The No. 6 Miami Hurricanes are set to host Central Michigan Saturday, despite a growing injury list that has already removed several starters. Coach Mario Cristobal remains confident that the team’s culture and coaching will carry them through.
Injury concerns
Miami enters the matchup short‑handed on both sides of the ball. Wide receiver Malachi Toney and running back Mark Fletcher Jr. are dealing with injuries sustained in the 33‑20 win at Wake Forest. The team also lost running back Marty Brown (knee) and wide receiver Joshua Moore (upper‑body) for the season, and defensive lineman Ahmad Moten is nursing a shoulder issue.
Coach Cristobal’s message
“We know we have a professional organization here,” Cristobal said. “Our culture is as good as our coaching, and we’ll adjust our personnel groups as needed.” He stressed that the Hurricanes must stay focused and continue improving, regardless of the setbacks.
Quarterback performance
Quarterback Darian Mensah has thrown 11 touchdown passes with no interceptions in the first three games, a feat not seen since Caleb Williams in 2023. Mensah also leads the nation in completion percentage at 89.9%, surpassing last season’s leader Carson Beck.
Central Michigan’s outlook
Chippewa coach Matt Drinkall praised Miami’s talent and coaching, noting the challenge of playing a “titan” like the Hurricanes. He added that his team will have the chance to play with less pressure, as the spotlight will be on Miami.
Historical context
Central Michigan last faced both Miami schools in the same season in 2019, losing both games by five points. The Chippewas are 2‑20 all‑time against AP‑ranked opponents, with their most recent loss to a ranked team coming last season, a 63‑3 defeat at No. 23 Michigan.
Despite the injuries, Miami remains unbeaten at 3‑0 and aims to showcase the depth and resilience that have defined their early season success.
Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.
