The opening game can set the tone for the entire season.
In 2025, Miami's physical W to open the year at home against Notre Dame helped spark the identity that led the Hurricanes to the national title game.
The opening game for 2026 doesn't look nearly as tough, but it still gives Mario Cristobal's Canes the chance to establish their standard.
Here are four things I'll be looking for when Miami takes on the Cardinal:
- Darian Mensah's Hurricanes debut. We've been anticipating Mensah's first game in orange and green since January. He was electric in the spring game and has earned the respect of his teammate's and coaching. He was the leading passer in Power Four football last season and will now have even more weapons at his disposal than he had at Duke. The first time Mensah connects with Malachi Toney will feel like a historic moment. I cannot wait for it!
- Offensive line intensity and chemistry. Throughout training camp, Miami's offense has reportedly done a good job of establishing a ground attack. There's some anticipation from insiders that this year's OL might be an even better run blocking unit than the stellar room from 2025. But will they show it to us immediately? I sure hope so. Plus, this unit will have to develop the chemistry for pass protection. That usually takes longer to create. From the opening snap, I will be watching the line of scrimmage.
- Run defense. As mentioned, the running game has had some success against the Canes' vaunted defensive front. Does that mean the Hurricanes have a truly elite rushing attack (it very well might) or is it a sign of some weakness in rushing defense? We'll see if Stanford has any success on the ground.
- Consistent intensity. Last season against Stanford, Miami had an uninspiring first half. The teams went into halftime tied 7-7. That felt like a distant memory after seeing the 42-7 final score, but that game wasn't the only time Miami had lapses during contests. They turned a corner over the final four regular season games and into the playoffs. Cristobal and OC Shannon Dawson kept their foot on the gas. Let's see more of that in 2026!
