Last year, Miami was missing LB Colin McCarthy who's an absolute beast at stopping the run. He'll be playing tonight though. As for the other linebackers, like Sean Spence, they've all put on about 10-15 pounds. I don't think FSU will have as much success running the ball tonight compared to last year in October.
Last year, Miami was missing LB Colin McCarthy who's an absolute beast at stopping the run. He'll be playing tonight though. As for the other linebackers, like Sean Spence, they've all put on about 10-15 pounds. I don't think FSU will have as much success running the ball tonight compared to last year in October.
THIS IS FROM FSU PERSPECTIVE!
After two years of playing in October, Florida State and Miami will renew their annual rivalry on Labor Day night. Neither coaching staff wanted to open with a conference rival, but both schools yielded to pressure from ESPN to start the 2009 season on national television.
The three previous Labor Day matchups, from 2004-06, were defensive struggles with neither team managing to score more than 16 points in a game. In fact, both FSU and Miami averaged just 11 points a game during that three-game stretch. In contrast, in the past two years when the game was played in October the average score was 35-38.
Even though the game is back on Labor Day, the expectation is that the final score will more closely resemble what took place the past two years. While most fans look to the two offenses as the primary reason for a potential shootout, head coach Bobby Bowden says mistakes could be the biggest factor.
<!--Start Miami Datko block (med) Image--><script language="Javascript">document.write(insertImage('http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/1061/836929.jpg', '836929.jpg', 0, 325, 273, 1, 'FSU will rely heavily on its experienced offensive line.', 'Gene Williams - Warchant.com', 1252271077000, 'Miami Datko block (med)', 1061, 'Align=Left'));</script><!-- End Miami Datko block (med) Image-->"A lot of times high scoring games are because of mistakes that people make," Bowden said. "With mistakes both sides have enough skill that it allows you to break open a ballgame. These two football teams down through the years have had dominant defensive football teams that have kept the score low."
Last year, mistakes were a major problem for both programs. In Florida State's four losses, the offense averaged four turnovers a game. And Miami finished dead last in the ACC in turnover margin in 2008. As a result, it's a good bet that turnovers will play a major role in this year's matchup.
Florida State is also looking to keep its recent edge over Miami. Going back to 2005, the 'Noles have won three-of-four over the Hurricanes and will be looking to make it four-of-five.
Either way, after watching college games on Thursday and Saturday, the Seminole players are chomping at the bit to finally play a game this Monday night.
"It's been Miami week for the past two months or so," senior linebacker and defensive captain Dekoda Watson said. "We've been dealing with two-a-days and things like that but we are finally down to he last couple hours before we play. I feel like the team is ready and we are going to be focused."
Six keys to victory for Florida State:
[SIZE=+1]6. At least draw even on special teams[/SIZE]
With the losses of Lou Groza winner Graham Gano and potent kickoff returner Michael Ray Garvin, there are a lot of questions facing Florida State's special teams. The 'Noles must break in a true freshman kicker in Dustin Hopkins. While he has a big leg and has looked good in practice, it's uncertain how he will react when he is on a big stage. Sophomore Sean Powell had 18 punt attempts last season for a 41.1 yard average. Sophomore Bert Reid and true Greg Reid are both capable of making a big punt return. The kickoff returners are largely untested.
Miami on the other hand brings back an experienced and proven place-kicker/punter in Matt Bosher, the top returning kicker in the ACC. Last season, he hit 18-of-20 field goal attempts and averaged 42.3 yards a punt. Seminole fans probably remember Travis Benjamin from last year's game in Miami when the then true freshman almost single-handedly carried the 'Canes by racking up 185 return yards.
Will it happen? Probably not. There are just too many question marks for FSU on special teams. Hopkins could turn out to be a great kicker but that remains to be seen and many of the Seminole returners, while talented, are largely unproven. Meanwhile, Miami brings back the conference's top kicker/punter and Benjamin has already proven himself to be a big weapon in the return game.
[SIZE=+1]5. Rattle Jacory Harris[/SIZE]
<!--Start Miami Harris J pressure (med) Image--><script language="Javascript">document.write(insertImage('http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/1061/836927.jpg', '836927.jpg', 0, 330, 263, 1, 'Harris was ineffective last season against FSU.', 'Gene Williams - Warchant.com', 1252271155000, 'Miami Harris J pressure (med)', 1061, 'Align=Right'));</script><!-- End Miami Harris J pressure (med) Image-->Last year in Miami, Jacory Harris got in for a couple series but was ineffective completing 3-of-7 for 32 yards with one interception. While I expect Miami's offense to rely more on the run, Harris will have to at least be efficient passing the football to keep FSU's defense honest. If the 'Noles' front seven can pressure the sophomore quarterback it would go a long way to throwing UM's offense out of rhythm.
