Miami Gardens, Fl— walking into Hard Rock Stadium missing a long list of starters and still controlling every phase of the game from kickoff to the final whistle. Mario Cristobal opened by thanking a loud, energetic crowd and praising a team that refused to flinch despite major injuries, calling the win a true reflection of Miami’s culture and competitive DNA. Carson Beck ran the offense with total command, settling the Hurricanes into a balanced rhythm that kept NC State on their heels all night. “We have really found our rhythm in the pass game and the run game,” Beck said. “We have so many talented playmakers. You never know who is going to pop off.” One of those playmakers was freshman running back Girard Pringle Jr., who stepped into a bigger role and delivered with confidence, saying, “When I get a chance to execute, I execute.” Malachi Toney set the tone early and made it clear Miami expected to dictate the game from the jump. “When the ball is up, it is go time,” he said. The defense stole the night, suffocating NC State with pressure, discipline, and physicality. Safety Jakobe Thomas sparked the entire building with two interceptions, including a pick six that blew the game open. “It feels good to make a play and get the offense rolling. I work for them,” he said. Cristobal praised the defensive front for controlling the line of scrimmage and forcing NC State into a one dimensional attack that exposed quarterback CJ Bailey, who finished with 1 touchdown, two interceptions, and a 13.5 QBR. Akheem Mesidor emphasized that Miami’s performance came from preparation and culture, pointing out how even injured players stay locked in on every call and check. “It is always a next man up mentality,” he said. That mentality showed across the roster. Miami was without OJ Frederique, CJ Daniels, Mark Fletcher, David Blay and others, yet the backups played with confidence and urgency. Cristobal said their focus throughout the week made all the difference. Special teams did their part with Carter Davis adding eleven points and Dylan Joyce pinning NC State deep with precision punting. Every unit showed up. With two games left, Miami is peaking at the right time. The Hurricanes played fast, physical, and locked in, never allowing NC State to gain momentum. If this version of Miami closes out the season, the Hurricanes are positioned to finish strong and carry real confidence into postseason play.