Overview
- Hall of Famer Michael Irvin has been an omnipresent, animated presence on Miami’s sideline, with players crediting his energy for lifting the team during games.
- After the quarterfinal win over Ohio State, Irvin’s viral belt-whipping celebration underscored his theatrical game-day rituals, which he says are part superstition and part motivation.
- Since taking over in 2022, Mario Cristobal has intentionally reopened the program to alumni engagement, emphasizing a ‘brotherhood’ that current players describe as hands-on and meaningful.
- Former Hurricanes and coaches — including Ray Lewis, Jonathan Vilma, Andre Johnson, Warren Sapp, Butch Davis and Ed Orgeron — have regularly appeared at practices and games to advise and encourage players.
- Irvin’s deep involvement reflects a decades-long bond with Miami and a personal connection to Cristobal dating back to the coach’s recruitment, as the Hurricanes prepare for Ole Miss in the Fiesta Bowl semifinal.