The chance to become "The U" Once More
Big hits, big personalities and even bigger wins. That was the legacy of the University of Miami football teams in the late 80’s and early 2000’s. Since then, the story has been grim for the Hurricanes. Tonight, however, presents a big opportunity for the Canes.
Tonight at 8:00 in Miami, the Miami Hurricanes take on the Florida State Seminoles, in one of the biggest rivalry games of the season.. This rivalry has a history of trash talk, fighting, intense games and of course, missed field goals.
Just as the Canes haven’t been the same in recent years, this rivalry has been significantly less competitive, with the noles winning each of the last six matchups. This year, however, things are beginning to change. The noles come into the matchup ranked 23 in the country after a less than perfect start to the season, but are definitely a force to be reckoned with and nothing to be taken lightly. The canes, led by quarterback Brad Kaaya and new coach Mark Richt, are currently ranked 10 and have had a very promising beginning of the season.
Miami is off to an undefeated start and it hasn’t been very difficult. The Canes have had an easy schedule, playing no ranked opponents and only one ACC team. However, none of the games have been close, with Miami winning by an average of 36 points per game. For Florida State, they have suffered heartbreaking losses at the hands of Louisville and North Carolina, but have enough talent to match up well with any team in the nation.
This game is the chance for Miami to get back to being the Miami of old. A win tonight over Florida State brings back the top rankings, brings back the competitive (and often times obnoxious) spirit and brings back “The U”
Former Hurricane and NFL Hall of Fame wide receiver Michael Irvin celebrates after making a big play. The Hurricanes Take on their in-state rivals Florida State tonight at 8:00.
As for the actual game, the Hurricanes need to focus on stopping the run. The Noles offense is highlighted by sophomore running back and Miami native, Dalvin Cook. He’s one of the best backs in the country averaging 127 yards per game and totaling 7 rushing touchdowns on the season. If Miami can establish a strong run defense in the opening minutes of the game, it will shift the pressure onto the shoulders of freshman quarterback Deondre Francois,who has yet to experience the intensity of this rivalry.
On the other side, Brad Kaaya has to get off to a strong, consistent start passing the ball with help from running back Joseph Yearby to spread the defense. Also look for running back Mark Walton to get his fair share of carries, as he is a bigger back who is better suited to run up the middle.
At the end of the day, the Hurricanes need to get back to the Hurricanes of old. Play physical, get inside the heads of the other players and don’t back down from anyone or anything.
After a great start to the season with clear potential on the roster and coaching staff, the Canes are just missing their signature win. This is their chance for that win, and their chance to become, once again, “The U.”
