KEYS to the Game…

The #3 Miami Hurricanes travels to Tallahassee, Florida to take on the #18 Florida State Seminoles on Saturday night. The game will mark the 70th meeting between the arch rivals, with Miami owning a 36-33 edge in the series.

The Canes enter the game undefeated (4-0, 0-0) looking for their first conference win and first road victory of the season. The Noles (3-1, 0-1) are looking to bounce back from a double overtime loss to Virginia last week.

FSU owns the #1 offense in the country, led by transfer senior quarterback Tommy Castellanos. He is a major dual-threat for the Noles, throwing for 848 yards with four touchdowns and three interceptions, while rushing for 217 yards and four more touchdowns.

For Miami to win on Saturday, we feel there are two keys to the game.

SWARM…

Miami’s much improved defense (#9 in the country) will need to continue to swarm to the ball playing fast and physical to control FSU’s running attack. Make the Noles a one dimensional offense by limiting Castellanos’ ability to run.

Win the Battle in the Trenches…

Miami has a clear advantage on both sides of the line of scrimmage. It must continue by grinding out yards on the ground, limiting FSU time of possession. The Canes’ defensive line must control the Noles rushing attack, creating frustration and forcing FSU into the air. At that point, turn Bain and Mesidor loose to force Castellanos into throwing, not his strongest suite. Mistakes tend to follow.

BOTTOM LINE:

Games are won on defense and in the trenches. Swarm on defense and play downhill power football.

GO CANES!