Spring football is back. With it comes the buzz of a new era in Coral Gables. Miami is gearing up for what could be a defining season — A fresh coaching lineup, key transfer additions, and a hunger to re-establish themselves as a national powerhouse. The Hurricanes are making waves before a single snap is taken.
All eyes are on Carson Beck, their crown jewel transfer addition. The former Georgia QB is expected to take the reins from Cam Ward, who put together one of the greatest single seasons in Miami history. His 4,313 passing yards, 39 touchdowns, and Heisman finalist campaign set a high bar. Now the new QB is stepping into the spotlight, hoping to reclaim the draft stock that once had him pegged as a sure first-round pick. But there’s one problem — He’s not throwing.
At least, not yet.
Mario Cristobal has been clear. His new potential starter is progressing. Carson Beck underwent surgery to repair a torn UCL that sidelined him in the SEC Championship game. But now, he’s had the brace removed from his right arm. That’s a big step. But does it mean he’ll be slinging passes in the spring ball? Not quite. It obviously poses a major problem.
Miami insider Alex Donno dropped his take in a new episode of Locked on Canes on March 3. “I don’t expect to see him this week, certainly not as a full participant in spring b—,” he said. “By all accounts, he’s recovering quickly, ahead of schedule. He should be throwing soon. Now, if you take Mario Cristobal at his word, could be throwing in a couple of weeks. We’ll see.”
But don’t expect him to be a no-show at Miami’s spring practice.
While Carson Beck won’t be fully in the mix this week, it doesn’t mean he’ll be a ghost at the spring session. “I expect to see him at the facility tomorrow and throughout the rest of the week,” Donno added. “Because until he’s ready to fully participate physically, there’s going to be other ways for him to have his leadership and his involvement felt in the indoor practice facility this week.”
It’s not just about throwing. There’s much to explore about his chemistry with his teammates and coaches, even if he’s not letting it rip just yet.
Miami is betting big on Carson Beck, and for good reason. The 6’4″, 220-pounder had a strong 2024 season in Athens, throwing for 3,485 yards and 28 touchdowns. But the 12 interceptions remain a red flag. And with his elbow injury, he has a lot to prove. But Mario Cristobal isn’t perturbed.
Mario Cristobal has high hopes for Carson Beck
“Carson is doing well.” Mario Cristobal gave a good forecast on SportsCenter on February 25. “He’s running really fast. He’s not throwing the ball yet, but he’s very close to doing so, so he’s taking part in all that he can do. And he should be throwing soon, maybe in a couple of weeks or so.”
The hype train doesn’t just stem from his accuracy; it’s Beck’s strong arms and ability to elevate a football team backed with the right protection and scheme.
Cristobal believes Miami’s scheme is perfect for the 22-year-old. “Our scheme is designed to be really powerful and strong upfront,” he stated. “To get the b— to the playmakers outside, to protect him really well, and a very diversified passing game that has a lot of autonomy to it. So he fits us perfectly.”
Miami’s spring practice kicked off on Monday, with the spring game set for April 12. His presence will look large when Carson Beck is fully participating or still ramping up.
The Hurricanes have the weapons, the coaching staff, and a new tried-and-tested QB (if Carson Beck returns to form) to make a serious run. But for now, the wait continues.
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