Blast From The Past
After a rough 3 weeks for the Hurricanes, it is almost poetic that they take on the team that sparked the return of the U. For all those who don’t remember, two years ago the Hurricanes had just fired one of the worst head coaches in school history, Al Golden. They also had an unknown, back up QB, Malik Rosier, starting for the injured Brad Kayaa. After a low scoring game and a late Duke touchdown with less then 15 seconds left, this should have iced the Hurricanes. But, 10 laterals and a miracle kickoff return for a touchdown later and the Hurricanes found life in their program.
But that was 3 years ago, and now Miami faces a different challenge. They have to save their season. A flip flop situation at QB between Rosier and Perry and conservative play calling from head coach Mark Richt has lead to a not so good 5-3 record for one of the most talented Hurricanes teams in a while.
As for the game itself, the Hurricanes look like the favorite (Miami -9.5) for this week, but that depends on which team shows up. The team that ran UNC off the field? Or the team that quit the last two weeks to lesser teams talent wise?
Duke Blue Devils
Dukes offense is led by Jr QB, Daniel Jones and is averaging 31.6 points per game. As far as yards go, they’re at 243.9 through the air and 166 on the ground (stats via ESPN). The Blue Devils can score with ease, but they struggle with stopping the opposing team, allowing an average of 388.8 yard per game.
Miami Hurricanes
The key for the Canes to win: they need to establish the run early with backs Travis Homer and DeeJay Dallas. This will take the heat off Rosier or Perry… or whoever Richt decides to put under center. But with a solid running game, which is Miami’s strong suit, big plays in the passing game will come easy to Rosier and should give the Hurricanes easy points. The defense and their turnover chain should be busy if they can establish a rush early. If the Hurricanes gain an early lead, it should lead to Miami getting a solid win to get back in the win column.
My Pick: Canes win 35 to 13. The Blue Devils are not as good as their record and the Hurricanes are better then theirs. It should lead to a nice win for Miami.
