Michael Irvin faces backlash after CFP title game

Jeff Hauser

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Michael Irvin faces backlash after CFP title game image

Michael Irvin’s presence during Miami’s College Football Playoff run has sparked backlash following the national championship game, with questions emerging about his role and whether his involvement crossed a line.

The former All-American wide receiver and Pro Football Hall of Famer, who starred for the Miami Hurricanes in the late 1980s, appeared in a viral social media video pacing the bench, mic’d up and forcefully addressing players as if he were a member of the coaching staff. 

The footage was posted after Miami’s CFP loss to Indiana and quickly drew mixed reactions from fans and media.

Several observers questioned whether Irvin had an official capacity with the program and whether players were aware they were being recorded. The university has not publicly commented, but fans took to social media asking for clarity.

Irvin’s intensity on the sidelines has long been part of his persona. Yet critics argued that acting like a coach without holding a title could blur professional boundaries. Miami head coach Mario Cristobal might love having Irvin there for support, but this seems a step over the line. 

Miami surged late in the CFP picture, climbing from No. 18 to No. 10 in the rankings and secured a playoff berth over Notre Dame. The Hurricanes validated that selection by advancing to the title game, where they fell to the Indiana Hoosiers, who capped a historic 16-0 season.

More: Curt Cignetti slams Big 12 refs over Miami's 'dirty' play in title game

Irvin was part of Miami’s 1987 national championship team, while Cristobal played on two title-winning Hurricanes squads. Cristobal left Oregon to restore Miami’s national profile and has done so, guiding the program to three CFP wins.

Now the focus will be working with a top-10 2026 recruiting class and another portal reload on the horizon.

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