Miami's Cristobal Cringes at 'The U is Back' Phrase

The Hurricanes coach says the program is 'here' and doesn't like the 'back' narrative.

Feb. 9, 2026 at 5:47pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Miami Hurricanes head coach Mario Cristobal says he cringes every time he hears people say 'The U is back,' as he believes the program is already here and doesn't like the 'back' narrative. Cristobal, who is in his fifth year leading the Hurricanes, says the team has steadily improved each season and is now firmly re-established as a college football powerhouse.

Why it matters

Cristobal's comments highlight his desire to move past the narrative of Miami's past glory and focus on the program's current success and bright future. As the Hurricanes continue to build momentum, Cristobal wants to shift the conversation away from the team's storied history and instead emphasize the work being done to keep Miami at the forefront of college football.

The details

Under Cristobal's leadership, Miami has gone from a 5-7 record in his first season to a 23-6 mark over the past two years, including three straight bowl game appearances. Cristobal, who has had multiple stints with the Hurricanes as both a player and coach, says he's watched the program closely even when he wasn't directly involved, and he's excited about the renewed passion and enthusiasm from Miami's rabid fanbase.

  • Cristobal is in his fifth year as Miami's head coach, having taken over the program in 2022.
  • Over the past two seasons, the Hurricanes have compiled a 23-6 record and have gone to three straight bowl games.

The players

Mario Cristobal

The head coach of the Miami Hurricanes football team, who is in his fifth year leading the program and has helped guide the team to steady improvement each season.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The U is back.' I cringe at that all the time. It just like, drives me bananas.”

— Mario Cristobal, Head Coach, Miami Hurricanes (on3.com)

“I've been away for 20 years, and I've watched it from afar. You know, three games in, then it doesn't go as planned. I like to think in terms of Miami — I like to say UM, because back when I played, it was UM — is here.”

— Mario Cristobal, Head Coach, Miami Hurricanes (on3.com)

What’s next

Cristobal and the Hurricanes will look to continue their upward trajectory in the 2023 season as they aim to build on their recent success and compete for a national championship.

The takeaway

Cristobal's comments highlight his desire to move the Miami program forward and not dwell on the past, even as the Hurricanes have re-emerged as a college football powerhouse. His focus is on sustaining the team's current momentum and building an even brighter future for the program.