Cristobal Emphasizes Execution Ahead of Notre Dame Matchup

Cristobal praised Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr as a complete player who has improved as a passer and runner. He said Carr reads pressure, directs the offense, and can extend plays with his feet, calling him one of college football’s best players.

With the teams preparing to meet, Cristobal said Miami was concentrating on football rather than public predictions or trash talk. He emphasized technique, fundamentals, energy and execution, saying outside narratives do not resonate with his players.

Cristobal also highlighted running back Mark Fletcher Jr.’s leadership after Fletcher chose to return to Miami. He called Fletcher a powerful presence in the locker room and across the community, and said his performance backs up his influence on the team.

Miami’s defensive execution remains an area to address. The Hurricanes missed 22 tackles against North Carolina, Cristobal said, allowing some plays that could have been short gains to turn into much longer ones. He said Miami needed to improve its communication, tackling, technique and fundamentals before facing Notre Dame.

The matchup follows the release of the first College Football Playoff rankings. Cristobal said the team was focused on preparing for its opponent, with the playoff picture and outside pressure secondary to the game ahead.