Mario Cristobal Explains Why The Offense Won Miami's First Fall Scrimmage

The Miami Hurricanes just finished their first scrimmage of fall training camp.

Mid-week, head coach Mario Cristobal had noted that the defense was winning the majority of the reps. The tables have turned. After Saturday's closed scrimmage, Cristobal joined Hurricanes color analyst Don Bailey Jr to recap the action. Miami shared the interview on the official Hurricanes Football YouTube channel .

"Today, the day belonged to the offense," said Cristobal. "The offense today adjusted to the speed of the defense."

Cristobal recounted the reasons why the defense had been in control earlier in the week. "They created a lot of negative plays for the offense," he noted. "They really pressured the quarterback. They did a good job against our tight ends and receivers in coverage."

The offense was able to win the scrimmage by creating more separation. "(The offense) made more plays. The defense made their plays, too, but the offense had more than their share."

Cristobal said the offense converted a "big-time third down play that snowballed into more and more big plays."

Miami's offense, led by transfer quarterback Cam Ward , held their own well against the defense during spring football. The defense has since added transfer DL standouts Simeon Barrow and Tyler Baron. Plus, they've seen the returns of top linebacker Kiko Mauigoa and talented edge rusher Akheem Mesidor to full health.

Miami players have stated throughout training camp that they strive to make each other better through competitive matchups in practice. "Iron sharpens iron" is a common slogan throughout the Hurricanes facility.

The offense won the first scrimmage. How will the defense respond next weekend in the second?

The Hurricanes are preparing for their season opener at the Florida Gators on August 31st in Gainesville.