COACH…passionate teacher

Miami’s Alex Mirabal has a long history as one of the best college offensive line coaches. Four seasons ago, coach Mirabal came to Miami with head coach Mario Cristobal from Oregon. He has methodically rebuilt the Canes’ line into a dominant force in the ACC.

Coach Mirabal is famous for his ability as a passionate teacher and a developer of young men. Going into the 2025 season, Miabal is confident Miami has a line that can match any in the ACC. He bases his philosophy on sound and consistent teaching principles and trust. You have to earn his trust.

"It has to be warranted. You have a Carson Beck and you can't just put a guy in to give him reps when you have a guy back in there you have to keep on his feet. Do you trust that individual? That is something that is gained through camp, off-season workouts, and spring ball. It has to be something that you earn to be able to do that. We played (in 2024) six guys because we felt it wasn't a drop-off.”

Today, Mirabal believes he can trust eight or nine guys to perform in the game situations without a drop in production. That’s a deep and valuable rotation.

Offensive center James Brockermeyer is a new transfer this year. He has been impressed by coach Mirabal’s style and approach to coaching. "His passion really stands out and it is not something I have ever really been around at that level. He is super intense in the meetings, he comes out the same way he comes out to practice. He is always barking and ready to go and brings a lot of fight to the party.”

Versatility is a vital characteristic of Mirabal lines. Veteran Ryan Rodriguez is the perfect example. He can play both guard positions and backup at center. "I know what to do at all three spots," said Rodriguez. "Whatever coach tells me to do, I just go out and do it.”

Coach Mirabal believes versatility is a “force multiplier.” It adds to the depth of the unit, a critical factor in navigating a long a physically demanding season. "In my years here, I think this is the deepest we have been,” said Rodriguez. “We have talent everywhere. We have guys backing up guys that are talented and can start other places.”

Left guard Matthew McCoy was part of Mario Cristobal’s 2022 transition class. He has noticed a culture shift on Miami's line. “He (Mirabal) has built the culture every year," said McCoy. "Guys come in and get used to it really quick because of the culture we have established.”

BOTTOM LINE:

Coach Mirabal is a passionate and demanding teacher. He has Miami’s offensive line ready to compete for championships.

GO CANES!