhaps this Miami team is “different,” as described to Cristobal during the ACC’s large media event.

“What’s different? I can tell you what’s progressing, Cristobal said. “Back to what we were talking about earlier. There’s a starting point for everything, right? Starting point at Miami for us was making sure that we enhance the caliber of talent in the locker room, that we increase the level and capabilities of the coaching staff, and that we blend in the strongest and most unbreakable culture that we can. We’ve been at it for two years. Systems are growing. Players are developing. People are there for the right reasons, right? Growth and development, hard working, good people is a very strong combination. We feel awesome about the people in the building.

“These guys, they run to the work. They run to the fight. They’re awesome to be around. It’s awesome to sit back and watch them work. It lets you go home and feel good knowing that no matter what, these guys are ready and willing to show up because they’re driven to win. They’re team goal oriented.”