The Miami Hurricanes made mincemeat of the Florida Gators on Saturday afternoon, dominating their in-state rivals in front of a national audience in the 3:30 p.m. ET window. Miami won the game with a blend of defensive prowess and offensive fireworks led by a cast of transfers.
Cam Ward stole the show, but it was a dominant overall performance that sets the bar high for Miami’s expectations this season.
Miami Destructive Against Florida, Eyes ACC Championship
Miami took care of business against Florida in an emphatic way. In doing so, it set the tone for the Hurricanes 2024 season.
It also set the stage for the Hurricanes to rapidly improve their number in the College Football Network Playoff Predictor. As it stands now, their preseason ranking had them sitting just behind Clemson and Florida State in the CFN Playoff Predictor.
SIMULATE: Miami’s Playoff Hopes Using CFN’s College Football Playoff Predictor
After the results from Week 0 and most of Week 1, it’s safe to say the Hurricanes will jump in our ACC Rankings.
Using the Playoff Predictor, you can truly look at just how the ‘Canes can work their way to the ACC Championship as well as to the College Football Playoff.
It’s early, yes, but with the way Miami won the game against Florida, it’s fair to say they’ll be setting high expectations in 2024. How’d they do it against the Gators?
Miami vs. Florida Recap
In a statement game that could resonate throughout the season, Miami delivered a resounding 41-17 victory over Florida at The Swamp, marking a pivotal win for head coach Mario Cristobal in his third year at the helm.
On a hot Saturday afternoon, Miami QB Ward stole the show, passing for 385 yards and three touchdowns in a performance that underscored his status as one of college football’s most talented transfer portal pick-ups in 2024.
First Quarter: Dominance from the Start
Miami set the tone early, with Ward leading an efficient and powerful offense.
Ward, who transferred to Miami after stints at Incarnate Word and Washington State, demonstrated why he was heralded as the Atlantic Coast Conference’s preseason Player of the Year. He showcased remarkable poise, completing 25 of 33 passes, including two first-half touchdown throws that helped Miami to a 14-3 lead by the end of the first quarter.
Florida struggled to establish any rhythm, and their offense faltered under the pressure of Miami’s aggressive defense. Graham Mertz found little success, completing only 11 of 20 passes for 91 yards before being knocked out of the game at the end of the third quarter.
MORE: What Happened to Graham Mertz? Latest Injury News Around Florida’s QB
Second Quarter: Miami Takes Control
In the second quarter, Miami extended its dominance, capitalizing on Florida’s mistakes. Two crucial roughing-the-passer penalties by Florida’s defense kept Miami’s drives alive, both of which ended in touchdowns.
Ward’s best throw was a 23-yard strike to Jacolby George in the back of the end zone, which showcased his ability to place the ball perfectly under pressure.
Miami’s control of the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball was evident, as the Hurricanes outgained the Gators significantly. Miami led 28-10 by halftime, leaving Florida fans restless and concerned about their team’s prospects.
Third Quarter: The Turning Point
Ward continued to carve up the Florida defense in the third quarter while Miami’s rushing attack chipped away at the clock. He once again showcased his talented arm in the third quarter, with a perfectly-placed ball on the edge to George.
No defense for a perfect pass — and that’s what this is from Cam Ward 🎯 pic.twitter.com/rgXk7lJwYm
— Cam Mellor (@CamMellor) August 31, 2024
Florida’s offense, already sputtering, was dealt a severe blow when Mertz was injured after throwing an interception. He left the game, and freshman quarterback DJ Lagway took over.
Despite hope from fans in attendance, Lagway’s presence didn’t do anything for the bottom line in Gainesville.
Miami’s defense continued to stymie Florida and the loss of star defensive end Reuben Bain after the first series did not slow them down. Despite Bain’s absence, the Hurricanes’ defense held Florida to just one more touchdown for the remainder of the game.
Fourth Quarter: Miami Seals the Deal
In the fourth quarter, Miami added a field goal to their tally, extending their lead to 41-17 and effectively putting the game out of reach. Florida’s offense, under Lagway, struggled to move the ball, and the Gators’ defense had no answer for Miami’s relentless attack.
MORE: Xavier Restrepo Breaks Gator DB Ankles
Xavier Restrepo was a standout for Miami, catching seven passes for 112 yards, including a 24-yard touchdown reception.
The Aftermath: A Statement Victory
This victory was more than just a win; it was a statement for Miami.
Ward’s debut as Miami’s quarterback was nothing short of spectacular, as he became the first Miami QB since at least 1979 to throw for 300 yards in his first start. Miami’s total offense was a staggering 529 yards compared to Florida’s 258, highlighting the one-sided nature of the game.
It was also the most points the Gators have allowed in a season opener in Florida history.
On the other side, Florida’s loss only intensified the scrutiny on head coach Billy Napier, whose record in Gainesville fell to 11-15. The Gators’ defensive woes persisted despite efforts to revamp the unit, and their sixth consecutive loss was a blow to a program that has traditionally been a powerhouse at home.
Looking Ahead
Miami will look to build on this momentum as they host Florida A&M next Saturday, while Florida will try to regroup when they face Samford at home. For Miami, this game could be a launching pad for a successful season, while Florida faces serious questions about the direction of its program under Napier.
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