25 biggest college football storylines for the 2022 season

6. Is Miami back?

Where Scott Frost was once the coach coming home to his roots, this year’s version is none other than Mario Cristobal returning to South Beach and The U.

After a successful run at Oregon, Miami and their big-time boosters threw the kitchen sink at Cristobal, bringing home the former two-time national champion Hurricane, with the hopes he can return the once loud and proud program to its former glory. Where Frost struggled at Nebraska (geography and quarterback play), Cristobal should be able to find immediate success.

In 2023, the Hurricanes are a legitimate contender to win an ACC that could be there for the taking. Cristobal has some real talent on his roster. Star cornerback Tyrique Stevenson, tackle Zion Nelson, and quarterback Tyler Van Dyke should all be in consideration for first-round picks in next year’s NFL draft. Cristobal’s teams have historically been very good in the trenches. How much progress can be made there in year one will determine how far this team can go. I expect the Cristobal effect to show early, as Van Dyke and the Hurricanes will win the ACC Coastal.

The long-term success of Miami will be based on their availability to take back their throne as the recruiting kings of the state of Florida. There’s plenty of competition, but we’ve already seen what Cristobal’s recruiting looks like for 2023. With Miami’s location and newfound financial drive, The U is coming back.