While there are some questions at the defensive end position with the graduation of Everette Brown and Neefy Moffett, Mickey Andrews and the defensive coaches have had a whole offseason to throw in a few new wrinkles. If those wrinkles are as drastic as rumored, and help FSU to get additional pressure in the backfield, it could create some major headaches for Harris and new offensive coordinator Mark Whipple.
Will it happen? Yes. Harris was pretty inconsistent last season and got rattled pretty quickly. If the Seminole defense throws a few new things at him and can get some early pressure I expect him to be fairly ineffective in this game.
[SIZE=+1]4. Don't give up big plays on defense[/SIZE]
One of the biggest concerns for Mickey Andrews through August practices was the tendency of his defense to give up big plays. In each of the first few scrimmages, the offense turned in several scoring plays of over 30 yards. With Miami playing in hostile territory and breaking in a new offensive coordinator, the last thing FSU wants to do is give the visitors from Coral Gables easy scores. The biggest concern comes from the secondary where FSU must break in two new starters, who have struggled at times in practice.
Miami has plenty of big-play ability on offense with several speedy athletes at receiver and running back. In the second half of last year's game, Randy Shannon employed some trickery to produce a couple easy scores. With a whole offseason to prepare for this game you can bet he will have something up his sleeve this year.
Will it happen? Maybe a couple. It's pretty much inevitable that a youthful Seminole defense will have at least one breakdown at some point during the game. FSU can probably survive one or two big offensive plays for Miami, but if that number goes any higher it could become a problem.
[SIZE=+1]3. Slow down Miami's running game[/SIZE]
It's very unlikely that Miami's new offensive coordinator Mark Whipple will go into his first game with a pass first mentality. Instead, he will be looking to establish the run with Graig Cooper running behind Jason Fox and the left side of Miami's huge offensive line.
If Miami has some success running the football it will not only make it easier to mix in the pass, it could also wear down FSU's undersized and thin defensive line. If Miami can keep the score close this could be an effective gameplan considering Miami's first and second string offensive line outweighs FSU's first and second defensive line units by an average of over 50 pounds a player. Over a four quarter game that weight disparity could play a factor.
Even though FSU's defensive line is a little short on size and depth, the linebackers could make up for this shortcoming. Chuck Amato's unit is the strength of the defense and with the group averaging over 230 pounds, they are one of biggest linebacker corps in FSU history. As a result, the linebackers should be better suited to stop the run than last year's group.
Will it happen? Cooper will have some success but FSU's defense should be able to slow him down somewhat. The biggest concern may be the size difference between Miami's offensive line and FSU's defensive line. The best way to prevent this from happening would be for the FSU offense to get off to a quick start and put Miami in a hole and take them out of this gameplan. But even if that doesn't happen, FSU's linebackers should be able to at least slow down Cooper and UM's ground attack.
[SIZE=+1]2. Cut down on the mistakes![/SIZE]
<!--Start Watson D Miami (med) Image--><script language="Javascript">document.write(insertImage('http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/1061/700593.jpg', '700593.jpg', 0, 319, 241, 1, 'Dekoda Watson had a big interception in last year\'s game.', 'Gene Williams - Warchant.com', 1252271244000, 'Watson D Miami (med)', 1061, 'Align=Left'));</script><!-- End Watson D Miami (med) Image-->In an opening game, mistakes are inevitable on both sides. The key for FSU will be keeping those mistakes to a minimum. In addition to cutting down on turnovers, penalties and missed assignments will be extremely important for both teams.
As noted above, neither team did well in the turnover department last season. If this game is close, turnovers and penalties could very easily make the difference in the outcome.
Will it happen? With Christian Ponder having more experience and with this game being in Doak Campbell Stadium, the 'Noles should have fewer mistakes than Miami. The fact that UM is breaking in two new coordinators could also be an advantage for FSU in an opening game.
[SIZE=+1]1. Take advantage when Miami sells out against the run[/SIZE]
Unless something has dramatically changed on Miami's defense in the offseason, it seems likely that FSU will have success running the football. Miami had the worst rush defense in the ACC in 2008 while FSU had one of the top rushing attacks. With FSU's entire starting offensive line back, and being bigger and stronger, you can bet the 'Noles' plan on offense is to stuff the ball down Miami's throat through the ground game.
If FSU can run effectively, which seems likely, the only viable option for Randy Shannon will be to bring his safeties up closer to the line. That should give Christian Ponder more opportunities to test out the vertical passing game the offense worked so hard on in the offseason.
