Louisville earns chance to play for ACC title after 38-31 win over Miami

MIAMI GARDENS – Rushing is not a problem in the Miami Hurricanes match with the Louisville Cardinals.

No. 10 Louisville’s is a high-rushing team, but Miami answers back in this one.

It was a fast start for both teams, scoring back-to-back in the first quarter. Both teams had one throwing and rushing touching a piece, ending the half at 14-14.

Louisville quarterback Jack Plummer ended the game with 308 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception by Miami’s Kam Kinchens.

Miami scored after the turnover, but Plummer stayed composed throughout the game.

“We didn’t affect the quarterback very much today, which is different because we’ve affected the quarterback all year long,” stated Miami head coach Mario Cristobal on Plummer’s performance.

Offensively, Louisville’s play calling was a challenge for Miami’s defensive line.

“They use the tight ends against us. Those guys had a lot of catches today. They found some things; our defense played hard,” added Cristobal on the Cardinal’s offense.

The Canes started quarterback Tyler Van Dyke after last week’s arm injury to quarterback Emory Williams.

Van Dyke was pleased with today’s offense despite Miami’s shortcomings.

“I think we played well offensively,” stated Van Dyke.

Running back Mark Fletcher Jr. played a big part in today’s score, rushing for 126 yards for two touchdowns.

Meanwhile, Van Dyke’s final stats were 327 yards for one touchdowns and no interceptions.

The game went to the end with a Hail Mary from Van Dyke to wide receiver Xavier Restrepo, but he was unable to get in the end zone, with the Canes falling short 38-31 to the Cardinals.

Cristobal expressed his concern with pulling through and winning games.

“Closing isn’t good enough; we have to find a way to get better, get back to work for a quick turnaround, and go play our best football on Friday next week,” Cristobal stated.

The Hurricanes (6-5) take on the Boston College Eagles (6-5) the day after Thanksgiving.

As for the Cardinals (10-1), they take home The Schnellenberger Trophy and will take on No. 4 FSU (11-0) for the ACC championship on Dec. 2.