Miami Hurricanes fans frustrated after missing out on top transfer portal QB

Mario Cristobal and the Miami Hurricanes hit the ground running in the transfer portal, landing two key pieces in the past two days. They bolstered their defensive backfield with Jacksonville State safety Zechariah Poyser and added LSU wide receiver CJ Daniels.

However, the acquisition Canes fans wanted most didn’t come through.

Miami fans were eagerly anticipating that former Washington State quarterback John Mateer would follow his teammate Cam Ward’s path and bring his talents to Coral Gables. Instead, Mateer announced his commitment to Brent Venables and the Oklahoma Sooners for the 2025 season.

“Canes pursued,” wrote Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson. “Every QB in portal must be measured against what they think they have with Emory Williams. Either way, need a vet added to room.”

Some Canes fans were stunned with his decision.

“Huh? Miami’s offensive line and weapons are light years better that OU,” one wrote.

Another replied, “Wow. No o-line, no WRs, no RBs. Good luck, John. Guess you didn’t see Cam.”

The Hurricanes are now left with a significant question mark at quarterback. After one of their best offensive seasons in years, thanks to Ward’s record-setting performances and Heisman finalist campaign, the spotlight now shifts to what’s next for Miami under center.

“Some big decisions to be made in Coral Gables about what’s next at quarterback for the Hurricanes,” 247Sports’ Gaby Urrutia noted.

The quarterback room has seen notable departures, including Reese Poffenbarger to North Texas. As it stands, junior Emory Williams and sophomore Judd Anderson are the remaining options.

Williams appears to be the frontrunner. In his debut collegiate season in 2023, he played in five games and made two starts, finishing with 470 passing yards and three touchdowns on 62% passing. A late injury against rival Florida State cut his season short.

Going from Ward’s elite production to Williams—or anyone else—was always going to be a tough adjustment. For a program that has struggled to find consistent quarterback play for years, missing out on a top-ranked portal quarterback amplifies the scrutiny.

Cristobal and his staff still have time to address the need, but as the portal’s options dwindle, the pressure to find a viable solution is mounting.