Will it happen? Yes. Ponder and the offense has made significant strides in the passing game in the offseason. I expect him to show Miami and the college football world that he is not only a gritty quarterback that can run, but is also an effective passer.
[SIZE=+1]Score prediction[/SIZE]
While the two teams are fairly even on personnel, FSU has the most decided advantage with its experienced offensive line going up against Miami's porous defense against the run. Unless Miami gets ahead early by a couple scores, FSU should be able to run the football effectively behind that offensive line. That will probably force UM to get out of its defensive gameplan which will open up the passing game for Christian Ponder. As a result, there's a good chance for the 'Noles to crack the 30-point barrier.
Unless special teams or turnovers become a major factor, the Seminoles should be able win by a couple scores.
FSU 31, Miami 20.
After two years of playing in October, Florida State and Miami will renew their annual rivalry on Labor Day night. Neither coaching staff wanted to open with a conference rival, but both schools yielded to pressure from ESPN to start the 2009 season on national television.
The three previous Labor Day matchups, from 2004-06, were defensive struggles with neither team managing to score more than 16 points in a game. In fact, both FSU and Miami averaged just 11 points a game during that three-game stretch. In contrast, in the past two years when the game was played in October the average score was 35-38.
Even though the game is back on Labor Day, the expectation is that the final score will more closely resemble what took place the past two years. While most fans look to the two offenses as the primary reason for a potential shootout, head coach Bobby Bowden says mistakes could be the biggest factor.
<!--Start Miami Datko block (med) Image--><script language="Javascript">document.write(insertImage('http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/1061/836929.jpg', '836929.jpg', 0, 325, 273, 1, 'FSU will rely heavily on its experienced offensive line.', 'Gene Williams - Warchant.com', 1252271077000, 'Miami Datko block (med)', 1061, 'Align=Left'));</script><!-- End Miami Datko block (med) Image-->"A lot of times high scoring games are because of mistakes that people make," Bowden said. "With mistakes both sides have enough skill that it allows you to break open a ballgame. These two football teams down through the years have had dominant defensive football teams that have kept the score low."
Last year, mistakes were a major problem for both programs. In Florida State's four losses, the offense averaged four turnovers a game. And Miami finished dead last in the ACC in turnover margin in 2008. As a result, it's a good bet that turnovers will play a major role in this year's matchup.
Florida State is also looking to keep its recent edge over Miami. Going back to 2005, the 'Noles have won three-of-four over the Hurricanes and will be looking to make it four-of-five.
Either way, after watching college games on Thursday and Saturday, the Seminole players are chomping at the bit to finally play a game this Monday night.
"It's been Miami week for the past two months or so," senior linebacker and defensive captain Dekoda Watson said. "We've been dealing with two-a-days and things like that but we are finally down to he last couple hours before we play. I feel like the team is ready and we are going to be focused."
Six keys to victory for Florida State:
[SIZE=+1]6. At least draw even on special teams[/SIZE]
With the losses of Lou Groza winner Graham Gano and potent kickoff returner Michael Ray Garvin, there are a lot of questions facing Florida State's special teams. The 'Noles must break in a true freshman kicker in Dustin Hopkins. While he has a big leg and has looked good in practice, it's uncertain how he will react when he is on a big stage. Sophomore Sean Powell had 18 punt attempts last season for a 41.1 yard average. Sophomore Bert Reid and true Greg Reid are both capable of making a big punt return. The kickoff returners are largely untested.
Miami on the other hand brings back an experienced and proven place-kicker/punter in Matt Bosher, the top returning kicker in the ACC. Last season, he hit 18-of-20 field goal attempts and averaged 42.3 yards a punt. Seminole fans probably remember Travis Benjamin from last year's game in Miami when the then true freshman almost single-handedly carried the 'Canes by racking up 185 return yards.
Will it happen? Probably not. There are just too many question marks for FSU on special teams. Hopkins could turn out to be a great kicker but that remains to be seen and many of the Seminole returners, while talented, are largely unproven. Meanwhile, Miami brings back the conference's top kicker/punter and Benjamin has already proven himself to be a big weapon in the return game.
[SIZE=+1]5. Rattle Jacory Harris[/SIZE]
<!--Start Miami Harris J pressure (med) Image--><script language="Javascript">document.write(insertImage('http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/1061/836927.jpg', '836927.jpg', 0, 330, 263, 1, 'Harris was ineffective last season against FSU.', 'Gene Williams - Warchant.com', 1252271155000, 'Miami Harris J pressure (med)', 1061, 'Align=Right'));</script><!-- End Miami Harris J pressure (med) Image-->Last year in Miami, Jacory Harris got in for a couple series but was ineffective completing 3-of-7 for 32 yards with one interception. While I expect Miami's offense to rely more on the run, Harris will have to at least be efficient passing the football to keep FSU's defense honest. If the 'Noles' front seven can pressure the sophomore quarterback it would go a long way to throwing UM's offense out of rhythm.
