The recruiting scene in South Florida is heating up, and the Miami Hurricanes just scored a significant win. Head coach Mario Cristobal is known for stacking up top-tier talent, but this time, it's offensive line coach Alex Mirabal who’s stealing the spotlight. Mirabal is being whispered about as a future head coach, thanks to his knack for developing raw talent into NFL-ready players.
The latest buzz centers around five-star offensive lineman Mark Matthews, a local standout who’s seriously considering staying close to home. For Matthews, proximity to family and the comfort of familiar surroundings are big factors in his decision. While there’s no heavy pressure to stay, the idea of representing his community is clearly appealing.
However, it's not just about staying local. The real draw for Matthews is the chance to be coached by Mirabal, one of the best in the business. Matthews knows he can get top-level development without leaving South Florida, which is a game-changer in the recruiting battle.
National powerhouses like Texas A&M, Georgia, and Ohio State are still in the mix, with Texas A&M potentially playing the NIL card. However, Miami’s own NIL setup is competitive, and insiders say Matthews is a top priority for the Hurricanes.
This recruitment story is also a testament to Cristobal’s strategy since returning to Coral Gables. He’s focused on dominating the local scene and building a strong foundation, starting with the offensive line. Keeping elite talent like Matthews at home is a cornerstone of this approach.
Matthews has kept his recruitment process under wraps, with no official visits announced, though many speculate otherwise. His frequent appearances on campus suggest Miami is in a strong position. With established relationships within the program and the school practically in his backyard, the Hurricanes seem to have the edge.
Cristobal’s efforts in creating a supportive infrastructure for his staff are paying off, particularly with Mirabal’s growing reputation as a key recruiting asset. As the recruitment process unfolds, Miami's job is to keep the momentum going. If they stick to the plan, convincing Matthews to stay might be less about selling a dream and more about reinforcing what already feels like the natural choice.