The Comeback
I was down and disenchanted, but never lost focus on the game. Slowly, the defense started to grasp the challenges the Notre Dame offense presented and give the ball back to the Miami offense. Brad Kaaya started to settle in after to max protection implemented by Richt.
Miami scores on a Kaaya to David Njoku touchdown pass. Canes are down 20-7. “Things could be worse”, I thought. Then, Richt shows some balls and goes for the onside kick. Miami recovers on perfectly executed play by Michael Badgley and Jamal Carter. Miami failed to capitalize and has to punt. gets snuffed two times on 3rd and 4th and one yard to gain. Miami goes into halftime 20-7.
Miami failed to capitalize and has to punt. On the next possession, the Hurricanes get snuffed twice on third and fourth down needing just one yard for a first down in Nore Dame territory. The Irish run out the clock and lead 20-7 at halftime.
In the third quarter, Miami turns things around offensively. It is the best play calling I’ve seen from Richt all year. The Miami defense and Hurricanes Cornerback Adrian Colbert are playing with swagger.
Special teams come through again with a blocked punt to give Miami the ball at the Notre Dame 45. I’m feeling good, and Notre Dame fans are getting worried and frustrated. Miami cuts the lead to 20-14.