While there are some questions at the defensive end position with the graduation of Everette Brown and Neefy Moffett, Mickey Andrews and the defensive coaches have had a whole offseason to throw in a few new wrinkles. If those wrinkles are as drastic as rumored, and help FSU to get additional pressure in the backfield, it could create some major headaches for Harris and new offensive coordinator Mark Whipple.
Will it happen? Yes. Harris was pretty inconsistent last season and got rattled pretty quickly. If the Seminole defense throws a few new things at him and can get some early pressure I expect him to be fairly ineffective in this game.
[SIZE=+1]4. Don't give up big plays on defense[/SIZE]
One of the biggest concerns for Mickey Andrews through August practices was the tendency of his defense to give up big plays. In each of the first few scrimmages, the offense turned in several scoring plays of over 30 yards. With Miami playing in hostile territory and breaking in a new offensive coordinator, the last thing FSU wants to do is give the visitors from Coral Gables easy scores. The biggest concern comes from the secondary where FSU must break in two new starters, who have struggled at times in practice.
Miami has plenty of big-play ability on offense with several speedy athletes at receiver and running back. In the second half of last year's game, Randy Shannon employed some trickery to produce a couple easy scores. With a whole offseason to prepare for this game you can bet he will have something up his sleeve this year.
Will it happen? Maybe a couple. It's pretty much inevitable that a youthful Seminole defense will have at least one breakdown at some point during the game. FSU can probably survive one or two big offensive plays for Miami, but if that number goes any higher it could become a problem.
[SIZE=+1]3. Slow down Miami's running game[/SIZE]
It's very unlikely that Miami's new offensive coordinator Mark Whipple will go into his first game with a pass first mentality. Instead, he will be looking to establish the run with Graig Cooper running behind Jason Fox and the left side of Miami's huge offensive line.
If Miami has some success running the football it will not only make it easier to mix in the pass, it could also wear down FSU's undersized and thin defensive line. If Miami can keep the score close this could be an effective gameplan considering Miami's first and second string offensive line outweighs FSU's first and second defensive line units by an average of over 50 pounds a player. Over a four quarter game that weight disparity could play a factor.
Even though FSU's defensive line is a little short on size and depth, the linebackers could make up for this shortcoming. Chuck Amato's unit is the strength of the defense and with the group averaging over 230 pounds, they are one of biggest linebacker corps in FSU history. As a result, the linebackers should be better suited to stop the run than last year's group.
Will it happen? Cooper will have some success but FSU's defense should be able to slow him down somewhat. The biggest concern may be the size difference between Miami's offensive line and FSU's defensive line. The best way to prevent this from happening would be for the FSU offense to get off to a quick start and put Miami in a hole and take them out of this gameplan. But even if that doesn't happen, FSU's linebackers should be able to at least slow down Cooper and UM's ground attack.
[SIZE=+1]2. Cut down on the mistakes![/SIZE]
<!--Start Watson D Miami (med) Image--><script language="Javascript">document.write(insertImage('http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/1061/700593.jpg', '700593.jpg', 0, 319, 241, 1, 'Dekoda Watson had a big interception in last year\'s game.', 'Gene Williams - Warchant.com', 1252271244000, 'Watson D Miami (med)', 1061, 'Align=Left'));</script><!-- End Watson D Miami (med) Image-->In an opening game, mistakes are inevitable on both sides. The key for FSU will be keeping those mistakes to a minimum. In addition to cutting down on turnovers, penalties and missed assignments will be extremely important for both teams.
As noted above, neither team did well in the turnover department last season. If this game is close, turnovers and penalties could very easily make the difference in the outcome.
Will it happen? With Christian Ponder having more experience and with this game being in Doak Campbell Stadium, the 'Noles should have fewer mistakes than Miami. The fact that UM is breaking in two new coordinators could also be an advantage for FSU in an opening game.
[SIZE=+1]1. Take advantage when Miami sells out against the run[/SIZE]
Unless something has dramatically changed on Miami's defense in the offseason, it seems likely that FSU will have success running the football. Miami had the worst rush defense in the ACC in 2008 while FSU had one of the top rushing attacks. With FSU's entire starting offensive line back, and being bigger and stronger, you can bet the 'Noles' plan on offense is to stuff the ball down Miami's throat through the ground game.
If FSU can run effectively, which seems likely, the only viable option for Randy Shannon will be to bring his safeties up closer to the line. That should give Christian Ponder more opportunities to test out the vertical passing game the offense worked so hard on in the offseason.
