STAFF PREDICTIONS Dave Hyde, Sports Columnist: Miami 34, Florida State 31
Both teams are trying define who they are. For Miami of the last few weeks, that’s a team that does just enough to win. Expect more of the same on Saturday. The Hurricanes have turned their season around with wins over N.C. State, Pittsburgh and Georgia Tech — with the Wolfpack and Panthers being ranked as top-20 teams at the time. But even with the Seminoles struggling for most of the season, the Hurricanes know they can’t take FSU lightly.
Khobi Price, Hurricanes Writer: Miami 27, Florida State 20
The Hurricanes are on a roll heading into their matchup with their in-state rivals, Florida State, after their third consecutive win, a 33-30 victory over Georgia Tech last weekend. They’ve recorded over 400 yards in each of their last four games, and are averaging 34.4 points in ACC games behind quarterback Tyler Van Dyke’s stellar play. The Seminoles’ defense, which ranks top-45 in the country in both sacks and tackles for losses, has one of the better defensive lines Miami will have faced. FSU’s rushing game, led by quarterback Jordan Travis and running backs Jashaun Corbin and Treshaun Ward, can make up for its lack of a passing attack. But Miami’s defense should be able to contain FSU’s one-dimensional offense.
Keven Lerner, Assistant Sports Editor: Florida State 27, Miami 24
The Seminoles (3-6, 2-4 ACC) look to keep their slim postseason hopes alive. They need to win their final three games against Miami, Boston College and Florida to reach six wins and become bowl-eligible. FSU, however, has lost four straight games against Miami, including last year’s 52-10 blowout at Hard Rock Stadium. The resurgent Hurricanes (5-4, 3-2 ACC), meanwhile, have won three straight and could become bowl-eligible for the ninth straight season with a win Saturday. UM is also still alive in the ACC Coastal race. With none of UM’s final three opponents having a winning record, anything is possible in the wide-open division. Miami is led by emerging quarterback Tyler Van Dyke, whose confidence continues to grow with each game.