The latest domino in the coaching carousel has fallen. Miami announced Monday that Oregon coach Mario Cristobal has agreed to return home and take over the Hurricanes.
“My family and I are excited to return home to the University of Miami, which has been so instrumental in shaping me as a person, player, and coach,” said Cristobal in a statement. “This program has an unparalleled tradition and an exciting future ahead of it. I can’t wait to compete for championships and help mold our student-athletes into leaders on and off the field who will make our University, our community, and our loyal fan base proud.”
In taking the Miami job, Cristobal replaces Manny Diaz, who was fired Monday morning after three seasons leading the Canes. Cristobal, who won two national championships as a Miami player between 1989-92, was 35-13 (23-10 Pac-12) in four seasons leading Oregon. Diaz finished 21-15 (16-9 ACC) but won five of his last six games this season.
Cristobal’s hiring comes at a tumultuous time for both the coach himself and the Hurricanes. Miami’s negotiations with Cristobal became extremely public for an extended period of time over the weekend despite Diaz still being employed by the team.
Miami is simultaneously trying to hire Clemson athletic director Dan Radakovich, a UM graduate who was reportedly waiting on the Canes to snag Cristobal before himself agreeing to leave the Tigers.
Cristobal will be tasked with helping the Hurricanes emerge from mediocrity. The Canes only have one season of double-digit wins since joining the ACC in 2003. Miami clearly believes in Cristobal given it has chosen to pay more than $12 million combined to buy out his contract from Oregon and end Diaz’s deal.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Mario, his…
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