Miami’s 2025 season could not have opened with more energy or drama, as the Hurricanes took down No. 5 Notre Dame in a 27-24 thriller at Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday, August 31, 2025. The win set the tone for what could be a statement year under head coach Mario Cristobal.
Led by star transfer quarterback Carson Beck, Miami’s offense looked more than just confident. But the name that also stood out was their 17-year-old true freshman wide receiver Malachi Toney for his standout performance, which also grabbed the coach’s “special” message after the game.
Malachi Toney Reveals HOFer Michael Irvin’s Sideline Words
In his first college game, Toney caught six passes on 10 and rushed for 82 yards and a stunning receiving touchdown. Beck had his eyes set on Toney throughout the game. His 28-yard touchdown grab in the second quarter gave the Hurricanes an early lead and indeed hinted at his star potential.
Miami True Freshman WR Malachi Toney catches his 1st Career TD as a Cane
Big contributor already, and crazy enough, he’s still supposed to be in high school (reclassed last fall)
Learn the name 🙌pic.twitter.com/BmxfkTwxlS
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) September 1, 2025
After the game, Toney shared that he received words of encouragement from a Miami legend who was buzzing with energy on the sideline, Hall of Fame receiver Michael Irvin.
“He just said keep going. Keep your foot on the net. Don’t let up.”
𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚: The legendary Michael Irvin was going crazy after last night’s win over Notre Dame.
He was sweating like a madman 😭😭pic.twitter.com/yxOjRi1jiZ
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) September 1, 2025
While the message was simple, hearing it from one of the program’s most iconic figures made it resonate more deeply with the young wideout. Irvin’s presence has become a staple on Miami’s sideline, and his enthusiasm during the final moments reflected how significant this win was for the program.
Toney also pointed to the team’s chemistry and preparation as keys to their success, “I’ll say we’ve grown together, not only as a team, but as a family, outside of football. We grown and we coming together… just really getting in there early, long film studies, just hungry to learn. The stuff you put did in practice it shows in the game. So, just how it work and our work ethic,” he said.
Meanwhile, Head Coach Cristobal didn’t hold back his excitement when asked about Toney’s debut.
Read More: Carson Beck Raises CFP Hopes, But Mario Cristobal’s Recruiting Headaches Still Hold Miami Back
“He is special. We tried to keep him a secret, but it didn’t take long. He was the first player we were getting the football. What is special about him is the way he approaches the game. He approaches the game like he is a fifth or sixth-year vet. He is always working. He is just getting started.”
Cristobal’s comments underscored that Toney isn’t just a promising freshman; he could become one of the cornerstones of the program’s future. The Hurricanes now turn their attention to Bethune-Cookman, a matchup that should allow them to build confidence and sharpen execution before tougher tests later in the season.
But the major takeaway from the Notre Dame win is the Hurricanes’ depth and balance. With Carson Beck settling in, Malachi Toney emerging as a breakout star, and veterans leading on both sides of the ball, the Hurricanes appear complete.
