— Miami Gardens, Hard Rock Stadium
As the Florida State Seminoles (1-6) prepare to face the undefeated Miami Hurricanes (7-0) at The Hard Rock, the stakes couldn’t be higher for both teams. Miami is up 35-33 in the overall series and is looking to continue to play Florida State as if they are undefeated as well, Continuing Coach Mario Cristobal’s mantra of 1-0 every week.
The Seminoles are struggling this season and trying to turn their fortunes around against Miami. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes are riding high, winning seven straight games, their best start since 2017.
The Hurricanes aim to showcase their offense against the struggling Seminoles. Miami’s quarterback, Cam Ward,, has been a standout performer, throwing over 2,500 yards and 24 touchdowns this season. One of the Wards’s go-to receivers is contributing to those stats, Xavier Restrepo. Restrepo may make it Making History in this week’s Rivalry. Xavier is on the verge of breaking several Miami receiving records. Currently sitting at fourth all-time in receiving yards with over 2,300 yards, Restrepo can surpass legends like Santana Moss and Michael Irvin if he continues his performance. Restrepo currently has with 39 receptions and 686 yards this season.
Adding to the excitement, Miami will debut its new black Adidas uniforms during this game. These uniforms are not just a fashion statement; they symbolize a fresh era for the program. Quarterback Ward recently secured a lucrative NIL deal with Adidas. On the other hand, if FSU’s pass rush can pressure Ward, it might throw Miami’s rhythm off. The battle in the trenches could dictate the game’s tempo.
The Seminoles are on a three-game winning streak (2021-2023) and will look to exploit any weaknesses in Miami’s defense to end what Florida state calls a losing “Curse.”
Coach Cristobal would not be his master recruiting self if he didnt have over 130 top high school recruits in attendance. Both big-time recruits (25′-27′) committed to Miami and those looking to get flipped, including 5-star Commit DJ Pickett, who is currently committed to LSU. Cornerback Ben Hanks, who is committed to Florida, will also be in attendance.
Miami enters the game as the clear favorite. Mike Norvell and his Florida State team will undoubtedly bring their best effort. Nonetheless, Miami has overcome many nail-biter winning games this season and will be treating FSU as if they are also Undefeated.
Game time starts at 7 PM EST on Saturday at the Hard Rock. Canes fans are looking to pack the house with Orange! follow @neweraprep and @newerac2 for live game updates