College Football Preview: Miami Hosts Notre Dame

The Miami Hurricanes have lost four consecutive clashes with Notre Dame. Miami’s last win over their ACC rival dates all the way back to 1989. Ironically, this was the last time the two teams met up in Miami.

As both teams prepare for one of college football’s most exciting matchups of the season, the Fighting Irish are making a rare trip south to The U. This game has all of the precursors to be an instant classic. Both teams are in the college football playoff hunt, with Miami ranked 7th and Notre Dame claiming the third spot.

https://twitter.com/NDFootball/status/929341063885737985

Scouting Notre Dame

The Irish tout the nation’s fifth-best rushing attack with 324.8 yards per game. Meanwhile, Miami’s rushing defense is allowing an average of 170.0 yards to opposing teams, good for 66th in the FBS. Despite subpar rushing defense, the Canes rank 17th in defensive efficiency.

If Notre Dame can limit mistakes and prevent Miami from breaking out their infamous turnover chain, the Irish have a shot at getting out ahead early and coasting to victory. With such a potent rushing attack, Notre Dame should hold the ball and use time of possession to their advantage.

The Fighting Irish also feature an extremely efficient quarterback – Brandon Wimbush sports a 121.8 passer rating this season. Wimbush has also tossed 11 touchdowns and only two interceptions.

If Miami plans on taking the ball away, it’s going to start with quarterback pressure.

Is The U Back?

Miami has been playing like a team possessed as of late. Head coach Mark Richt is clearly ushering in a new era, but the team isn’t without its flaws.

Many questioned Miami’s talent against a solid Virginia Tech team, but last week’s 28-10 stomping showed that the Hurricanes are legit. Miami’s redshirt junior quarterback Malik Rosier has been careless with the football, throwing three picks against the Hokies.

However, those interceptions almost doubled his season total, which now stands at seven.

While the Hurricanes are far from perfect, the team has found a way to win as a unit. The offense is second in the ACC with 461.o yards per game, and the defense compliments those stats with an average of 2.5 turnovers in each contest.

Needless to say, Notre Dame does not want to see the turnover chain brought out on the opposing sideline.

What’s even more concerning is that Irish will be on Miami’s turf and under the pressure of a primetime matchup.

By the way, that chain is made of 10-karat-gold and filled with sapphires. The chain, much like Miami’s talent, is real and here to stay.

Kickoff is set for 8 PM EST tonight on ABC, and every college football fan worth their salt should be tuning in for this renewed rivalry.