COLLEGE FOOTBALL
LOUISVILLE AT UM
It’s homecoming and Senior Day for the Miami Hurricanes, when they take on Louisville at Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday.
The last time UM played at home, the season reached a low point in a disappointing loss to Georgia Tech that put the Hurricanes at 3-4. It could’ve sent coach Manny Diaz’s first season at the helm even more awry, but instead, the team came together.
A player-led meeting before the Hurricanes hit the road for games at Pittsburgh and Florida State have them returning to Miami Gardens in a much better position than how they last left Hard Rock Stadium.
Here’s a quick look at Saturday’s matchup:
When: Saturday, 3:30
Where: Hard Rock Stadium
Latest line: Miami by 61⁄2.
TV: ESPN 2 Radio: 560-AM, 990-AM (Spanish)
Weather: 77 degrees, 48 percent chance of precipitation
Online: sun-sentinel.com/um; @DavidFurones_ on
Quick slant: The Hurricanes return home off the momentum of two solid road wins at Pittsburgh and rival Florida State. Looking to go above .500 in ACC play for the first time this season, they face a Louisville team that’s no slouch for homecoming and Senior Day. While it’s the home finale, Miami still does have FIU at Marlins Park, formerly the grounds of the Orange Bowl, on Nov. 23 following a bye week.
About Miami (5-4, 3-3 ACC): The Hurricanes are clicking on all cylinders for the first time this season. Quarterback Jarren Williams is throwing his best deep ball, the young offensive line is coming together and the defense has stood out since coach Manny Diaz became more involved a month ago.
About Louisville (5-3, 3-2): The Cardinals are coming off a bye and have won three of their last four, with the loss coming to No. 5 Clemson. Freshman running back Javian Hawkins is a workhorse, averaging 110 rushing yards on 20 carries a game.