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Mario Cristobal Reveals Why Carson Beck’s Injury Has Been a Blessing in Disguise

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jaron Spor | Last updated May 17, 2025 5:57 PM ET

In 2024, the Miami Hurricanes experienced a significant resurgence in their third season under head coach Mario Cristobal, finishing with a record of 10-3. This marked their first 10-win season since 2017 and only the second 10-win season since 2004.

The Hurricanes achieved this success with a dynamic offense led by quarterback Cam Ward, which ranked first in total offense, third in passing offense and first in scoring offense. After the season, Ward declared for the NFL Draft, where he was selected first overall by the Tennessee Titans.

With Ward's departure, the Hurricanes faced a significant gap in their quarterback roster. This made the decision of former Georgia Bulldogs star quarterback Carson Beck to enter the transfer portal particularly impactful. Beck, recognized as the top player in the portal, ultimately chose to commit to Miami.

Beck passed for 7,912 yards, with 58 touchdowns and 20 interceptions during his five years at Georgia, two of which he served as the starting quarterback. He led the Bulldogs to the College Football Playoff last season but missed the game after suffering a season-ending injury in the first half against the Texas Longhorns during the SEC Championship Game.

Cristobal was asked about Beck’s recovery during an appearance on Jacksonville's Sports Radio. He mentioned that he believes the injury may be a blessing in disguise.

"I think it's great what he's gone through because in the end we get the best version of Carson," Cristobal said. "I think Carson, at the end of the day, had a million choices and he chose to be at Miami."

Cristobal mentioned that Beck was once committed to the Hurricanes in high school before ultimately choosing the Bulldogs. Cristobal compared him to Ward, noting that Ward chose to come to Miami not for the chance to win the Heisman Trophy or the Davey O'Brien Award, but for the opportunity to win a national championship.

Although Beck was part of two national championship teams at Georgia, he served as Stetson Bennett's backup. Now, Cristobal believes Beck is motivated to pursue a national championship as a starter, which is why he chose to transfer to Miami.

Miami opens the season at home against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on Aug. 31 at 7:30 p.m. ET.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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