Miami Hurricanes Enter 2026 ACC Season as Favorites

The Miami Hurricanes, fresh off an appearance in last season's College Football Playoff national championship game, are widely viewed as the team to beat in the Atlantic Coast Conference as the 2026 season approaches. Head coach Mario Cristobal and key players, including new quarterback Darian Mensah, addressed the team's outlook at the ACC's preseason media event in Charlotte on Wednesday, emphasizing that last year's success is merely a foundation for future goals.

Mensah, a junior transfer from Duke, is the latest in a line of high-profile quarterbacks to lead Miami's offense, following Cam Ward and Carson Beck. Ward was the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and Beck led the Hurricanes to the CFP title game last season before being selected in the third round. Mensah said observing their success in offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson's system was a major factor in his decision to transfer. He cited the offensive freedom and the program's ability to develop players for the NFL as key attractions.

The quarterback brings a proven track record, having led the ACC last season with 3,973 passing yards and 34 touchdowns while guiding Duke to the conference championship. His...