Coach-
The Miami Hurricanes are in the CFP Semifinal taking on the Ole Miss Rebels, and there are probably a lot of people that didn't expect this matchup.
But what Miami's proven is that football is still won in the trenches.
And in the trenches, small technical advantages turn into big plays. Miami’s offensive line coach Alex Mirabal is one of the best at creating those edges.
One example from his Wide Zone Fundamentals with Use of Gallop Technique clinic is how he teaches the Gallop techniue against a shaded defender—like a 2i or 3-tech. The goal? Generate vertical movement before climbing to the second level. Here's an example on their Inside Zone play (click on image for video):
Video: Split Flow Inside Zone
His coaching points are simple but powerful:
- First step gains ground vertically—no “tucking” under yourself
- Stay square so you can redirect if the defender slants
- Work hip-to-hip with your partner on the double until the first level is secure
- Finish through the climb—don’t peel off early
In the clinic, Mirabal also breaks down why a running back’s read depends on this exact technique—showing how precise footwork by the OL can open backside cut lanes in zone schemes.
The gallop technique is also an important component for the offensive line in running Wide Zone. Coach Mirabel illustrates it on scrimmage film in this video (click on image for video):
Beyond the gallop, Mirabal also focuses on hand placement through the Double Under technique. It’s a specific way to win the leverage battle by getting both hands inside and under the defender's pads, effectively lifting their center of gravity.
When you pair the footwork of the gallop with the leverage of the double under, you stop catching defenders and start dictating where they go.
Miami will have a tough matchup keeping up with the high flying Ole Miss offense, but the trenches have gotten them this far, and they are sure to lean on their strengths in the biggest moment.
Always be growing!
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