Golden: Game doesn’t sway recruits

CORAL GABLES — There’s always been a lot at stake when rivals Miami and Florida State meet.

But while winning the annual rivalry may have been a big help on the recruiting trail and swayed prospects in the past, Miami coach Al Golden says recruiting has changed.

Winning one game doesn’t carry the weight it used to, and today’s prospects are savvy about finding schools running schemes that showcase their talent.

“Look at the ACC, in general, and how many different philosophies there are on offense,” Golden said. “A wide receiver likes this one or he wants to go to a spread or he wants to be in a pro system. Then you have the option. It’s so specific right now. As I said before the Florida game, it doesn’t hurt to win, but all that will take care of itself.”

One of Miami’s biggest challenges against the No. 3 Seminoles on Saturday will be finding ways to contain QB Jameis Winston. Golden said Wednesday redshirt freshman Gray Crow has served as the scout team’s primary quarterback this week, Miami has rotated in other players in an effort to try and simulate Winston.

“We’re not talking about him as a freshman,” Golden said. “We’re talking about him as the quarterback of a top-five team. … We’re not going to take his talents away by Saturday night. He is who he is.”

Golden said Wednesday QB Stephen Morris (ankle), WR Rashawn Scott (shoulder/collarbone) and WR Allen Hurns (hip pointer) continue to improve.

Next game: at Florida State, Saturday at 8 p.m., ABC