Miami hosts arch-rival Florida State on Saturday night at Hard Rock Stadium.
The Canes (7-0, 3-0 ACC) enter the game undefeated, ranked #6 in the nation, scoring an average 48.3 points per game (#1). Miami’s defense is allowing 22.6 points per game (#57 tie). The Canes’ offense is averaging 577.3 yards per game (#1). Miami’s defense is allowing 306.1 yards per game (#21) and 22.8 points per game (#58).
The Seminoles (1-6, 1-5 ACC) enter the game scoring an average of 15.0.2 points per game (#133) and 276.0 yards per game (#132). FSU’s defense is allowing 370.0 yards per game (#75) and 25.0 points per game (#76).
Florida State is led by head coach Mike Norvell in his fifth year at FSU. Coach Norvell has a career record of 70-38. At FSU his record is 32-23, with a bowl record of 1-4. The Seminoles went 13-1 last year under Norvell, winning the ACC championship. Norvell owns a 3-1 record against Miami, including three straight wins over the Canes. However, he has seen their 2024 season crater after being ranked #10 in preseason polls.
Team Strength: Defense and Special Teams
Arguably, FSU has the best kicking specialists in the ACC and the nation. However, they have not had much chance to affect game outcomes this season.
FSU has a serviceable defense with good pass rushing, generating 2.43 sacks per game. Defensive tackle Josh Farmer leads the Noles defensive line, generating 20 pressures and 2.5 sacks to date. The Seminoles secondary has talent but lack playmaking production. FSU has only two interceptions this season. Miami’s offense will truly test FSU defense.
Team Weakness: Offense
Florida State’s offense has labored to score points. They lost their starting quarterback, D.J. Uiagalelei, to a hand injury for the season We’ve seen a big drop-off with his backups. The Noles are one of the worst college offenses this season.
BOTTOM LINE:
Miami owns the advantage is almost every statistical metric. Only a total meltdown by Miami would give Florida State a chance to upset the #6 Hurricanes.
To make matters worse for the Seminoles, Miami will be hosting more than 100 recruiting prospects at the game. If Miami wins handily, it could open the floor gates for the Noles.
Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. EST at Hard Rock Stadium Stadium. The game will be televised on ESPN and carried on radio by WQAM-560.
PACK THE ROCK!
GO CANES!
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