GAME BALLS… USF

Our Miami Hurricanes defeated the South Florida, 49-12, on Saturday evening at Hard Rock Stadium.

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

RB MARK FLETCHER

Going into the game, we knew we had to control the ball and minimize the Bulls’ opportunities to play their game. Miami accomplished this goal by running the ball. Mark Fletcher toted the rock for the Canes, rushing for 120 yards and two touchdowns. His 38-yard touchdown run broke South Florida’s back.

OFFENSIVE LINE

This game ball goes to the Canes’ offense line who overpowered the Bulls defensive line the entire game. Miami rushed for 205 yards, averaging 5.4 yards per rush. They also kept Beck clean, allowing only one sack. As a result, the Canes controlled time of possession by 36:04 to 23.59. Congratulations to Francis Mauigoa, Anez Cooper, James Brockermeyer, Matthew McCoy, Markel Bell, Samson Okunlola, Tommy Kinsler IV, Ryan Rodriguez, Nino Francavilla, Juan Minaya, Seuseu Alofaituli, Max Buchanan, Deryc Plazz, Jaden Wilkerson and Demetrius Campbell.

DEFENSIVE LINE:

Going into the game, we knew the Canes had to control the impact of Bulls dual-threat quarterback Byrum Brown. Miami’s defensive line boxed Brown in all night, limiting him to two yards rushing and 40 rushing yards total for USF. Even Carson Beck out rushed Brown. Rueben Bain and Akeem Mesidor led Miami’s defense in tackles, with six each. Brown was the key, not allowing him to dictate the game. Congratulations to Bain, Mesidor, David Blay Jr., Ahmad Moten Sr., Justin Scott, Armondo Blount, Booker Pickett, Daylen Russell, and Marquise Lightfoot.

BOTTOM LINE:

Miami won this game because they won the battle in the trenches and control the clock, Congratulations on a total team effort.

GO CANES!