Miami is off to an impressive start in the 2024 college football season, boasting a 4-0 record for the second consecutive year. The Hurricanes are eager to secure a 5-0 record for the first time since 2017 as they look to re-establish themselves among the elite teams in the sport. Their next challenge comes from familiar rival Virginia Tech in a crucial Friday night game that marks the beginning of Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) play.
The Hurricanes have quickly moved up the AP Top 25 rankings, starting at No. 19 and advancing to No. 7. Betting odds now favor Miami as the leading contender to win the conference and a strong candidate for the College Football Playoff. It is a vital moment for head coach Mario Cristobal, who is seeking to improve on his 12-13 record in his third year at his alma mater.
For Virginia Tech, facing Miami presents an opportunity to derail the Hurricanes’ momentum while aiming to turn around their own season, which has not gone as expected. Despite being considered a potential dark horse in the ACC due to their returning talent and a strong finish to 2023, the Hokies have struggled with one-score losses against Vanderbilt and Rutgers, resulting in a 2-2 start. Nevertheless, conference play offers a fresh start, and a victory over Miami could reignite hopes for a successful season under coach Brent Pry.
The match details are as follows:
Date: Friday, Sept. 27 | Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Location: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Fla.
TV: ESPN | Live Stream: fubo (trial available)
Key Points:
– Cam Ward, the ACC Preseason Player of the Year, has excelled this season, leading the nation with 14 passing touchdowns and propelling Miami’s offense, which ranks second in the FBS with an impressive 605 yards per game. He has made history as the first Miami quarterback to throw for over 300 yards and at least three touchdowns in his first four starts.
– Virginia Tech’s running back Bhayshul Tuten had a standout performance last week, rushing for 122 yards and three touchdowns on just 15 carries in a loss to Rutgers, boosting his average to 97.8 yards per game, placing him third in the ACC. He has surpassed 100 yards rushing in five of his last six games dating back to last season.
– The Miami-Virginia Tech rivalry dates back to 1953, featuring numerous legendary matchups from the 1960s and 1980s. While Miami leads the series 25-15 and has won the last three encounters, the competition has been close since 1992, with Miami holding a narrow 16-15 edge, including three of the last four games decided by one score.
In terms of predictions, Miami has struggled with achieving high expectations in previous seasons, but the presence of a talented quarterback like Cam Ward changes the dynamic. The Hurricanes, bolstered by a strong offensive line and playmaking capabilities under center, are expected to come out strong in their ACC opener, signaling a statement win. The predicted outcome is a Miami victory, covering a spread of -17.5.