GAME BALLS… Miami vs FSU

October, 2025

Our Miami Hurricanes used their ability to adjust and a focused approach to beat arch-rival Florida State, 28-22, on Saturday evening at a packed Doak Campbell Stadium.

As is our custom, we award “Games Balls” to the Canes who made significant contributions to a victory. This week we present a host of game balls in victory.

Defense:

Coming into this game, FSU led the nation in offense, averaging 600+ yards of offense per game and 53+ points per game. Miami’s defense held FSU to 404 total yards of offense and only 22 garbage points. The Canes’ defense swarmed to the ball all night, intercepting two passes and recovering one fumble. While it looked closer than it actually was, the hard-working defense played their best game of the season so far.

Congratulations to defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman, his staff and the most underrated defense in America.

Offense:

Miami’s offense played perfect complimentary football on Saturday. Like Miami, FSU wanted to limit the Canes’ downhill running attack. But unlike the Noles, the Canes quickly and successfully exposed FSU’s backend defense, as veteran QB Carson Beck threw four touchdown passes to surge to a 25-point lead in the third quarter. Actually, the score could have been higher for Miami. Beck threw a fifth touchdown pass to Malachi Toney that was called back due to a penalty. Offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson quickly adjusted and Beck lit up the Noles secondary.

Congratulations to offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson, his staff and his players for a workmen-like night in Tallahassee.

BOTTOM LINE:

The game wasn’t as close as it appeared, thanks to skillful coaching and a focused team of players.

GO CANES!