In a game hyped up because of the launch of the 150th college football year, Miami and #8 Florida lived up to the hype…. well the entertainment part.
Miami came in with more questions than answers after having a crazy offseason. Miami would be breaking in a new freshman starting quarterback in Jarren Williams, two freshman offensive tackles, a new starting center, 3 new secondary starters on defense, with a new first year head coach, new offensive coordinator, and new defensive coordinator in one of the biggest rivalry games in the state of Florida.
Let’s just say, youth and inexperience best Miami. Miami young offensive line gave up 10 sacks against the Florida Gators veteran D-line. When given time Miami walked up the field against Florida, but as the game went deep into the second half when the passing was gonna tell the difference, the Gators d-line pinned their ears back and took shots at the young Freshman quarterback.
Miami would also commit 14 penalties for -130 yards, and still had a chance to win the game. In a loss Miami might have found something in QB Jarren Williams; who did not look rattled by the pressure Florida was coming with. The Gators did win this game because of its defensive line play.
Miami Tight end Brevin Jordan looked every bit like a future first round tight end , catching 5 passes for 88 yards and a touchdown. He also almost caught what could have been a game winning catch over two defenders. DeeJay Dallas, rushes for 95 yards and 25 receiving yards with 1 touchdown. The long run by sophomore Cam’ron Harris, was called back due to two holding calls. That would have put Miami inside the Gators 5 yard line.
Besides giving up 2 plays that would lead ton touchdowns, Miami’s defense played pretty well. They managed to force 4 turnovers. Two interceptions and two force fumbles. Miami defense stuffed Florida’s run game with hard hitting.
Miami’s Special Teams did not do them any favors either. Star receiver Jeff Thomas muffed a punt inside the Miami’s own 5 yard line, which lead to a Florida touchdown. Bubba Baxa, Miami’s place kicker missed a short field goal that would comeback to bite the Canes when in counted most.
Florida may have won this round, but Miami may have got the answers they were looking for. A legit QB, a solid running game, an elite defense. Miami will need to sure up that offensive line, but besides that, Miami won’t face another defense like what they saw tonight for the rest of the year, unless they see Clemson in the ACC championship game.
If Miami can get that offensive line together, the Canes may very well be a 11-1 come December 1st. From what I seen from that defense and that QB with a little time, I can see a very dominant Miami Hurricane team this season.