Mario Cristobal says North Carolina has an 'elite passing attack'

Miami hosts North Carolina on Saturday in a battle between two offenses headed in totally separate directions. In their only true test of the year — their only game against a power conference opponent, in fact — the Hurricanes scored just nine points in a loss against a Texas A&M team that just gave up 42 to Mississippi State.

Meanwhile, North Carolina is torching every foe it faces. The Heels have eclipsed 40 points in four of five games and are seventh in the nation in scoring at 45.4 points per outing. Largely due to their dynamic quarterback and passing game as a whole. Which is ‘Canes coach Mario Cristobal’s biggest point of emphasis heading into Saturday’s matchup. Because for Miami to have any chance at winning, they’ll have to slow down UNC.

“Yeah they’re an elite passing attack. A lot of Juniors and seniors starting for them,” Cristobal reviewed of the Tar Heel offense at a press conference this week. Explosiveness + experience = a very difficult offense to defend through the air.

Mario Cristobal then continued, offering comprehensive praise for the North Carolina quarterback and his fit in their offense.

“[Drake Maye] gets the ball out quick. He extends drives not only with his arm. He sees the field very well. Tall guy gets the ball out on time, gets it out before time. So the pass rush doesn’t affect him much. But he knows where to go with the ball. And if protection breaks down, he’s extended plays.

“Made some unbelievable throws and he’s also done a great job with his legs, you know. They’ve run quarterback draw so many different ways. And he’s a long, athletic body and he throws his body around. You saw him over there close to the goal line, going up and, you know, just about doing everything possible to move the sticks. So an excellent football player and one that we have to be at our best to defend.”

Mario Cristobal isn’t sugar-coating it: stopping Drake Maye and that offense is a tall task. Whether Miami is able to whatsoever will decide their fate in this one. Should be a barn-burner this weekend in Coral Gables.