theKeys to the Game… vs FSU

October 17, 2026 -

Miami (5-0, 3-0 ACC) will host arch-rival Florida State (3-3,1-2 ACC) Saturday evening at Hard Rock Stadium in front of an already SOLD OUT crowd and a national television audience on ESPN.

Here are two KEYS to a Miami victory…

KEY: STOP the Run

Florida State’s offense is struggling. Their passing attack has generated only 2223 yards per game (132nd in the nation). The Noles, however, live or die with a solid rushing attack (43rd in the nation). They are led by sophomore running back Ousmane Kromah (565 yards (5.7 YPC) and 5 touchdowns and senior quarterback Ashton Daniels with 323 yards (4.6 YPD) and 10 touchdowns.

Miami must stop FSU’s rushing attack and make Daniels a one-dimensional passing quarterback. While he has respectable passing numbers at 1,320 yards per game, 59.5 % completion percentage with 8 touchdowns but 7 interceptions. Daniels is less efficient snd less effective when when the Noles can’t run.

KEY: A Balanced Attack

FSU defense is ranked #55 in the nation but they struggle stopping the run. With Miami powerful running attack, that doesn’t bode well for the Noles. Pound the rock and then pick your spots with explosive passing.

BOTTOM LINE:

Florida State doesn’t match up well with Miami and should be able to take care of business. But then again, this is a fierce rivalry and anything can happen. Not very likely. Miami wins easily.

GO CANES!