theKEYs to the game

Miami is fighting hard down the home stretch to secure a spot in the national college football playoffs. They must finish off the season with a 10-2 record to be seriously considered for a berth.

On Saturday, the Canes will host the North Carolina State Wolfpack (5-4, 2-3 ACC). Despite their record, the Wolfpack is a dangerous team.

To win this game, Miami has three keys to the game.

Limit explosive plays…

Miami’s defense has excelled in limiting explosive plays (30+ yards) this season, allowing only nine plays in that range, #6 in the country. NC State’s offense ranks #6 in the nation in generating explosive plays. The winner of this matchup will likely win the game.

Miami’s passing attack…

NC State’s pass defense has struggled mightily the season, giving up an average of 292.4 yards per game (#124 total yards allowed per. game). Miami must take advantage of this Wolfpack flaw. To do so, the Canes offensive line must keep Carson Beck clean in the pocket and Beck must be on top of his game.

Limit CJ Bailey’s impact…

NC State has an explosive offense. particularly its passing game. QB CJ Bailey has thrown for 2411 yards (70.7%) , 19 touchdowns, 7 INT. Bailey can also make you pay with his legs. Miami’s defensive line must keep the pressure on and keep him bottled up. It will be a challenge this week due to the Canes’ injuries that make DB Keionte Scott and CB OJ Frederique out for the game. The performance of Miami’s secondary depth will be a key.

BOTTOM LINE:

Miami’s defensive secondary must limit CJ Bailey’s impact, particularly the explosive plays and the Cane’s passing attack must exploit a weak Wolfpack secondary.

GO CANES!