Will it happen? Yes. Ponder and the offense has made significant strides in the passing game in the offseason. I expect him to show Miami and the college football world that he is not only a gritty quarterback that can run, but is also an effective passer.
[SIZE=+1]Score prediction[/SIZE]
While the two teams are fairly even on personnel, FSU has the most decided advantage with its experienced offensive line going up against Miami's porous defense against the run. Unless Miami gets ahead early by a couple scores, FSU should be able to run the football effectively behind that offensive line. That will probably force UM to get out of its defensive gameplan which will open up the passing game for Christian Ponder. As a result, there's a good chance for the 'Noles to crack the 30-point barrier.
Unless special teams or turnovers become a major factor, the Seminoles should be able win by a couple scores.
FSU 31, Miami 20.
SPECIAL TEAMS
Miamis Matt Bosher is arguably the top returning place-kicker in the ACC. He hit 18-of-20 last season making him the nation's top returner in field goal percentage. With Graig Cooper and Travis Benjamin handling most of the return duties, UM has two players that can do a lot of damage on special teams.
With the graduation of Graham Gano and Michael Ray Garvin, FSU must replace the nation's top place-kicker/punter and one of the best kick returners. Freshman Dustin Hopkins will have some very big shoes to fill but has a big leg. Don't be surprised if fellow freshman Greg Reid becomes a big weapon on punt returns.
Miami Offensive Line vs F$U Defensive Line
Miami returns two full-time starters on the left side of the line in Jason Fox and Orlando Franklin. A.J. Trump, who started games at guard last year, will move to center. If there's a question mark, it's on the right side but regardless UM's line should be an improved unit.
Three of the four starters have little or no starting experience. With the addition of Moses McCray, FSU should be bigger and more physical on the interior. However, both starting DEs, including All-American Everette Brown, are gone. A lot is riding on junior DE Markus White to play up to his potential.
MIAMI GROUND GAME VS F$U LINEBACKERS
Running Back Graig Cooper had a breakout sophomore season rushing for 841 yards and may hit 1,000 this year. He reminds you of some of the talented UM backs from the 90's. Look for him to run a lot on the left side behind veteran Jason Fox and 318-pound Orlando Franklin.
FSU's rushing defense was very average last season and if you take away the large number of sacks, it was below average. The return of a healthy Dekoda Watson should give the unit a boost. Also, having the ultra talented Nigel Bradham and the more physical Kendall Smith in starting roles should shore up FSU's run defense
Miami Passing Attack vs F$U SECONDARY
The quarterback controversy in Coral Gables is finally over. Jacory Harris posted pretty good numbers in a part-time role last season and should be even better in 2009. He has some very talented, but unproven, receivers to throw to including Travis Benjamin who gave FSU fits on special teams last year.
Two of FSU's best defensive players reside in the secondary - Patrick Robinson and Jamie Robinson - but the two weakest links are there as well. Nobody has stepped up at rover and former cornerback Korey Mangum is expected to start, and Ochuko Jenije, a lifetime backup with limited experience, will start at the other cornerback spot.
Miami Defensive Line vs F$U Offensive Line
Other than losing key starter Dwayne Hendricks, most of Miami's defensive line returns intact. However, UM's front four wasn't its usual dominating self last season. It's also questionable whether projected starting DE Eric Moncur will be healthy enough to play Monday.
For most of last season, FSU fielded the youngest OL in college football. Nevertheless, under the direction of firey coach Rick Trickett, three linemen earned freshmen AA honors. After an off-season that saw several players make dramatic gains in strength and size, the sky is the limit for this group.
Miami Linebackers vs F$U Ground Attack
The linebackers are the strongest part of Miami's defense. Led by Darryl Sharpton and Sean Spence, the unit should be much improved over a group that finished dead last in the ACC in rushing defense in 2008. But they will be going up against FSU's offensive team strength.
Florida State's rushing attack gashed UM's defense last year for 310 yards en route to a 41-39 victory. With FSU's entire starting OL back, and a group that is noticeably bigger and stronger, there's every reason to expect Jermaine Thomas and company to have a big night.
Miami Secondary VS. F$U Passing Attack
The 'Canes don't return a single full-time starter but do have a few players with experience including safety Randy Phillips who missed most of last season with a leg injury. While there is some talent in the secondary, Miami managed a mere four interceptions all of last season.
Last year, Christian Ponder and company were pretty mediocre in the passing game. But with a year under his belt, the starting OL completely intact, a talented receiving corps, and no QB controversy, FSU's aerial attack should make a quantum leap forward.
