Circling Back?

Mario Cristobal and his staff are one of the best in the nation at recruiting. They are genuine, strategic, patient and relentless on the recruiting trail. They have rebuilt Miami’s roster over the past four years into one of the most talented and balanced roster in the country.

Strategic an Calculating…

Often not noticed is their ability to be strategic and calculating in their thinking and planning. For example, they know when to play the “long game” with selected recruiting targets.

Rejection…

Even when a target rejects them for another school, they will patiently and quietly continue to stay front of mind with a target already committed to another school. They may plan to make another run down the road. They may also want to continue their evaluation of a target during his senior season before making a final fall push.

There are many potential examples this cycle, including running back Myson Johnson-Cook (Auburn), offensive tackle Mark Matthews (Texas A&M), wide receiver Monshun Sales, wide receiver Jaden Upshaw (Texas A&M), tight end Jordan Karhoff (Virginia Tech), offensive center Gus Corsair (Oregon), defensive tackle Xavier Muhammad (Michigan), defensive tackle Brayden Parks, edge Marquis Evans, linebacker Kaden Henderson and safety Tory Pittman III (Nebraska), among others.

While we have no inside information on any of these prospects, Mario is well-known for being relentless, calculating and unpredictable. That’s why he is feared among college head coaches.

BOTTOM LINE:

Even if Miami hits on just one “circle back” prospect, it improves Miami talent base and sends a strong message that Cristobal is building a sustainable powerhouse.

GO CANES!