Will Carson Beck Fill the Void Left by Cam Ward?

Miami Turns to Carson Beck to Lead in 2025

With Cam Ward leaving for the NFL Draft, the Miami Hurricanes looked to the transfer portal to fill a massive void at quarterback. Ward’s departure comes after a record-breaking season that saw him elevate Miami to a 10-2 regular-season record. Despite the accolades, the Hurricanes fell short of their ultimate goals, missing the ACC championship game, missing out on the expanded College Football Playoff and losing their bowl game. With Cam Ward leaving for the NFL former Georgia Bulldog Carson Beck to takes center stage as Miami’s leader in 2025.

Cam Ward’s Legacy at Miami

Ward’s 2024 season was nothing short of historic. In just one year, he rewrote the Hurricanes’ record books, completing 305 of 454 passes (67.2%) for 4,313 yards and 39 touchdowns, with only seven interceptions. “Cam has been an exceptional and elite Miami hurricane as a competitor, as a player, as a teammate. He’s elevated the profile, the exposure of the University of Miami. He is leading a legacy that’s going to be impactful for generations to come. I mean, he’s the best. He’s the best I’ve been around, and I look forward to watching him lead an NFL franchise to championships and watching him play on Sundays. And certainly, you know that’s about that’s about it.” said Miami head coach Mario Cristobal.

Ward’s single-season marks for completions, passing yards, completion percentage, and touchdowns will be tough to match. However, his sudden departure during the team’s bowl game left a sour taste for the fans, creating a narrative of unfinished business for the Hurricanes heading into 2025.

Carson Beck’s Journey to Miami

Georgia Bulldogs (2020–2024)

Beck began his college career at the University of Georgia, where he steadily rose from a backup role to a prominent starter.

• Early Years (2020–2022): After redshirting in 2020, Beck saw limited action in 2021, completing 10 of 23 passes for 176 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. In 2022, he served as Georgia’s second-string quarterback, finishing the season with 310 passing yards and four touchdowns without an interception.
• Starting Quarterback (2023–2024): Beck took over as Georgia’s starter in 2023, leading the Bulldogs to a 13-1 record. He threw for 3,941 yards, 24 touchdowns, and six interceptions. The following year, he entered the season as a Heisman candidate but fell short of expectations, throwing for 3,485 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions as Georgia finished 11-3. Beck was injured in the SEC championship victory causing him to miss the second half and ultimately the college football playoff. Beck’s college totals include a 68% completion rate, 7,912 passing yards, 58 touchdowns, and 20 interceptions.

Transfer to Miami (2025)

In January 2025, Beck entered the transfer portal and committed to Miami. His decision was influenced by multiple factors, including an elbow injury that required surgery and a desire to maximize his final year of college eligibility. His decision may have also been influenced by personal factors, such as his relationship with Miami women’s basketball player Hanna Cavinder.

NIL Agreement: A Game-Changer

Beck’s transfer to Miami includes a lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal reportedly worth up to $4 million for the 2025 season. The agreement places him among the highest earners in college football and reflects the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics.

Can Beck Fill the Void Left by Ward?

Beck’s potential is undeniable, but the question remains whether he can elevate Miami to greater heights. Despite a “down year” in 2024, Beck was still among the top five quarterbacks in the SEC for passing yards and touchdowns. Miami’s 2025 schedule presents opportunities for success, with key matchups against Notre Dame in Week 1 and Florida in Week 4.

“I mean, systematically, we’re where we want to be offensively.” Cristobal on Beck and the future of Miami football.

Beck is a solid quarterback built upon his accuracy and football IQ. His game has evolved over time and his experience in big games will be crucial to the Hurricanes program. His experience and leadership will be felt amongst the whole program elevating them to the next level. The Hurricanes will rely on Beck’s experience, a strong supporting cast, and an advantageous schedule to build on their 2024 successes. If Beck comes back from injury as anything close to the player, he has shown to be this will be a great fit in Miami.

A New Era for Miami Football

Carson Beck’s arrival in Coral Gables marks a new chapter for the Hurricanes. While Ward’s records and departure loom large, the program is optimistic that Beck can lead them back to championship contention. With a fresh start and high expectations, the stage is set for Miami to write the next chapter of its storied history.