Miami has outgrown the Cristobal self-sabotage narrative
Context
The show acknowledges why the narrative existed: Miami had the Georgia Tech clock-management scar and multiple self-inflicted 2025 losses before its playoff run. But the 2026 read is different because the Hurricanes are no longer just a talented team with a punchline attached. They just played for the national title, imported Darian Mensah, and still profile as the ACC's most complete team.
The caveat is that a trap game can still happen. The point is narrower: ordinary close calls against North Carolina or the ACC middle should not automatically revive the broader claim that Mario Cristobal cannot get Miami through medium-leverage moments.