Miamis Matt Bosher is arguably the top returning place-kicker in the ACC. He hit 18-of-20 last season making him the nation's top returner in field goal percentage. With Graig Cooper and Travis Benjamin handling most of the return duties, UM has two players that can do a lot of damage on special teams.
With the graduation of Graham Gano and Michael Ray Garvin, FSU must replace the nation's top place-kicker/punter and one of the best kick returners. Freshman Dustin Hopkins will have some very big shoes to fill but has a big leg. Don't be surprised if fellow freshman Greg Reid becomes a big weapon on punt returns.
Miami Offensive Line vs F$U Defensive Line
Miami returns two full-time starters on the left side of the line in Jason Fox and Orlando Franklin. A.J. Trump, who started games at guard last year, will move to center. If there's a question mark, it's on the right side but regardless UM's line should be an improved unit.
Three of the four starters have little or no starting experience. With the addition of Moses McCray, FSU should be bigger and more physical on the interior. However, both starting DEs, including All-American Everette Brown, are gone. A lot is riding on junior DE Markus White to play up to his potential.
MIAMI GROUND GAME VS F$U LINEBACKERS
Running Back Graig Cooper had a breakout sophomore season rushing for 841 yards and may hit 1,000 this year. He reminds you of some of the talented UM backs from the 90's. Look for him to run a lot on the left side behind veteran Jason Fox and 318-pound Orlando Franklin.
FSU's rushing defense was very average last season and if you take away the large number of sacks, it was below average. The return of a healthy Dekoda Watson should give the unit a boost. Also, having the ultra talented Nigel Bradham and the more physical Kendall Smith in starting roles should shore up FSU's run defense
Miami Passing Attack vs F$U SECONDARY
The quarterback controversy in Coral Gables is finally over. Jacory Harris posted pretty good numbers in a part-time role last season and should be even better in 2009. He has some very talented, but unproven, receivers to throw to including Travis Benjamin who gave FSU fits on special teams last year.
Two of FSU's best defensive players reside in the secondary - Patrick Robinson and Jamie Robinson - but the two weakest links are there as well. Nobody has stepped up at rover and former cornerback Korey Mangum is expected to start, and Ochuko Jenije, a lifetime backup with limited experience, will start at the other cornerback spot.
Miami Defensive Line vs F$U Offensive Line
Other than losing key starter Dwayne Hendricks, most of Miami's defensive line returns intact. However, UM's front four wasn't its usual dominating self last season. It's also questionable whether projected starting DE Eric Moncur will be healthy enough to play Monday.
For most of last season, FSU fielded the youngest OL in college football. Nevertheless, under the direction of firey coach Rick Trickett, three linemen earned freshmen AA honors. After an off-season that saw several players make dramatic gains in strength and size, the sky is the limit for this group.
Miami Linebackers vs F$U Ground Attack
The linebackers are the strongest part of Miami's defense. Led by Darryl Sharpton and Sean Spence, the unit should be much improved over a group that finished dead last in the ACC in rushing defense in 2008. But they will be going up against FSU's offensive team strength.
Florida State's rushing attack gashed UM's defense last year for 310 yards en route to a 41-39 victory. With FSU's entire starting OL back, and a group that is noticeably bigger and stronger, there's every reason to expect Jermaine Thomas and company to have a big night.
Miami Secondary VS. F$U Passing Attack
The 'Canes don't return a single full-time starter but do have a few players with experience including safety Randy Phillips who missed most of last season with a leg injury. While there is some talent in the secondary, Miami managed a mere four interceptions all of last season.
Last year, Christian Ponder and company were pretty mediocre in the passing game. But with a year under his belt, the starting OL completely intact, a talented receiving corps, and no QB controversy, FSU's aerial attack should make a quantum leap forward.
Florida State vs. Miami
Monday, September 7 at 8:00 p.m. EST - Tallahassee, FL
Doak Campbell Stadium (82,300)
TV: ESPN- Brad Nessler (play-by-play), Todd Blackledge (Analyst), Erin Andrews (Sideline)
Tape Delay: Sun Sports- Paul Kennedy (play-by-play), Keith Jones (Analyst), Tom Block (Sideline)
Monday, September 7 at 8:00 p.m. EST - Tallahassee, FL
Doak Campbell Stadium (82,300)
TV: ESPN- Brad Nessler (play-by-play), Todd Blackledge (Analyst), Erin Andrews (Sideline)
Tape Delay: Sun Sports- Paul Kennedy (play-by-play), Keith Jones (Analyst), Tom Block (Sideline)
Miami-Florida State prepare for primetime showdown
Finally, it's here - the annual marvel that will kick off the college football season for two archrivals from storied football programs in the same conference.
Will this one be decided by a wide right? Or maybe a muffed snap?
