The Miami Hurricanes continue to get great contributions with the usual starters sidelined, especially from freshman running back Girard Pringle Jr.
The Miami Hurricanes are coming off a much-needed dominant victory over the North Carolina State Wolfpack, with a final score of 41-7. They were still shorthanded with starters out due to injuries, including senior running back Mark Fletcher Jr. However, it's a simple case of "next man up," and that's exactly what was done.
Mario Cristobal leaned more towards freshman running back Girard Pringle Jr., who finished strong in the Hurricanes' previous week matchup against the Syracuse Orange. He carried seven times for 55 yards, including a touchdown.
The 19-year-old took his performance to a whole other level yesterday against the Wolfpack.
Pringle Jr. rushed 17 times for 116 yards, a new season high. He came through with a few explosive plays in the second half, moving the chains down the field for first downs, expanding the Hurricanes' drives.
Miami Hurricanes Football (@CanesFootball) on X
Make it 💯 rushing yards and counting for Girard Pringle! 🙌
"It feels great," the freshman said postgame about his expanded role. "When I got the chance to execute, I executed. I learned a lot from the guys. That's how I was prepared to do what I did."
Cristobal mentioned Pringle Jr's performance:
"With what he did last week, it wouldn't be professional not to give him an opportunity and see what he can do," he said. "He did not disappoint. He did a great job. We blocked well, we opened up some lanes, and other ones he made happen on his own. He earned it; it certainly wasn't just handed over. It's like anything else; that guy last week was splitting reps running down with the scout team and then running over and getting reps with the twos. Just another example, if you work your tail off, and you perform when you're number is called, you'll be rewarded with reps."
These types of performances are much-needed for the team as they continue to push for a case to make the College Football Playoffs, as well as compete for an ACC title.
The Hurricanes still need to fight for all their hopes and aspirations that were set before the season began. A victory in this fashion is another step in the right direction, especially for the final home game.
The Hurricanes will conclude the year with two road games, the first against the Virginia Tech Hokies on Saturday, and then the Pitt Panthers on Nov. 29th. The margin of error is still very thin, so the team cannot afford to take its foot off the gas and must continue to dominate.