And if you happen to be in Tallahassee, don't forget to bring your galoshes.
It's unranked University of Miami at No. 18 Florida State in the Labor Day showdown that will draw a huge national television audience and send one team home believing it can conquer the world -- or at least the Atlantic Coast Conference.
``I'm so excited that I'm lost for words,'' Hurricanes sophomore linebacker Jordan Futch said. ``I've watched this game for years, but I've never been in Doak Campbell Stadium. Now I have a chance to experience it.''
This game is never quite normal, usually a heart-pounding adventure of peaks and valleys. Last year's 41-39 rain-drenched odyssey in Miami had the Seminoles taking a 24-3 lead at halftime and then imploding in the second half as the Canes' comeback fell just short.
``That's the best Florida State-Miami game I never want to see again,'' FSU coach Bobby Bowden said at the time.
Bowden was asked if he expected something similar Monday night, other than the possibility of rain.
``You don't know what to expect,'' he said. ``But it could very easily happen. That was the oddest game I've been in. We completely dominated the first half and they completely dominated the second. It got me a couple [of] ulcers.''
The past six games in the Miami-FSU rivalry have been decided by a total of 24 points, with the 2004 post-Labor Day game a 16-10 UM overtime victory in the Orange Bowl. That game was delayed four days because of Hurricane Frances.
The 2006 Labor Day game, which FSU won 13-10 with a fourth-quarter field goal, still stands as the most-watched regular-season college football game to air on ESPN. In that defensive struggle, UM rushed for 2 yards and FSU for 1.
The Canes lead the all-time series 30-23, but since joining the ACC in 2004, they are 2-3.
A ROCKY ROAD
Monday night's game has its share of story lines. For the Hurricanes, who finished 7-6 last season, this is the first of four consecutive games widely considered the most difficult opening stretch in college football. The first three are against ACC opponents FSU, No. 15 Georgia Tech and No. 7 Virginia Tech. The fourth is against third-ranked Oklahoma, which will drop after losing to No. 20 Brigham Young on Saturday.
According to The Associated Press, unless one or more of the three opponents after FSU unexpectedly falls out of the rankings, UM will become only the third team in at least the past 15 seasons to open with four ranked opponents.
``I am embracing the challenge,'' sophomore quarterback Jacory Harris said of his new starting role and of his touted opponents. ``You want to be put in these situations. Who doesn't want to be playing against the Florida State Seminoles in Tallahassee on Labor Day, the first game of the season?''
UM linebacker Sean Spence, last season's ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year, agreed: ``In this conference it's all about momentum. Win that first game and you'll get rolling. I love that. We all do around here.''
Spence better hope his defense does a better job of stopping the run. When the teams met last October, FSU quarterback Christian Ponder rushed for 144 yards on 19 carries. It was FSU's best quarterback rushing day in 60 years.
THIS GAME `SETS THE TONE'
``The first game always sets the tone for the rest of the season, especially when it's Miami,'' Ponder said. ``It's very important for us. We know it's going to be tough. We have the mind-set this is one of the most important games of the year.''
Florida State, which finished 9-4 in 2008, has replaced seven starters on defense. But the offense is expected to be strong. Offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher will take over for Bowden as head coach after Bowden retires at a yet-to-be-determined date. In his third season at FSU, Fisher finally has enough of his own players to effectively run his pro-style offense.
FSU will be challenged by UM's two new coordinators, Mark Whipple on offense and John Lovett on defense.
``I've played against him a bunch,'' Fisher said of Lovett. ``He's an excellent coach. He's aggressive. He blitzed, changed coverage. He made you coach. You had to be prepared all the way through.''
The Hurricanes have refused to reveal much of what Whipple intends to do with his pro-style offense, but have hinted that it will be varied and fun.
``It's a big advantage,'' UM tailback Graig Cooper said of the new scheme. ``The other team is guessing what we're going to do. They ain't going to know what hit them.''
Finally, it's here - the annual marvel that will kick off the college football season for two archrivals from storied football programs in the same conference.
Will this one be decided by a wide right? Or maybe a muffed snap?
And if you happen to be in Tallahassee, don't forget to bring your galoshes.
It's unranked University of Miami at No. 18 Florida State in the Labor Day showdown that will draw a huge national television audience and send one team home believing it can conquer the world -- or at least the Atlantic Coast Conference.
``I'm so excited that I'm lost for words,'' Hurricanes sophomore linebacker Jordan Futch said. ``I've watched this game for years, but I've never been in Doak Campbell Stadium. Now I have a chance to experience it.''
This game is never quite normal, usually a heart-pounding adventure of peaks and valleys. Last year's 41-39 rain-drenched odyssey in Miami had the Seminoles taking a 24-3 lead at halftime and then imploding in the second half as the Canes' comeback fell just short.
``That's the best Florida State-Miami game I never want to see again,'' FSU coach Bobby Bowden said at the time.
Bowden was asked if he expected something similar Monday night, other than the possibility of rain.
``You don't know what to expect,'' he said. ``But it could very easily happen. That was the oddest game I've been in. We completely dominated the first half and they completely dominated the second. It got me a couple [of] ulcers.''
The past six games in the Miami-FSU rivalry have been decided by a total of 24 points, with the 2004 post-Labor Day game a 16-10 UM overtime victory in the Orange Bowl. That game was delayed four days because of Hurricane Frances.
The 2006 Labor Day game, which FSU won 13-10 with a fourth-quarter field goal, still stands as the most-watched regular-season college football game to air on ESPN. In that defensive struggle, UM rushed for 2 yards and FSU for 1.
The Canes lead the all-time series 30-23, but since joining the ACC in 2004, they are 2-3.
A ROCKY ROAD
Monday night's game has its share of story lines. For the Hurricanes, who finished 7-6 last season, this is the first of four consecutive games widely considered the most difficult opening stretch in college football. The first three are against ACC opponents FSU, No. 15 Georgia Tech and No. 7 Virginia Tech. The fourth is against third-ranked Oklahoma, which will drop after losing to No. 20 Brigham Young on Saturday.
According to The Associated Press, unless one or more of the three opponents after FSU unexpectedly falls out of the rankings, UM will become only the third team in at least the past 15 seasons to open with four ranked opponents.
``I am embracing the challenge,'' sophomore quarterback Jacory Harris said of his new starting role and of his touted opponents. ``You want to be put in these situations. Who doesn't want to be playing against the Florida State Seminoles in Tallahassee on Labor Day, the first game of the season?''
UM linebacker Sean Spence, last season's ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year, agreed: ``In this conference it's all about momentum. Win that first game and you'll get rolling. I love that. We all do around here.''
Spence better hope his defense does a better job of stopping the run. When the teams met last October, FSU quarterback Christian Ponder rushed for 144 yards on 19 carries. It was FSU's best quarterback rushing day in 60 years.
THIS GAME `SETS THE TONE'
``The first game always sets the tone for the rest of the season, especially when it's Miami,'' Ponder said. ``It's very important for us. We know it's going to be tough. We have the mind-set this is one of the most important games of the year.''
Florida State, which finished 9-4 in 2008, has replaced seven starters on defense. But the offense is expected to be strong. Offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher will take over for Bowden as head coach after Bowden retires at a yet-to-be-determined date. In his third season at FSU, Fisher finally has enough of his own players to effectively run his pro-style offense.
FSU will be challenged by UM's two new coordinators, Mark Whipple on offense and John Lovett on defense.
``I've played against him a bunch,'' Fisher said of Lovett. ``He's an excellent coach. He's aggressive. He blitzed, changed coverage. He made you coach. You had to be prepared all the way through.''
The Hurricanes have refused to reveal much of what Whipple intends to do with his pro-style offense, but have hinted that it will be varied and fun.
``It's a big advantage,'' UM tailback Graig Cooper said of the new scheme. ``The other team is guessing what we're going to do. They ain't going to know what hit them.''
The 3 times that they played on LABOR DAY- 1st game of year, it was a defensive struggle.
2004 Miami won 16-10 on labor day
2005 FSU won 10-7 on labor day
2006 FSU won 13-10 on labor day
I can definetly see a game like South Carolina vs NC ST.
This is both teams 1st game of year, and history says they will struggle agan on offense.
hno:
Miami also won with Marve so get back to me on them winning with Harris who is unporven IMO. Antone is gone but Jermaine Thomas, averaged 7 yds a carry and was a FRESHMAN!! O-Line is back and going to dominate the front 4 of Miami. Watch him have over 100yds rushing!! Great, you got a kicker so your saying your offense cant score?? WR?? Watch for a guy named Willie Haulstead, Bert Reed, and the list goes on. Game time will be here in 4 hours or so and I am betting FSU -6.5!! guys Miami is unproven at offense with harris, new playbook and new coaches. cant open the playbook just yet especially with harris...LOL.
Yall said the same thing about Ken Dorsey.... Remember 2000? with ken dorsey?
Harris is a leader, He won the National Title in High School as a Senior. He reminds me of Ken Dorsey. Hes got that IT factor, and you will see that tonight.
EITHER WAY, LETS HAVE A GREAT NIGHT AND SHOW THE ACC IS NOT A JOKE OF A CONFERENCE!!! :toast:
